Analysis
UC Davis economics graduates face a challenging start but see substantial earnings growth over time. While first-year earnings of $50,295 fall below both national and California medians for economics programs, graduates experience impressive 43% income growth by year four, reaching $71,906. Among California's 55 economics programs, this ranks in just the 40th percentile—meaning 60% of comparable state programs produce higher-earning graduates.
The program's standout feature is its exceptionally low debt burden of $13,000, ranking in the 95th percentile nationally (meaning only 5% of economics programs nationwide have lower debt). This creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.26, compared to the national median debt of $22,816 for economics degrees. However, the earnings gap is significant: UC Davis graduates earn about $9,000 less in year four compared to UC Berkeley economics alumni, and dramatically less than elite programs like Stanford ($98,104) or Claremont McKenna ($89,505).
For families prioritizing affordability and strong public university credentials, UC Davis offers solid value through minimal debt and steady earnings growth. The lower starting salaries may reflect the program's focus or regional job market, but the financial foundation is sound for students willing to build their careers gradually rather than expecting immediate high earnings.
Where University of California-Davis Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all economics bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of California-Davis graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of California-Davis | $50,295 | $71,906 | +43% |
| Stanford University | $98,104 | $127,416 | +30% |
| Claremont McKenna College | $89,505 | $115,832 | +29% |
| University of California-Berkeley | $80,446 | $106,624 | +33% |
| Santa Clara University | $76,606 | $102,794 | +34% |
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (55 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of California-DavisDavis | $15,247 | $50,295 | $71,906 | $13,000 | 0.26 |
 Stanford UniversityStanford | $62,484 | $98,104 | $127,416 | $12,500 | 0.13 |
 Claremont McKenna CollegeClaremont | $64,150 | $89,505 | $115,832 | $12,000 | 0.13 |
 University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley | $14,850 | $80,446 | $106,624 | $13,000 | 0.16 |
 Santa Clara UniversitySanta Clara | $59,241 | $76,606 | $102,794 | $19,500 | 0.25 |
 Pomona CollegeClaremont | $62,326 | $70,051 | $100,669 | — | — |
| National Median | — | $51,722 | — | $22,816 | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with economics graduates
Economists
Environmental Economists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Statisticians
Biostatisticians
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists
Search Marketing Strategists
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Survey Researchers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of California-Davis, approximately 31% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 347 graduates with reported earnings and 318 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.