University of Michigan-Ann Arbor vs Washtenaw Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $52,552 in 1.5 years versus not at all at Washtenaw Community College, on median earnings of $83,648 vs $39,449 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Washtenaw Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $13,138 | $3,249 |
| Total net cost | $52,552 | $12,996 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $83,648 | $39,449 |
| Median debt | $19,500 | $13,310 |
| Payback | 1.5 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $653,208 | -$191,216 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor vs Washtenaw Community College: frequently asked questions
Is University of Michigan-Ann Arbor or Washtenaw Community College a better value?
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. It clears its $52,552 net cost in about 1.5 years versus no clear payback at Washtenaw Community College, on median earnings of $83,648 vs $39,449 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor or Washtenaw Community College?
Washtenaw Community College: $3,249/yr net price after aid versus $13,138/yr at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor — a difference of $9,889 a year, or about $39,556 over four years.
Do University of Michigan-Ann Arbor or Washtenaw Community College graduates earn more?
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor graduates earn a median $83,648 ten years after entry, versus $39,449 at Washtenaw Community College — a $44,199 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.