Difference between CUNY VS SUNY

What is CUNY?
The City University of New York (CUNY) is New York City’s public university system and the largest urban university system in the U.S. with 25 campuses, including 11 senior colleges, seven community colleges, one undergraduate honors college, and seven post-graduate institutions.
What is SUNY?
The State University of New York (SUNY) is a system of public colleges and universities in the State of New York and is the largest comprehensive system of community colleges, colleges, and universities in the United States with 64 campuses across the nation.
CUNY vs. SUNY Schools
When you’re looking at the differences between CUNY vs. SUNY schools as a student, you should take into account that each school within each system offers its own benefits. The schools to which you apply should match your specific needs as a student, including your intended major, your budget, and your preference for location.
CUNY and SUNY both include schools with varying tuition rates, academic offerings, and class sizes, among other factors. So you might have a hard time generalizing about these systems.
However, here are some differences between CUNY and SUNY schools that you might consider.
Academic Reputation
Both the CUNY and SUNY systems are known for offering high-level academic programs at a low cost. However, SUNY schools, especially at the SUNY university centers, do have a slightly more prestigious reputation than CUNY schools and also have a higher graduation rate.
Cost
Though CUNY and SUNY schools are comparable in terms of cost, especially for in-state students, tuition is a bit lower at SUNY schools for out-of-state students.
CUNY receives funding from the State of New York and New York City, while SUNY receives funding just from the State of New York.
Both university systems offer relatively low tuition rates, especially for out-of-state students, averaging at about $17,000 a year. Both systems will offer a solid education to any student willing to work for it.
One other factor that contributes to cost is the need for room and board. Since most CUNY schools are commuter-based, students don’t have to pay for room and board and thus shoulder a lower overall cost.

What do I think?
Well it depends on your budget and preferences but if you ask me, I’d say the best option might be SUNY.