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 • Cayey, PR & Ponce, PR
When students choose between University of Puerto Rico at Cayey and University of Puerto Rico at Ponce, they're comparing two similar public institutions within the same university system. Both campuses serve Puerto Rico with comparable outcomes — median earnings around $31,000 ten years after enrollment — but at modestly different price points.
The decision hinges more on program fit and campus preferences than dramatic financial differences.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$5,000
federal loans
$5,500
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
—
borrowed by parents
—
borrowed by parents
Both campuses emphasize business programs, with UPR Cayey graduating 25% of students in business fields compared to UPR Ponce's 27%. Cayey's largest programs include Accounting (85 graduates), Biology (84), and Natural Sciences (82).
Ponce focuses more heavily on biological sciences, with its top program being Biological and Biomedical Sciences (78 graduates), followed by Psychology (57). Both offer education programs, representing about 9-10% of graduates at each campus.
For students prioritizing the lowest cost, UPR Ponce delivers comparable outcomes at $1,693/year less than UPR Cayey. Cayey offers a different campus experience in the central mountains of Puerto Rico and may appeal to students preferring that location or specific program strengths.
Both schools excel at providing affordable education to predominantly low-income student populations. The data points to Ponce as having a modest financial advantage, but both represent excellent value propositions.
Choose based on program offerings, campus culture, and location preferences rather than dramatic outcome differences.
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.
