Rankings / By State (Affordable)

Most Affordable Colleges in New York

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$46,515

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

37%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$6,534

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing a college in New York can be daunting, especially when balancing quality education with affordability. With many institutions to consider, it’s essential to focus on those that provide value without overwhelming debt. For instance, the average net price of the schools on this list is just under $3,100, making higher education more accessible for families navigating tight budgets.

The schools featured here stand out for their combination of low net prices, reasonable debt levels, and solid graduation rates. When examining this data, it's important to look at not just the costs but also potential earnings post-graduation and the likelihood of completing a degree. For example, CUNY Bernard M Baruch College shows impressive earnings of $75,971, coupled with a strong graduation rate of 72%, indicating a significant return on investment for students.

Consider CUNY Hunter College, which has a net price of $2,984, but a lower graduation rate of 59%. In contrast, CUNY Bernard M Baruch College, while slightly more expensive at $3,033, offers a higher graduation rate. This kind of tradeoff is crucial as families weigh the balance between cost and the potential for successful outcomes after college. Understanding these nuances can help in making a more informed decision.

Key Findings

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College leads with $75,971 in earnings and a 72% graduation rate.

CUNY Hunter College has the lowest net price at $2,984 but a 59% graduation rate.

The average debt among the top five schools is around $11,000.

Overall, average earnings for graduates from these colleges stand at $46,316.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $46,515

Avg. graduation rate 37%

Avg. net price $6,534

Avg. median debt $10,915

How We Ranked

Ranked by lowest net price in New York

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY

Graduation59%

Earnings$63,163

Net Price$2,984

View full profile →

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY

Graduation72%

Earnings$75,971

Net Price$3,033

View full profile →

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY

Graduation55%

Earnings$60,752

Net Price$3,103

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

With over 16,000 students, CUNY Hunter College is a vibrant hub for those seeking a diverse environment in the heart of New York City. Its 59% graduation rate suggests a solid foundation for students, especially in fields like health and education, which have a significant impact on the community.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College attracts students who are eager to make their mark in business and public affairs. The college's 72% graduation rate reflects a commitment to student success, while its reputation in finance and entrepreneurship continues to draw a competitive yet supportive student body.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

CUNY Brooklyn College is known for its strong liberal arts and sciences programs. With 10,543 students, it fosters a community-oriented atmosphere, making it a good fit for those who thrive in collaborative settings. The graduation rate sits at 55%, hinting at the challenges some may face, but also at the support systems in place to help students succeed.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

CUNY Lehman College in the Bronx is dedicated to serving its local community, with a unique focus on access and opportunity. While the graduation rate of 50% suggests some hurdles, the college is committed to supporting students from various backgrounds, with 60% receiving Pell Grants, which reflects its mission of inclusivity.

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY · 11,590 students · Public

With a focus on criminal justice and public service, CUNY John Jay College attracts students passionate about making a difference in their communities. The school is known for its commitment to social justice, and this is reflected in its diverse student body, with 60% of students receiving Pell Grants, making it accessible for those who need financial assistance.

57% accepted 56% graduate $56,195 earnings

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

At CUNY Queens College, students benefit from a rich educational experience that blends cultural diversity with academic excellence. The college's commitment to inclusivity is evident in its 64% acceptance rate and 47% of students receiving Pell Grants, creating an environment where everyone can succeed regardless of their financial background.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

CUNY York College

Jamaica, NY · 4,345 students · Public

CUNY York College may have a smaller student population, but it offers a unique atmosphere for those seeking a close-knit community with a focus on personal and academic growth. With a 31% graduation rate, it's a place where dedicated students can find their path to success, especially among the 40% of students who receive Pell Grants, ensuring that financial barriers are minimized for many.

64% accepted 31% graduate $56,945 earnings

CUNY City College

New York, NY · 12,505 students · Public

CUNY City College stands out as a vibrant hub for aspiring students in New York, known for its strong engineering, architecture, and liberal arts programs. With a diverse enrollment of over 12,500 students and a welcoming acceptance rate of 60%, it fosters a community that values diversity and intellectual growth.

60% accepted 56% graduate $66,039 earnings

CUNY Medgar Evers College

Brooklyn, NY · 3,233 students · Public

CUNY Medgar Evers College, with an enrollment of about 3,200 students, focuses on community engagement and diversity. The college has a graduation rate of 21%, but the median earnings for graduates are $46,498 after ten years, suggesting that those who persist can find success in their chosen fields.

86% accepted 21% graduate $46,498 earnings

CUNY New York City College of Technology

Brooklyn, NY · 13,580 students · Public

With a substantial enrollment of over 13,500 students, CUNY New York City College of Technology offers a diverse community in Brooklyn. Graduates earn a median income of $49,365 a decade after completing their studies, indicating a solid return on investment for many students.

80% accepted 20% graduate $49,365 earnings

College of Staten Island CUNY

Staten Island, NY · 9,657 students · Public

College of Staten Island CUNY is home to nearly 10,000 students and offers a vibrant campus experience. With a graduation rate of 33%, the college has shown notable improvement, and alumni earn a median of $53,501 within ten years of graduating, pointing to successful career paths for its graduates.

92% accepted 33% graduate $53,501 earnings

College's full profile

#12

CUNY Bronx Community College

Bronx, NY · 5,964 students · Public

With a focus on accessible education, CUNY Bronx Community College serves nearly 6,000 students in the heart of the Bronx. The college's commitment to supporting diverse learners is evident, with 60% of its students receiving Pell Grants, providing pathways for those who may need financial assistance to achieve their goals.

17% graduate $41,307 earnings

Ulster County Community College

Stone Ridge, NY · 1,341 students · Public

Nestled in Stone Ridge, NY, Ulster County Community College offers a tight-knit campus experience with around 1,341 students. With a graduation rate of 32%, the college places an emphasis on nurturing individual student success, making it a good fit for those seeking a supportive educational environment.

32% graduate $41,896 earnings

Ulster's full profile

#14

CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College

New York, NY · 18,623 students · Public

CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College, situated in the dynamic heart of New York City, enrolls over 18,600 students. With a graduation rate of 25%, the college provides a diverse array of programs and services designed to support student achievement, fostering a sense of community among its learners.

25% graduate $42,306 earnings

Suffolk County Community College

Selden, NY · 14,218 students · Public

With a substantial enrollment of over 14,000 students, Suffolk County Community College serves as a pivotal educational resource in Selden, NY. The college's diverse programs cater to a range of interests, making it an appealing option for students looking to explore different fields before committing to a specific career path.

27% graduate $49,907 earnings

Suffolk's full profile

#16

CUNY Queensborough Community College

Bayside, NY · 8,940 students · Public

CUNY Queensborough Community College is a vibrant educational hub located in Bayside, NY, catering to nearly 9,000 students. The college emphasizes a supportive learning environment, with a graduation rate of 23% that reflects its dedication to helping students succeed academically and professionally.

23% graduate $44,214 earnings

United States Merchant Marine Academy

Kings Point, NY · 962 students · Public

United States Merchant Marine Academy attracts a smaller cohort of about 962 students, yet it boasts an impressive 81% graduation rate. Graduates earn a remarkable median income of $90,610 after ten years, highlighting the academy's focus on preparing students for high-demand careers in maritime and transportation fields.

34% accepted 81% graduate $90,610 earnings

United's full profile

#18

Monroe Community College

Rochester, NY · 7,623 students · Public

Monroe Community College serves as a key educational institution in Rochester, NY, with a community of over 7,600 students. This college is particularly accessible, with 50% of its student body receiving Pell Grants, which underscores its commitment to supporting those from various economic backgrounds.

25% graduate $40,174 earnings

Monroe's full profile

#19

CUNY LaGuardia Community College

Long Island City, NY · 11,254 students · Public

With over 11,000 students, CUNY LaGuardia Community College is a vibrant hub in Long Island City, NY. The college prides itself on accessibility, with 38% of students receiving Pell Grants, which helps support those who need financial assistance as they pursue higher education.

25% graduate $41,653 earnings

CUNY Hostos Community College

Bronx, NY · 4,900 students · Public

Located in the Bronx, CUNY Hostos Community College is a vibrant hub for nearly 5,000 students, many of whom come from diverse backgrounds. The college is committed to accessibility and inclusion, making it a welcoming environment for those seeking higher education in an urban setting.

17% graduate $40,485 earnings

Orange County Community College

Middletown, NY · 3,989 students · Public

With nearly 4,000 students, Orange County Community College in Middletown offers a closer-knit community that can make the college experience feel more personal. While the graduation rate stands at 24%, the median earnings of $44,117 ten years after enrollment suggest that students who complete their programs find good opportunities in the workforce.

24% graduate $44,117 earnings

Orange's full profile

#22

CUNY Kingsborough Community College

Brooklyn, NY · 7,670 students · Public

CUNY Kingsborough Community College is situated in Brooklyn and welcomes around 7,670 students each year. Renowned for its strong emphasis on community engagement and support, Kingsborough prioritizes student success and offers a variety of programs tailored to meet diverse interests and career goals.

25% graduate $42,621 earnings

Fulton-Montgomery Community College

Johnstown, NY · 1,001 students · Public

Fulton-Montgomery Community College is home to about 1,000 students in Johnstown, NY, where the supportive environment fosters a graduation rate of 37%. Students often appreciate the intimate campus atmosphere, which can enhance their college experience and academic success.

37% graduate $39,535 earnings

Fulton-Montgomery's full profile

#24

Niagara County Community College

Sanborn, NY · 3,084 students · Public

Niagara County Community College serves a diverse population of over 3,000 students in Sanborn, New York, where the graduation rate of 31% signals a supportive environment for those who commit. The median earnings of $42,285 after ten years suggest that graduates can expect a decent return on their educational investment, especially in local job markets that value skilled labor.

31% graduate $42,285 earnings

Niagara's full profile

#25

Talmudical Seminary of Bobov

Brooklyn, NY · 602 students · Private nonprofit

Talmudical Seminary of Bobov in Brooklyn is a unique institution with a strong emphasis on religious studies, attracting students who are deeply committed to their faith. With a small student body of 602, the seminary fosters a close-knit community where personal relationships and mentorship opportunities flourish.

98% accepted 41% graduate $22,432 earnings

Talmudical's full profile

#26

Nassau Community College

Garden City, NY · 10,630 students · Public

Located in Garden City, Nassau Community College serves a larger student body of over 10,600, fostering a vibrant campus atmosphere. Although the graduation rate is 23%, the median earnings of $48,248 after ten years indicate that graduates can find rewarding careers, which speaks to the potential value of a degree from this institution.

23% graduate $48,248 earnings

Nassau's full profile

#27

Columbia-Greene Community College

Hudson, NY · 876 students · Public

Columbia-Greene Community College, with 876 students, has a graduation rate of 40%, suggesting a supportive environment for completion. Located in Hudson, NY, this college offers a close-knit community feel, making it a great choice for students who thrive in smaller settings and need more personalized attention.

40% graduate $44,441 earnings

Columbia-Greene's full profile

#28

Erie Community College

Buffalo, NY · 6,099 students · Public

With a student population of over 6,000, Erie Community College is a vibrant hub in Buffalo, NY. The school serves a diverse community, with 38% of students receiving Pell Grants, indicating a commitment to accessibility for those who need it most.

28% graduate $41,228 earnings

Genesee Community College

Batavia, NY · 1,973 students · Public

Genesee Community College, located in Batavia, NY, serves about 1,973 students, fostering a close-knit educational environment. The college has a graduation rate of 30%, and its focus on community engagement helps students build lasting connections that can support their academic and professional journeys.

30% graduate $39,674 earnings

Genesee's full profile

#30

Hudson Valley Community College

Troy, NY · 6,499 students · Public

Hudson Valley Community College, located in Troy, NY, serves approximately 6,499 students, balancing a larger campus atmosphere with supportive resources. The school's graduation rate of 34% reflects its commitment to helping students succeed, while the diverse programs cater to a wide range of interests and career paths.

34% graduate $45,460 earnings

Hudson's full profile

#31

SUNY Corning Community College

Corning, NY · 1,138 students · Public

SUNY Corning Community College, with a student population of just over 1,100, offers a more intimate learning environment in Corning, New York. A 33% graduation rate reflects a supportive academic setting, while median earnings of $38,817 ten years post-graduation show that students can still achieve solid financial outcomes in various fields.

33% graduate $38,817 earnings

Onondaga Community College

Syracuse, NY · 4,456 students · Public

Located in Syracuse, Onondaga Community College serves around 4,456 students and offers a variety of programs aimed at helping individuals achieve their career goals. Despite a graduation rate of just 26%, the college provides pathways for students to improve their skills and re-enter the workforce, which can be especially beneficial for those needing flexible options.

26% graduate $41,190 earnings

Onondaga's full profile

#33

SUNY Broome Community College

Binghamton, NY · 3,055 students · Public

Located in Binghamton, NY, SUNY Broome Community College serves about 3,055 students, offering pathways to higher education with a focus on accessibility. Despite a lower graduation rate of 23%, the college supports students with various programs aimed at fostering success in a community-focused environment.

23% graduate $39,710 earnings

Schenectady County Community College

Schenectady, NY · 1,507 students · Public

Schenectady County Community College, with around 1,507 students, creates an intimate setting for education that emphasizes support and community. While its graduation rate sits at 31%, the college's environment is designed to help students thrive academically and personally.

31% graduate $40,902 earnings

Schenectady's full profile

#35

SUNY Buffalo State University

Buffalo, NY · 5,097 students · Public

With a student population of over 5,000, SUNY Buffalo State University in Buffalo, NY, provides a vibrant campus experience set against a backdrop of a city known for its arts and culture. The school's median earnings of $52,334 a decade after graduation suggest that graduates are finding solid pathways into the workforce, especially in fields that resonate with the community's needs and values.

73% accepted 35% graduate $52,334 earnings

SUNY Westchester Community College

Valhalla, NY · 8,078 students · Public

SUNY Westchester Community College, with a student body of over 8,000, is a bustling hub of learning in Valhalla, NY. Despite its large size, the college fosters individual growth and exploration across diverse academic programs. The institution's commitment to accessibility is evident, as 35% of students receive Pell Grants, providing essential support for those in need.

24% graduate $46,822 earnings

Sullivan County Community College

Loch Sheldrake, NY · 836 students · Public

Nestled in Loch Sheldrake, NY, Sullivan County Community College has a smaller student body of 836, creating an intimate learning atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 28%, the college fosters student connections that can lead to meaningful support during and after their studies.

28% graduate $38,354 earnings

Sullivan's full profile

#38

Cayuga County Community College

Auburn, NY · 1,187 students · Public

Cayuga County Community College, with about 1,187 students, is a place where individuals can pursue their studies in a supportive environment. While the graduation rate stands at 32%, the college offers a range of programs that cater to diverse interests, helping students take the first steps toward their careers.

32% graduate $38,709 earnings

Cayuga's full profile

#39

Uta Mesivta of Kiryas Joel

Monroe, NY · 2,957 students · Private nonprofit

At Uta Mesivta of Kiryas Joel, approximately 2,957 students are part of a vibrant community that prioritizes education alongside cultural values. With a graduation rate of 74%, many students complete their programs and enter the workforce equipped with both skills and a strong support network within their faith-based environment.

74% graduate $31,853 earnings

Farmingdale State College

Farmingdale, NY · 9,552 students · Public

Farmingdale State College in Farmingdale, NY, caters to over 9,500 students, offering a diverse range of programs that prepare graduates for real-world careers. With a 63% acceptance rate, it welcomes a broad spectrum of students who are looking to balance academics with hands-on experience.

63% accepted 55% graduate $69,781 earnings

Farmingdale's full profile

#41

Dutchess Community College

Poughkeepsie, NY · 3,824 students · Public

Dutchess Community College, located in Poughkeepsie, NY, is home to about 3,800 students and offers a supportive learning environment. Despite a graduation rate of 29%, the college's median earnings of $43,929 ten years post-graduation indicate that many students find solid employment after completing their studies, particularly in regional industries that value a community college education.

29% graduate $43,929 earnings

Dutchess's full profile

#42

Jamestown Community College

Jamestown, NY · 1,739 students · Public

Jamestown Community College, located in the scenic town of Jamestown, NY, is an intimate setting for learning with around 1,700 students. The college's graduation rate of 37% reflects its commitment to helping students succeed, while the median earnings of $38,242 after ten years indicate that students are stepping into careers that can support a stable life.

37% graduate $38,242 earnings

Jamestown's full profile

#43

Mohawk Valley Community College

Utica, NY · 2,950 students · Public

With a median earning of $39,850 ten years after graduation, Mohawk Valley Community College in Utica, NY, can be an appealing choice for those looking to enter the workforce quickly. The college serves about 2,950 students and has a diverse range of programs that cater to various interests, from technical fields to liberal arts. A significant portion of the student body, 31%, receives Pell Grants, highlighting the accessibility of education here for lower-income families.

36% graduate $39,850 earnings

Mohawk's full profile

#44

Clinton Community College

Plattsburgh, NY · 400 students · Public

Clinton Community College in Plattsburgh, NY, offers a close-knit educational experience with about 400 students. The college's acceptance rate of 80% allows for a welcoming environment where individuals can explore their academic interests without the pressure of overly competitive admissions. This accessibility, combined with the scenic views of Lake Champlain, makes it an attractive option for students seeking a supportive community.

28% graduate $39,246 earnings

Clinton's full profile

#45

Kehilath Yakov Rabbinical Seminary

Ossining, NY · 205 students · Private nonprofit

Kehilath Yakov Rabbinical Seminary is a unique institution in Ossining, NY, with a tight-knit community of around 205 students. The school emphasizes a deep connection to cultural and religious studies, and a graduation rate of 54% reflects its commitment to helping students complete their programs and enter meaningful careers in their chosen fields.

54% graduate $36,442 earnings

Kehilath's full profile

#46

Be'er Yaakov Talmudic Seminary

Spring Valley, NY · 765 students · Private nonprofit

At Be'er Yaakov Talmudic Seminary, students find a unique focus on Talmudic studies within a supportive community. With a student body of 765, the school emphasizes a close-knit environment that fosters personal and academic growth.

56% graduate $17,360 earnings

SUNY Old Westbury

Old Westbury, NY · 4,162 students · Public

84% accepted 46% graduate $58,526 earnings

Mesivta Torah Vodaath Rabbinical Seminary

Brooklyn, NY · 399 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Brooklyn, NY, Mesivta Torah Vodaath Rabbinical Seminary cultivates a unique educational atmosphere for its 399 students, focusing on rabbinical studies and Jewish education. The seminary has an acceptance rate of 80%, allowing many students to join and immerse themselves in a curriculum that fosters both spiritual and academic growth. The strong community ties, with 59% of students receiving Pell Grants, highlight the institution's commitment to accessibility for those from diverse financial backgrounds.

80% accepted 34% graduate

Mesivta's full profile

#49

Rockland Community College

Suffern, NY · 3,834 students · Public

29% graduate $50,243 earnings

Rockland's full profile

#50

United Talmudical Seminary

Brooklyn, NY · 2,241 students · Private nonprofit

58% graduate $25,113 earnings

United's full profile

In this ranking, a noticeable pattern emerges when comparing CUNY Brooklyn College and CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Brooklyn College has a lower graduation rate of 55% and earnings of $60,752 compared to John Jay’s earnings of $56,195 and a graduation rate of 56%. While the difference in earnings is small, it highlights that even a slight edge in completion rates can lead to better financial outcomes, underscoring the importance of persistence in education.

After reviewing 50 schools, it’s clear that cost and outcomes vary widely. Families should weigh this data against individual priorities such as program quality, campus culture, and geographical location. For instance, a school with a slightly higher net price may offer a program that's a better fit for a student’s career goals, leading to higher earnings post-graduation. Make sure to factor in these details to find the best balance for your situation.

Ultimately, these metrics reflect a broader truth about the journey from college to career stability. The choice of school impacts not just immediate finances but also long-term earning potential. With smart decision-making informed by data, families can pave a pathway to a more secure future for their students. One decision today can lead to a lifetime of opportunities.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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