Western Washington University vs Whatcom Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Western Washington University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $84,772 in 6 years versus not at all at Whatcom Community College, on median earnings of $62,569 vs $44,092 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Western Washington University | Whatcom Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $21,193 | $11,795 |
| Total net cost | $84,772 | $23,590 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $62,569 | $44,092 |
| Median debt | $18,500 | $10,643 |
| Payback | 6 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $199,408 | -$108,950 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Western Washington University vs Whatcom Community College: frequently asked questions
Is Western Washington University or Whatcom Community College a better value?
Western Washington University. It clears its $84,772 net cost in about 6 years versus no clear payback at Whatcom Community College, on median earnings of $62,569 vs $44,092 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Western Washington University or Whatcom Community College?
Whatcom Community College: $11,795/yr net price after aid versus $21,193/yr at Western Washington University — a difference of $9,398 a year, or about $61,182 over four years.
Do Western Washington University or Whatcom Community College graduates earn more?
Western Washington University graduates earn a median $62,569 ten years after entry, versus $44,092 at Whatcom Community College — a $18,477 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.