Economics at University of California-Davis
Bachelor's Degree
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
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How University of California-Davis graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of California-Davis graduates earn $50k, placing them in the 44th percentile of all economics bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (55 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of California-Davis | $50,295 | $71,906 | $13,000 | 0.26 |
| Stanford University | $98,104 | $127,416 | $12,500 | 0.13 |
| Claremont McKenna College | $89,505 | $115,832 | $12,000 | 0.13 |
| University of California-Berkeley | $80,446 | $106,624 | $13,000 | 0.16 |
| Santa Clara University | $76,606 | $102,794 | $19,500 | 0.25 |
| Pomona College | $70,051 | $100,669 | — | — |
| National Median | $51,722 | — | $22,816 | 0.44 |
Other Economics Programs in California
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across California schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stanford University Stanford | $62,484 | $98,104 | $12,500 |
| Claremont McKenna College Claremont | $64,150 | $89,505 | $12,000 |
| University of California-Berkeley Berkeley | $14,850 | $80,446 | $13,000 |
| Santa Clara University Santa Clara | $59,241 | $76,606 | $19,500 |
| Pomona College Claremont | $62,326 | $70,051 | — |
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.