University of Illinois Chicago vs University of Chicago: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Chicago has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $59,440 in 1.4 years versus 2.2 years at University of Illinois Chicago, on median earnings of $91,885 vs $68,740 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Illinois Chicago | University of Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $10,974 | $14,860 |
| Total net cost | $43,896 | $59,440 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $68,740 | $91,885 |
| Median debt | $16,704 | $15,000 |
| Payback | 2.2 yrs | 1.4 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $363,704 | $811,060 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Illinois Chicago vs University of Chicago: frequently asked questions
Is University of Illinois Chicago or University of Chicago a better value?
University of Chicago. It clears its $59,440 net cost in about 1.4 years versus 2.2 years at University of Illinois Chicago, on median earnings of $91,885 vs $68,740 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Illinois Chicago or University of Chicago?
University of Illinois Chicago: $10,974/yr net price after aid versus $14,860/yr at University of Chicago — a difference of $3,886 a year, or about $15,544 over four years.
Do University of Illinois Chicago or University of Chicago graduates earn more?
University of Chicago graduates earn a median $91,885 ten years after entry, versus $68,740 at University of Illinois Chicago — a $23,145 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.