University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill vs Duke University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $46,620 in 2 years versus 2.4 years at Duke University, on median earnings of $72,200 vs $97,800 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | Duke University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $11,655 | $29,612 |
| Total net cost | $46,620 | $118,448 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $72,200 | $97,800 |
| Median debt | $14,000 | $13,000 |
| Payback | 2 yrs | 2.4 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $430,180 | $870,352 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill vs Duke University: frequently asked questions
Is University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill or Duke University a better value?
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. It clears its $46,620 net cost in about 2 years versus 2.4 years at Duke University, on median earnings of $72,200 vs $97,800 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill or Duke University?
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: $11,655/yr net price after aid versus $29,612/yr at Duke University — a difference of $17,957 a year, or about $71,828 over four years.
Do University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill or Duke University graduates earn more?
Duke University graduates earn a median $97,800 ten years after entry, versus $72,200 at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill — a $25,600 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.