The University of Alabama vs Auburn University
Auburn University reports the higher median earnings ten years after entry ($65,337 vs $59,221). Auburn University recoups its four-year net cost faster (about 3.2 yrs vs 3.6 yrs).
| Measure | The University of AlabamaAL | Auburn UniversityAL |
|---|---|---|
| Median earnings, 10 yrs after entry | $59,221 | $65,337 |
| Years to recoup four-year net cost | 3.6 yrs | 3.2 yrs |
| Average net price per year | $22,420 | $24,323 |
| Sticker cost of attendance per year | $33,382 | $34,919 |
| Share earning above a high-school grad | 67.9% | 72.6% |
| Six-year graduation rate | 73.4% | 82% |
| First-year retention (full-time) | 89.5% | 94.8% |
| Admission rate | 76.6% | 45.9% |
| Median federal debt at graduation | $22,750 | $21,000 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 33,227 | 26,816 |
| Financial health (NACUBO CFI) | 6.5 | 1.9 |
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 The University of Alabama or Auburn University a better value?
On the transparent payback measure, Auburn University recoups its four-year net cost faster (about 3.2 yrs vs 3.6 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, The University of Alabama or Auburn University?
The University of Alabama's average net price is $22,420 per year and Auburn University's is $24,323 (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.