Head-to-head · 2026
University of Kentucky vs University of Louisville
Compare average net price ($18,851 at University of Kentucky; $17,988 at University of Louisville), ROI score (7.83 vs 7.49), ten-year median earnings ($59,025 vs $53,899), and admissions selectivity (92.9% acceptance at University of Kentucky; 79.4% at University of Louisville) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Kentucky has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. University of Kentucky leads on ROI, but the cost and earnings signals are split enough that this is not a one-metric decision.
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 | University of Kentucky | University of Louisville |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.83 ✓ | 7.49 |
| Avg net price | $18,851 | $17,988 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $59,025 ✓ | $53,899 |
| Acceptance rate | 92.9% | 79.4% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 71.4% ✓ | 61.2% |
| Median debt | $22,500 | $20,500 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 24,763 | 14,727 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1215 ✓ | 1150 |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Kentucky costs $863 more per year than University of Louisville ($18,851 vs $17,988). University of Kentucky graduates report $5,126 higher median earnings after ten years ($59,025 vs $53,899). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Kentucky ahead on projected ROI (7.83 vs 7.49, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (University of Kentucky) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, University of Kentucky is accessible at 92.9% acceptance versus 79.4% (accessible) at University of Louisville.
Frequently asked
University of Kentucky vs University of Louisville, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Kentucky or University of Louisville the better value?
University of Kentucky has the higher EduGradify ROI score (7.83 vs 7.49), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Louisville is cheaper — average net price $17,988 per year vs $18,851 at University of Kentucky. The annual difference of $863 adds up to about $3,452 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Kentucky reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $59,025 vs $53,899 at University of Louisville. The annual gap in the federal data is $5,126.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Louisville is more selective at 79.4% acceptance vs 92.9% at University of Kentucky.
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. University of Kentucky reports a B value grade; University of Louisville reports B.