University of California-Riverside vs University of Southern California

Riverside, CA — Los Angeles, CA

Metric
University of California-Riverside
Riverside, CA
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
Location Riverside, CA Los Angeles, CA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 22,593 20,443
Acceptance Rate 76.4% 9.8%
SAT Average 1,495
In-State Tuition $15,606 $72,097
Out-of-State Tuition $49,806 $72,097
Avg Net Price $14,304 $32,740
Median Debt at Graduation $17,500 $18,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 76.3% 91.9%
Retention Rate 87.6% 95.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $48,593 $74,461
Median Earnings (10 yr) $67,699 $92,498
Loan Repayment Rate 676000.0% 435800.0%

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

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University of California-Riverside
Riverside, CA
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University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of California-Riverside and University of Southern California compare?
University of California-Riverside (Riverside, CA) has an acceptance rate of 76.4%, in-state tuition of $15,606, and median 10-year earnings of $67,699. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA) has an acceptance rate of 9.8%, in-state tuition of $72,097, and median 10-year earnings of $92,498.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of California-Riverside or University of Southern California?
University of Southern California graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $92,498 vs $67,699. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of California-Riverside or University of Southern California?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Riverside is the more affordable option at $14,304 per year versus $32,740.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Southern California has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 91.9% vs 76.3%.

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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