Degree Dividend
Sourced from federal dataEvery figure datedNo rankings for sale

University of Kentucky vs Eastern Kentucky University: which has better ROI?

Public, Lexington KY · vs · Public, Richmond KY

The verdict

University of Kentucky has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $75,404 in 7.1 years versus not at all at Eastern Kentucky University, on median earnings of $59,025 vs $45,795 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)

Head to head
MeasureUniversity of KentuckyEastern Kentucky University
Net price / yr$18,851$11,040
Total net cost$75,404$44,160
Median earnings, 10 yrs$59,025$45,795
Median debt$22,500$22,500
Payback7.1 yrs
20-year net return$137,896$-95,460

College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.