University of North Carolina at Charlotte vs Central Piedmont Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of North Carolina at Charlotte has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $61,740 in 6.9 years versus not at all at Central Piedmont Community College, on median earnings of $57,289 vs $37,865 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of North Carolina at Charlotte | Central Piedmont Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $15,435 | $3,345 |
| Total net cost | $61,740 | $6,690 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $57,289 | $37,865 |
| Median debt | $21,500 | $7,925 |
| Payback | 6.9 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $116,840 | -$216,590 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte vs Central Piedmont Community College: frequently asked questions
Is University of North Carolina at Charlotte or Central Piedmont Community College a better value?
University of North Carolina at Charlotte. It clears its $61,740 net cost in about 6.9 years versus no clear payback at Central Piedmont Community College, on median earnings of $57,289 vs $37,865 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of North Carolina at Charlotte or Central Piedmont Community College?
Central Piedmont Community College: $3,345/yr net price after aid versus $15,435/yr at University of North Carolina at Charlotte — a difference of $12,090 a year, or about $55,050 over four years.
Do University of North Carolina at Charlotte or Central Piedmont Community College graduates earn more?
University of North Carolina at Charlotte graduates earn a median $57,289 ten years after entry, versus $37,865 at Central Piedmont Community College — a $19,424 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.