Looks to me like the distribution for the more expensive schools on the Y axis is nearly identical to that of the inexpensive state schools. So no, paying a lo

Looks to me like the distribution for the more expensive schools on the Y axis is nearly identical to that of the inexpensive state schools. So no, paying a lot for college is not worth it, when you could get the same result for $50k at a state school. Unless, of course, you go to one of the top four or five private engineering schools in the country. The question that really jumps out at me is "What the hell are you paying $150k extra for at a private school?" Edit to add: If I wrote an article that said, "Buy US Savings Bonds - it's a great investment! You are guaranteed at least to get more money back than you put in!" I'd probably get criticized, because the interest rate of a savings bond is fairly low compared to most other investments. But apparently by the same logic I can feel great about saddling myself with $200k worth of student debt, because hey, eventually I'll make it back and then some.