University of Wisconsin-Madison vs University of Minnesota-Twin Cities: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Wisconsin-Madison has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $69,416 in 2.7 years versus 3.2 years at University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, on median earnings of $73,792 vs $69,020 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Wisconsin-Madison | University of Minnesota-Twin Cities |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $17,354 | $16,778 |
| Total net cost | $69,416 | $67,112 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $73,792 | $69,020 |
| Median debt | $20,484 | $19,500 |
| Payback | 2.7 yrs | 3.2 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $439,224 | $346,088 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Wisconsin-Madison vs University of Minnesota-Twin Cities: frequently asked questions
Is University of Wisconsin-Madison or University of Minnesota-Twin Cities a better value?
University of Wisconsin-Madison. It clears its $69,416 net cost in about 2.7 years versus 3.2 years at University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, on median earnings of $73,792 vs $69,020 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Wisconsin-Madison or University of Minnesota-Twin Cities?
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities: $16,778/yr net price after aid versus $17,354/yr at University of Wisconsin-Madison — a difference of $576 a year, or about $2,304 over four years.
Do University of Wisconsin-Madison or University of Minnesota-Twin Cities graduates earn more?
University of Wisconsin-Madison graduates earn a median $73,792 ten years after entry, versus $69,020 at University of Minnesota-Twin Cities — a $4,772 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.