University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus vs Community College of Allegheny County: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $121,736 in 6.9 years versus not at all at Community College of Allegheny County, on median earnings of $66,125 vs $39,449 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus | Community College of Allegheny County |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $30,434 | $13,970 |
| Total net cost | $121,736 | $27,940 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $66,125 | $39,449 |
| Median debt | $24,250 | $12,680 |
| Payback | 6.9 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $233,564 | -$206,160 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus vs Community College of Allegheny County: frequently asked questions
Is University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus or Community College of Allegheny County a better value?
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus. It clears its $121,736 net cost in about 6.9 years versus no clear payback at Community College of Allegheny County, on median earnings of $66,125 vs $39,449 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus or Community College of Allegheny County?
Community College of Allegheny County: $13,970/yr net price after aid versus $30,434/yr at University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus — a difference of $16,464 a year, or about $93,796 over four years.
Do University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus or Community College of Allegheny County graduates earn more?
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus graduates earn a median $66,125 ten years after entry, versus $39,449 at Community College of Allegheny County — a $26,676 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.