Head-to-head · 2026
University of Utah vs Utah State University
Compare average net price ($16,200 at University of Utah; $14,936 at Utah State University), ROI score (10.37 vs 9.04), ten-year median earnings ($67,170 vs $54,022), and admissions selectivity (86% acceptance at University of Utah; 92.5% at Utah State University) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Utah has a 5-2 metric-level edge. University of Utah 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 Utah | Utah State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 10.37 ✓ | 9.04 |
| Avg net price | $16,200 | $14,936 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $67,170 ✓ | $54,022 |
| Acceptance rate | 86% ✓ | 92.5% |
| Graduation rate | 65.1% ✓ | 59.1% |
| Median debt | $19,000 | $14,340 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 27,264 | 20,272 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1257 ✓ | 1187 |
| Metric advantages | 5 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Utah costs $1,264 more per year than Utah State University ($16,200 vs $14,936). University of Utah graduates report $13,148 higher median earnings after ten years ($67,170 vs $54,022). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Utah ahead on projected ROI (10.37 vs 9.04, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (University of Utah) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, University of Utah is accessible at 86% acceptance versus 92.5% (accessible) at Utah State University.
Frequently asked
University of Utah vs Utah State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Utah or Utah State University the better value?
University of Utah has the higher EduGradify ROI score (10.37 vs 9.04), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Utah State University is cheaper — average net price $14,936 per year vs $16,200 at University of Utah. The annual difference of $1,264 adds up to about $5,056 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Utah reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $67,170 vs $54,022 at Utah State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $13,148.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Utah is more selective at 86% acceptance vs 92.5% at Utah State 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. University of Utah reports a B value grade; Utah State University reports B.