These schools are accredited, ensuring that even low-cost institutions meet high academic standards. Most of the most affordable universities in New York belong to the City University of New York (CUNY) and the State University of New York (SUNY) systems.
In this article, we review the most affordable colleges in New York for 2025, including up-to-date tuition costs, low-cost degree options, accessible scholarships, and whether attending an affordable college in New York is worth it.
How Much Does College Cost in New York in 2025?
The average in-state tuition and fees at New York public colleges is about $8,575 per year, compared to the national average of $9,750.1 Out-of-state students pay about $20,637 annually in New York, while the national out-of-state average is $28,297.1 This makes New York public universities relatively affordable, even though the state has one of the country’s highest costs of living.2
Most Affordable Colleges in New York: 2025 Basics
Below are some of the most affordable public colleges in New York, with 2024–25 undergraduate and graduate tuition figures. All values represent annual totals for full-time students.
- CUNY Brooklyn College – In-state $305 per credit; Out-of-state $620 per credit; Graduate in-state $470 per credit; Graduate out-of-state $855 per credit.3
- CUNY City College – In-state $305 per credit; Out-of-state $620 per credit; Graduate in-state $470 per credit; Graduate out-of-state $855 per credit.4
- CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice – In-state $305 per credit; Out-of-state $620 per credit; Graduate in-state $470 per credit; Graduate out-of-state $855 per credit.6
- CUNY Lehman College – In-state $305 per credit; Out-of-state $620 per credit; Graduate in-state $470 per credit; Graduate out-of-state $855 per credit.7
- CUNY Queens College – In-state $305 per credit; Out-of-state $620 per credit; Graduate in-state $470 per credit; Graduate out-of-state $855 per credit.8
- CUNY York College – In-state $305 per credit; Out-of-state $620 per credit; Graduate in-state $470 per credit; Graduate out-of-state $855 per credit.9
- SUNY Empire State University – In-state $295 per credit; Out-of-state $353 per credit; Graduate in-state $471 per credit; Graduate out-of-state $565 per credit.10
- SUNY Polytechnic Institute – In-state $777.50 per credit; Out-of-state $777.50 per credit; Graduate in-state $777.50 per credit; Graduate out-of-state $777.50 per credit.11
- CUNY Baruch College – In-state $305 per credit; Out-of-state $620 per credit; Graduate in-state $470 per credit; Graduate out-of-state $855 per credit.12
- CUNY Hunter College – In-state $305 per credit; Out-of-state $620 per credit; Graduate in-state $470 per credit; Graduate out-of-state $855 per credit.13
Cheapest Universities in New York: A Closer Look
The colleges listed above represent some of the most affordable public universities in New York for the 2024–25 academic year. Each offers low in-state tuition rates—generally between $7,300 and $8,600 per year—with graduate tuition averaging $11,500 to $12,500 for New York residents. These CUNY and SUNY schools serve students across New York City and the state, providing accredited programs in fields ranging from liberal arts and social sciences to engineering, health sciences, and technology.
In the sections that follow, we highlight several of these institutions in more depth, focusing on tuition, location, and the total cost of attendance to give you a clear picture of what makes them affordable options in 2025.
Cheapest Universities in New York: A Closer Look
The following CUNY and SUNY campuses are among the most affordable public universities in New York for the 2024–25 academic year. Tuition is listed per credit to give students a clearer comparison of costs for both undergraduate and graduate programs.
CUNY Brooklyn College
Brooklyn College offers strong liberal arts, education, and arts programs, combining affordability with access to New York City resources.
- Undergraduate: In-state $305, Out-of-state $620
- Graduate: In-state $470, Out-of-state $855
CUNY City College
City College of New York is known for engineering, architecture, and science programs, making it a leading affordable option in Harlem.
- Undergraduate: In-state $305, Out-of-state $620
- Graduate: In-state $470, Out-of-state $855
CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
John Jay specializes in criminal justice and forensic studies, offering affordable degree pathways for students pursuing careers in public service and law enforcement.
- Undergraduate: In-state $305, Out-of-state $620
- Graduate: In-state $470, Out-of-state $855
CUNY Lehman College
Located in the Bronx, Lehman College is well known for education, nursing, and business programs, with affordable tuition that appeals to first-generation students.
- Undergraduate: In-state $305, Out-of-state $620
- Graduate: In-state $470, Out-of-state $855
CUNY Queens College
Queens College offers a wide range of affordable programs in the arts, business, and education, serving one of the most diverse student populations in the country.
- Undergraduate: In-state $305, Out-of-state $620
- Graduate: In-state $470, Out-of-state $855
CUNY York College
York College in Jamaica, Queens, provides affordable tuition with a focus on health sciences, social work, and aviation management.
- Undergraduate: In-state $305, Out-of-state $620
- Graduate: In-state $470, Out-of-state $855
SUNY Empire State University
Empire State is designed for working adults and nontraditional students, offering flexible online and hybrid programs at some of the lowest per-credit rates in the state.
- Undergraduate: In-state $295, Out-of-state $353
- Graduate: In-state $471, Out-of-state $565
SUNY Polytechnic Institute
SUNY Poly, based in Utica, emphasizes STEM programs, particularly in computer science, engineering, and nanotechnology.
- Undergraduate and Graduate: $777.50 per credit for all students
CUNY Baruch College
Baruch College is widely recognized for its Zicklin School of Business, offering affordable business, finance, and accounting programs with strong career outcomes.
- Undergraduate: In-state $305, Out-of-state $620
- Graduate: In-state $470, Out-of-state $855
CUNY Hunter College
Hunter College offers affordable programs in nursing, health sciences, and the arts, with the added benefit of its central Manhattan location.
- Undergraduate: In-state $305, Out-of-state $620
- Graduate: In-state $470, Out-of-state $855
Cheapest Online Colleges in New York
Several SUNY campuses and universities offer low-cost online programs, making them some of the most affordable ways to earn a degree in New York in 2025. Below are updated tuition figures and available program types.
Stony Brook University Online
Stony Brook University charges $295 per credit for resident undergraduate students and $1,294 per credit for non-resident students.14 Graduate student rates are $471 for residents and $1,125 for non-residents.15 The university is particularly recognized for nursing, health sciences, and STEM fields delivered in flexible online formats.
SUNY Delhi Online
SUNY College of Technology at Delhi offers online programs at $295 per credit hour for in-state students and $715 per credit hour for out-of -state students.16 Students can pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees in areas like nursing, business, and hospitality management. The online structure makes SUNY Delhi especially popular among working adults.
SUNY Canton Online
SUNY Canton charges $295 per credit for NY residents and $353 per credit for non-residents for its online programs.17 Options include associate, bachelor’s, and certificate programs, with strong offerings in criminal justice, health care, and information technology.
SUNY Buffalo State University Online
Buffalo State University’s online tuition averages $295 per credit for in-state residents and $353 for non-residents in the online program.18 Students can complete bachelor’s, master’s, and advanced certificate programs online, including education, business, and leadership studies.
SUNY Empire State University Online
SUNY Empire State University also charges $295 for in-state students and $353 for out-of-state students that are studying online.19 Known for its flexible approach to higher education, Empire State offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees online, designed to fit the schedules of working professionals and adult learners.
Cheapest Colleges in New York by In-State Tuition (Per Credit)
- Stony Brook University Online – Undergraduate $295; Graduate $471
- SUNY Delhi Online – Undergraduate $295; Graduate $295 (in-state flat rate for most programs)
- SUNY Canton Online – Undergraduate $295; Graduate $295 (for residents)
- SUNY Buffalo State University Online – Undergraduate $295; Graduate $295 (for residents)
- SUNY Empire State University Online – Undergraduate $295; Graduate $471
- CUNY Colleges (Brooklyn, City, John Jay, Lehman, Queens, York, Baruch, Hunter) – Undergraduate $305; Graduate $470 (all in-state)
Cheapest Colleges in New York by Out-of-State Tuition (Per Credit)
- Stony Brook University Online – Undergraduate $1,294; Graduate $1,125
- SUNY Delhi Online – Undergraduate $715; Graduate $715
- SUNY Canton Online – Undergraduate $353; Graduate $353
- SUNY Buffalo State University Online – Undergraduate $353; Graduate $353
- SUNY Empire State University Online – Undergraduate $353; Graduate $565
- CUNY Colleges (Brooklyn, City, John Jay, Lehman, Queens, York, Baruch, Hunter) – Undergraduate $620; Graduate $855
Why Is College So Expensive?
Even at low-tuition public colleges, other expenses, like books, supplies, and living costs, can really add up quickly. Here’s an updated cost breakdown for 2024–25:
- Books & Supplies: Full-time students at public four-year colleges can expect to spend about $1,000–$1,220 per year on textbooks and materials, according to College Board data.
- Tuition & Fees and Living Costs (On & Off Campus): At New York public colleges, the average total cost of attendance (COA) in 2024, including tuition, fees, books, supplies, room & board, and other living expenses, is about $26,814 for in-state students and $33,710 for out-of-state students. This number includes:
- Tuition & Fees: $7,767 in-state, $14,663 out-of-state
- Books & Supplies: $1,436 annually
- Room & Board + Other Expenses: $17,611 total (on-campus), or similar off-campus costs
- Regional Variations: Average living costs span from $16,400 (on-campus) to $18,700 (off-campus) at New York public colleges.
Why These Numbers Matter
- These combined costs can bring a “low-tuition” college’s total price much closer to that of private institutions.
- Affordability ultimately depends on net cost, not just sticker tuition, after aid, living choices, and materials.
- Students should compare expected net prices across schools, considering financial aid, residency, and living situation.
How to Save Money in College
There are several strategies that can help New York students reduce their total cost of attendance and graduate with less debt.
- Work while in school. Part-time jobs or campus employment provide extra income and valuable work experience. Students working 15 hours per week on campus can often cover most textbook and personal expenses.
- Stay on top of loan payments. Missing a loan payment can trigger late fees and higher interest costs. Setting up auto-pay or calendar reminders is a simple way to avoid unnecessary charges.
- File the FAFSA every year. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually ensures eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study.
- Use federal and state tuition assistance. The New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) provides financial aid for eligible residents, while federal Pell Grants can also save additional money.
- Budget student loan usage. Borrow only what you need by creating a monthly budget for living expenses. Tools like budgeting apps or spreadsheets help track spending and prevent overborrowing.
- Buy or rent used textbooks. Students who rent or buy used books can save money compared to purchasing these supplies brand new. Some colleges also operate textbook lending libraries to further reduce costs.
- Consider community college or online courses. Starting at a community college or taking transferable online credits through CUNY/SUNY can significantly reduce the first two years of tuition.
How to Apply for Financial Aid in New York
Applying for financial aid in New York involves both federal and state programs. Here’s the process for 2025:
- Complete the FAFSA. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step. Students must create an FSA ID and submit the form online. FAFSA determines eligibility for federal Pell Grants, work-study, and federal student loans.
- Apply for the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP). New York residents attending in-state colleges may also qualify for TAP, so this is another financing option to look into. After submitting the FAFSA, eligible students are automatically prompted to complete a TAP application through the Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC).
- Check for institutional aid. The colleges listed on your FAFSA will receive your application and may offer their own scholarships or need-based aid. Many CUNY and SUNY schools combine federal, state, and institutional grants, significantly reducing net cost.
- Review your financial aid offer. Once accepted, colleges provide a financial aid package outlining available grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study. Compare offers carefully, paying attention to how much is free aid versus loans.
- Reapply each year. FAFSA and TAP applications must be submitted annually to continue receiving aid. Deadlines vary, but students are encouraged to apply as early as possible for maximum award consideration.
Scholarships for Students in New York
If you’re navigating college in New York, these key federal, state, and institutional scholarships can significantly reduce your cost of attendance:
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Excelsior Scholarship
This “last-dollar” program allows eligible New York State residents to attend SUNY or CUNY colleges tuition-free, after applying any federal or state aid like Pell Grants or TAP.
NYS Scholarships & Awards
- Tuition Assistance Program (TAP): Provides up to $5,665 annually in need-based aid.
- Enhanced Tuition Awards (ETA), STEM Incentive Program, Part-Time Scholarship Award, and more also support specific demographics and academic interests.
Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP)
Provides $40,000–$70,000 per year in comprehensive support that covers tuition, room and board, and supplies for first-generation, economically disadvantaged New York residents, including undocumented students, attending participating colleges.
CUNY-Wide Scholarships
With over 1,000 awards across its 25 campuses, CUNY offers varied merit- and need-based scholarships, such as Macaulay Honors, Thomas Tam, COPE, and Global Scholar programs.
Private & National Scholarships
- Scholarship databases like FastWEB and Peterson’s award listings offer thousands of opportunities based on GPA, interests, life background, and financial need.
- Organizations like Horatio Alger grant need-based awards ranging from $2,500 to $25,000.
- Creative and community options such as those on Bold.org include high-value scholarships like “Be Bold” ($25,000) and STEM-specific awards.
How to Choose a Cheap College in New York
Selecting an affordable college in New York requires more than just comparing tuition. Here are the most important factors to consider in 2025:
Consider Colleges That Offer Scholarships and Grants
Many CUNY and SUNY schools provide merit-based scholarships for strong GPAs, SAT/ACT scores, or specific majors. Federal aid (like Pell Grants of up to $7,395) and New York State aid (like TAP awards up to $5,665) can also dramatically reduce net cost. Contact each school’s financial aid office to see which scholarships are most accessible.
Compare In-State vs. Out-of-State Tuition
In-state tuition at public colleges in New York averages about $305 per credit at CUNY and $295 per credit at SUNY, while out-of-state students often pay double or more. Staying in state can save thousands of dollars per year.
Factor in Location and Living Expenses
Living at home or attending a local college can cut room, board, and transportation costs, which average $16,400–$18,700 annually in New York. Choosing a campus close to home may be the single most effective way to reduce total expenses.
Compare Net Prices, Not Just Sticker Tuition
Two colleges with similar tuition may differ greatly in average net cost once aid is applied. For example, the average net price after grants at CUNY Lehman is about $4,900, while SUNY Polytechnic’s average is over $11,000. Always compare financial aid offers and use the federal Net Price Calculator tool.
Consider Transfer and Credit Pathways
Starting at a community college or online SUNY program (as low as $295 per credit) before transferring to a four-year institution can significantly reduce overall costs while still leading to a bachelor’s degree.
Highest-Paying Jobs for College Graduates in New York
Pursuing certain careers can deliver strong return on investment, especially when paired with affordable tuition. Here are some of the highest-paying roles for college graduates in New York based on the most recent salary data:
Pediatric Surgeon
- Average salary (NY): $551,556 per year.20 Pediatric surgeons top the list in New York, requiring extensive residency plus fellowship training, but the compensation reflects their high level of specialization and responsibility.
Healthcare and Executive Roles (National Benchmark)
According to federal data, the highest-paying professions nationally include roles that generally require advanced degrees, such as:
- Pediatric Surgeons – ~$449,32021
- Cardiologists – ~$423,25022
- Other surgeons – ~$343,99023
- Orthopedic Surgeons – ~$378,25024
- Radiologists – ~$353,96025
…alongside other top earners such as dermatologists, anesthesiologists, and emergency medicine physicians.
These figures reflect the “big-picture” earning potential of advanced medical and leadership careers and highlight the value of strategic major and career planning.
Best Jobs for College Grads in New York: Explained
Pediatric Surgeon | $449,32021
Pediatric surgeons are among the highest earners in New York. This career requires extensive training, including medical school, residency, and fellowship, but offers unmatched compensation for those pursuing healthcare.
Financial Manager | $161,70026
Financial managers oversee budgets, investments, and financial planning for organizations. With New York’s role as a global financial hub, opportunities in this field are strong across banking, consulting, and corporate finance.
Computer and Information Systems Manager | $171,20027
These managers direct IT operations, security, and system development. With NYC’s tech sector expanding and demand for cybersecurity leadership increasing, this role offers both high pay and job stability.
Sales Manager | $157,61028
Sales managers lead teams, set revenue targets, and build client relationships. New York’s robust corporate and retail environment makes this one of the city’s most lucrative non-technical management roles.
Advertising and Promotions Manager | $152,60029
These professionals plan and oversee campaigns to build brand awareness. With NYC as a global media and advertising capital, experienced managers in this field can command strong salaries.
Training and Development Manager | $138,45030
Responsible for employee education and upskilling, training managers are especially valuable in New York’s corporate, healthcare, and tech sectors, where workforce development is a top priority.
Medical and Health Services Manager | $117,96031
Also called healthcare administrators, these professionals run hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. With healthcare employment in New York projected to grow, this role combines impact with strong earnings.
Actuary | $132,50032
Actuaries use math and statistics to evaluate financial risk, often working in insurance, finance, or consulting. New York has one of the largest concentrations of actuaries in the nation.
Information Security Analyst | $124,74033
Cybersecurity specialists protect systems from data breaches and cyberattacks. With demand for information security continuing to rise, New York analysts enjoy both high salaries and strong job security.
Management Analyst | $97,58034
Also known as consultants, management analysts help organizations improve efficiency. In New York’s finance, healthcare, and tech industries, demand for these professionals remains consistently high.
Is a Cheap College in New York Worth It?
Yes, choosing an affordable public college in New York is well worth it. While tuition at CUNY and SUNY campuses is already among the lowest in the nation, the return on investment is especially strong. Affordable colleges in New York deliver a combination of low tuition, accessible financial aid, and strong career pathways, making them a smart choice for students who want quality education without overwhelming debt.
Cheapest Colleges in New York FAQ
No. New York University (NYU) is one of the most expensive private universities in the country. For 2024–25, the estimated cost of attendance is about $65,000 per year. If you’re interested in NYU’s programs but want affordability, consider applying for federal Pell Grants, state aid like TAP, and NYU’s own merit scholarships.
Some students can attend City University of New York (CUNY) tuition-free through the Excelsior Scholarship. To qualify, you must:
– Be a New York State resident.
– Earn under $125,000 in household income.
– Complete at least 30 credits per year.
– File both the FAFSA and TAP applications.
Excelsior covers any remaining tuition after other aid is applied.
Several community colleges in the CUNY system are affordable. As of 2024–25, CUNY Bronx Community College, Kingsborough Community College, and Queensborough Community College all charge $2,400 per semester ($4,800 annually) for in-state students.35 Community colleges also have the lowest net prices once financial aid is considered, often under $5,000 per year.
For in-state students, CUNY and SUNY tuition rates are very similar, all costing about $305 per credit at CUNY and $295 per credit at SUNY. The bigger differences come from living expenses and campus location. CUNY schools are concentrated in New York City, where housing is more expensive, while SUNY campuses across the state often have lower room and board costs. Out-of-state students typically find SUNY slightly cheaper, averaging $353 per credit versus CUNY’s $620 per credit.
Sources
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- https://www.osc.ny.gov/files/reports/osdc/pdf/report-17-2024.pdf
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- https://www.salary.com/research/salary/benchmark/surgeon-pediatric-salary/ny
- https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes291243.htm
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- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/financial-managers.htm
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