10 Best Community Colleges in New York

New York’s community college network offers an impressive range of educational opportunities, from vibrant CUNY campuses in the heart of New York City to picturesque SUNY colleges in upstate towns and along the Hudson Valley. Whether seeking a quick path into the workforce or transferring to a four-year university, these colleges provide affordable, accessible, and high-quality education tailored to New York’s dynamic economy.

These institutions serve a diverse and ambitious student population, with programs that reflect the state’s strengths in fields like finance, healthcare, digital media, engineering, and the creative arts. Many colleges maintain strong articulation agreements with SUNY and CUNY universities, making it easy for you to continue your studies after earning an associate degree.

New York’s community colleges also stand out for their wraparound support services, from academic advising to career counseling, as well as flexible class formats, including evening, weekend, hybrid, and online options, that fit into your lifestyle. Whether you’re in Manhattan or the Adirondacks, you’ll find an affordable, accredited institution that aligns with your goals.

Why Should You Consider Community Colleges in New York?

New York offers one of the country’s most extensive public higher education systems through the City University of New York (CUNY) and State University of New York (SUNY) networks. Community colleges in these systems provide outstanding academic and technical programs at relatively low tuition costs, typically around $4,800 for CUNY and $5,000–$5,500 for SUNY.

With guaranteed transfer pathways to senior colleges within both systems, you can confidently plan your educational journey. Many schools also offer financial aid support, including the Excelsior Scholarship for qualifying in-state residents, which can make your education tuition-free.

These institutions are deeply rooted in their communities and aligned with regional industry needs, whether in Manhattan’s financial sector, the Hudson Valley’s arts scene, or the North Country’s renewable energy initiatives. From certificate programs to associate degrees, New York’s community colleges give you the tools to advance academically, build real-world skills, and step confidently into your future.

10 Best Community Colleges in New York

New York’s community colleges stand out for their affordability, program diversity, and strong transfer pathways into the SUNY and CUNY systems. Whether you’re looking for a commuter-friendly campus in the heart of New York City or a quiet rural setting in the Hudson Valley, the state’s two-year colleges provide accessible, high-quality education that prepares you for both the workforce and further academic success.

CUNY Bronx Community College

Located on a landmark hilltop campus in the Bronx, Bronx Community College offers career-ready training and a direct path to bachelor’s degrees through the CUNY system. Its rich history and strong student services make it an ideal choice for learners from diverse backgrounds.

Main Courses

BCC offers strong associate degree programs in nursing, radiologic technology, cybersecurity, early childhood education, and liberal arts with transfer pathways.

Pros

• Excellent academic support for first-generation and ESL students
• Easy transfer into senior CUNY colleges like Lehman and City College
• Beautiful historic campus buildings, including the Hall of Fame for Great Americans
• Accessible via multiple subway and bus routes

Cons

• Facilities are undergoing long-term renovations
• Limited campus space and green areas

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$5,106

Queensborough Community College – CUNY

Serving eastern Queens, QCC combines the benefits of a tranquil, tree-lined campus with easy access to city resources. It’s known for its strong arts and STEM offerings and campus culture that emphasizes diversity and inclusion.

Main Courses

Standout programs include visual and performing arts, nursing, business administration, engineering technology, computer science, and liberal arts transfer options.

Pros

• Spacious 37-acre campus with a suburban atmosphere
• Hosts the Kupferberg Holocaust Center and QCC Art Gallery
• Guaranteed transfer options through CUNY dual admissions
• Strong student engagement through clubs and cultural events

Cons

• Commutes can be long from other NYC boroughs
• No on-campus housing

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$5,365

CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College

As the largest college in the CUNY system, BMCC is located in downtown Manhattan and offers unmatched access to city internships, cultural events, and corporate connections.

Main Courses

BMCC features top programs in business administration, liberal arts, computer science, criminal justice, nursing, and media studies.

Pros

• Prime location in Lower Manhattan
• Over 160 countries are represented in the student body
• Strong transfer pathways to Baruch, Hunter, and other CUNY four-year colleges
• Active career services and job placement support

Cons

• Crowded classes and busy campus life
• Urban cost of living is high, even for commuters

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$5,418

CUNY Hostos Community College

Located in the South Bronx, Hostos is known for its bilingual academic environment and commitment to serving first-generation college students in one of the city’s most vibrant communities.

Main Courses

Hostos excels in allied health fields such as dental hygiene, nursing, and radiologic technology, along with business, digital design, and early childhood education.

Pros

• Bilingual English/Spanish instruction and advising
• Dedicated support for low-income and ESL students
• Convenient access via the 2, 4, and 5 subway lines
• Free tutoring, counseling, and academic workshops

Cons

• Compact campus with limited space for student life
• Neighborhood safety and transportation can be a concern at night

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$5,460

Columbia-Greene Community College

Set between the Catskill and Berkshire Mountains, Columbia-Greene offers a quiet, rural campus experience with strong academic and career training options that meet regional workforce needs.

Main Courses

Programs include environmental studies, automotive technology, nursing, criminal justice, business, and fine arts.

Pros

• Intimate class sizes with strong faculty interaction
• Excellent scenic location for students seeking a slower pace
• Transfer agreements with multiple SUNY four-year schools
• Active student support services despite small enrollment

Cons

• Students must rely on personal vehicles, as there is no public transit nearby
• Fewer extracurricular and club opportunities compared to larger schools

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$5,675

CUNY LaGuardia Community College

Located in Long Island City, Queens, LaGuardia serves one of the country’s most culturally diverse student bodies and is known for its innovation in experiential learning and industry partnerships.

Main Courses

LaGuardia offers standout programs in commercial photography, veterinary technology, paralegal studies, healthcare, liberal arts, and business administration.

Pros

• Students represent over 150 countries and 100 languages
• Strong internship links with NYC employers and city agencies
• Direct subway access and commuter-friendly campus
• Award-winning ePortfolio system for career development

Cons

• Dense urban environment with limited green space
• No on-campus housing or residential life

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$6,466

SUNY Genesee Community College

Based in Batavia, GCC supports both rural and international students with robust residential offerings and unique academic programs tied to local industries.

Main Courses

GCC is known for veterinary technology, fashion business, food processing technology, criminal justice, and liberal arts transfer programs.

Pros

• On-campus housing at College Village
• Unique regional programs like Farm-to-Table culinary arts
• Six additional campus centers across western New York
• Active international student community

Cons

• Rural location limits access to cultural and recreational amenities
• Fewer public transportation options

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$7,520

SUNY Mohawk Valley Community College

Serving central New York with campuses in Utica and Rome, MVCC offers comprehensive academic and technical programs in a mid-sized college setting.

Main Courses

Top programs include cybersecurity, healthcare, engineering technology, liberal arts, and a nationally recognized airframe and powerplant technology program.

Pros

• Offers on-campus housing and athletics programs
• Strong tech and trade facilities with hands-on training
• Close industry ties to central New York’s manufacturing sector
• Affordable access to SUNY four-year degrees

Cons

• Harsh winters can affect commuting and campus activities
• Some facilities are undergoing renovation and updates

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$8,160

SUNY Westchester Community College

Located in Valhalla, just north of New York City, WCC blends a spacious suburban campus with strong academic and transfer outcomes.

Main Courses

WCC offers standout culinary arts, film production, engineering science, business, and health sciences programs.

Pros

• Beautifully maintained 218-acre campus
• Strong transfer pipelines to SUNY and private colleges
• Close proximity to NYC with Metro-North access
• Career-focused advising and honors program

Cons

• Tuition is slightly higher than at other SUNY community colleges
• Students need personal transportation for full access

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$9,267

SUNY Clinton Community College

Overlooking Lake Champlain, Clinton offers one of the state’s most scenic community college campuses and strong academic support in New York’s North Country.

Main Courses

Clinton specializes in wind energy technology, nursing, criminal justice, and liberal arts transfer tracks.

Pros

• Panoramic views of the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain
• Small class sizes and a tight-knit academic community
• Modern residence halls and outdoor recreation are nearby
• Dedicated pathways to SUNY Plattsburgh and the other four-year colleges

Cons

• Remote location limits access to employment and entertainment
• Long winters and challenging weather conditions

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$9,380

Key Requirements for Enrolling in the Best Community Colleges in New York

New York’s community colleges, whether part of the CUNY or SUNY system, are committed to providing accessible and inclusive education. Still, there are a few key steps every prospective student should complete before enrollment.

High School Diploma Verification

You’ll need proof of high school graduation (typically via transcript) or a recognized equivalent like the GED. Both SUNY and CUNY systems also support early college programs for high schoolers looking to earn credit before graduation.

CUNY/SUNY Application Submission

If you’re applying to a CUNY college, you’ll submit your application via the CUNY Application Portal, which has a $65 fee (waivable in some cases). For SUNY schools, apply via the SUNY Application, which costs $50.

Residency Status Documentation

Establishing a residency in New York State can lower your tuition significantly. You must show 12 months of physical presence and intent to remain in the state (e.g., voter registration, lease agreement, etc.).

Placement Test Completion

CUNY colleges typically use the CUNY Assessment Tests, while SUNY schools may accept high school transcripts and SAT/ACT scores or require the ACCUPLACER for math and English placement.

Financial Aid Filing

Submit both the FAFSA and the TAP application to access New York-specific aid like the Excelsior Scholarship, TAP grants, and college-based awards. Priority deadlines are usually in the early spring.

How Do New York Community College Costs Compare to National Averages?

Most SUNY and CUNY community colleges charge between $4,800 and $5,500 annually for in-state students, keeping them right around the national average of $5,000. While tuition is affordable, New York’s real cost advantages come from generous financial aid programs like the Excelsior Scholarship and TAP grants.

Additionally, students in urban areas benefit from robust public transportation systems, potentially saving thousands in commuting and housing costs compared to schools in suburban or rural regions. Whether you’re commuting from Queens or living on campus in Batavia, these colleges offer big value for their cost.

What Are the Tuition Fees for International Students at Community Colleges in New York?

International students at CUNY and SUNY community colleges typically pay $10,000 to $15,000 annually. This is still significantly more affordable than the $30,000–$50,000 annual tuition at most four-year universities in the state.

Although international students aren’t eligible for state aid like TAP or Excelsior, many schools offer limited international scholarships, campus employment, and cultural grants. Be sure to budget for health insurance (often required), SEVIS fees, and higher living costs, especially in New York City.

How Does University of the People Compare with the Best Community Colleges in New York?

While New York’s community colleges are among the most affordable in the country, University of the People (UoPeople) offers a truly tuition-free alternative. Students only pay modest assessment fees, about $120 per undergraduate course, making a bachelor’s degree cost less than $5,000.

Unlike SUNY and CUNY colleges, UoPeople is entirely online, eliminating commuting and housing expenses. Its asynchronous structure allows you to complete coursework on your schedule, ideal for working students.

UoPeople is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and WASC, while New York’s public colleges are accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. All are recognized, but regional accreditation (like Middle States) may offer broader transfer and graduate school acceptance.

Ready to Choose the Best Community College?

Whether you’re drawn to the cultural energy of CUNY schools or the scenic campuses of the SUNY system, New York offers community colleges that balance affordability, access, and academic strength. Consider what matters most to you: urban vs. rural setting, program focus, housing options, or transfer guarantees.

Explore each college’s offerings, schedule a visit if possible, and be sure to investigate financial aid opportunities like Excelsior, TAP, and campus-specific grants. With the right information and planning, you’ll find a New York community college that fits your goals and your budget.

FAQs

What is the cheapest community college in New York?

CUNY Bronx Community College is among the most affordable, with annual in-state tuition around $5,106.

How do SUNY and CUNY community colleges differ?

SUNY colleges are spread throughout the state, including rural and suburban campuses, while CUNY colleges are located in New York City. Each system has its own admissions platform and transfer partnerships.

What GPA do New York community colleges require for admission?

Most community colleges have open admissions policies, but competitive programs may require a minimum 2.0–2.5 GPA.

Can high school students attend New York community colleges?

Many offer early college programs, such as College Now (CUNY) and SUNY Early College High Schools.

Do New York community colleges offer fully online degree programs?

Many offer hybrid or fully online programs, though options vary by campus. SUNY Online also provides system-wide offerings.

Which New York community colleges have the highest transfer rates?

CUNY LaGuardia, BMCC, and SUNY Westchester are known for strong transfer pipelines to senior colleges in their systems.