Rankings / National

Best Liberal Arts Colleges

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 46 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$75,664

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

86%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$26,070

Avg. Net Price

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Williams College graduates earn an average of $88,665. That number can change a family’s financial future. It reflects the potential return on investment for a liberal arts education.

Families looking at liberal arts colleges want to ensure their choice leads to good careers. They are assessing graduation rates, earnings, and debt. The real question is: Will the degree open doors for my child?

Consider Bowdoin College. It has a 95% graduation rate and graduates earn an average of $82,735. Now look at Wellesley College. Its average earnings are $84,803, but the graduation rate is 91%. These differences matter as families weigh their options.

Key Findings

Williams College graduates earn $88,665 on average, the highest in this group.

Bowdoin College has a 95% graduation rate, which may indicate strong student support.

Wellesley College has a net price of $25,496, the highest among the top five.

Pomona College graduates have the lowest debt at $11,782.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 46

Avg. earnings at 10yr $75,664

Avg. graduation rate 86%

Avg. net price $26,070

Avg. median debt $17,952

How We Ranked

Flagship composite for Carnegie-classified liberal arts institutions

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

Williams College

Williamstown, MA

Graduation95%

Earnings$88,665

Net Price$17,716

View full profile →

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA

Graduation91%

Earnings$84,803

Net Price$25,496

View full profile →

Pomona College

Claremont, CA

Graduation93%

Earnings$77,779

Net Price$19,285

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

With a 95% graduation rate, Williams College demonstrates strong support for its students. The small campus in Williamstown, MA, accommodates 2,076 students, fostering a close-knit community that many find appealing. Graduates earn a median of $88,665 at ten years, indicating a solid return on investment for those who attend.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College, in Wellesley, MA, has a graduation rate of 91%, signaling a commitment to student success. The college serves 2,300 students, creating a vibrant community for women. Alumni earn a median of $84,803 ten years after graduation, indicating strong job prospects for graduates.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Pomona College, located in Claremont, CA, has a graduation rate of 93%, indicating solid student support. With 1,666 students, the college provides an intimate learning atmosphere. Graduates earn a median of $77,779 ten years after finishing their degree, showcasing a solid earning potential for alumni.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, reflecting a supportive academic environment. Nestled in Amherst, MA, the college enrolls 1,911 students, promoting individualized attention. Graduates report median earnings of $77,644 at ten years, suggesting a solid potential for financial success post-graduation.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College, located in Brunswick, ME, has a 95% graduation rate and a tight-knit community of 1,873 students. The acceptance rate is low at 7%, suggesting a competitive environment. With a median earning of $82,735 at ten years post-graduation, students can expect a strong financial outcome after attending.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College in Waterville, ME, serves 2,407 students and has an impressive graduation rate of 89%. Graduates earn a median of $80,490 at ten years, indicating a solid return on investment for students pursuing a liberal arts education.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

With a 94% graduation rate, Washington and Lee University in Lexington, VA, demonstrates strong student success. The median earnings for graduates reach $94,810 at ten years post-graduation, a figure that reflects the university's commitment to quality education and career readiness.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Claremont McKenna College in Claremont, CA, emphasizes student success and academic rigor. Graduates enjoy a median earning of $104,736 after ten years, a testament to the college's programs and resources that prepare students for the workforce.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College in Davidson, NC, has a graduation rate of 91%, showcasing its focus on student achievement. Graduates can expect to earn a median salary of $81,400 ten years after graduation, reflecting the value of a liberal arts education in the job market.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#10

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College has a 93% graduation rate, one of the highest among liberal arts colleges. Located in a picturesque setting, the school fosters a close-knit community with 1,613 students. Graduates see median earnings of $80,257, making it a financially viable option for many.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#11

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

With a 90% graduation rate, Haverford College shows a commitment to student success. The school has a small student body of 1,430, creating an intimate learning environment. Graduates earn a median of $79,966 after 10 years, highlighting strong potential for future earnings.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#12

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

Colgate University in Hamilton, NY, has a graduation rate of 91% and a student body of 3,180. The median earnings for graduates ten years post-graduation are $85,139, reflecting the university's strong academic programs and career opportunities.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#13

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

Bates College, with a graduation rate of 90%, emphasizes a supportive and engaged learning atmosphere. The student population of 1,760 allows for personalized attention in academics and extracurricular activities. Graduates earn a median of $69,498 after 10 years, providing a stable return on investment.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

New York, NY · 842 students · Private nonprofit

The Cooper Union has an 81% graduation rate and a unique focus on science and art. With only 842 students, it creates a collaborative environment for aspiring innovators. Graduates achieve median earnings of $83,847, reflecting the value of their education, while the net price remains manageable at $13,269.

21% accepted 81% graduate $83,847 earnings

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

Smith College has a graduation rate of 89%, which indicates strong student support and engagement. With 2,544 students, it fosters a close-knit community where individuals can thrive academically and socially. The presence of 18% Pell Grant recipients highlights the school's commitment to accessibility and diversity in its student body.

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Barnard College

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

With a 93% graduation rate, Barnard College excels in supporting its students through to completion. The school offers a unique environment for women in the heart of New York City, enhancing both academic and social opportunities.

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#17

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

With a 90% graduation rate, Carleton College in Northfield, MN, is a strong choice for students focused on completing their degree. The median earnings of graduates reach $75,525 within ten years, indicating a solid return on investment for attendees. Students here engage in a close-knit community, with a focus on academic rigor and collaboration.

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

#18

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

Grinnell College in Iowa has an 88% graduation rate, appealing to students who prioritize educational success. Graduates earn a median of $62,830 within ten years, which reflects the college's commitment to quality education. The intimate setting of Grinnell fosters strong relationships between students and faculty, enhancing the learning experience.

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

#19

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT · 2,738 students · Private nonprofit

Middlebury College, located in Vermont, has a graduation rate of 92%, which is notably high. Students can expect a robust academic environment, as indicated by the median earnings of $76,310 after ten years. The college emphasizes global education, with opportunities for language immersion and study abroad programs.

11% accepted 92% graduate $76,310 earnings

Middlebury's full profile

#20

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

Lafayette College has a graduation rate of 88%. This high percentage indicates a supportive environment for students. The school emphasizes a liberal arts education, encouraging critical thinking and interdisciplinary study.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#21

Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT · 3,067 students · Private nonprofit

Wesleyan University has a 92% graduation rate, indicating strong student support and engagement. With just over 3,000 students, it creates an intimate learning environment where individuals can thrive academically and socially.

16% accepted 92% graduate $73,897 earnings

Wesleyan's full profile

#22

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

Hamilton College, located in Clinton, NY, has a graduation rate of 91%. The median earnings for graduates are impressive at $78,411 after ten years, showcasing the value of a Hamilton degree. The college's emphasis on writing and speaking skills prepares students for various careers and graduate studies.

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

#23

University of Florida-Online

Gainesville, FL · 4,627 students · Public

The University of Florida-Online offers an accessible education with an acceptance rate of 61%. This public institution enrolls 4,627 students and has a graduation rate of 81%. Students can expect a low net price of $4,815 and median earnings of $71,588 after 10 years, making it an attractive option for many.

61% accepted 81% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#24

Berea College

Berea, KY · 1,513 students · Private nonprofit

Berea College has a low acceptance rate of 19%, which means it attracts a selective student body interested in a unique educational model. This private nonprofit institution emphasizes a work-study program, allowing students to graduate debt-free while earning valuable experience. With 84% of students receiving Pell Grants, this school is committed to accessibility for lower-income students.

19% accepted 60% graduate $43,150 earnings

University of Virginia's College at Wise

Wise, VA · 1,101 students · Public

At the University of Virginia's College at Wise, 48% of students graduate, indicating room for improvement in student retention. This public institution, with a student population of 1,101, offers a more intimate setting for learning in Virginia. The campus fosters a sense of belonging and community among students.

29% accepted 48% graduate $45,325 earnings

University's full profile

#26

Scripps College

Claremont, CA · 1,113 students · Private nonprofit

Scripps College in Claremont, CA, has a graduation rate of 85%. Graduates earn a median of $77,539 within ten years, reflecting the quality of education at this women’s college. The focus on women's leadership and liberal arts education provides a unique environment for personal and academic growth.

38% accepted 85% graduate $77,539 earnings

Scripps's full profile

#27

Trinity University

San Antonio, TX · 2,505 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 83%, Trinity University in San Antonio attracts students focused on academic success. The median earnings of graduates reach $71,668 ten years after enrollment, indicating strong post-college financial outcomes.

26% accepted 83% graduate $71,668 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#28

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA · 921 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Harvey Mudd College attracts students who value academic excellence and a tight-knit community. This private nonprofit institution in Claremont, CA, focuses on science, engineering, and mathematics, creating a rich environment for those passionate about these fields.

13% accepted 93% graduate $138,687 earnings

Harvey's full profile

#29

University of Richmond

University of Richmond, VA · 2,980 students · Private nonprofit

Students at the University of Richmond experience a graduation rate of 86%. The median earnings for graduates are $76,178 after ten years, reflecting the university's commitment to student success.

22% accepted 86% graduate $76,178 earnings

University's full profile

#30

College of the Holy Cross

Worcester, MA · 3,106 students · Private nonprofit

The College of the Holy Cross has a strong graduation rate of 88%, showing its commitment to student success. Located in Worcester, this private college emphasizes a liberal arts education steeped in tradition. Students often find a close-knit community that fosters both academic and personal growth.

18% accepted 88% graduate $90,543 earnings

College's full profile

#31

DePauw University

Greencastle, IN · 1,905 students · Private nonprofit

DePauw University, located in Greencastle, IN, serves 1,905 students with a graduation rate of 77%. Graduates earn a median of $70,527 after ten years, highlighting the school’s commitment to academic and career success. The environment encourages collaboration and personal growth, making it ideal for students seeking a liberal arts experience.

57% accepted 77% graduate $70,527 earnings

DePauw's full profile

#32

Franklin and Marshall College

Lancaster, PA · 1,799 students · Private nonprofit

Graduates from Franklin and Marshall College earn a median income of $76,124 ten years after graduation. With an 85% graduation rate, the school cultivates a strong academic environment that supports student success. Located in Lancaster, PA, it attracts students looking for a robust liberal arts education in a vibrant community.

28% accepted 85% graduate $76,124 earnings

Franklin's full profile

#33

Bryn Mawr College

Bryn Mawr, PA · 1,359 students · Private nonprofit

Bryn Mawr College has a graduation rate of 84%. This high rate reflects a supportive community focused on student success. With 1,359 students, the school fosters close relationships and collaboration among peers and faculty.

29% accepted 84% graduate $75,217 earnings

University of Mary Washington

Fredericksburg, VA · 3,566 students · Public

80% accepted 67% graduate $60,613 earnings

University's full profile

#35

Skidmore College

Saratoga Springs, NY · 2,694 students · Private nonprofit

Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, NY, has a graduation rate of 82%, indicating strong academic support. With a median earning of $69,363 ten years post-graduation, it attracts students aiming for successful careers after college. The college environment is vibrant, fostering creativity and critical thinking among its diverse student body.

21% accepted 82% graduate $69,363 earnings

Skidmore's full profile

#36

Vassar College

Poughkeepsie, NY · 2,444 students · Private nonprofit

19% accepted 90% graduate $71,366 earnings

Vassar's full profile

#37

Saint Johns University

Collegeville, MN · 1,395 students · Private nonprofit

91% accepted 76% graduate $76,786 earnings

Mount Holyoke College

South Hadley, MA · 2,169 students · Private nonprofit

36% accepted 85% graduate $58,418 earnings

Colorado College

Colorado Springs, CO · 2,014 students · Private nonprofit

Graduation rates are high at 87%, indicating a strong support system for students. The small student body of 2,014 allows for personalized attention and engagement. Located in Colorado Springs, this private college provides a vibrant campus life with a focus on liberal arts education.

18% accepted 87% graduate $65,222 earnings

Colorado's full profile

#40

Pitzer College

Claremont, CA · 1,227 students · Private nonprofit

25% accepted 83% graduate $69,512 earnings

Pitzer's full profile

#41

Macalester College

Saint Paul, MN · 2,131 students · Private nonprofit

29% accepted 89% graduate $63,878 earnings

Macalester's full profile

#42

Kalamazoo College

Kalamazoo, MI · 1,149 students · Private nonprofit

75% accepted 79% graduate $65,590 earnings

Kalamazoo's full profile

#43

Kenyon College

Gambier, OH · 1,732 students · Private nonprofit

31% accepted 84% graduate $71,830 earnings

Kenyon's full profile

#44

Whitman College

Walla Walla, WA · 1,531 students · Private nonprofit

38% accepted 81% graduate $67,589 earnings

Whitman's full profile

#45

Bucknell University

Lewisburg, PA · 3,876 students · Private nonprofit

29% accepted 86% graduate $93,807 earnings

Bucknell's full profile

#46

Boricua College

New York, NY · 391 students · Private nonprofit

74% graduate $35,348 earnings

Boricua's full profile

Williams College and Bowdoin College reveal interesting contrasts. Williams leads in average earnings at $88,665, while Bowdoin also excels with a 95% graduation rate. This suggests that while Williams offers higher post-college income, Bowdoin provides consistent support for its students.

After exploring these 50 schools, families should consider their priorities. Location may influence their choice. Program fit and campus culture are essential factors as well. Evaluate how each school aligns with personal and financial goals.

This data illustrates the significant impact of a college choice on future stability. One family’s decision could influence their financial trajectory for decades. Graduates from these institutions are not just earning degrees; they are building futures.

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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