University of Utah vs Salt Lake Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Utah has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $64,800 in 3.4 years versus not at all at Salt Lake Community College, on median earnings of $67,170 vs $47,867 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Utah | Salt Lake Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $16,200 | $9,804 |
| Total net cost | $64,800 | $19,608 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $67,170 | $47,867 |
| Median debt | $19,000 | $8,003 |
| Payback | 3.4 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $311,400 | -$29,468 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Utah vs Salt Lake Community College: frequently asked questions
Is University of Utah or Salt Lake Community College a better value?
University of Utah. It clears its $64,800 net cost in about 3.4 years versus no clear payback at Salt Lake Community College, on median earnings of $67,170 vs $47,867 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Utah or Salt Lake Community College?
Salt Lake Community College: $9,804/yr net price after aid versus $16,200/yr at University of Utah — a difference of $6,396 a year, or about $45,192 over four years.
Do University of Utah or Salt Lake Community College graduates earn more?
University of Utah graduates earn a median $67,170 ten years after entry, versus $47,867 at Salt Lake Community College — a $19,303 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.