Rankings / Value

Best Value Colleges

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

Schools Analyzed

$89,261

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

89%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$19,887

Avg. Net Price

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Princeton University graduates earn an average of $110,066 just a decade after starting their careers. That figure can significantly impact a family's financial future.

Parents are searching for colleges that deliver both quality education and strong financial outcomes. They want to know how to balance educational expenses with potential earnings and debt. Understanding the link between college choices and future mobility is crucial.

Stanford University has a graduation rate of 92% and provides a solid earning potential of $124,080. In contrast, Johns Hopkins University, while still strong, has lower earnings at $87,555, despite a respectable 94% graduation rate. These differences make for an important comparison as families explore their options.

Key Findings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates earn an average of $143,372 after ten years.

Johns Hopkins University has a net price of $18,809, lower than MIT's $20,111.

Princeton University's low debt of $10,320 stands out compared to Stanford's $12,000.

The average graduation rate among the top five schools is 92%, showing strong student support.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $89,261

Avg. graduation rate 89%

Avg. net price $19,887

Avg. median debt $15,026

How We Ranked

Net price (30%) · Completion rate (25%) · Earnings at 10yr (25%) · Debt-to-earnings ratio (20%)

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 →

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA

Graduation96%

Earnings$143,372

Net Price$20,111

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

Graduates from Princeton University earn a median of $110,066 within ten years of graduation. With a 97% graduation rate, students find a supportive environment that promotes academic success. The school’s 5% acceptance rate indicates a competitive admissions process, attracting top talent from across the country.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University’s median earnings reach $124,080 ten years post-graduation. The campus houses 7,554 students, fostering a diverse and collaborative community. A 92% graduation rate reflects strong student support and resources available to help students thrive academically.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, graduates earn a median of $143,372 within ten years. The school has a graduation rate of 96%, appealing to students who seek rigorous academics in a collaborative atmosphere. With 4,535 students, the community is tight-knit yet diverse in thought and innovation.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago graduates earn a median of $91,885 within ten years. With a graduation rate of 95% and a student community of 7,569, it creates an environment rich in academic inquiry and engagement. Students are drawn to the school's strong emphasis on critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Johns Hopkins University has a 94% graduation rate and produces graduates with a median income of $87,555 a decade after leaving school. With 5,693 students, it balances a strong academic reputation with a vibrant campus life. Students appreciate the focus on research and practical experience throughout their studies.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University features a graduation rate of 97%, showcasing its commitment to student achievement. Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, students benefit from a vast alumni network and rich resources in various fields.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University in Ithaca has a diverse student body of nearly 16,000. With a 95% graduation rate, students can expect robust support systems, as well as a rich variety of programs and research opportunities across multiple disciplines.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University has a graduation rate of 95%, highlighting its supportive academic environment. Students enjoy the small campus community in Houston with access to research opportunities and dedicated faculty members.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, the University of Pennsylvania demonstrates strong student success. Many students appreciate the robust network and resources available at this private university in Philadelphia.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University is known for its flexible curriculum and strong emphasis on student autonomy. With a graduation rate of 96%, students thrive in an environment that encourages exploration and intellectual growth in Providence, Rhode Island.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College in Williamstown is known for its small class sizes and personalized education, with a graduation rate of 95%. The close-knit community fosters deep connections among students and faculty, making it a nurturing environment for academic growth.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#12

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Vanderbilt University in Nashville welcomes over 7,200 students. With a 93% graduation rate, the school prioritizes student success and has strong academic programs, drawing those who value both education and community engagement.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#13

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

California Institute of Technology, or Caltech, is home to just 987 students, creating an intimate learning environment. The school boasts a 94% graduation rate and a focus on science and engineering, attracting those with a passion for innovation and research.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

#14

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Duke University in Durham attracts students committed to success. The campus culture emphasizes academic excellence, alongside a strong sense of community, making it appealing for those who thrive in collaborative environments.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

Earning $102,772 ten years after graduation is a significant draw for Georgia Institute of Technology students. With a 93% graduation rate, the school prepares students well for high-paying careers in technology and engineering fields. The campus in Atlanta also offers vibrant city life and numerous internship opportunities.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#16

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a public institution with over 20,700 students. A 92% graduation rate highlights the school’s commitment to student success. Graduates earn a median of $72,200 ten years after starting, reflecting the university's strong academic programs and resources.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#17

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College serves over 16,000 students in New York City. The median earnings for graduates ten years after enrollment reach $75,971. This college is known for its strong focus on business and public affairs, attracting a diverse student body, including 57% Pell Grant recipients.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College, with a graduation rate of 91%, prepares students for successful careers in various fields. The median earnings of $84,803 after ten years indicate strong financial outcomes for graduates. Set in Wellesley, Massachusetts, the campus is known for its beautiful scenery and supportive environment for women pursuing higher education.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#19

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

With 35,629 students, the University of Florida offers a diverse environment and strong academic programs. A 91% graduation rate combined with median earnings of $71,588 ten years post-graduation shows that students can expect solid career outcomes. The campus life in Gainesville is lively, featuring numerous student organizations and events.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#20

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

At Bowdoin College, the 95% graduation rate speaks volumes about student success. The college has a median earning of $82,735 ten years after graduation, showing that students can expect strong career outcomes. Located in Brunswick, Maine, Bowdoin offers a beautiful campus and a tight-knit community that many students appreciate.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#21

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Pomona College is a private nonprofit located in Claremont, California, with a small student body of just 1,666. A 93% graduation rate speaks to its supportive environment. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $77,779 a decade after graduation, indicative of the quality education provided here.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#22

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Amherst, Massachusetts, Amherst College is a private nonprofit with 1,911 students. The school has a 94% graduation rate, showcasing its dedication to student achievement. Graduates earn a median of $77,644 ten years post-graduation, reflecting the value of an Amherst education in the job market.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#23

Yale University

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

Yale University features a remarkable 96% graduation rate, attracting some of the brightest minds. This small private nonprofit school has just under 7,000 students, fostering close-knit relationships and mentorship opportunities. Graduates earn a median salary of $100,533, making the investment worthwhile.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Washington University in St Louis

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

Washington University in St. Louis has a high graduation rate of 94%, reflecting its commitment to student achievement. This private nonprofit school serves nearly 8,000 students and is known for its supportive environment. Alumni earn a median of $86,182 in their careers, which speaks to the value of a degree from this institution.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#25

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College has a small student body of 4,541, which fosters close relationships between students and faculty. The school boasts a high 96% graduation rate and a median earning of $97,434 at ten years, making it appealing for those seeking a personalized education with excellent financial returns. It sits in the picturesque town of Hanover, offering a unique campus experience in a tight-knit community.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#26

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University is a private nonprofit institution located in Evanston, Illinois, with an enrollment of 9,201 students. A 96% graduation rate highlights its academic commitment. Graduates can expect median earnings of $89,363 within ten years of completing their degree, showcasing the university's strong return on investment.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#27

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

Columbia University in the City of New York boasts a 96% graduation rate, reflecting its strong academic support. As a private nonprofit, it has nearly 9,000 students in a bustling urban environment. Graduates report median earnings of $102,491, while the net price after aid stands at $21,590, making it a substantial investment.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#28

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University, nestled in Pittsburgh, has a total enrollment of 7,304 students. The school is known for its emphasis on research and innovation, reflected in its 93% graduation rate, ensuring that students receive the guidance needed to succeed in their academic journeys.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#30

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#31

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

Claremont McKenna College has a small student body of 1,388, resulting in a close-knit community. The school’s 93% graduation rate reflects its commitment to student success, making it an attractive option for those who value personalized attention and support during their studies.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#32

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College has a 91% graduation rate, which indicates strong support for students. With a small student body of 1,867, students often find a close-knit community and personalized attention from faculty. The median earnings for graduates at 10 years is $81,400, suggesting a solid return on investment after graduation.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#33

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

Colgate University has a graduation rate of 91%, reflecting commitment to student success. Located in Hamilton, NY, the student population is 3,180, allowing for a blend of both community and diverse experiences. Earning a median of $85,139 at ten years shows that graduates tend to secure well-paying jobs after college.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#35

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College has a graduation rate of 90%, indicating a supportive academic environment. Located in Haverford, PA, the college has a small student population of 1,430, allowing for close relationships with faculty and peers. Graduates earn a median of $79,966 after ten years, which shows a solid return on investment for students.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#36

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College offers an intimate learning environment with only 1,613 students. An impressive 93% of students graduate, and median earnings reach $80,257 after ten years. The school fosters a close-knit community, encouraging collaboration and engagement among students.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#37

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

New York, NY · 842 students · Private nonprofit

The Cooper Union has a unique focus on science and art, attracting students passionate about these fields. With an 81% graduation rate, students receive a solid education that prepares them for high earnings. Graduates see a median income of $83,847 within ten years, reflecting the institution's commitment to excellence.

21% accepted 81% graduate $83,847 earnings

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

University of Notre Dame

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

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#41

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#42

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory University has a strong graduation rate of 91%, which speaks to the support and resources available to students. Located in Atlanta, it offers a vibrant community and connections to various industries. The median earnings for graduates hit $80,137 after ten years, highlighting the school's focus on career readiness.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#44

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University has a high graduation rate of 95%, showcasing its dedication to student outcomes. With a student body of 7,569, the university combines a rigorous academic environment with a rich campus life in Washington, DC. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $103,494 after ten years, reflecting the value of a degree from this institution.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#46

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY · 11,590 students · Public

57% accepted 56% graduate $56,195 earnings

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

#48

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#50

Barnard College

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

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

Different metrics reveal distinct advantages in this list. For instance, Princeton University has an impressive 97% graduation rate and significantly lower debt of $10,320 compared to Stanford, which has a graduation rate of 92% and higher debt at $12,000. This pattern shows how graduation rates and manageable debt can directly influence earnings potential.

As you sift through the 50 schools, reflect on your family’s priorities. Consider factors like location, specific programs, and campus culture. Weigh these alongside net prices and earning potentials. This holistic approach helps ensure that the choice aligns with your goals and financial situation.

These data points highlight the potential pathways to financial stability post-college. For families, the decision about which college to attend is about more than education. It's about setting a foundation for a lifetime of earnings and opportunities. Choosing wisely can change the trajectory of future generations.

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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