New York is home to hundreds of colleges and universities. Some colleges in the state are among the most expensive in the country, but there are also plenty of affordable options that don’t compromise on quality.
If you’re looking to study in New York without spending too much, the schools featured on our list of the cheapest colleges in New York are some of the best choices available. These institutions still offer strong academic programs, solid accreditation, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
To put this list together, we researched each school carefully and relied on respected sources. Explore the list below and discover which affordable New York college might be the right fit for you.
Most Affordable Colleges in New York
CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College
Tuition & fees: $7,464 for in-state undergraduate
Baruch College is part of CUNY and is known especially for its strong business, finance, and accounting programs via the Zicklin School of Business, which is AACSB-accredited (a top accreditation for business schools).
It offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate courses, especially in business, economics, liberal arts, and sciences. Because its business unit is highly regarded, many students aim there, and graduates often find connections in finance, consulting, or corporate fields.
Lehman College (CUNY)
Lehman is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), and many of its majors hold discipline-specific accreditation; for example, its nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
It offers over 130 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including teacher education, health sciences, social work, business, the arts, and liberal sciences. The campus is located in the Bronx, and Lehman strives to be a “value” school; you’ll find a mix of commuter students, flexible scheduling, and some online programs.
CUNY Brooklyn College
Tuition & Fees: $3,465 per semester
Brooklyn College is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), and its Murray Koppelman School of Business holds AACSB accreditation for its business programs.
Academically, Brooklyn offers a wide mix of liberal arts, sciences, education, and professional degrees. A special feature is its B.A.–M.D. program, which admits students to a combined undergraduate + medical training path. Also, Brooklyn has an Honors “Scholars Program” offering smaller classes, seminars, and scholarships to high-achieving students.
CUNY Hunter College
Hunter is accredited by MSCHE at the institutional level. Many of its programs carry further accreditation: its education programs by CAEP & CACREP, nursing programs by CCNE, and social work by CSWE.
It offers a broad set of courses, arts & sciences, education, health professions, social work, and graduate programs. One highlight: Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing is a flagship nursing school in NYC and runs baccalaureate through doctoral nursing programs, all CCNE-accredited.
Also, Hunter supports flexible & evening classes for working students and strong urban research and public service ties.
CUNY Queens College
Queens College holds institutional accreditation via MSCHE and is also recognized by the New York State Department of Education (NYSDOE). Several of its individual academic programs also carry specialized accreditation.
The school offers many majors in arts & sciences, education, business, health sciences, and more. As a bonus, Queens has a strong research and community service mission, with centers for environmental health, diversity studies, and public policy.
Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC)
BMCC is accredited by MSCHE at the institutional level. It also supports program-level accreditations, e.g., its nursing program is accredited by the ACEN, Health Information Technology by CAHIIM, and paramedic by CAAHEP.
BMCC offers associate degree and certificate programs across areas such as liberal arts, business, health sciences, technology, and continuing education. A strength is its transfer pathways: many BMCC graduates move on to four-year CUNY colleges.
Kingsborough Community College
Kingsborough is reaffirmingly accredited by MSCHE, with the latest reaffirmation in 2025. All its academic programs are registered with the New York State Education Department, and specific majors have professional accreditation (e.g., in healthcare/technical fields).
It offers associate degrees, certificates, and continuing ed in business, health, technology, liberal arts, etc. Because it’s a community college in Brooklyn by the shore, students often enjoy smaller class sizes, flexible schedules (evening & weekend classes), and strong support services (tutoring, advising, career centers).
The City College of New York (CCNY)
Tuition & Fees: In-state undergraduates pay around $7,340 per year in tuition (plus fees).
City College is one of the flagship senior colleges of CUNY and one of the cheapest colleges in New York. It is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
CCNY has a strong academic reputation, especially in engineering, architecture, education, and liberal arts. The Grove School of Engineering is ABET-accredited, and the Spitzer School of Architecture is NAAB-accredited, assuring students of quality training.
CUNY Medgar Evers College
Medgar Evers College is MSCHE-accredited, and it offers a focused mix of associate and bachelor’s degree programs in liberal arts, business, education, and professional studies. It also provides adult and continuing education programs, giving flexibility for working students.
One interesting highlight is its strong emphasis on social justice and community engagement, honoring the legacy of civil rights leader Medgar Evers. For students who want both affordability and a mission-driven campus, Medgar Evers stands out as a supportive and accessible option in Brooklyn.
United States Merchant Marine Academy (Kings Point)
Tuition & Fees: $5,173
The Merchant Marine Academy is unique among New York’s affordable options because it combines rigorous academics with service. It trains students in marine engineering, navigation, logistics, and maritime law and is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) for its engineering programs.
Graduates commit to service obligations, but in return, they receive a high-value education at a fraction of the cost of private schools.
Tips for Choosing the Right Affordable College
Finding an affordable college is important, but making sure it’s the right fit is just as important. Location plays a big role: schools in New York City give you access to countless internship and job opportunities, while upstate campuses may offer a quieter, more close-knit environment.
Program strength should also guide your choice; some colleges are especially strong in business, nursing, liberal arts, or engineering. Think about the campus vibe too; big city schools bring excitement and connections, while smaller campuses often provide more personal support. And if you’re starting at a community college, check out transfer agreements with four-year CUNY schools, so your credits move with you seamlessly.
FAQs About the Cheapest Colleges in New York
Are cheap colleges in New York still accredited?
Yes. Every school on our list is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and many programs also hold specialized professional accreditation in fields like business, nursing, or engineering.
Can international students attend these colleges at the same low rates?
Not always. International students usually pay non-resident tuition, which is higher than New York State resident tuition. However, compared to private universities, these colleges are still much more affordable.
What’s the difference between CUNY and SUNY schools?
CUNY (City University of New York) schools are located in New York City, while SUNY (State University of New York) schools are spread across the entire state. Both systems are public, accredited, and known for affordable tuition.
Which cheap college has the best business programs?
Baruch College is widely recognized for its business programs, particularly its AACSB-accredited Zicklin School of Business. Other strong options include Brooklyn College and Queens College, depending on your career goals.
Conclusion
Studying in New York doesn’t have to drain your bank account. The cheapest colleges in New York have been listed above for you to choose from. Explore the schools on our list and take the first step toward an affordable, rewarding education in the Empire State.