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What will it cost? Is it worth it?
Education is one of the most predictive, versatile, and fruitful investments one can make. Despite the skyrocketing cost of higher education, the return on investment (ROI) of increasing amounts of education is compellingly high in many cases.

However, the economic tradeoffs to an individual's lifetime worth of college attendence are becoming increasingly individualized: unlike 30 years ago when college was far less expensive and the salary bump from a college degree was a bit more significant, the financial benefits, while reamining substantial on average, now vary depending on your situation.

On average, wages increase by degree level:

Data source for base wage assumptions: BLS
Even for students who entirely fund their collegiate education through various student loans, choosing to attend college equates to an average gain in net worth of over $600,000 - 1,500,000 (in today's dollars) at time of retirment (age 65).

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

  • NY Times 'The Daily' - Is College Worth It? - explaining the background and impacts of the rising cost of college education, noteworthy trend of reduced faith in the value of a college education, and relative economic tradeoffs, both to individuals and to the economy as a whole, to attending college
    • Data source for base wage assumptions: BLS
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    Additional Considerations

    Going to college can be really fun. Beyond the obvious benefits to your career and income growth, you have an opportunity to build close relationships with a diverse set of new friends, form a mature world view, and learn how to live on your own in a somewhat contained environment. Every individual's needs will help determine their most suitable path, but it would be foolhardty to discount the potential for happiness that one gains from the college experiece.

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