Skilled Trades or University: Which Path Pays Off?
Deciding between university and skilled trades is a big choice, and it’s one more people are rethinking these days. A four-year degree used to be the go-to for a good career, but with rising costs and debt, is it still the best move? Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense for anyone weighing their options—no fluff, just the facts.
University: High Price, Uncertain Reward
For a long time, college was pitched as the sure path to a solid job and steady income. But here’s the reality: a four-year degree can cost you upwards of $120,000. When you graduate, you’re often looking at $25,000 or more in student loans. The average starting salary? Around $65,000—if you land a decent gig. After taxes (say, 25%), that’s closer to $48,750 a year. Factor in loan payments and living expenses, and it might take over a decade to break even.
On top of that, over 40% of recent grads end up in jobs that don’t even need a degree—think retail or waiting tables. That’s a tough pill to swallow after four years and a hefty bill. It’s got a lot of people asking: is this investment really worth it?
Skilled Trades: Affordable and Fast-Track
Now, let’s talk skilled trades—like plumbing, welding, or auto repair. Training for these usually costs about $4,000 and takes just a year. You can start earning around $55,000 right away, and without big loans, you’re ahead of the game fast. After taxes, that’s roughly $41,250 a year, and you’re not stuck paying off debt for years.
The trades have other perks too. Over 3 million trade jobs are expected to open up in the next decade, so work’s steady and in demand. It’s a practical choice if you want a paycheck without the long wait or financial stress.
Run the Numbers Yourself
Not sure which way to lean? Try our Education ROI Calculator. It’s simple: punch in your education cost, expected salary, and a few years. It’ll show you your profit and ROI—how much you’ll make compared to what you spend. It even adjusts for taxes and the money you miss out on while training. For trades, you might see an ROI over 1,200% in five years. University? Could be closer to 50%, or even negative with heavy debt. Give it a shot and see what works for you.
The Debt Factor: University’s Hidden Cost
Student loans were meant to help, but they’ve turned into a burden for a lot of folks. College costs have shot up way faster than salaries, leaving grads with payments that eat into their income. That $25,000 debt can make it tough to save for a house or car. With trades, you dodge that bullet—less spent upfront means more in your pocket sooner.
How Tech Is Helping You Choose
Tech’s stepping up to make career decisions easier. AI tools can match you with jobs based on your skills, whether it’s trades or something else. They also offer quick training options—like online courses for HVAC, with interactive and VR training. You’re ready to work faster. It’s like having a guide to cut through the noise and find what fits.
Trades Are Thriving
The skilled trades pull in over $1 trillion a year in the U.S., and they’re growing. Training programs are getting smarter with tech, connecting you straight to employers. You could be on the job in months, not years, with no loan stress holding you back. That’s a future worth considering.
What’s Right for You?
If your dream job—like being a doctor or lawyer—needs a degree, university might still be your path. But if you’re after good money and stability without the debt, skilled trades are a strong play. Less time, lower costs, and jobs waiting for you—it’s hard to argue with that.
Still on the fence? Check out our Education ROI Calculator. It’s all numbers, no hype. See if university stacks up or if trades are the smarter move for your wallet and your life. Your call—make it the one that works for you.