Yavapai College vs Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $161,148 in 4.5 years versus not at all at Yavapai College, on median earnings of $84,131 vs $39,890 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Yavapai College | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $8,683 | $40,287 |
| Total net cost | $34,732 | $161,148 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $39,890 | $84,131 |
| Median debt | $9,000 | $23,666 |
| Payback | — | 4.5 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$204,132 | $554,272 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Yavapai College vs Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott: frequently asked questions
Is Yavapai College or Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott a better value?
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott. It clears its $161,148 net cost in about 4.5 years versus no clear payback at Yavapai College, on median earnings of $84,131 vs $39,890 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Yavapai College or Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott?
Yavapai College: $8,683/yr net price after aid versus $40,287/yr at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott — a difference of $31,604 a year, or about $126,416 over four years.
Do Yavapai College or Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott graduates earn more?
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott graduates earn a median $84,131 ten years after entry, versus $39,890 at Yavapai College — a $44,241 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.