City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning at Ohio State University-Main Campus

Ohio State's planning program starts below the national median at $41,501, but the 29% earnings jump to $53,666 by year four tells a more compelling story. That growth trajectory eventually pushes graduates well above the typical $44,146 national benchmark, suggesting this is a program where patience pays off. With only three Ohio schools offering this major, you're looking at the middle option—competitive with Miami University but trailing Cincinnati by about $5,000 initially.

The debt load of $25,250 is precisely average for planning programs nationwide, creating a manageable 0.61 ratio to first-year earnings. More importantly, by year four that debt represents less than half of annual salary, a comfortable position for most graduates. The moderate sample size means these numbers reflect real program outcomes without the volatility of tiny cohorts.

Here's the practical reality: your child will likely start in an entry-level municipal or regional planning role with a modest salary, but career progression in this field appears strong. The 60th percentile state ranking confirms this program holds its own against limited in-state competition. For students committed to urban planning work—and willing to accept a slower financial start—Ohio State offers solid preparation at a flagship university without excessive debt burden.