University of Hawaii at Manoa vs Kapiolani Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Hawaii at Manoa has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $62,656 in 6.8 years versus not at all at Kapiolani Community College, on median earnings of $57,624 vs $44,599 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Hawaii at Manoa | Kapiolani Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $15,664 | $5,202 |
| Total net cost | $62,656 | $10,404 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $57,624 | $44,599 |
| Median debt | $18,500 | $9,229 |
| Payback | 6.8 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $122,624 | $-85,624 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Hawaii at Manoa vs Kapiolani Community College: frequently asked questions
Is University of Hawaii at Manoa or Kapiolani Community College a better value?
University of Hawaii at Manoa. It clears its $62,656 net cost in about 6.8 years versus no clear payback at Kapiolani Community College, on median earnings of $57,624 vs $44,599 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Hawaii at Manoa or Kapiolani Community College?
Kapiolani Community College: $5,202/yr net price after aid versus $15,664/yr at University of Hawaii at Manoa — a difference of $10,462 a year, or about $52,252 over four years.
Do University of Hawaii at Manoa or Kapiolani Community College graduates earn more?
University of Hawaii at Manoa graduates earn a median $57,624 ten years after entry, versus $44,599 at Kapiolani Community College — a $13,025 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.