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The Dalles, OR · Private University

Is Columbia Gorge Community College Worth It?

ROI analysis based on real earnings and cost data

Strong ROIRanked #778 of 3,472 schools by ROI

Key Numbers

10-Year Earnings

$44,440

median, 10 years after enrollment

In-State Tuition

$5,544

per year

Out-of-State Tuition

$10,080

per year

Total 4-Year Cost

$40,320

tuition only (4 years)

ROI Ratio

4.41x

earnings ÷ annual tuition

Payback Period

4.3 yrs

years to recoup total cost

Median Debt

$19,397

at graduation

Avg Net Price

$10,550

after aid & scholarships

Earnings vs. Annual Cost

10-year median earnings compared to annual tuition

Median Earnings (10yr)$44,440
Annual Tuition$10,080
National Median Earnings$45,000

Columbia Gorge Community College graduates earn $560 less than the national median of workers with any education level.

What You'd Actually Pay

Average net price after grants and scholarships, by family income

Under $30,000$10,270/yr
$30,000 – $48,000$11,488/yr
$48,000 – $75,000$11,618/yr
Over $110,000$16,778/yr

Source: IPEDS net price data. Actual costs vary based on individual financial circumstances.

The Bottom Line

Columbia Gorge Community College stands out as a strong financial investment among U.S. colleges. Graduates earn $44,440 10 years after starting, $560 below the national median of $45,000. The investment pays for itself in roughly 4.3 years, faster than most colleges.

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Earnings data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Tuition data from IPEDS. ROI calculations are for informational purposes only and reflect median outcomes.