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AdmissionsOS

California State University-Northridge vs California State University-Sacramento

Side by side on admissions, cost, and fit, from the same verified school records.

California State University-Northridge California State University-Sacramento
Acceptance rate lower = more selective 93% 94%
Average net price what students actually pay after aid $7,021 $9,338
Sticker cost of attendance $20,485 $22,945
Graduation rate 57% 56%
Retention rate 73% 82%
Undergraduates 32,691 28,350
Student-faculty ratio 25:1 24:1
Setting Northridge, CA Sacramento, CA
Type Public Public
Application fee $70 $70
Test policy Test-blind Test-blind

Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.

Common questions

Is California State University-Northridge or California State University-Sacramento harder to get into?

California State University-Northridge is more selective, with a 93% acceptance rate versus 94% at California State University-Sacramento. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.

Which is cheaper, California State University-Northridge or California State University-Sacramento?

California State University-Northridge has the lower average net price ($7,021 versus $9,338). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.