University of North Carolina Wilmington vs Cape Fear Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of North Carolina Wilmington has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $80,436 in 12.2 years versus not at all at Cape Fear Community College, on median earnings of $54,967 vs $38,654 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of North Carolina Wilmington | Cape Fear Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $20,109 | $9,610 |
| Total net cost | $80,436 | $19,220 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $54,967 | $38,654 |
| Median debt | $19,500 | $9,500 |
| Payback | 12.2 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $51,704 | -$213,340 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of North Carolina Wilmington vs Cape Fear Community College: frequently asked questions
Is University of North Carolina Wilmington or Cape Fear Community College a better value?
University of North Carolina Wilmington. It clears its $80,436 net cost in about 12.2 years versus no clear payback at Cape Fear Community College, on median earnings of $54,967 vs $38,654 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of North Carolina Wilmington or Cape Fear Community College?
Cape Fear Community College: $9,610/yr net price after aid versus $20,109/yr at University of North Carolina Wilmington — a difference of $10,499 a year, or about $61,216 over four years.
Do University of North Carolina Wilmington or Cape Fear Community College graduates earn more?
University of North Carolina Wilmington graduates earn a median $54,967 ten years after entry, versus $38,654 at Cape Fear Community College — a $16,313 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.