University of Phoenix-Arizona vs Paradise Valley Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Neither clears its cost on institution-wide earnings, but Paradise Valley Community College comes closer — median earnings $47,196 against a $48,720 total, vs $37,752 at University of Phoenix-Arizona. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Phoenix-Arizona | Paradise Valley Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $13,520 | $12,180 |
| Total net cost | $54,080 | $48,720 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $37,752 | $47,196 |
| Median debt | $31,553 | $6,995 |
| Payback | — | — |
| 20-year net return | -$266,240 | -$72,000 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Phoenix-Arizona vs Paradise Valley Community College: frequently asked questions
Is University of Phoenix-Arizona or Paradise Valley Community College a better value?
Paradise Valley Community College comes closer, but neither clears its cost on institution-wide earnings — the field you study decides it here more than the school.
Which is cheaper, University of Phoenix-Arizona or Paradise Valley Community College?
Paradise Valley Community College: $12,180/yr net price after aid versus $13,520/yr at University of Phoenix-Arizona — a difference of $1,340 a year, or about $5,360 over four years.
Do University of Phoenix-Arizona or Paradise Valley Community College graduates earn more?
Paradise Valley Community College graduates earn a median $47,196 ten years after entry, versus $37,752 at University of Phoenix-Arizona — a $9,444 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.