University of Houston vs University of Houston-Downtown: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Houston has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $57,104 in 4.1 years versus 8.1 years at University of Houston-Downtown, on median earnings of $62,377 vs $53,551 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Houston | University of Houston-Downtown |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $14,276 | $10,542 |
| Total net cost | $57,104 | $42,168 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $62,377 | $53,551 |
| Median debt | $18,194 | $18,750 |
| Payback | 4.1 yrs | 8.1 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $223,236 | $61,652 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Houston vs University of Houston-Downtown: frequently asked questions
Is University of Houston or University of Houston-Downtown a better value?
University of Houston. It clears its $57,104 net cost in about 4.1 years versus 8.1 years at University of Houston-Downtown, on median earnings of $62,377 vs $53,551 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Houston or University of Houston-Downtown?
University of Houston-Downtown: $10,542/yr net price after aid versus $14,276/yr at University of Houston — a difference of $3,734 a year, or about $14,936 over four years.
Do University of Houston or University of Houston-Downtown graduates earn more?
University of Houston graduates earn a median $62,377 ten years after entry, versus $53,551 at University of Houston-Downtown — a $8,826 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.