Rankings / National

Best Colleges in America

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$89,639

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

90%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$20,220

Avg. Net Price

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Graduates from Princeton University earn an average of $110,066 per year. That’s a significant boost for families considering the return on investment of college.

Searching for the best colleges in America means weighing options carefully. Families want to know which schools can lead to better economic outcomes and social mobility. What does this mean for future earnings and financial stability?

Princeton University and Stanford University illustrate how different schools can impact financial futures. Princeton has a graduation rate of 97% but a lower net price of $6,128 compared to Stanford’s $13,807. These numbers highlight the different paths students can take.

Key Findings

Princeton graduates earn $110,066 on average, with only $6,128 in net price.

Stanford graduates have a higher earning potential at $124,080, but face $12,000 in debt.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates average $143,372 in earnings, with a 96% graduation rate.

The average earnings across the top schools is $91,624, reflecting strong financial outcomes.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $89,639

Avg. graduation rate 90%

Avg. net price $20,220

Avg. median debt $15,220

How We Ranked

Academic quality (20%) · Economic outcomes (30%) · Social mobility (25%) · Value (25%). Requires completion >30%, earnings >$25K, excludes for-profit.

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

Graduation97%

Earnings$110,066

Net Price$6,128

View full profile →

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Graduation92%

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA

Graduation96%

Earnings$143,372

Net Price$20,111

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

97% of students graduate from Princeton University. This high completion rate reflects a supportive academic environment. With a median earnings figure of $110,066 at ten years after graduation, students can expect strong financial outcomes.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University has a graduation rate of 92%. The vibrant campus and diverse student body attract individuals eager to innovate and collaborate. Graduates can anticipate median earnings of $124,080 at ten years, showcasing strong career prospects.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

Graduation rates at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology reach 96%. Students are immersed in a culture of inquiry and problem-solving. Median earnings for graduates stand at $143,372 at ten years, reflecting the high demand for MIT alumni in the workforce.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 95%, the University of Chicago cultivates a rigorous academic experience. This environment attracts intellectually curious students. Graduates earn a median of $91,885 at ten years, indicative of strong job placement in competitive fields.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Johns Hopkins University has a 94% graduation rate. The institution is known for its research opportunities and commitment to public health. Graduates earn a median of $87,555 at ten years, which may appeal to those entering the workforce early.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

The net price for attending Harvard is $19,066 after financial aid. With a median debt of $14,000 and a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.14x, many graduates find their debt manageable. The 16% of Pell Grant recipients highlights the university's commitment to supporting students from various backgrounds.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University in Ithaca has a graduation rate of 95%. The campus is known for its diverse academic offerings and vibrant student life. With a large student body of nearly 16,000, it fosters a rich community of learners and future leaders.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Attending Williams College costs a net price of $17,716 after financial aid. Graduates have a median debt of $12,761, resulting in a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.14x. The college's 18% Pell Grant recipient rate indicates its focus on inclusivity and support for diverse student backgrounds.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Students attending Rice pay a net price of $13,370 after financial aid. The median debt for graduates is $11,000, with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.12x, making it a sustainable choice for many. The 17% of Pell Grant recipients suggests that this institution is supportive of first-generation students.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

At Brown, the net price after aid is $25,184, making it accessible for many students. Graduates incur a median debt of $11,428, with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.12x. This school tends to attract traditional students seeking a flexible learning environment, with 14% of students receiving Pell Grants.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The net price for attending the University of Pennsylvania is $28,699 after financial aid. Graduates typically carry a median debt of $15,715, resulting in a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.14x. This school attracts a mix of traditional students and those from diverse backgrounds, including 17% Pell Grant recipients.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

#12

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Nashville, Vanderbilt University has a 93% graduation rate. Students appreciate the blend of academic rigor and a lively city atmosphere. The 6% acceptance rate highlights the competitive nature of admissions, attracting high-achieving individuals.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#13

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

California Institute of Technology has a low acceptance rate of 3% and a graduation rate of 94%. This elite institution attracts some of the brightest minds in STEM fields. Students often find themselves in an intense, research-driven environment that encourages innovation.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

#14

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University has a 96% graduation rate. This indicates strong student support and engagement. The vibrant campus life and rigorous academics attract motivated students who want to excel.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 93%, Georgia Institute of Technology is a strong choice for students focused on finishing their degree. Located in Atlanta, this public university has a vibrant campus life and is known for its emphasis on technology and engineering disciplines.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#16

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill boasts a diverse student population of 20,752 and a graduation rate of 92%. With median earnings of $72,200 at ten years, the school demonstrates a commitment to student success. The net price after aid is $11,655, making it accessible for many students.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#17

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College in Wellesley, MA, enrolls around 2,300 students and has a graduation rate of 91%. The median earnings of $84,803 for graduates ten years after attending show a solid return on investment. Students here face a net price of $25,496 after aid, with manageable debt of $10,000.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#18

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

With a 93% graduation rate, Pomona College in Claremont, CA, has a strong track record of student success. The small student body of 1,666 allows for close-knit relationships and personalized education. Graduates earn a median of $77,779 within ten years, indicating strong career outcomes for alumni.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#19

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, making it an excellent institution for students aiming to complete their degrees. This private nonprofit in Amherst, Massachusetts, attracts students who value a strong liberal arts curriculum and a collaborative academic atmosphere.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#20

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

With a 95% graduation rate, Bowdoin College is a compelling choice for students seeking a strong liberal arts education. Located in Brunswick, Maine, this small private nonprofit emphasizes a close-knit community and academic rigor, appealing to students who thrive in intimate learning environments.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#21

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

University of Florida enrolls 35,629 students and has a graduation rate of 91%. This large public university offers a diverse range of programs and a lively campus atmosphere, appealing to many traditional students seeking an active college experience.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#22

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Evanston, IL, Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96% and a student body of 9,201. Graduates earn a median of $89,363 after ten years, reflecting strong career prospects. The net price stands at $29,167, and with a median debt of $15,000, graduates face a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.17x.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#25

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#26

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · 8,973 students · Private nonprofit

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#27

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College has a graduation rate of 96%, showcasing its commitment to student success. This private nonprofit in Hanover, New Hampshire, is known for its small class sizes and strong community, drawing students looking for a more personalized educational experience.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#29

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#30

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

Claremont McKenna College, with a 93% graduation rate, emphasizes economics and government studies. The intimate setting of 1,388 students fosters strong relationships with faculty and peers. At a net price of $28,849 and median earnings of $104,736 after ten years, students can find success without overwhelming debt.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#31

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College, with a graduation rate of 91%, provides a close-knit community for its 1,867 students. The college emphasizes a liberal arts education, encouraging critical thinking and leadership skills. Graduates earn a median of $81,400 after ten years, which is notable given the manageable net price of $17,379.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#32

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon has a reputation for its focus on technology and the arts, making it appealing for creative and analytical students alike. The median earnings for graduates stand at $114,862 after ten years, showcasing the high return on investment for students who thrive in a rigorous academic environment.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#33

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College has a graduation rate of 93%, one of the highest in the country. With 1,613 students, this intimate college fosters close relationships between faculty and students. Graduates earn a median salary of $80,257 a decade after leaving, indicating robust career opportunities for its alumni.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#34

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College has a close-knit community, with only 1,430 students. The graduation rate stands at 90%, signaling the college's commitment to student success. Graduates earn a median income of $79,966 within ten years, a strong return on investment for its size.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#35

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

At Colgate University, 91% of students graduate. That strong completion rate reflects a supportive academic environment. Students can expect to earn a median salary of $85,139 a decade after graduation, which is impressive for a liberal arts college.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#36

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory University has a graduation rate of 91%, ensuring most students complete their degrees. With 7,298 students, it combines a large university feel with a supportive community. Graduates earn a median of $80,137 ten years after graduation, reflecting the university's strong academic reputation.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

New York, NY · 842 students · Private nonprofit

21% accepted 81% graduate $83,847 earnings

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#43

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN · 8,818 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#44

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#45

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#46

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

#48

Barnard College

New York, NY · 3,264 students · Private nonprofit

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#49

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University, located in Washington, DC, has a 95% graduation rate. This exceptional statistic highlights the institution's commitment to student success. The net price after aid is $40,815, and median earnings of $103,494 after ten years can make this a worthwhile choice for ambitious students.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#50

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX · 42,855 students · Public

27% accepted 88% graduate $75,121 earnings

Princeton University and Johns Hopkins University showcase different financial outcomes despite similar graduation rates. Princeton’s graduates earn $110,066 while Johns Hopkins graduates earn $87,555. The difference of $22,511 reflects how institutional resources can influence career trajectories.

After reviewing 50 schools, consider what matters most to you. Think about location, specific programs, and your financial situation. Does a school’s net price align with potential earnings? How does the graduation rate impact your decision?

This data highlights the critical role of college choices in shaping financial futures. One family’s decision to attend a school with strong earnings potential may lead to a more stable financial life. Each choice carries weight.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[3]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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