A system and method determines a roaming access point (AP) using a band preference. The method includes generating a list including APs communicating in a communication network. A mobile unit is configured to connect to the communication network. The method includes determining an initial AP rating value for each of the APs as a function of a predetermined network parameter. The method includes generating a further AP rating value as a function of the initial AP rating value and a predetermined preference list of operating bands. The predetermined preference list is indicative of at least one operating bandwidth in which the MU prefers to connect. The method includes selecting one of the APs as a function of the further AP rating values. The method includes connecting the MU to the selected AP.