University of Illinois Chicago vs DePaul University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Illinois Chicago has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $43,896 in 2.2 years versus 6.1 years at DePaul University, on median earnings of $68,740 vs $68,751 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Illinois Chicago | DePaul University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $10,974 | $30,902 |
| Total net cost | $43,896 | $123,608 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $68,740 | $68,751 |
| Median debt | $16,704 | $23,168 |
| Payback | 2.2 yrs | 6.1 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $363,704 | $284,212 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Illinois Chicago vs DePaul University: frequently asked questions
Is University of Illinois Chicago or DePaul University a better value?
University of Illinois Chicago. It clears its $43,896 net cost in about 2.2 years versus 6.1 years at DePaul University, on median earnings of $68,740 vs $68,751 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Illinois Chicago or DePaul University?
University of Illinois Chicago: $10,974/yr net price after aid versus $30,902/yr at DePaul University — a difference of $19,928 a year, or about $79,712 over four years.
Do University of Illinois Chicago or DePaul University graduates earn more?
DePaul University graduates earn a median $68,751 ten years after entry, versus $68,740 at University of Illinois Chicago — a $11 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.