Rankings / By State

Best Colleges in Oregon

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 32 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$52,522

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

47%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$18,287

Avg. Net Price

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Oregon is home to a diverse range of colleges, each offering unique opportunities for students. As families consider their options for higher education, understanding the key factors that contribute to a school's value is essential.

The schools on this list are ranked based on critical outcomes such as earnings after graduation, graduation rates, debt levels, and overall mobility. These metrics help illuminate which institutions may provide the best return on investment for students.

For instance, the University of Portland stands out with average earnings of $82,804 and an impressive 80% graduation rate. In contrast, Portland State University has lower earnings of $57,906 and a graduation rate of 53%. This comparison illustrates the trade-offs families may face when weighing different options.

Key Findings

University of Portland graduates earn an average of $82,804, significantly higher than the state average of $52,522.

Oregon Institute of Technology has a lower graduation rate at 56% compared to the 80% of the University of Portland.

Portland State University has a net price of just $9,552, making it one of the most affordable options on this list.

Oregon State University graduates have an average debt of $21,221, which is competitive but still a consideration for families.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 32

Avg. earnings at 10yr $52,522

Avg. graduation rate 47%

Avg. net price $18,287

Avg. median debt $18,823

How We Ranked

Composite score for institutions in Oregon

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

Oregon Institute of Technology

Klamath Falls, OR

Graduation56%

Earnings$72,273

Net Price$15,706

View full profile →

University of Portland

Portland, OR

Graduation80%

Earnings$82,804

Net Price$28,210

View full profile →

Portland State University

Portland, OR

Graduation53%

Earnings$57,906

Net Price$9,552

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Oregon Institute of Technology

Klamath Falls, OR · 2,892 students · Public

With a 95% acceptance rate, the Oregon Institute of Technology welcomes a diverse range of students looking for practical, hands-on education. Located in Klamath Falls, this public institution specializes in applied sciences and engineering, making it an attractive option for those seeking careers in technology and healthcare fields.

95% accepted 56% graduate $72,273 earnings

Oregon's full profile

University of Portland

Portland, OR · 2,957 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Portland is a private nonprofit in the heart of Portland, known for its strong focus on liberal arts and professional programs. With an impressive 80% graduation rate, this school cultivates a close-knit community, encouraging students to engage with their studies and each other.

89% accepted 80% graduate $82,804 earnings

University's full profile

Portland State University

Portland, OR · 13,182 students · Public

Portland State University stands out with its urban campus in the heart of Portland, providing students with numerous opportunities for internships and real-world experiences. With a graduation rate of 53%, it caters to a diverse student body, including many who thrive in a city environment and seek to connect their studies with community engagement.

91% accepted 53% graduate $57,906 earnings

Portland's full profile

Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR · 30,743 students · Public

Oregon State University in Corvallis has a vibrant community of over 30,000 students, emphasizing research and innovation. With a graduation rate of 70%, it provides a range of academic programs that cater to diverse interests, particularly in the STEM fields, making it a great option for those ready to dive into their chosen careers.

77% accepted 70% graduate $64,010 earnings

Oregon's full profile

University of Oregon

Eugene, OR · 20,497 students · Public

With a vibrant campus in Eugene, the University of Oregon serves over 20,000 students and has a strong commitment to sustainability and community engagement. A graduation rate of 72% reflects a supportive environment, and the median earnings of $61,324 a decade after graduation suggest that students leave well-prepared for their careers.

88% accepted 72% graduate $61,324 earnings

University's full profile

Reed College

Portland, OR · 1,320 students · Private nonprofit

Reed College in Portland attracts students who are intellectually curious and eager to engage deeply with their studies. With a graduation rate of 74% and median earnings of $62,927 a decade post-graduation, Reed cultivates critical thinking and creativity, preparing its graduates for varied career paths.

25% accepted 74% graduate $62,927 earnings

Linfield University

McMinnville, OR · 1,621 students · Private nonprofit

Linfield University, nestled in McMinnville, Oregon, presents a rich educational experience with a graduation rate of 68%. Known for its close-knit community and strong academic programs, students here engage deeply in their studies while also forming lasting relationships that enhance their college experience.

85% accepted 68% graduate $78,638 earnings

Linfield's full profile

Lewis & Clark College

Portland, OR · 2,120 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the vibrant city of Portland, Lewis & Clark College emphasizes a liberal arts education that encourages critical thinking and personal growth. With a graduation rate of 73%, it cultivates a supportive environment where students thrive academically and socially, engaging in a diverse range of programs and extracurricular activities.

78% accepted 73% graduate $62,205 earnings

Willamette University

Salem, OR · 1,592 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Salem, Willamette University is a place where tradition meets innovation, with a strong emphasis on liberal arts education. The graduation rate of 72% and median earnings of $56,911 after ten years show that students are well-equipped for the workforce.

77% accepted 72% graduate $56,911 earnings

Willamette's full profile

#10

Southern Oregon University

Ashland, OR · 2,751 students · Public

Southern Oregon University, located in the charming town of Ashland, offers a vibrant campus life and a variety of academic programs with a graduation rate of 43%. This university attracts students who are passionate about engaging with their community and participating in the arts, thanks to its rich cultural environment and supportive faculty.

89% accepted 43% graduate $49,175 earnings

Southern's full profile

#11

Southwestern Oregon Community College

Coos Bay, OR · 1,270 students · Public

In the picturesque town of Coos Bay, Southwestern Oregon Community College serves students looking for affordable education that leads to a range of career opportunities. With a graduation rate of 39%, it may seem challenging, but many students appreciate the flexibility and accessibility that community college provides, especially those balancing work and study.

39% graduate $38,349 earnings

Southwestern's full profile

#12

Corban University

Salem, OR · 678 students · Private nonprofit

Corban University in Salem serves around 678 students and has a graduation rate of 61%, which is a strong indicator of student success. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $48,917 within ten years, reflecting the university's commitment to preparing students for meaningful careers in a supportive, faith-based environment.

94% accepted 61% graduate $48,917 earnings

Corban's full profile

#13

Western Oregon University

Monmouth, OR · 3,103 students · Public

Western Oregon University, nestled in Monmouth, welcomes over 3,100 students and boasts a graduation rate of 46%. This is a promising figure for prospective students, especially when paired with a median earning of $51,815 after a decade. The university's wide acceptance rate of 98% suggests that many students can find a place here, making it a versatile option for diverse backgrounds and aspirations.

98% accepted 46% graduate $51,815 earnings

Western's full profile

#14

Pacific University

Forest Grove, OR · 1,516 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Forest Grove, Oregon, Pacific University has a vibrant community of 1,516 students, fostering a collaborative and engaging atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 66%, students are supported through a variety of academic programs that prepare them for successful careers.

90% accepted 66% graduate $60,583 earnings

Pacific's full profile

#15

Eastern Oregon University

La Grande, OR · 2,172 students · Public

Nestled in La Grande, Eastern Oregon University (EOU) offers a tight-knit community feel with a student body of around 2,172. The university prioritizes accessibility, as evidenced by its 98% acceptance rate, making it a great option for students seeking a welcoming environment to pursue their academic goals.

98% accepted 40% graduate $50,112 earnings

Eastern's full profile

#16

George Fox University

Newberg, OR · 2,699 students · Private nonprofit

George Fox University in Newberg, Oregon, is a private nonprofit institution known for its supportive community and high acceptance rate of 94%. With a graduation rate of 70%, many students thrive in its nurturing environment, benefiting from smaller class sizes and dedicated faculty.

94% accepted 70% graduate $59,761 earnings

George's full profile

#17

Clackamas Community College

Oregon City, OR · 4,963 students · Public

Clackamas Community College, located in Oregon City, offers a vibrant environment for its 4,963 students. However, the graduation rate stands at just 23%, which highlights the challenges some students face. Still, the college emphasizes access to education and serves a large population of diverse learners.

23% graduate $42,886 earnings

Clackamas's full profile

#18

Oregon State University-Cascades Campus

Bend, OR · 1,044 students · Public

Tucked away in the picturesque town of Bend, Oregon State University-Cascades Campus serves a smaller community of around 1,000 students, focusing on hands-on learning and a strong connection to the outdoors. With a graduation rate of 54% and median earnings of $64,010 after ten years, students are positioned for success, particularly in fields tied to the region's economy.

63% accepted 54% graduate $64,010 earnings

Oregon's full profile

#19

Linn-Benton Community College

Albany, OR · 5,174 students · Public

Linn-Benton Community College (LBCC) in Albany, Oregon, may be a smaller option, but it serves a focused community of around 5,174 students. With a graduation rate of 27%, LBCC offers a supportive atmosphere that helps students navigate their academic journeys, particularly those exploring vocational training or transfer pathways to four-year institutions.

27% graduate $41,363 earnings

Linn-Benton's full profile

#20

Portland Community College

Portland, OR · 19,531 students · Public

With over 19,500 students, Portland Community College (PCC) serves as a vital gateway to higher education in Oregon. Many students appreciate the diverse course offerings that can lead to various career paths, from healthcare to technology, making it an appealing choice for those exploring their interests.

18% graduate $44,592 earnings

Portland's full profile

#21

Clatsop Community College

Astoria, OR · 493 students · Public

Located in the picturesque coastal town of Astoria, Clatsop Community College serves a smaller cohort of around 493 students, creating an intimate learning environment. The college has a graduation rate of 27%, which, while modest, is coupled with competitive median earnings of $39,477 after ten years, suggesting that graduates can achieve financial stability with perseverance and effort.

27% graduate $39,477 earnings

Clatsop's full profile

#22

Blue Mountain Community College

Pendleton, OR · 962 students · Public

Blue Mountain Community College (BMCC) serves a smaller community in Pendleton, Oregon, with around 962 students. Despite its size, BMCC provides a personalized educational experience that encourages students to engage deeply with their studies and prepare for the workforce or further education.

27% graduate $38,375 earnings

Central Oregon Community College

Bend, OR · 3,789 students · Public

With a student body of nearly 3,800, Central Oregon Community College in Bend offers an appealing opportunity for those looking to start their educational journey in a vibrant community. The college's graduation rate sits at 25%, which indicates a need for students to remain focused and dedicated, but the median earnings of $38,940 at ten years post-graduation suggest that those who do finish can find rewarding job prospects in the region.

25% graduate $38,940 earnings

Central's full profile

#24

Columbia Gorge Community College

The Dalles, OR · 543 students · Public

With a relatively small student body of 543, Columbia Gorge Community College in The Dalles, Oregon, provides a close-knit learning environment. The college's location near stunning landscapes and outdoor opportunities attracts students who appreciate nature and an active lifestyle.

22% graduate $44,440 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#25

Chemeketa Community College

Salem, OR · 6,610 students · Public

Located in Salem, Oregon, Chemeketa Community College serves over 6,600 students, making it a significant player in the local education landscape. With a graduation rate of 22%, the college supports a diverse student body, including 37% Pell Grant recipients, who can benefit from financial aid while pursuing their goals.

22% graduate $40,968 earnings

Chemeketa's full profile

#26

Warner Pacific University

Portland, OR · 375 students · Private nonprofit

Situated in Portland, Warner Pacific University focuses on creating a diverse and inclusive atmosphere for its 375 students. Graduating 66% of its students, the university prepares them for the workforce, where they can earn a median salary of $55,204 after ten years, reflecting their commitment to student success and community engagement.

71% accepted 66% graduate $55,204 earnings

Warner's full profile

#27

Lane Community College

Eugene, OR · 6,064 students · Public

Eugene’s Lane Community College, home to about 6,064 students, is a hub for those seeking a community-oriented college experience. Although the graduation rate is 20%, the college is dedicated to supporting a diverse population, with 32% of students receiving Pell Grants to help offset costs.

20% graduate $38,075 earnings

Mt Hood Community College

Gresham, OR · 3,856 students · Public

Mt. Hood Community College in Gresham, Oregon, serves a diverse population of 3,856 students, providing flexible learning options for both traditional and non-traditional students. With a graduation rate of 25%, it offers various programs aimed at helping students achieve their goals, even if it takes time.

25% graduate $41,125 earnings

Bushnell University

Eugene, OR · 517 students · Private nonprofit

In Eugene, Oregon, Bushnell University has a tight-knit community with just 517 students, fostering strong connections and personalized attention. The school has a graduation rate of 59%, showing that while not everyone completes their degree, many do find their path here and go on to earn a median income of $53,623 a decade after graduation.

67% accepted 59% graduate $53,623 earnings

Bushnell's full profile

#30

Tillamook Bay Community College

Tillamook, OR · 294 students · Public

Tillamook Bay Community College may have a smaller enrollment of 294 students, but it offers a unique opportunity for those seeking a close community in the heart of Tillamook, Oregon. While the graduation rate is at 31%, this college serves as an important stepping stone for many who may later transfer to four-year institutions or pursue further education.

Tillamook's full profile

#31

Oregon Coast Community College

Newport, OR · 376 students · Public

Nestled in Newport, Oregon, Oregon Coast Community College is a smaller institution with around 376 students. However, its graduation rate of 34% indicates a supportive environment where students can thrive, especially those looking for a closer-knit educational experience.

Oregon's full profile

#32

Pacific Northwest College of Art

Portland, OR · 420 students · Private nonprofit

In the creative heart of Portland, the Pacific Northwest College of Art attracts artistic minds with its unique focus on the arts. With a graduation rate of 36% and a 75% acceptance rate, the college welcomes a diverse range of students who are passionate about their craft and eager to develop their skills.

75% accepted 36% graduate $34,883 earnings

Pacific's full profile

When looking closely at Oregon's colleges, a notable distinction arises between the University of Portland and Oregon State University. The University of Portland, with its $82,804 average earnings and 80% graduation rate, clearly outpaces Oregon State's $64,010 earnings and 70% graduation rate. This suggests that while both schools offer solid education, the return on investment may be higher at the University of Portland.

As you sift through these options, consider what matters most for your family. Look beyond the numbers to think about location, campus culture, and specific programs that align with your interests. A lower net price like the $9,552 at Portland State could make it an appealing choice for budget-conscious families, while those prioritizing higher earnings might lean toward the University of Portland.

Ultimately, the data reflects the importance of college in shaping life trajectories. A family's decision can lead to different paths—one that may lead to financial stability or one that requires navigating significant debt. Each choice carries weight, and understanding these figures can help ground that decision in reality.

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]

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). →

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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