New York University vs Columbia University in the City of New York
Columbia University in the City of New York reports the higher median earnings ten years after entry ($102,491 vs $82,509). Columbia University in the City of New York recoups its four-year net cost faster (about 1.3 yrs vs 3.3 yrs).
| Measure | New York UniversityNY | Columbia University in the City of New YorkNY |
|---|---|---|
| Median earnings, 10 yrs after entry | $82,509 | $102,491 |
| Years to recoup four-year net cost | 3.3 yrs | 1.3 yrs |
| Average net price per year | $37,050 | $21,590 |
| Sticker cost of attendance per year | $84,374 | $89,472 |
| Share earning above a high-school grad | 73.7% | 84% |
| Six-year graduation rate | 87.6% | 96.1% |
| First-year retention (full-time) | 95.8% | 98% |
| Admission rate | 9.2% | 4% |
| Median federal debt at graduation | $20,500 | $21,500 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 28,663 | 8,973 |
| Financial health (NACUBO CFI) | 2.3 | 7.3 |
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 New York University or Columbia University in the City of New York a better value?
On the transparent payback measure, Columbia University in the City of New York recoups its four-year net cost faster (about 1.3 yrs vs 3.3 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, New York University or Columbia University in the City of New York?
New York University's average net price is $37,050 per year and Columbia University in the City of New York's is $21,590 (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.