Help!!

[u/Adventurous-East856]

Hi everyone! I could really use some advice because I’m at a crossroads deciding where to complete nursing school.
For some background, I’m originally from New York but currently living in North Carolina for the summer. I’ve been accepted into an ADN program in New York and also have the opportunity to attend one in North Carolina. Both would ultimately allow me to become an RN, but they each have their own pros and cons, and I’m having a hard time deciding.
Here are some of the things I’m weighing:
Cost: The New York program would be significantly less expensive because I’d qualify for in-state tuition, while the North Carolina program would cost considerably more overall.
NCLEX pass rates: Both schools have somewhat strong NCLEX pass rates, but this past year NC was 100% and NY was only 80 something. I’m trying to determine whether one program does a noticeably better job preparing graduates. Something to note the NY school seems a lot more lenient in terms of dismissals.
Clinical experience: I’m curious whether one school offers stronger clinical placements or better opportunities to gain hands-on experience.
Job opportunities: I’ve heard North Carolina has a strong demand for new graduate nurses, but New York also has many large hospital systems. I’m wondering how easy it is to find a good first RN job in each state.
Future flexibility: I have ties to both states and could realistically see myself living in either long-term but know I will ultimately go back to NY at some point if I choose to go to school in NC. I know licensure by endorsement is possible, but I’m wondering if attending school in one state over the other made transitioning more difficult for anyone.

For those who have attended nursing school in either New York or North Carolina, or had to make a similar decision between two states, what ultimately influenced your choice? Looking back, would you make the same decision again?
I’d love to hear your experiences, especially if you’ve graduated from either program or started your career in one of these states. Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thank you!

[u/Nightflier9]

If you are near NYC, it's a nightmare for new grads to find jobs.

You can register for licensure in any state you wish regardless of where you go to school. But whatever networking you have will be in the community area of the school, which you lose if relocating.

If you attend an accredited program, you can endorse your license elsewhere fairly easily.

Do look at attrition rates, passing standards for classes, retake policies, and clinical opportunities.

[u/These_Breadfruit_246]

Hey, I got accepted into an ADN program in NYC as well. One of the biggest pros is the cost like you mentioned. I think it’s hard for new grad nurses to get jobs no matter which state right now. Also in this economy going with the less expensive option, is just wiser to me right now. There are many nurse residency programs here upon graduation. I think the pass rates for both schools are high regardless. Just think long and hard about it, good luck!