A new report from the State Comptroller's office says New York's student debt has doubled in the last ten years, from $39 billion to $82 billion, with the average student owing over $32,200 - compared to the national average of $29,700.

State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli says rising college costs are a factor as average costs for tuition jumped more than 50 percent since 2006.

In 2005-2006, the average costs for tuition, room and board, and fees at a public college was $13,275, compared to $20,549 in 2014-2015. During the same time period, private college tuition was $32,478 versus $48,845.

"New Yorkers from all walks of life have found higher education the path to a more satisfying and secure life," DiNapoli said. "But many who take out student loans face real difficulties in paying back their debts. New Yorkers saddled with college debt have less disposable income and often have to push off buying a home or saving for the future. Such struggles have implications not only for those individuals and families with such debt, but also for the state's economy."

In Utica-Rome, the average student loan balance is $26,400.

When it comes to paying back the loans, New Yorkers are struggling too. Borrowers with payments more than 90 days late in New York jumped from 8.9% in 2006 to 12.5% in 2015.

To read the full report, click here.

 

More From Big Frog 104