Head-to-head · 2026
University of North Alabama vs University of South Alabama
Compare average net price ($12,170 at University of North Alabama; $17,648 at University of South Alabama), ROI score (9.33 vs 6.99), ten-year median earnings ($45,415 vs $49,379), and admissions selectivity (87.3% acceptance at University of North Alabama; 71% at University of South Alabama) using federal College Scorecard data. University of North Alabama has a 4-2 metric-level edge. University of North Alabama 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 North Alabama | University of South Alabama |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.33 ✓ | 6.99 |
| Avg net price | $12,170 ✓ | $17,648 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $45,415 | $49,379 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 87.3% | 71% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 54.9% ✓ | 52.7% |
| Median debt | $22,077 ✓ | $24,929 |
| Enrollment | 5,811 | 8,879 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1147 |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of South Alabama costs $5,478 more per year than University of North Alabama ($17,648 vs $12,170). University of South Alabama graduates report $3,964 higher median earnings after ten years ($49,379 vs $45,415). On EduGradify's model that puts University of North Alabama ahead on projected ROI (9.33 vs 6.99, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of North Alabama) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of North Alabama is accessible at 87.3% acceptance versus 71% (accessible) at University of South Alabama.
Frequently asked
University of North Alabama vs University of South Alabama, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of North Alabama or University of South Alabama the better value?
University of North Alabama has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.33 vs 6.99), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of North Alabama is cheaper — average net price $12,170 per year vs $17,648 at University of South Alabama. The annual difference of $5,478 adds up to about $21,912 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of South Alabama reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $49,379 vs $45,415 at University of North Alabama. The annual gap in the federal data is $3,964.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of South Alabama is more selective at 71% acceptance vs 87.3% at University of North Alabama.
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 North Alabama reports a B value grade; University of South Alabama reports C.