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 0.7 yrs vs 1.4 yrs).
| Measure | Harvard UniversityMA | Stanford UniversityCA |
|---|---|---|
| Median earnings, 10 yrs after entry2020-21 | $101,817 | $124,080 |
| Years to recoup four-year net costearnings 2020-21, net price 2024-25 | 1.4 yrs | 0.7 yrs |
| Average net price per year2024-25 | $19,066 | $13,807 |
| Sticker cost of attendance per year2024-25 | $85,540 | $87,833 |
| Six-year graduation rate2024-25 | 97.6% | 91.9% |
| First-year retention (full-time)2024-25 | 98.3% | 98.2% |
| Admission rate2024-25 | 3.6% | 3.6% |
| Median federal debt at graduation2020-21 | $14,000 | $12,000 |
| Undergraduate enrollment2024-25 | 7,601 | 7,554 |
| Financial health (NACUBO CFI)IPEDS FY2022-23 | 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 0.7 yrs vs 1.4 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 pay after grant aid, and varies by family income.
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Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard & IPEDS (data year under each measure); 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.