New York University vs CUNY Hunter College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
CUNY Hunter College has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $11,936 in 0.8 years versus 4.3 years at New York University, on median earnings of $63,163 vs $82,509 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | New York University | CUNY Hunter College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $37,050 | $2,984 |
| Total net cost | $148,200 | $11,936 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $82,509 | $63,163 |
| Median debt | $20,500 | $11,000 |
| Payback | 4.3 yrs | 0.8 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $534,780 | $284,124 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
New York University vs CUNY Hunter College: frequently asked questions
Is New York University or CUNY Hunter College a better value?
CUNY Hunter College. It clears its $11,936 net cost in about 0.8 years versus 4.3 years at New York University, on median earnings of $63,163 vs $82,509 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, New York University or CUNY Hunter College?
CUNY Hunter College: $2,984/yr net price after aid versus $37,050/yr at New York University — a difference of $34,066 a year, or about $136,264 over four years.
Do New York University or CUNY Hunter College graduates earn more?
New York University graduates earn a median $82,509 ten years after entry, versus $63,163 at CUNY Hunter College — a $19,346 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.