Expensive Colleges in Upstate NY

Being a New York resident, I feel it's more cost-effective for me to stay in-state for college. But money is still a concern, and I've heard that some colleges in Upstate NY can be expensive. Can someone give me the lowdown on which are the most costly?

Sure, indeed, higher education in any state, including New York, can be pricey. Three well-known institutions in Upstate New York that are often considered quite costly are:

1. Cornell University: Located in Ithaca, New York, this Ivy League institution is one of the priciest colleges in the state. However, it's vital to note Cornell's highly-regarded financial aid policy. Though the sticker price is high, families earning less than $125,000 per year often pay a significantly reduced price or nothing at all, depending on their specific financial circumstances.

2. University of Rochester: This private research university, located in Rochester, New York, also tends to have a higher cost. However, like Cornell, the University of Rochester offers need-based financial aid, which can significantly reduce the cost for students who qualify.

3. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute: Located in Troy, New York, RPI is one of the oldest technical universities in the U.S. and is well-regarded, particularly in engineering and the sciences. However, it is also one of the more expensive universities in Upstate New York.

These are just a few examples but remember, the listed tuition price does not always reflect what you will pay. Most colleges provide financial aid packages that can significantly reduce the direct out-of-pocket cost to your family. I'd recommend using each school's net price calculator, which can give you an estimated cost of attendance based on your family's financial situation. But keep in mind, these are just estimates. The final financial aid package can depend on many factors.