University of Washington-Seattle Campus vs Seattle Central College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Washington-Seattle Campus has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $56,364 in 1.9 years versus not at all at Seattle Central College, on median earnings of $78,466 vs $43,307 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle Central College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $14,091 | $8,819 |
| Total net cost | $56,364 | $17,638 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $78,466 | $43,307 |
| Median debt | $14,615 | $12,000 |
| Payback | 1.9 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $545,756 | -$118,698 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Washington-Seattle Campus vs Seattle Central College: frequently asked questions
Is University of Washington-Seattle Campus or Seattle Central College a better value?
University of Washington-Seattle Campus. It clears its $56,364 net cost in about 1.9 years versus no clear payback at Seattle Central College, on median earnings of $78,466 vs $43,307 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Washington-Seattle Campus or Seattle Central College?
Seattle Central College: $8,819/yr net price after aid versus $14,091/yr at University of Washington-Seattle Campus — a difference of $5,272 a year, or about $38,726 over four years.
Do University of Washington-Seattle Campus or Seattle Central College graduates earn more?
University of Washington-Seattle Campus graduates earn a median $78,466 ten years after entry, versus $43,307 at Seattle Central College — a $35,159 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.