University of Iowa vs Iowa State University
University of Iowa reports the higher median earnings ten years after entry ($64,762 vs $63,386). Iowa State University recoups its four-year net cost faster (about 3 yrs vs 3.4 yrs).
| Measure | University of IowaIA | Iowa State UniversityIA |
|---|---|---|
| Median earnings, 10 yrs after entry | $64,762 | $63,386 |
| Years to recoup four-year net cost | 3.4 yrs | 3 yrs |
| Average net price per year | $22,531 | $18,589 |
| Sticker cost of attendance per year | $28,596 | $24,018 |
| Share earning above a high-school grad | 76.9% | 76.5% |
| Six-year graduation rate | 74.6% | 75.3% |
| First-year retention (full-time) | 90.4% | 87.6% |
| Admission rate | 83.6% | 88.7% |
| Median federal debt at graduation | $22,500 | $22,869 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 22,264 | 25,367 |
| Financial health (NACUBO CFI) | 6.2 | 4.1 |
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 University of Iowa or Iowa State University a better value?
On the transparent payback measure, Iowa State University recoups its four-year net cost faster (about 3 yrs vs 3.4 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, University of Iowa or Iowa State University?
University of Iowa's average net price is $22,531 per year and Iowa State University's is $18,589 (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.