University of Houston-Downtown vs Texas Southern University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Houston-Downtown has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $42,168 in 8.1 years versus not at all at Texas Southern University, on median earnings of $53,551 vs $38,924 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Houston-Downtown | Texas Southern University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $10,542 | $16,590 |
| Total net cost | $42,168 | $66,360 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $53,551 | $38,924 |
| Median debt | $18,750 | $29,000 |
| Payback | 8.1 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $61,652 | -$255,080 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Houston-Downtown vs Texas Southern University: frequently asked questions
Is University of Houston-Downtown or Texas Southern University a better value?
University of Houston-Downtown. It clears its $42,168 net cost in about 8.1 years versus no clear payback at Texas Southern University, on median earnings of $53,551 vs $38,924 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Houston-Downtown or Texas Southern University?
University of Houston-Downtown: $10,542/yr net price after aid versus $16,590/yr at Texas Southern University — a difference of $6,048 a year, or about $24,192 over four years.
Do University of Houston-Downtown or Texas Southern University graduates earn more?
University of Houston-Downtown graduates earn a median $53,551 ten years after entry, versus $38,924 at Texas Southern University — a $14,627 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.