Rankings / National

Best Universities in America

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

Schools Analyzed

$82,238

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

84%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$18,369

Avg. Net Price

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Graduates from Princeton University can expect earnings of $110,066. That income can significantly impact a family's financial future.

Searching for the best universities in America often means weighing choices about future earnings and debt. Families want to know how these institutions can shape their children's lives, both financially and socially. With data on earnings outcomes and completion rates, the decisions become clearer.

Princeton University stands out with a 97% graduation rate, while Stanford University, despite a slightly lower rate of 92%, leads in earnings at $124,080. These figures reveal the potential outcomes of different institutions and encourage families to dig deeper into their options.

Key Findings

Stanford University graduates earn an average of $124,080, the highest in this ranking.

Princeton University has a graduation rate of 97%, indicating strong student support.

The average graduation rate for the top five universities is 94%, higher than the national average.

University of Pennsylvania students graduate with an average debt of $15,715.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $82,238

Avg. graduation rate 84%

Avg. net price $18,369

Avg. median debt $16,112

How We Ranked

Flagship composite for universities with 5,000+ enrollment, >40% completion, >$30K earnings

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 →

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL

Graduation95%

Earnings$91,885

Net Price$14,860

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

With a 97% graduation rate, Princeton University shows a strong commitment to student success. This private nonprofit institution, located in Princeton, NJ, has a median earnings figure of $110,066 at ten years after graduation. Students will notice the high level of support and strong academic community focused on achievement.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University, located in Stanford, CA, has a graduation rate of 92%. Students can expect to engage with a vibrant academic community. The median earnings of $124,080 at ten years post-graduation highlight the potential return on investment for a Stanford education.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago has a graduation rate of 95%, indicating strong academic support. Located in Chicago, IL, this university emphasizes critical thinking and intellectual rigor. Graduates earn a median of $91,885 within ten years, reflecting the value of their degree in the job market.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Baltimore, MD, Johns Hopkins University boasts a 94% graduation rate. The university is well-known for its strong focus on research and healthcare fields, with graduates earning a median of $87,555 at ten years. Students will appreciate the collaborative environment and the emphasis on academic excellence.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University boasts a 97% graduation rate, reflecting its commitment to student success. The vibrant campus fosters a culture of excellence, attracting ambitious students. Many find the myriad opportunities for research and networking compelling.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University has a graduation rate of 95%, showcasing its dedication to student success. With a large student body of nearly 16,000, it offers a variety of programs that appeal to students with different interests. Many are drawn to the beautiful campus and the opportunities for hands-on learning.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

With a 96% graduation rate, Brown University is known for its strong academic support. Students appreciate the flexible curriculum that allows for exploration across disciplines. The emphasis on independent study attracts those who thrive in a self-directed environment.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, the University of Pennsylvania showcases its dedication to student success. Located in Philadelphia, PA, it has a median earnings figure of $111,371 ten years after graduation. Students can expect a rich academic culture and numerous opportunities for engagement and networking.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Vanderbilt University emphasizes academic achievement and community. The diverse student body engages in a range of activities, from the arts to athletics. Prospective students often notice the supportive atmosphere and strong alumni connections.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#10

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University has a 96% graduation rate that highlights its strong academic programs. Students are drawn to the vibrant campus life and a collaborative spirit among peers. Many appreciate the balance of rigorous academics and athletic pride here.

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 encourages students to excel. Located in Atlanta, it offers a vibrant campus life and strong connections to the tech industry, making it appealing for those interested in engineering and technology careers. Median earnings for graduates reach $102,772 after 10 years, indicating solid job prospects for its alumni.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#12

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, located in a picturesque setting, hosts 20,752 students on its historic campus. The school boasts a 92% graduation rate, showcasing its commitment to student success. Graduates can expect median earnings of $72,200 after ten years, a strong indicator of the value of an education here.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#13

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The University of Florida attracts 35,629 students to its bustling campus in Gainesville. With a graduation rate of 91%, it has a strong academic reputation and offers a diverse range of programs. Graduates report median earnings of $71,588 a decade after finishing their degrees, reflecting good job opportunities in Florida and beyond.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#14

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College has a unique focus on business and public affairs, drawing 16,154 students to its urban campus. The graduation rate stands at 72%, indicating a solid support system for those who need it. Graduates earn a median of $75,971 after ten years, reflecting the college’s emphasis on career readiness.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

Yale University

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

Yale University boasts a 96% graduation rate with a small student body of 6,758. Located in New Haven, this private nonprofit institution fosters a rich academic environment. Graduates enjoy a high median income of $100,533 within ten years of graduation, showcasing the value of a Yale degree.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, is home to 9,201 students and boasts a 96% graduation rate. This private nonprofit institution attracts those seeking a rigorous academic environment. Graduates report median earnings of $89,363 a decade after graduation, signaling strong career outcomes for alumni in various fields.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#17

Washington University in St Louis

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

With a 94% graduation rate, Washington University in St. Louis demonstrates strong student success. This private university serves 7,857 students, creating a tight-knit community. Graduates earn a median of $86,182 at 10 years after enrollment, reflecting the quality of education here.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#18

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

Columbia University has a 96% graduation rate, meaning most students finish what they start. Located in New York City, it offers a vibrant, urban experience. The median earnings for graduates at 10 years is impressive at $102,491, highlighting strong career prospects after graduation.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#19

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University has a graduation rate of 93%. With a focus on technology and the arts, the campus in Pittsburgh offers a unique blend of disciplines. Graduates earn a median income of $114,862 at 10 years, reflecting the high demand for skills taught here.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#20

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College in New York City has a diverse student body of 16,289. The graduation rate is 59%, which may reflect the challenges of urban education. Students often appreciate the school's location and the opportunities it brings in a bustling metropolis.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College has a unique profile with a high acceptance rate of 64% and a diverse student body. However, the graduation rate is only 56%, indicating challenges for some students. With a low net price of $4,195 after aid, graduates still manage to earn a median income of $62,763 ten years after leaving.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory University shines with a graduation rate of 91%, one of the highest among colleges. Graduates earn a median of $80,137 in their tenth year after leaving, a strong indicator of the value of an Emory degree. The intimate size of the school, with just 7,298 students, creates a close-knit community that supports personal and academic growth.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, serves over 32,000 students. With an acceptance rate of 68%, many students find a welcoming community. The university has a unique cultural aspect tied to its religious affiliation, appealing to those who value faith-based education.

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#24

University of Notre Dame

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

Notre Dame has a 96% graduation rate, showing that students are supported throughout their studies. Located in Indiana, the campus is known for its strong community and traditions. Graduates achieve median earnings of $99,980 at 10 years, indicating solid employment outcomes in various fields.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#25

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

William & Mary has a graduation rate of 90%, indicating strong student support. With around 7,055 students, it fosters a tight community. Graduates can expect to earn a median salary of $73,490 within ten years, which is competitive for a public university.

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#26

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

University of Central Florida has a massive enrollment of 59,146 students. A graduation rate of 77% suggests a supportive environment for students navigating their college journey. Many appreciate the university's emphasis on innovation and research opportunities in Florida's educational landscape.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#27

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

CUNY Brooklyn College serves over 10,500 students. With a diverse community and a focus on accessibility, the school has a 58% acceptance rate. Students can expect a vibrant campus life and numerous opportunities for engagement in Brooklyn's cultural landscape.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University has an impressive graduation rate of 95%, which highlights its supportive academic environment. With just over 7,500 students, the campus provides a close-knit community. Graduates earn a median income of $103,494 ten years post-graduation, reflecting strong career outcomes.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#29

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX · 42,855 students · Public

27% accepted 88% graduate $75,121 earnings

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY · 11,590 students · Public

57% accepted 56% graduate $56,195 earnings

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

#32

University of Georgia

Athens, GA · 32,137 students · Public

With 32,137 students, the University of Georgia offers a vibrant campus life. The 89% graduation rate reflects a supportive environment where students can thrive. Graduates earn a median income of $68,726 at ten years, while the net price after aid is $13,936, making it accessible for many families.

38% accepted 89% graduate $68,726 earnings

University's full profile

#33

Binghamton University

Vestal, NY · 14,655 students · Public

39% accepted 83% graduate $80,596 earnings

Binghamton's full profile

#34

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

#35

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

University of Southern California

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

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#37

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 32,212 students · Public

Florida State University has a graduation rate of 84%. This high rate reflects a strong support system for students. Many find a vibrant campus life and numerous academic resources.

24% accepted 84% graduate $61,675 earnings

Florida's full profile

#38

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · 10,085 students · Private nonprofit

Boston College has a strong graduation rate of 91%. This indicates that students here are likely to complete their degrees in a timely manner. The vibrant campus culture and academic rigor may appeal to those seeking a traditional college experience in a supportive environment.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#40

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL · 23,757 students · Public

66% accepted 63% graduate $56,746 earnings

Florida's full profile

#41

Tufts University

Medford, MA · 7,061 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 93% graduate $83,214 earnings

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

Florida International University in Miami serves over 39,000 students. With a graduation rate of 74%, it supports a diverse student population. Many students are drawn to its strong focus on research and community engagement.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#43

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL · 37,207 students · Public

43% accepted 76% graduate $57,743 earnings

University's full profile

#44

University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL · 9,330 students · Public

58% accepted 60% graduate $49,137 earnings

University's full profile

#45

Wake Forest University

Winston-Salem, NC · 5,485 students · Private nonprofit

22% accepted 90% graduate $78,158 earnings

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

Northeastern University has a high graduation rate of 90%. Students here appreciate strong career support and co-op programs that integrate real-world experience into their education. This experience can help graduates earn a median income of $92,538 within ten years of starting their careers.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#47

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · 33,068 students · Public

The University of California-Berkeley has a graduation rate of 93% among its 33,068 students. Students encounter a vibrant campus culture in Berkeley, with access to numerous resources that promote academic success. Graduates here earn a median income of $92,446 within a decade.

11% accepted 93% graduate $92,446 earnings

University's full profile

#48

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA · 30,923 students · Public

55% accepted 86% graduate $81,698 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#49

University of Utah

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

86% accepted 64% graduate $67,170 earnings

University's full profile

#50

James Madison University

Harrisonburg, VA · 20,888 students · Public

72% accepted 80% graduate $69,954 earnings

Princeton University and Johns Hopkins University provide a striking contrast in earnings potential and support. While Princeton graduates earn $110,066 with a 97% graduation rate, Johns Hopkins graduates earn $87,555, despite a 94% rate. This difference highlights the financial implications of choosing one institution over another.

After reviewing 50 schools, consider your family's priorities. Think about location, academic programs, campus culture, and financial aspects like net price and debt. Use these metrics alongside personal values to create a shortlist.

This data illustrates a critical connection between college choice and future stability. One family's investment in education can lead to significant earnings over time. For many, choosing the right school is a pivotal decision that shapes their financial landscape for years to come.

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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