Head-to-head · 2026
Columbia University in the City of New York vs New York University
Compare average net price ($21,590 at Columbia University in the City of New York; $37,050 at New York University), ROI score (11.87 vs 5.57), ten-year median earnings ($102,491 vs $82,509), and admissions selectivity (4% acceptance at Columbia University in the City of New York; 9.2% at New York University) using federal College Scorecard data. Columbia University in the City of New York has a 6-1 metric-level edge. Columbia University in the City of New York has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | Columbia University in the City of New York | New York University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 11.87 ✓ | 5.57 |
| Avg net price | $21,590 ✓ | $37,050 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $102,491 ✓ | $82,509 |
| Acceptance rate | 4% ✓ | 9.2% |
| Graduation rate | 96.1% ✓ | 87.6% |
| Median debt | $21,500 | $20,500 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 8,973 | 28,663 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1553 ✓ | 1520 |
| Metric advantages | 6 | 1 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
New York University costs $15,460 more per year than Columbia University in the City of New York ($37,050 vs $21,590). Columbia University in the City of New York graduates report $19,982 higher median earnings after ten years ($102,491 vs $82,509). On EduGradify's model that puts Columbia University in the City of New York ahead on projected ROI (11.87 vs 5.57, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Columbia University in the City of New York) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Columbia University in the City of New York is highly competitive at 4% acceptance versus 9.2% (highly competitive) at New York University.
Frequently asked
Columbia University in the City of New York vs New York University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Columbia University in the City of New York or New York University the better value?
Columbia University in the City of New York has the higher EduGradify ROI score (11.87 vs 5.57), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Columbia University in the City of New York is cheaper — average net price $21,590 per year vs $37,050 at New York University. The annual difference of $15,460 adds up to about $61,840 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Columbia University in the City of New York reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $102,491 vs $82,509 at New York University. The annual gap in the federal data is $19,982.
Which school is harder to get into?
Columbia University in the City of New York is more selective at 4% acceptance vs 9.2% at New York University.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Columbia University in the City of New York reports a A value grade; New York University reports C.