Forbes Names Baruch College Among Nation’s 25 Colleges with the Highest Payoff

August 29, 2025

Baruch College has once again been recognized as one of the nation’s best for delivering exceptional value and career outcomes. In its latest ranking, Forbes included Baruch on its exclusive list of the 25 Colleges with the Highest Payoff—highlighting institutions where students earn strong returns on their investment through low debt and high post-graduate earnings.

Manhattan Location, Maximum Returns

Forbes notes Baruch’s inclusion on the list reflects its unique ability to combine affordability with career readiness.

“Situated in downtown Manhattan, the school is very close to the headquarters of global companies and provides easy access for internships, full-time jobs, and networking.”

Just over nine percent of Baruch students take out federal loans, yet graduates achieve a median 20-year salary of $136,700, according to PayScale data. This balance of low borrowing and strong alumni earnings positions Baruch among the nation’s leading launchpads for financial advancement and long-term career success.

Baruch is one of eight CUNY colleges featured on the Forbes “Highest Payoff” list.

Also Ranked #90 on America’s Top Colleges

In addition to the “Highest Payoff” list, Forbes ranked Baruch #90 in its annual list of America’s Top Colleges. This broader ranking evaluates 500 institutions across the country on 14 metrics, including alumni salary, student debt, graduation and retention rates, and overall student success. Baruch’s placement in the top 100 underscores its reputation as a national leader in access, affordability, and upward mobility.

Recognition Across the Board

The Forbes rankings add to Baruch’s growing national reputation:

• The Princeton Review named Baruch among the Best Value Colleges in the U.S. (#19 ROI for public schools; #20 career placement)
• Money awarded Baruch a 4.5-star rating for affordability, quality, and outcomes
• U.S. News & World Report recognized Baruch’s graduate programs among the best nationwide

Explore Baruch

Take a virtual tour of Baruch College to discover its three schools, vibrant Manhattan campus, and community that empowers students from all backgrounds to achieve academic and professional success.

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