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University of South Florida vs The University of Tampa: which has better ROI?

Public, Tampa FL · vs · Private nonprofit, Tampa FL

The verdict

University of South Florida has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $39,248 in 4.2 years versus 13.1 years at The University of Tampa, on median earnings of $57,743 vs $59,436 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)

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Head to head
MeasureUniversity of South FloridaThe University of Tampa
Net price / yr$9,812$36,211
Total net cost$39,248$144,844
Median earnings, 10 yrs$57,743$59,436
Median debt$17,988$24,211
Payback4.2 yrs13.1 yrs
20-year net return$148,412$76,676

College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.

University of South Florida vs The University of Tampa: frequently asked questions

Is University of South Florida or The University of Tampa a better value?
University of South Florida. It clears its $39,248 net cost in about 4.2 years versus 13.1 years at The University of Tampa, on median earnings of $57,743 vs $59,436 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of South Florida or The University of Tampa?
University of South Florida: $9,812/yr net price after aid versus $36,211/yr at The University of Tampa — a difference of $26,399 a year, or about $105,596 over four years.
Do University of South Florida or The University of Tampa graduates earn more?
The University of Tampa graduates earn a median $59,436 ten years after entry, versus $57,743 at University of South Florida — a $1,693 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.