University of South Carolina-Columbia vs Clemson University
Clemson University reports the higher median earnings ten years after entry ($71,513 vs $62,177). Clemson University recoups its four-year net cost faster (about 2.4 yrs vs 3.3 yrs).
| Measure | University of South Carolina-ColumbiaSC | Clemson UniversitySC |
|---|---|---|
| Median earnings, 10 yrs after entry | $62,177 | $71,513 |
| Years to recoup four-year net cost | 3.3 yrs | 2.4 yrs |
| Average net price per year | $22,811 | $22,253 |
| Sticker cost of attendance per year | $31,638 | $35,015 |
| Share earning above a high-school grad | 70.3% | 76% |
| Six-year graduation rate | 78.8% | 86.6% |
| First-year retention (full-time) | 92.2% | 93.5% |
| Admission rate | 60.2% | 38.3% |
| Median federal debt at graduation | $21,500 | $21,500 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 29,820 | 23,300 |
| Financial health (NACUBO CFI) | 3.7 | 7.8 |
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 South Carolina-Columbia or Clemson University a better value?
On the transparent payback measure, Clemson University recoups its four-year net cost faster (about 2.4 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, University of South Carolina-Columbia or Clemson University?
University of South Carolina-Columbia's average net price is $22,811 per year and Clemson University's is $22,253 (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.