Stony Brook vs SUNY Downstate - Help me decide (NYC resident, interested in anesthesia)

Context:

Accepted to Stony Brook (in-state tuition) → currently my top choice

Waitlisted at Downstate (interviewed in August, seems like decent WL movement)

Stony Brook – Pros

More structured curriculum → exams every ~4 weeks (vs large exam blocks)

Back-to-back Step 1 + Step 2 → reportedly strong Step 2 scores (~mid 250s)

Stronger research opportunities overall (important for anesthesia?)

Smaller class size (~140)

Clinical rotations mostly in one location → less travel/logistical stress

Stronger match list than Downstate this year

Stony Brook – Cons

Need a car → added cost + hassle

Around 50-75k more for housing first 1.5 years, car, and food; interest will make it go up to 100k+

Long Island lifestyle feels quieter / less to do

Further from NYC network/support system

SUNY Downstate – Pros

Brooklyn location → huge for lifestyle + staying connected to NYC (I’m a city person at heart)

Can live at home first 1.5-2 years → major cost savings

No car needed

Strong exposure to diverse/underserved patient population

SUNY Downstate – Cons

Larger class size (~200)

Less structured exam schedule (big exam blocks every 2–3 months)

Potentially fewer research opportunities (esp. for competitive specialties?)

Rotations more spread out

Gut says Downstate if I get in. However, Stony has a bunch of pros too. Let me know what you all think!