Harvard University vs Stanford University
Stanford University reports the higher median earnings ten years after entry ($124,080 vs $101,817). Stanford University recoups its four-year net cost faster (about 0.6 yrs vs 1.3 yrs).
| Measure | Harvard UniversityMA | Stanford UniversityCA |
|---|---|---|
| Median earnings, 10 yrs after entry | $101,817 | $124,080 |
| Years to recoup four-year net cost | 1.3 yrs | 0.6 yrs |
| Average net price per year | $19,066 | $13,807 |
| Sticker cost of attendance per year | $85,540 | $87,833 |
| Share earning above a high-school grad | 86.9% | 84.1% |
| Six-year graduation rate | 97.6% | 91.9% |
| First-year retention (full-time) | 98.3% | 98.2% |
| Admission rate | 3.6% | 3.6% |
| Median federal debt at graduation | $14,000 | $12,000 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 7,601 | 7,554 |
| Financial health (NACUBO CFI) | 7.2 | 7.0 |
Highlighted cells mark the stronger figure on measures with a clear better direction (admission rate and enrollment are shown for context only, with no winner). “Years to recoup” divides four-year net cost by the annual earnings premium over a state high-school graduate. A transparent data comparison, not an Ibex endorsement or a guarantee of any individual outcome; your program and aid package will differ.
Is Harvard University or Stanford University a better value?
On the transparent payback measure, Stanford University recoups its four-year net cost faster (about 0.6 yrs vs 1.3 yrs).. Value depends on your program, your net price after aid, and your goals; use the table as a starting point and check each school's profile for peer context.
Which costs more, Harvard University or Stanford University?
Harvard University's average net price is $19,066 per year and Stanford University's is $13,807 (College Scorecard). Net price is what students actually pay after grant aid, and varies by family income.
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Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard & IPEDS (2024-25); earnings baselines from the U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-year. Compiled by Ibex Insights. For informational planning only, not financial advice. See the methodology.