Rankings / National

Best Public Universities

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

Schools Analyzed

$71,077

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

74%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$13,474

Avg. Net Price

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Georgia Institute of Technology graduates earn an average of $102,772. This figure could significantly impact a family's financial future.

Students search for the best public universities to secure a solid return on investment. They want to know which institutions can offer strong job prospects, manageable debt, and high graduation rates.

Consider the University of Florida and the University of California-Berkeley. The University of Florida has a net price of just $6,541, while UC Berkeley's net price is $13,481. Yet, UC Berkeley graduates earn $92,446 compared to Florida’s $71,588, illustrating the trade-offs between cost and potential earnings.

Key Findings

Georgia Institute of Technology graduates earn $102,772 on average.

The University of Florida has a net price of $6,541, among the lowest in the top 5.

University of Michigan graduates have $19,500 in debt, higher than the average of $21,672.

The average graduation rate for these schools is 78%, with most exceeding 90%.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $71,077

Avg. graduation rate 74%

Avg. net price $13,474

Avg. median debt $17,456

How We Ranked

Flagship composite for public 4-year institutions with >2K enrollment

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

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA

Graduation93%

Earnings$102,772

Net Price$12,116

View full profile →

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC

Graduation92%

Earnings$72,200

Net Price$11,655

View full profile →

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL

Graduation91%

Earnings$71,588

Net Price$6,541

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

Graduates from Georgia Tech earn a median income of $102,772 ten years after graduation. The school's 93% graduation rate suggests strong support for students pursuing their degrees. With a 14% acceptance rate, it attracts motivated individuals ready to excel in a rigorous academic environment.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

Chapel Hill’s campus is home to 20,752 students, creating a close-knit community. The University of North Carolina boasts a 92% graduation rate, highlighting its commitment to student success. It also has a robust support system that helps students thrive academically and socially.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The University of Florida has a large student body of 35,629, fostering a diverse and vibrant campus life. With a graduation rate of 91%, students benefit from various resources that aid their academic success. The school’s reputation for strong programs attracts those eager for a well-rounded education.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College has a graduation rate of 72%. This means that many students successfully complete their degrees, which is a strong indicator of student satisfaction and support. Located in New York City, students can take advantage of vast internship and job opportunities in various industries.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College serves 16,289 students, with a graduation rate of 59%. The college's blend of urban experience and academic rigor attracts students who thrive in a diverse, metropolitan environment.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College has a diverse student body of 12,550, with 47% receiving Pell Grants. This reflects the college's commitment to accessibility for lower-income students, even with a graduation rate of 56%.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 90%, William & Mary showcases a strong commitment to student success. Located in Williamsburg, VA, the university combines a rich history with modern academic rigor. Students often appreciate the tight-knit community and the opportunities for research and engagement.

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

The University of Central Florida has a large student body of 59,146 and a graduation rate of 77%. This size allows for a wide range of programs and activities, appealing to students looking for a vibrant campus life and diverse opportunities.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX · 42,855 students · Public

The University of Texas at Austin has a large and vibrant student body of 42,855. With an 88% graduation rate, this public university is dedicated to helping students succeed. The campus is known for its diverse programs and rich resources, which attract students from various backgrounds and interests.

27% accepted 88% graduate $75,121 earnings

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY · 11,590 students · Public

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice has a unique focus on criminal justice and public service. Located in New York City, it enrolls 11,590 students. The college has a diverse student body, with a significant portion of its population being first-generation college students who appreciate the college's urban setting and career-oriented programs.

57% accepted 56% graduate $56,195 earnings

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

At the University of North Florida, 69% of students graduate. This Jacksonville-based institution serves 13,359 students, creating a tight-knit community. Many students value the university's commitment to experiential learning and community involvement, which enhances their educational experience.

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

#13

University of Georgia

Athens, GA · 32,137 students · Public

Located in Athens, GA, the University of Georgia serves over 32,000 students, making it a vibrant community. With an 89% graduation rate, it emphasizes student achievement and retention. Students benefit from a range of extracurricular activities and a spirited campus culture.

38% accepted 89% graduate $68,726 earnings

University's full profile

#14

Binghamton University

Vestal, NY · 14,655 students · Public

Binghamton University, located in Vestal, serves 14,655 students and has an impressive 83% graduation rate. Median earnings for graduates reach $80,596, reflecting the value of a degree from this institution.

39% accepted 83% graduate $80,596 earnings

Binghamton's full profile

#15

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

CUNY Lehman College in the Bronx supports 10,696 students, with a notable 60% of them receiving Pell Grants. However, the graduation rate sits at 50%, which may raise questions for some prospective students.

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 32,212 students · Public

Located in Tallahassee, Florida State University has a student population of 32,212 and an 84% graduation rate. The combination of strong academics and vibrant campus life makes it appealing for traditional college students seeking a full university experience.

24% accepted 84% graduate $61,675 earnings

Florida's full profile

#17

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL · 23,757 students · Public

With a student body of 23,757, Florida Atlantic University has a diverse campus environment. The median earnings for graduates reach $56,746 at the ten-year mark, indicating solid earning potential after graduation.

66% accepted 63% graduate $56,746 earnings

Florida's full profile

#19

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#20

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL · 37,207 students · Public

76% of students graduate from the University of South Florida, which enrolls 37,207 students. Located in Tampa, this public university is known for its research initiatives and community engagement. Many students are drawn to its vibrant campus life and diverse academic offerings, fostering a dynamic environment for learning and growth.

43% accepted 76% graduate $57,743 earnings

University's full profile

#21

University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL · 9,330 students · Public

The University of West Florida enrolls 9,330 students in a tight-knit academic community. The graduation rate of 60% indicates opportunities for improvement, but students can find strong support systems. Many value the campus's focus on student engagement and community ties.

58% accepted 60% graduate $49,137 earnings

University's full profile

#22

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · 33,068 students · Public

Berkeley has a large student population of 33,068, fostering a dynamic academic environment. With a 93% graduation rate, students are well-supported in their educational journeys. Graduates earn a median income of $92,446 ten years post-graduation, reflecting the school’s strength in preparing students for success in their careers.

11% accepted 93% graduate $92,446 earnings

University's full profile

#23

Ramapo College of New Jersey

Mahwah, NJ · 4,898 students · Public

71% accepted 71% graduate $67,541 earnings

Ramapo's full profile

#24

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA · 30,923 students · Public

Virginia Tech, located in Blacksburg, enrolls 30,923 students and has a graduation rate of 86%. With a median income of $81,698 for graduates a decade after finishing, the school emphasizes career readiness and real-world skills.

55% accepted 86% graduate $81,698 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#25

University of Florida-Online

Gainesville, FL · 4,627 students · Public

With an acceptance rate of 61%, the University of Florida-Online is an accessible option for many students. The online format allows flexibility for working adults and those balancing multiple commitments. An 81% graduation rate reflects a supportive learning environment tailored for diverse needs.

61% accepted 81% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#26

University of Utah

Salt Lake City, UT · 27,264 students · Public

86% accepted 64% graduate $67,170 earnings

University's full profile

#27

James Madison University

Harrisonburg, VA · 20,888 students · Public

72% accepted 80% graduate $69,954 earnings

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Newark, NJ · 9,019 students · Public

Net price after aid at NJIT is $16,504, making it accessible for many students. With a manageable median debt of $21,000, graduates can find solid financial footing, especially those from working-class backgrounds.

65% accepted 73% graduate $84,276 earnings

Truman State University

Kirksville, MO · 2,513 students · Public

84% accepted 68% graduate $56,280 earnings

Truman's full profile

#30

University of California-San Diego

La Jolla, CA · 34,948 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 87%, students at UC San Diego can expect strong academic support. Located in La Jolla, this campus is known for research and science programs, attracting those interested in innovation and technology.

27% accepted 87% graduate $84,943 earnings

University's full profile

#31

University of Maryland-College Park

College Park, MD · 30,760 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 89%, the University of Maryland-College Park shows a strong commitment to student success. The campus is vibrant, with over 30,000 students, creating a lively atmosphere. Located in College Park, students enjoy access to the Washington D.C. job market, enhancing their career prospects.

45% accepted 89% graduate $82,860 earnings

University's full profile

#32

CUNY York College

Jamaica, NY · 4,345 students · Public

64% accepted 31% graduate $56,945 earnings

Oregon Institute of Technology

Klamath Falls, OR · 2,892 students · Public

95% accepted 56% graduate $72,273 earnings

Oregon's full profile

#34

Michigan State University

East Lansing, MI · 40,922 students · Public

85% accepted 81% graduate $67,253 earnings

Michigan's full profile

#35

University of California-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA · 33,475 students · Public

UCLA has a remarkable graduation rate of 93%. This high rate reflects the university's commitment to student achievement and support. Located in Los Angeles, students are positioned in a major city known for its cultural and professional opportunities, enhancing the college experience.

9% accepted 93% graduate $82,511 earnings

University's full profile

#36

University of Virginia-Main Campus

Charlottesville, VA · 17,597 students · Public

The University of Virginia-Main Campus has a graduation rate of 95%, one of the highest in the country. This indicates strong academic support and a vibrant campus culture. Students benefit from a beautiful campus in Charlottesville and a strong alumni network that can aid in job placement after graduation.

17% accepted 95% graduate $86,863 earnings

University's full profile

#37

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA · 27,752 students · Public

87% accepted 69% graduate $76,343 earnings

George's full profile

#38

San Francisco State University

San Francisco, CA · 18,639 students · Public

96% accepted 50% graduate $68,077 earnings

The University of Texas at Dallas

Richardson, TX · 21,751 students · Public

65% accepted 75% graduate $68,227 earnings

The College of New Jersey

Ewing, NJ · 7,105 students · Public

62% accepted 86% graduate $73,323 earnings

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, IL · 36,258 students · Public

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has a graduation rate of 85%. This reflects solid academic programs and student support systems. As a large public university, it provides a broad range of extracurricular options and networking opportunities in a college town setting.

42% accepted 85% graduate $81,054 earnings

University's full profile

#42

Florida Gulf Coast University

Fort Myers, FL · 13,874 students · Public

63% accepted 57% graduate $54,560 earnings

Florida's full profile

#43

Michigan Technological University

Houghton, MI · 5,955 students · Public

Michigan Technological University has a smaller enrollment of 5,955 students, allowing for personalized attention. The graduation rate is 68%, and the median earnings for graduates reach $78,198 after ten years, indicating strong job prospects. Students often appreciate the focus on engineering and technology disciplines.

92% accepted 68% graduate $78,198 earnings

Michigan's full profile

#44

Colorado School of Mines

Golden, CO · 6,155 students · Public

61% accepted 81% graduate $97,335 earnings

Colorado's full profile

#45

University of California-Irvine

Irvine, CA · 30,197 students · Public

University of California-Irvine features a robust student body of over 30,000, fostering diverse experiences and perspectives. The 86% graduation rate highlights the university's focus on supporting students through to completion. This campus is known for its strong programs in science and technology, attracting students eager to innovate.

29% accepted 86% graduate $80,735 earnings

University's full profile

#46

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI · 34,177 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 93%, the University of Michigan attracts students eager to succeed. The vibrant city of Ann Arbor complements the academic experience, providing numerous opportunities for engagement and exploration. Graduates enjoy a median income of $83,648 a decade after their studies, reflecting the school’s strong academic reputation.

16% accepted 93% graduate $83,648 earnings

University's full profile

#47

University of Delaware

Newark, DE · 19,071 students · Public

71% accepted 80% graduate $72,950 earnings

University's full profile

#48

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Edwardsville, IL · 8,750 students · Public

98% accepted 56% graduate $56,346 earnings

Southern's full profile

#49

The University of Texas at Tyler

Tyler, TX · 7,440 students · Public

94% accepted 51% graduate $57,053 earnings

University of California-Davis

Davis, CA · 32,253 students · Public

UC Davis has a graduation rate of 85%, with 32,253 students enjoying a campus known for its agricultural and environmental sciences. The strong focus on sustainability attracts students passionate about making an impact in these fields.

42% accepted 85% graduate $80,838 earnings

University's full profile

Georgia Institute of Technology outperforms the University of Florida in earnings at $102,772 versus $71,588. However, Florida's lower net price of $6,541 makes it a compelling option for families prioritizing affordability.

As you compare these 50 schools, consider your own priorities. Location might be key if you want to stay close to home. Campus culture and specific programs should align with your career goals. Weigh the data against what matters most to you.

This data highlights the importance of choosing a college wisely. A family's decision can shape a student's future earnings and financial stability. One choice can lead to a lifetime of opportunities or challenges.

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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