Rankings / By State

Best Colleges in California

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

50

Schools Analyzed

$75,214

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

72%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$22,316

Avg. Net Price

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When exploring top colleges in California, families are faced with a wealth of options, each offering unique opportunities. With 50 institutions on this list, students can consider factors like academic reputation, financial commitment, and post-graduate success. For many students, the decision can feel overwhelming, especially with earnings that average around $72,740 for graduates in the state.

What distinguishes the institutions that make this list from those that don’t? Key metrics such as graduation rates, average earnings, debt levels, and mobility rankings play a significant role. Schools like Stanford and Caltech stand out for their high graduation rates and strong earning potential, while also managing student debt effectively. As you look through the rankings below, keep these outcomes in mind to find the right fit for your educational and career goals.

For instance, compare Stanford University and Pomona College. Graduates of Stanford earn an impressive $124,080 on average, whereas Pomona's graduates earn $77,779. However, Pomona's lower net price of $19,285 and more manageable debt of $11,782 present a different kind of value proposition. This contrast highlights the trade-offs students face when weighing prestige against financial considerations.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $75,214

Avg. graduation rate 72%

Avg. net price $22,316

Avg. median debt $17,533

How We Ranked

Composite score for institutions in California

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

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA

Earnings$128,566

Net Price$16,075

View full profile →

Pomona College

Claremont, CA

Earnings$77,779

Net Price$19,285

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

With a 4% acceptance rate, Stanford University is highly selective, making it a coveted destination for ambitious students. The atmosphere here is vibrant and intellectually stimulating, with 92% of students graduating and median earnings of $124,080 at 10 years post-graduation. This reflects a strong network and a culture that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

Caltech, with just 987 students, fosters an intimate learning environment that attracts those passionate about science and engineering. The school enjoys a remarkable graduation rate of 94% and impressive median earnings of $128,566 a decade after graduation, showcasing the strong return on investment for graduates in highly technical fields.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Claremont, Pomona College combines a liberal arts education with a diverse community. The college has a graduation rate of 93% and median earnings of $77,779 at ten years, appealing to students who value a well-rounded education in a supportive environment. The relatively small size of 1,666 students fosters close relationships with faculty and peers, enhancing the learning experience.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93% and median earnings of $104,736 ten years after graduation, Claremont McKenna College is a strong contender for students seeking a personalized education in a close-knit community. This small private college in sunny Claremont, California, serves just over 1,300 students, fostering an environment where faculty and peers can guide students in their academic and career journeys. The low acceptance rate of 10% indicates a highly selective admissions process, ensuring a dedicated and ambitious student body.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · 20,443 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Southern California, located in Los Angeles, is a private institution known for its prestigious programs and vibrant campus life. With a remarkable graduation rate of 92%, students benefit from a supportive community that encourages academic achievement and personal growth.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

San Jose State University, located in the tech-savvy heart of Silicon Valley, attracts students eager to engage with cutting-edge industries. The university has a graduation rate of 67%, with a focus on preparing students for competitive job markets, particularly in engineering, business, and technology.

85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings

San's full profile

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA · 921 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Claremont, California, Harvey Mudd College is renowned for its focus on engineering, science, and mathematics. With a graduation rate of 93%, this small private institution fosters a close-knit community where students collaborate on rigorous projects and challenges, preparing them for high-demand fields.

13% accepted 93% graduate $138,687 earnings

Harvey's full profile

Scripps College

Claremont, CA · 1,113 students · Private nonprofit

Scripps College, located in the scenic Claremont area, is a women's college that emphasizes liberal arts education. With an acceptance rate of 38% and an 85% graduation rate, Scripps cultivates an empowering environment for young women, encouraging them to excel academically and personally while engaging in a vibrant community.

38% accepted 85% graduate $77,539 earnings

Scripps's full profile

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA · 6,552 students · Private nonprofit

Santa Clara University, with a smaller community of just 6,552 students, offers a personalized educational experience in the heart of Silicon Valley. The university has an impressive graduation rate of 88%, indicating that most students navigate their academic paths successfully.

48% accepted 88% graduate $109,183 earnings

Santa's full profile

San Francisco State University

San Francisco, CA · 18,639 students · Public

San Francisco State University stands as a hub of cultural diversity, with an enrollment of over 18,000 students. Located in one of the most iconic cities in the US, it offers a dynamic urban experience that enhances learning and personal development for students from all walks of life.

96% accepted 50% graduate $68,077 earnings

San's full profile

University of the Pacific

Stockton, CA · 3,204 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Stockton, California, the University of the Pacific has a close-knit community of around 3,200 students, fostering deep connections between peers and faculty. This private nonprofit institution has a higher graduation rate of 68%, reflecting a supportive atmosphere that encourages student achievement.

71% accepted 68% graduate $78,445 earnings

University's full profile

California State University Maritime Academy

Vallejo, CA · 804 students · Public

California State University Maritime Academy offers a unique blend of maritime and engineering programs, catering to a specialized student population. With a 63% graduation rate and a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, students can engage deeply in their fields while preparing for rewarding careers.

95% accepted 63% graduate $94,784 earnings

California's full profile

San Diego State University

San Diego, CA · 35,377 students · Public

With 35,377 students, San Diego State University is a vibrant hub of activity in sunny California. The university has a graduation rate of 77%, suggesting a strong support system that helps students finish their degrees, which is increasingly important in today's job market.

36% accepted 77% graduate $64,909 earnings

San's full profile

Sonoma State University

Rohnert Park, CA · 5,166 students · Public

With a scenic campus in Rohnert Park, Sonoma State University welcomes over 5,000 students into a vibrant academic community. The university prioritizes student success, reflected in a 59% graduation rate and a supportive environment, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a blend of academics and California's natural beauty.

93% accepted 59% graduate $65,986 earnings

Sonoma's full profile

Azusa Pacific University

Azusa, CA · 2,759 students · Private nonprofit

88% accepted 63% graduate $66,677 earnings

Azusa's full profile

Pitzer College

Claremont, CA · 1,227 students · Private nonprofit

Pitzer College, located in Claremont, California, is known for its commitment to social justice and a strong emphasis on student-led initiatives. With a small student body of just over 1,200, Pitzer fosters an intimate learning environment where students can thrive academically and personally, as indicated by its 83% graduation rate.

25% accepted 83% graduate $69,512 earnings

Pitzer's full profile

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · 33,068 students · Public

The University of California-Berkeley is a powerhouse in public education, with a robust enrollment of 33,068 students. Its graduation rate of 93% indicates that students are not just enrolling but thriving academically. Graduates achieve median earnings of $92,446 ten years after finishing their degree, showcasing the value of a Berkeley education in the job market.

11% accepted 93% graduate $92,446 earnings

University's full profile

Irvine Valley College

Irvine, CA · 10,286 students · Public

Irvine Valley College serves a diverse student population of 10,286, making it a great option for those looking for a community-focused learning environment. With a graduation rate of 57%, this college emphasizes support and accessibility, and students here can expect median earnings of $49,156 a decade after graduation, indicating good career prospects in the region.

57% graduate $49,156 earnings

Irvine's full profile

University of San Diego

San Diego, CA · 5,671 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in San Diego, the University of San Diego attracts students with its strong academic programs and a vibrant campus life. With an impressive graduation rate of 83%, students here benefit from a supportive network that fosters both personal and professional growth, making it a desirable option for those looking to succeed in their studies and beyond.

52% accepted 83% graduate $86,522 earnings

University's full profile

University of California-San Diego

La Jolla, CA · 34,948 students · Public

The University of California-San Diego is a large public university in La Jolla, serving nearly 35,000 students. Its 87% graduation rate and median earnings of $84,943 ten years post-graduation indicate that students are well-prepared for the job market. With a 27% acceptance rate, UCSD attracts motivated individuals who are passionate about learning and eager to make an impact in various fields.

27% accepted 87% graduate $84,943 earnings

University's full profile

Saddleback College

Mission Viejo, CA · 17,684 students · Public

Saddleback College in Mission Viejo serves a diverse student population of nearly 18,000, making it a hub for those seeking accessible higher education. The college is known for its commitment to helping students transition to four-year institutions, which can be a strategic move for those looking to start their academic journey in a supportive environment.

46% graduate $50,874 earnings

Saddleback's full profile

Occidental College

Los Angeles, CA · 1,877 students · Private nonprofit

44% accepted 83% graduate $75,951 earnings

Occidental's full profile

Fresno Pacific University

Fresno, CA · 1,544 students · Private nonprofit

64% accepted 53% graduate $58,896 earnings

Fresno's full profile

California Lutheran University

Thousand Oaks, CA · 2,296 students · Private nonprofit

76% accepted 72% graduate $68,712 earnings

California's full profile

University of California-Irvine

Irvine, CA · 30,197 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 86%, the University of California-Irvine supports students in achieving their academic goals. The vibrant campus in Irvine, CA, fosters an innovative atmosphere, making it a great place for those who thrive in a collaborative environment.

29% accepted 86% graduate $80,735 earnings

University's full profile

University of California-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA · 33,475 students · Public

Home to nearly 33,500 students, the University of California-Los Angeles is a vibrant hub of academic and cultural life in Los Angeles. With a 93% graduation rate and median earnings of $82,511 ten years after graduation, UCLA combines a strong education with ample career potential. Its low acceptance rate of 9% reflects the competitive nature of admissions, attracting students who are not only academically accomplished but also diverse and engaged in the world around them.

9% accepted 93% graduate $82,511 earnings

University's full profile

Vanguard University of Southern California

Costa Mesa, CA · 1,933 students · Private nonprofit

62% accepted 56% graduate $59,541 earnings

Vanguard's full profile

University of California-Davis

Davis, CA · 32,253 students · Public

Located in the charming town of Davis, the University of California-Davis emphasizes a commitment to sustainability and community engagement. With an 85% graduation rate and median earnings of $80,838 a decade after graduation, UC Davis prepares students for a successful transition into the workforce. The 42% acceptance rate indicates a welcoming environment for prospective students who are dedicated to their education and eager to contribute to campus life.

42% accepted 85% graduate $80,838 earnings

University's full profile

Pasadena City College

Pasadena, CA · 21,466 students · Public

Pasadena City College is a bustling community college with over 21,000 students, known for its inclusive atmosphere and commitment to education. With a graduation rate of 44%, it attracts a diverse group of learners, including many first-generation college students who find support in this environment.

44% graduate $43,937 earnings

Pasadena's full profile

College of the Canyons

Santa Clarita, CA · 15,832 students · Public

44% graduate $49,022 earnings

College's full profile

University of Redlands

Redlands, CA · 2,049 students · Private nonprofit

83% accepted 69% graduate $72,690 earnings

University's full profile

College of the Sequoias

Visalia, CA · 11,562 students · Public

College of the Sequoias serves as a crucial access point for many students seeking higher education, with a total enrollment of more than 11,500. The college is dedicated to helping students succeed, although its graduation rate of 36% indicates that additional support may be needed for some. This institution is particularly suitable for those looking to start their educational journey before transferring to a four-year university.

36% graduate $39,092 earnings

College's full profile

Saint Mary's College of California

Moraga, CA · 1,947 students · Private nonprofit

87% accepted 70% graduate $78,812 earnings

Saint's full profile

Loyola Marymount University

Los Angeles, CA · 7,094 students · Private nonprofit

45% accepted 79% graduate $78,349 earnings

Loyola's full profile

University of California-Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, CA · 23,113 students · Public

Nestled along the stunning coastline, the University of California-Santa Barbara offers a unique blend of academic excellence and a picturesque campus. Its 84% graduation rate reflects a strong commitment to student success, making it an appealing choice for those who value a supportive educational atmosphere.

33% accepted 84% graduate $74,915 earnings

University's full profile

Dominican University of California

San Rafael, CA · 1,114 students · Private nonprofit

84% accepted 77% graduate $84,713 earnings

Dominican's full profile

Chapman University

Orange, CA · 7,478 students · Private nonprofit

65% accepted 81% graduate $70,070 earnings

Chapman's full profile

University of La Verne

La Verne, CA · 3,050 students · Private nonprofit

71% accepted 64% graduate $65,464 earnings

University's full profile

Westmont College

Santa Barbara, CA · 1,302 students · Private nonprofit

77% accepted 70% graduate $64,778 earnings

Westmont's full profile

Pepperdine University

Malibu, CA · 3,553 students · Private nonprofit

63% accepted 84% graduate $82,939 earnings

Pepperdine's full profile

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, CA · 21,996 students · Public

California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo is known for its hands-on learning approach, which resonates with students eager to apply their studies in real-world contexts. With a student population of approximately 21,996, this campus blends practical skills with academic rigor, preparing graduates for successful careers.

31% accepted 86% graduate $90,768 earnings

California's full profile

San Joaquin Delta College

Stockton, CA · 15,781 students · Public

33% graduate $43,212 earnings

San's full profile

University of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA · 5,287 students · Private nonprofit

62% accepted 71% graduate $89,812 earnings

University's full profile

Point Loma Nazarene University

San Diego, CA · 3,188 students · Private nonprofit

84% accepted 76% graduate $63,998 earnings

Point's full profile

Biola University

La Mirada, CA · 3,474 students · Private nonprofit

74% accepted 68% graduate $56,778 earnings

Biola's full profile

Whittier College

Whittier, CA · 764 students · Private nonprofit

81% accepted 62% graduate $59,492 earnings

Whittier's full profile

Sierra College

Rocklin, CA · 14,122 students · Public

40% graduate $45,294 earnings

Sierra's full profile

University of California-Riverside

Riverside, CA · 22,593 students · Public

University of California-Riverside is home to nearly 23,000 students and boasts a graduation rate of 76%, reflecting a commitment to academic success. The campus culture is diverse and inclusive, making it a welcoming environment for those from various backgrounds, particularly first-generation college students who are looking to thrive in higher education.

76% accepted 76% graduate $67,699 earnings

University's full profile

University of California-Merced

Merced, CA · 8,372 students · Public

At the University of California-Merced, nearly 8,372 students benefit from a strong academic framework and a commitment to research and innovation. The graduation rate of 69% reflects the university's focus on student success, while median earnings of $64,368 after ten years suggest that graduates are well-prepared for the workforce and capable of achieving their career goals.

91% accepted 69% graduate $64,368 earnings

University's full profile

California State University-Fullerton

Fullerton, CA · 38,546 students · Public

California State University-Fullerton, situated in the heart of Fullerton, enrolls over 38,500 students, making it a vibrant hub for diverse educational experiences. With a graduation rate of 70%, the university offers a variety of programs that help students from different backgrounds succeed in their academic pursuits and future careers.

91% accepted 70% graduate $62,951 earnings

California's full profile

Sources & Citations

[1]

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

[2]

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

DK

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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