Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • Worcester, MA & Hartford, CT
Choosing between Trinity College and College of the Holy Cross presents students with remarkably similar institutions. Both are selective private colleges in New England serving comparable student populations and producing nearly identical career outcomes.
The median earnings gap is just $236 — effectively zero. When schools are this closely matched on fundamentals, the decision shifts from financial analysis to personal fit and preferences.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$27,000
federal loans
$23,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$39,032
borrowed by parents
$60,796
borrowed by parents
Trinity College is predominantly Social Sciences-focused, with 35% of graduates earning degrees in this field. College of the Holy Cross follows a similar pattern with 31% in Social Sciences plus 6% in STEM fields.
Trinity's largest programs include Political Science (88 graduates annually) and Economics (88), while Holy Cross emphasizes Economics (112), Political Science (111), and Psychology (110). This program alignment helps explain why career outcomes are virtually identical between institutions.
For students choosing between these institutions, the financial picture is essentially neutral. Holy Cross offers marginally better affordability with lower total family debt and higher graduation rates, giving it a slight edge.
Trinity provides comparable outcomes with Hartford's urban setting versus Worcester's college town atmosphere. The data suggests Holy Cross as the marginally stronger choice due to completion rates and debt management, but individual fit factors — campus culture, specific programs, location preference — should drive the final decision.
Neither school offers a compelling financial advantage over the other.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
