University of Virginia-Main Campus vs Piedmont Virginia Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Virginia-Main Campus has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $86,260 in 2.2 years versus not at all at Piedmont Virginia Community College, on median earnings of $86,863 vs $40,752 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Virginia-Main Campus | Piedmont Virginia Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $21,565 | $5,963 |
| Total net cost | $86,260 | $11,926 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $86,863 | $40,752 |
| Median debt | $17,500 | $8,750 |
| Payback | 2.2 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $683,800 | -$164,086 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Virginia-Main Campus vs Piedmont Virginia Community College: frequently asked questions
Is University of Virginia-Main Campus or Piedmont Virginia Community College a better value?
University of Virginia-Main Campus. It clears its $86,260 net cost in about 2.2 years versus no clear payback at Piedmont Virginia Community College, on median earnings of $86,863 vs $40,752 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Virginia-Main Campus or Piedmont Virginia Community College?
Piedmont Virginia Community College: $5,963/yr net price after aid versus $21,565/yr at University of Virginia-Main Campus — a difference of $15,602 a year, or about $74,334 over four years.
Do University of Virginia-Main Campus or Piedmont Virginia Community College graduates earn more?
University of Virginia-Main Campus graduates earn a median $86,863 ten years after entry, versus $40,752 at Piedmont Virginia Community College — a $46,111 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.