Head-to-head · 2026
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse vs University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Compare average net price ($16,210 at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse; $14,158 at University of Wisconsin-Whitewater), ROI score (9.31 vs 9.77), ten-year median earnings ($60,378 vs $55,356), and admissions selectivity (75.5% acceptance at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse; 85.7% at University of Wisconsin-Whitewater) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Wisconsin-La Crosse has a 5-2 metric-level edge. University of Wisconsin-Whitewater 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-Whitewater |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.31 | 9.77 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $16,210 | $14,158 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $60,378 ✓ | $55,356 |
| Acceptance rate | 75.5% ✓ | 85.7% |
| Graduation rate | 71% ✓ | 58.9% |
| Median debt | $22,500 ✓ | $23,188 |
| Enrollment | 9,277 | 9,405 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1220 ✓ | 1050 |
| Metric advantages | 5 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse costs $2,052 more per year than University of Wisconsin-Whitewater ($16,210 vs $14,158). University of Wisconsin-La Crosse graduates report $5,022 higher median earnings after ten years ($60,378 vs $55,356). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Wisconsin-Whitewater ahead on projected ROI (9.77 vs 9.31, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (University of Wisconsin-Whitewater) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is accessible at 75.5% acceptance versus 85.7% (accessible) at University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.
Frequently asked
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse vs University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Wisconsin-La Crosse or University of Wisconsin-Whitewater the better value?
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.77 vs 9.31), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is cheaper — average net price $14,158 per year vs $16,210 at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. The annual difference of $2,052 adds up to about $8,208 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $60,378 vs $55,356 at University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. The annual gap in the federal data is $5,022.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is more selective at 75.5% acceptance vs 85.7% at University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.
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-Whitewater reports B.