University of Southern California vs California State University-Los Angeles: which has better ROI?
The verdict
California State University-Los Angeles has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $15,868 in 1.5 years versus 3 years at University of Southern California, on median earnings of $59,211 vs $92,498 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Southern California | California State University-Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $32,740 | $3,967 |
| Total net cost | $130,960 | $15,868 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $92,498 | $59,211 |
| Median debt | $18,000 | $13,000 |
| Payback | 3 yrs | 1.5 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $751,800 | $201,152 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Southern California vs California State University-Los Angeles: frequently asked questions
Is University of Southern California or California State University-Los Angeles a better value?
California State University-Los Angeles. It clears its $15,868 net cost in about 1.5 years versus 3 years at University of Southern California, on median earnings of $59,211 vs $92,498 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Southern California or California State University-Los Angeles?
California State University-Los Angeles: $3,967/yr net price after aid versus $32,740/yr at University of Southern California — a difference of $28,773 a year, or about $115,092 over four years.
Do University of Southern California or California State University-Los Angeles graduates earn more?
University of Southern California graduates earn a median $92,498 ten years after entry, versus $59,211 at California State University-Los Angeles — a $33,287 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.