University of Hawaii at Manoa vs Leeward 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 Leeward Community College, on median earnings of $57,624 vs $39,899 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Hawaii at Manoa | Leeward Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $15,664 | $5,137 |
| Total net cost | $62,656 | $10,274 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $57,624 | $39,899 |
| Median debt | $18,500 | $8,970 |
| Payback | 6.8 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $122,624 | $-179,494 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Hawaii at Manoa vs Leeward Community College: frequently asked questions
Is University of Hawaii at Manoa or Leeward 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 Leeward Community College, on median earnings of $57,624 vs $39,899 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Hawaii at Manoa or Leeward Community College?
Leeward Community College: $5,137/yr net price after aid versus $15,664/yr at University of Hawaii at Manoa — a difference of $10,527 a year, or about $52,382 over four years.
Do University of Hawaii at Manoa or Leeward Community College graduates earn more?
University of Hawaii at Manoa graduates earn a median $57,624 ten years after entry, versus $39,899 at Leeward Community College — a $17,725 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.