Head-to-head · 2026
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse vs University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Compare average net price ($16,210 at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse; $15,014 at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee), ROI score (9.31 vs 9.16), ten-year median earnings ($60,378 vs $54,990), and admissions selectivity (75.5% acceptance at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse; 90.7% at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Wisconsin-La Crosse has a 6-1 metric-level edge. University of Wisconsin-La Crosse 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 Wisconsin-La Crosse | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.31 ✓ | 9.16 |
| Avg net price | $16,210 | $15,014 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $60,378 ✓ | $54,990 |
| Acceptance rate | 75.5% ✓ | 90.7% |
| Graduation rate | 71% ✓ | 49.3% |
| Median debt | $22,500 ✓ | $23,000 |
| Enrollment | 9,277 | 16,758 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1220 ✓ | 1090 |
| Metric advantages | 6 | 1 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse costs $1,196 more per year than University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee ($16,210 vs $15,014). University of Wisconsin-La Crosse graduates report $5,388 higher median earnings after ten years ($60,378 vs $54,990). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Wisconsin-La Crosse ahead on projected ROI (9.31 vs 9.16, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (University of Wisconsin-La Crosse) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is accessible at 75.5% acceptance versus 90.7% (accessible) at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
Frequently asked
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse vs University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Wisconsin-La Crosse or University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee the better value?
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.31 vs 9.16), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is cheaper — average net price $15,014 per year vs $16,210 at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. The annual difference of $1,196 adds up to about $4,784 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $60,378 vs $54,990 at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. The annual gap in the federal data is $5,388.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is more selective at 75.5% acceptance vs 90.7% at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
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 Wisconsin-La Crosse reports a B value grade; University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee reports B.