Princeton University vs Columbia University in the City of New York

Princeton, NJ — New York, NY

Metric
Princeton University
Princeton, NJ
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
Location Princeton, NJ New York, NY
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 5,709 8,973
Acceptance Rate 4.6% 4.0%
SAT Average 1,553 1,553
In-State Tuition $62,688 $71,845
Out-of-State Tuition $62,688 $71,845
Avg Net Price $6,128 $21,590
Median Debt at Graduation $10,320 $21,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 97.4% 95.5%
Retention Rate 98.4% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $87,815 $88,535
Median Earnings (10 yr) $110,066 $102,491
Loan Repayment Rate 14700.0% 185800.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

Full Profile
Princeton University
Princeton, NJ
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Princeton University and Columbia University in the City of New York compare?
Princeton University (Princeton, NJ) has an acceptance rate of 4.6%, in-state tuition of $62,688, and median 10-year earnings of $110,066. Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) has an acceptance rate of 4.0%, in-state tuition of $71,845, and median 10-year earnings of $102,491.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Princeton University or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Princeton University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $110,066 vs $102,491. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Princeton University or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Princeton University is the more affordable option at $6,128 per year versus $21,590.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Princeton University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 97.4% vs 95.5%.

More Comparisons

All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025