University of Kansas vs Kansas State University
University of Kansas reports the higher median earnings ten years after entry ($61,945 vs $57,262). University of Kansas recoups its four-year net cost faster (about 2.8 yrs vs 3.7 yrs).
| Measure | University of KansasKS | Kansas State UniversityKS |
|---|---|---|
| Median earnings, 10 yrs after entry | $61,945 | $57,262 |
| Years to recoup four-year net cost | 2.8 yrs | 3.7 yrs |
| Average net price per year | $18,059 | $19,406 |
| Sticker cost of attendance per year | $26,751 | $27,402 |
| Share earning above a high-school grad | 71.8% | 70.7% |
| Six-year graduation rate | 68.8% | 71.1% |
| First-year retention (full-time) | 86.5% | 85.6% |
| Admission rate | 93.5% | 81.7% |
| Median federal debt at graduation | $21,000 | $21,250 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 21,217 | 15,142 |
| Financial health (NACUBO CFI) | 6.9 | 6.1 |
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 Kansas or Kansas State University a better value?
On the transparent payback measure, University of Kansas recoups its four-year net cost faster (about 2.8 yrs vs 3.7 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 Kansas or Kansas State University?
University of Kansas's average net price is $18,059 per year and Kansas State University's is $19,406 (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.