College comparison

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor vs University of California-Los Angeles

This comparison focuses on the numbers families usually need first: cost, earnings, graduation, debt, and overall value.

Luma Score9698
Average net price$13K$13K
Median earnings$84K$83K
Median debt$20K$14K
Graduation rate93%93%

Editorial comparison

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor and University of California-Los Angeles ask families to weigh different parts of the college decision. On affordability, University of California-Los Angeles has the lower reported average net price at $13K. For long-term earnings, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor has the higher reported median earnings at $84K. Debt also deserves a separate look: University of California-Los Angeles reports the lower median completer debt at $14K. Graduation data points toward University of Michigan-Ann Arbor with a reported rate of 93%, which may matter for students trying to limit extra semesters and additional borrowing.

The overall tradeoff is not simply which school has the lowest cost or the highest earnings number. A student with a strong aid offer may reasonably choose the school that fits their academic path, while a family focused on repayment comfort may prioritize net price and debt. Based on the available data, TuitionLuma leans toward University of California-Los Angeles because of lower reported average net price, and lower reported median debt. Students should compare this result with actual financial aid letters, housing plans, and intended programs before deciding.

Best for ValueU. California-Los Angeles

Higher combined Luma Score using the available cost and outcome fields.

Best for AffordabilityU. California-Los Angeles

Lower reported average net price in this comparison.

Best for Long-Term EarningsU. Michigan-Ann Arbor

Higher reported median earnings after entry.

Cost comparison

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor reports an average net price of $13K, while University of California-Los Angeles reports $13K. The better choice depends on your aid package, residency, housing, and borrowing plan.

Earnings comparison

Reported median earnings are $84K for University of Michigan-Ann Arbor and $83K for University of California-Los Angeles. Use this as a directional outcome signal, not a salary promise.

Debt comparison

Median completer debt is $20K at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor and $14K at University of California-Los Angeles. Lower debt can reduce repayment pressure after graduation.

Graduation comparison

Graduation rates are 93% and 93%. Completion is an important affordability factor because extra terms can add cost.

TuitionLuma recommendation

Based on the available static sample, University of California-Los Angeles looks stronger because of lower reported average net price, lower reported median debt. Before deciding, compare your actual financial aid offers and intended program outcomes.

Who should use this comparison?

This comparison is most useful for students choosing between two known options and families trying to understand the tradeoff between price, debt, completion, and earnings. It should be paired with actual aid letters before making a final decision.

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