Salary vs. Cost of Living
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College vs. Trades. The Real Numbers

See the true financial difference: 4-year degree debt vs. trades apprenticeship earnings, year by year, dollar by dollar.

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College Path
4-Year Degree
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Net position after 4 years
Trades Path
Apprenticeship
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Net earnings after 4 years
Trades Advantage After 4 Years
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Year-by-Year Comparison

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Break-Even Point

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Ready to Skip the Debt?

Find trade programs near you. Many have paid apprenticeships, meaning you earn while you learn, with zero tuition debt.

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College costs based on 2024-25 NCES national averages (tuition + fees). Living expenses estimated. Trade earnings based on BLS apprenticeship wage progression and median salaries. Individual results will vary. College earnings assume $15K/yr part-time income during enrollment. Debt figures reflect total cost of attendance minus part-time income; does not include interest accrual.