Degree Dividend
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University of Florida vs Florida State University: which has better ROI?

Public, Gainesville FL · vs · Public, Tallahassee FL

The verdict

University of Florida has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $26,164 in 1.1 years versus 3.4 years at Florida State University, on median earnings of $71,588 vs $61,675 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)

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Head to head
MeasureUniversity of FloridaFlorida State University
Net price / yr$6,541$11,297
Total net cost$26,164$45,188
Median earnings, 10 yrs$71,588$61,675
Median debt$15,000$18,000
Payback1.1 yrs3.4 yrs
20-year net return$438,396$221,112

College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.

University of Florida vs Florida State University: frequently asked questions

Is University of Florida or Florida State University a better value?
University of Florida. It clears its $26,164 net cost in about 1.1 years versus 3.4 years at Florida State University, on median earnings of $71,588 vs $61,675 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Florida or Florida State University?
University of Florida: $6,541/yr net price after aid versus $11,297/yr at Florida State University — a difference of $4,756 a year, or about $19,024 over four years.
Do University of Florida or Florida State University graduates earn more?
University of Florida graduates earn a median $71,588 ten years after entry, versus $61,675 at Florida State University — a $9,913 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.