Astronomy Degree in Plano, TX — Salary & ROI 2026

Astronomy in Plano, TX Overview

Plano, Texas (pop. 285,494) has 9 colleges offering Astronomy programs. The local cost of living index of 85 keeps student expenses low, with average rent near campus at $849/month. Astronomy enrollment is stable nationwide, with steady demand for graduates skilled in Astrophysics and Telescope Operation. The adjusted starting salary in Plano is approximately $42,500, growing to $74,800 by mid-career.

Astronomy Salary in Plano (COL-Adjusted)

Salaries adjusted for Plano's cost of living index of 85 (national average = 100).

Astronomy ROI Calculator for Plano

Estimate your return on investment for a Astronomy degree using local Plano tuition and cost of living data.

Student Loan Payoff for Astronomy in Plano

Colleges in Plano for Astronomy

Community Colleges (2-Year Transfer)

Top Employers for Astronomy in Plano

Plano offers opportunities in Tech companies, Research labs, Government agencies for Astronomy graduates. National top employers in this field include:

Key Plano Hiring Sectors for STEM

Common Astronomy Job Titles

Astronomy in Nearby Texas Cities

Other STEM Majors in Plano

Methodology & Education Data Sources

How we calculate Astronomy degree outcomes in Plano, TX: Our salary projections, ROI estimates, and tuition data combine multiple federal datasets to provide a localized view of education economics. We use a 10-year career-trajectory model standard in higher education research.

1. Tuition data sourced from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), the federal education statistics database operated by NCES. Average tuition for Astronomy programs reflects 4-year public/private weighted averages for Texas.
2. Career salary projections based on BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, with cost-of-living adjustments for Plano using regional CPI data.
3. 10-year ROI calculates: (Total Career Earnings With Degree) − (Total Career Earnings Without Degree) − (Total Education Cost Including Interest on Loans).
4. Job market outlook for Astronomy graduates uses BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook 10-year projections (2024-2034 base period).
5. Default rates and loan data sourced from College Scorecard (US Department of Education), which tracks repayment outcomes by institution.

Authoritative US education data sources:

• IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data — official federal college data
• College Scorecard (US Dept of Education) — earnings, debt, completion rates
• BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook — Astronomy career projections
• Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) — official US student loan and grant info
• NCES Digest of Education Statistics — comprehensive education data
• BLS Occupational Employment and Wages — entry-level salary data for Astronomy grads

Education Disclaimer: Salary and ROI estimates are projections based on national and state-level averages. Individual outcomes depend on institution prestige, GPA, internships, location, network, and economic conditions. Always verify current tuition with the institution directly, and consult a financial aid counselor before taking on student loans. Use the Federal Loan Simulator to model repayment scenarios.

Reviewed by Brazora Monk · Last updated 2026 · IPEDS & BLS data current as of latest annual release

Financial Aid Resources for Plano Students

Beyond federal aid (FAFSA), Texas students have access to state-specific grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. The 2026-27 FAFSA also added a new Low Earnings Indicator (Dec 2025) flagging programs where graduates earn less than non-college peers — check your target school's status:

2026-27 FAFSA tip: The new Low Earnings Indicator flags programs where graduates earn less than non-graduates. Check this before enrolling. Speak with a NASFAA-credentialed financial aid counselor at your target school.

Astronomy Degree in Plano — FAQ