In case you’re planning on shifting to New York, add these cities to your checklist.
From the bustle of New York Metropolis to the whispers of the Adirondack Mountains, New York has tens of millions of individuals and issues to do. However regardless of its inhabitants and fame, the state is basically rural. Some 7,600 lakes, seven million acres of farmland, and 1000’s of miles of shoreline cowl the land, providing each city and pure escapes.
New York is often damaged up into ten financial areas, every with their very own distinctive geography, tradition, and local weather. The rugged North County area homes forested wilderness. The snowy Central NY, Finger Lakes, and Western NY areas are house to the commercial hubs of Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo. Furthest south are New York Metropolis and Lengthy Island. Since almost half of the state’s inhabitants lives in and round NYC, most individuals merely name something north of town “Upstate” and the remainder “Downstate.”
The state’s local weather is diversified, however is mostly sizzling and humid in the summertime and chilly and snowy within the winter. Areas alongside Lake Erie and Lake Ontario are a part of the Snow Belt and see among the many heaviest snowfall on the planet. Coastal places alongside Lengthy Island are milder.
So, which cities within the Empire State are best for you? On this Redfin article, we’ve uncovered the very best locations to dwell in New York, rating them on qualities similar to affordability, navigability, and variety of facilities. You could find extra details about our methodology right here or on the backside of the article.
The very best locations to dwell in New York
Buffalo, NY
New York Metropolis, NY
Rochester, NY
Syracuse, NY
Mount Vernon, NY
Tonawanda, NY
Yonkers, NY
Hempstead, NY
Albany, NY
New Rochelle, NY
1. Buffalo, NY
Inhabitants:274,678Median Sale Worth:$240,000Median Lease Worth:$1,525Average Commute Time:19.9 minutes Unemployment Fee:4.5%
Buffalo tops our checklist as the very best place to dwell in New York. An Upstate icon identified for its sports activities, business, and deep snow, Buffalo gives a wonderful mixture of affordability, diversified facilities, and financial development. World-class hospitals, tree-lined avenues, and quiet neighborhoods are added bonuses.
Winter climate performs an enormous function in day by day life in Buffalo. Chilly Canadian air and loads of Lake Erie moisture recurrently creates “lake-effect” storms that may produce toes of snow, which might be harmful. Snow often falls 5-15 miles south of downtown, particularly round Orchard Park. If you wish to keep away from the worst of the storms, keep on with the north of city.
Buffalo sits on the tip of Lake Erie and is a Rust Belt metropolis by and thru. It was an industrial powerhouse for almost 200 years, primarily for metal manufacturing and grain delivery. Nonetheless, like most Rust Belt cities, Buffalo’s economic system and inhabitants declined within the Thirties-60s, and in the present day, many buildings are deserted.
Nonetheless, over the previous 10+ years, town has begun remodeling itself. Deserted industrial areas are turning into hubs for breweries, lofts, and quirky outlets. The historic waterfront is getting a whole makeover. And importantly, the federal government has labored to draw companies and startups to place down roots and spend money on the area.
Even with current development, Buffalo has remained comparatively inexpensive. However folks have began taking discover. Demand has shot up for the reason that pandemic resulting from comparatively inexpensive housing and a robust job market, which has begun pushing costs up and amplifying an already strained housing provide.
Buffalo properties on the market | Buffalo homes for lease | Buffalo flats for lease
2. New York Metropolis, NY
Inhabitants:8,258,035Median Sale Worth:$750,000Median Lease Worth:$2,843Average Commute Time:40.6 minutesUnemployment Fee:4.2%
New York Metropolis. The Huge Apple. A world middle of finance, tradition, and tourism, New York ranks among the many high cities worldwide in quite a few research measuring economics, transportation, connectivity, and extra. It’s additionally large, spanning 5 distinct boroughs. When accounting for your entire metropolitan space, New York has over 23 million residents, making it the biggest metropolis within the U.S. and sixth-largest on the planet. So, in fact, it made Redfin’s checklist.
Due to its age and dimension, New York comprises a little bit of the whole lot. Dense, winding neighborhoods lined with historic brownstones butt up towards glowing skyscrapers and historic landmarks. Meals, leisure, and leisure of all types dot each block nook, the place Michelin-starred eating places meet basic bagel outlets. Locals will inform you the place to seek out the very best bagel and schmear.
Dwelling in New York means getting used to crowds, noise, personalities, and a metropolis that by no means sleeps. Many residents choose it that means. High-tier public transit and a walkable format means most individuals get round by way of subway, bus, or on foot. Main flooding in 2021 and 2023 has highlighted the necessity for local weather resilience, although.
With NYC’s many positives comes a hefty price ticket. Housing prices are among the many costliest within the nation, and rents can skyrocket into the tens of millions. Manhattan is by far the most costly borough, highlighted by the Hudson Yards and TriBeCa neighborhoods, whereas different boroughs are extra inexpensive. Many renters and consumers wrestle to afford housing, however there are quite a few packages and worth management measures to assist.
New York Metropolis properties on the market | New York Metropolis homes for lease | New York Metropolis flats for lease
3. Rochester, NY
Inhabitants:207,274Median Sale Worth:$231,000Median Lease Worth:$1,350Average Commute Time:18.9 minutesUnemployment Fee:5.5%
Constructed on the southern shores of Lake Ontario, Rochester is the third-best place to dwell in New York. A gritty, industrial metropolis baked in historical past, Rochester is remodeling right into a hip, inexpensive city with points of interest and facilities on each nook. The well-known Higher Falls, Rochester Public Market, high quality universities, and great-tasting water outline town.
Rochester celebrates its historical past. It was the world’s largest producer of baking flour within the Nineteenth-century, powered by the mighty Genesee River and 21 flour (grist) mills, incomes the nickname Flour Metropolis. The enduring Erie Canal performed a pivotal function by serving barges and stays a well-liked vacationer attraction. You may take excursions of the canal simply outdoors of city at Fairport and Pittsford.
Whereas Rochester declined within the late 1900s, it has once more blossomed right into a metropolis with the whole lot you need with out the crowds, worth, or noise. Right now, it’s often called Flower Metropolis for its Lilac Competition and gardens, with a rising concentrate on greenery. Plans to revitalize the Genesee River waterfront and join the Inside North Loop are additionally underway.
Rochester has usually performed host to social change. The Underground Railroad shaped on the town within the 1830s, and a number of the first labor strikes occurred a few many years later. Legendary activists Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass each lived in Rochester within the 1800s. Activism remains to be celebrated in the present day.
The world’s local weather is mostly nice, with chilly winters and heat, muggy summers. Like Buffalo, Rochester can see heavy lake-effect snow. As winters heat, although, winter wonderlands have gotten much less of a assure.
Rochester properties on the market | Rochester homes for lease | Rochester flats for lease
4. Syracuse, NY
Inhabitants:145,560Median Sale Worth:$225,000Median Lease Worth:$1,390Average Commute Time:17.8 minutesUnemployment Fee:5.4%
One of many snowiest cities within the nation, Syracuse is available in at quantity 4 on our checklist of the very best locations to dwell in New York. As a significant commerce hub that rose on the success of salt manufacturing, Syracuse noticed its inhabitants dwindle within the Fifties resulting from industrial change, city renewal, and racial inequity. This created the trope that town was previous its prime. Right now, whereas it grapples with previous errors, Syracuse is redefining itself.
Whereas industries have modified, town’s character has remained. Micron and Amazon now have headquarters on the town, and the deserted Syracuse Improvement Middle is being reworked. Most significantly, the problematic Interstate 81 is getting torn down to create space for a brand new neighborhood, in hopes of uplifting a segregated portion of town.
Right now, affordability, comfort, group, and outside entry are among the many metropolis’s greatest traits. Homes price lower than half the nationwide common, and strolling round Downtown or Armory Sq. is a breeze. Make certain to go to Clinton Sq., Syracuse Stage, or the Downtown Farmers Market when you’re out. Or, seize a chunk at Purple Chili, Pastabilities, or Robust Hearts. You’re additionally close to Oneida Lake, the New York State Truthful, and loads of city parks.
Syracuse is usually the butt-end of jokes about climate, and for good motive; it’s often cloudy, wet, or snowy. You may thank close by Lake Ontario and the Allegheny Plateau foothills for that. Syracuse sees 16 extra days of measurable rainfall than Seattle and averages 128 inches of snow annually.
Syracuse properties on the market | Syracuse homes for lease | Syracuse flats for lease
5. Mount Vernon, NY
Inhabitants:71,168Median Sale Worth:$550,000Median Lease Worth:$1,345Average Commute Time:36.4 minutesUnemployment Fee:4.3%
Mount Vernon, simply north of the Bronx and east of Yonkers, is the fifth-best place to dwell in New York. Mount Vernon is a comparatively small metropolis that’s seeing quite a lot of development and funding. The brand new Stadium at Memorial Subject and The Bayou restaurant are a number of the greatest locations to see. And maybe the very best a part of residing in Mount Vernon is the simple entry to NYC. You may simply commute into city by way of the Harlem or New Haven trains.
In 1890, town was break up in half by the “Cut” – a railroad observe constructed into an enormous trench alongside First Avenue. This venture actually and figuratively divided town, making a wealthier north aspect and poorer south aspect. Even with current authorities funding by renewed bridges and artwork installations, this divide persists. The south aspect additionally continues to cope with sewage overflows due to crumbling infrastructure, though there’s funding to switch it. Localized flooding close to the Bronx or Hutchinson Rivers is feasible.
Regardless that it’s primarily residential, Mount Vernon has fairly just a few facilities on the town. Fleetwood is a hotspot for eating places at locations like Jungle and Johnny’s Pizzeria, whereas the Bronx River Pathway is a superb spot for strolling or biking. Inexperienced house is restricted and facilities are pretty unfold out, although, so that you’ll seemingly need to journey round Westchester County for a greater diversity of actions.
Mount Vernon properties on the market | Mount Vernon homes for lease | Mount Vernon flats for lease
6. Tonawanda, NY
Inhabitants:72,636Median Sale Worth:$250,000Median Lease Worth:$1,360Average Commute Time:19.9 minutesUnemployment Fee:2.7%
Formally the City of Tonawanda, Tonawanda is a suburb simply north of Buffalo alongside the Niagara River. The close by Metropolis of Tonawanda is usually lumped along with the City, however they’re separate locations. Affordability, Fifties-style neighborhoods, and comfortable winter climate are main attracts of the realm. You’re additionally simply 20 minutes from Niagara Falls and two hours from Toronto.
Tonawanda is usually residential however has pockets of facilities alongside Army Highway, Delaware Avenue, and Sheridan Drive. Business dominates between Army Highway and the river. WWII fighter planes have been constructed at a manufacturing facility on Vulcan Avenue, however together with many different factories, it closed down after the warfare.
In case you’re searching for groceries, outlets, or a bit to eat, you will discover the whole lot you want on the crossroads of Sheridan and Delaware. Acquainted chains like Chipotle and native shops like Kingpin Comics & Gaming are mainstays.
Importantly, Tonawanda has distinctive entry to the outside by way of the model new Empire State Path, which spans 750 miles throughout your entire state. Opened in 2020, the path runs from Buffalo to Albany and NYC to Champlain, offering days of uninterrupted operating, strolling, or biking. The opposite choices native to Tonawanda are the Rails to Trails and Ellicott Creek Park. Make certain to cease by Ted’s Scorching Canine when you’re out.
Tonawanda properties on the market | Tonawanda homes for lease | Tonawanda flats for lease
7. Yonkers, NY
Inhabitants:207,657Median Sale Worth:$658,000Median Lease Worth:$2,600Average Commute Time:34.9 minutesUnemployment Fee:4.4%
Yonkers, a quintessential NYC suburb, is available in at quantity seven on our checklist. Yonkers covers a big space simply north of the Bronx, between the Hudson River and historic Bronx River Parkway. Town is house to the whole lot, from trendy flats alongside the revitalized riverfront, to tree-lined neighborhoods lined with colonial homes. It’s frequent for residents who dwell in Yonkers to work within the massive metropolis.
One of many main initiatives town lately took on was restoring the historic Sawmill River. Like many different post-industrial river restorations, it was a significant enterprise, taking years and reshaping the realm. Right now, although, the river runs freely by the center of town and is a beloved landmark for folks, bugs, birds, and extra.
In addition to quiet neighborhoods and loads of greenery, Yonkers is understood for its procuring. Spending a day perusing high-end outlets and day by day staples at Ridge Hill and Yonkers Gateway Middle is a deal with. Other than procuring, you’ll additionally discover parks, historic websites, and museums, like Untermyer Park and Gardens, Van Cortlandt Park, and the Hudson River Museum. The Empire Metropolis On line casino and Raceway even hosts horse races, and is getting a makeover within the coming years.
Yonkers properties on the market | Yonkers homes for lease | Yonkers flats for lease
8. Hempstead, NY
Inhabitants:785,678Median Sale Worth:$615,000Median Lease Worth:$2,500Average Commute Time:36.3 minutesUnemployment Fee:4.2%
The City of Hempstead, often shortened to only Hempstead, is a Nassau County suburb simply east of Queens. Hempstead is definitely probably the most populous “town” within the U.S., though the title of city refers primarily to authorities construction. Throughout the city are 50 separate villages and hamlets, together with the pricier Village of Hempstead, which may trigger confusion.
Hempstead is previous and large, settled in 1644 and spanning from Previous Nation Highway all the best way to the Atlantic Coast. So it’s no marvel there are millions of issues to do at quite a few parks, museums, and nation golf equipment. Eisenhower Park, Hempstead Lake State Park, the Cradle of Aviation Museum, Cherry Valley Membership, and extra are all in style spots.
You even have nice meals choices all through the city, together with The French Work Store, La Fuente, and Napolini Pizzeria. Because you’re within the coronary heart of Nassau County, it’s additionally simple to jump over to a different city to discover what they’ve to supply. Many locals love meals in Backyard Metropolis, East Meadow, and Lynbrook – all simply minutes away.
Hempstead properties on the market | Hempstead homes for lease | Hempstead flats for lease
9. Albany, NY
Inhabitants:101,228Median Sale Worth:$315,000 Median Lease Worth:$1,600Average Commute Time:19.5 minutesUnemployment Fee:4.3%
One of many oldest cities within the nation, Albany is the capital and ninth-best place to dwell in New York. Albany is lovingly nicknamed “Smalbany” for its small-town really feel and quaint character, containing the whole lot you need in a metropolis with out the noise or site visitors. It might lack a classy nightlife, however that’s a part of its laid-back attraction. You’ll wish to study hockey earlier than you progress.
Albany’s historic downtown is its centerpiece. It was settled within the 1600s alongside the Hudson River, and in the present day is anchored by Pearl Avenue, the Empire State Plaza, and the New York State Capitol. Brownstones line each block, some house to trendy eateries like The Hole Bar + Kitchen and 677 Prime, whereas others jut up towards Gothic-style buildings like St. Peter’s Church. The enduring Corning Riverfront Park is close by, as are leisure choices on the Palace Theatre, MVP Area, and The Egg.
Maybe its very best quality is its employment alternatives. The state authorities and State College of New York (SUNY) are main employers, and Verizon, American Specific, GE, and Worldwide Paper all have places of work on the town. Don’t neglect in regards to the easy accessibility to nature, both, like at Thacher State Park, Washington Park, and Albany Pine Bush Protect.
Albany properties on the market | Albany homes for lease | Albany flats for lease
10. New Rochelle, NY
Inhabitants:83,742Median Sale Worth:$810,000Median Lease Worth:$2,860Average Commute Time:31.4 minutesUnemployment Fee:4.5%
Located simply east of Mount Vernon, New Rochelle is a good looking metropolis located on the sting of Lengthy Island Sound. Walkable streets, waterfront views, massive parks, and easy accessibility to NYC by way of the New Haven line are main advantages. It has lengthy been a premier suburb of New York due to its unspoiled seashores, tree-lined hills, and forward-thinking ethos, however the metropolis is simply getting began.
Nicknamed the “Queen City of the Sound,” New Rochelle has undergone super modifications over the previous 5 years, particularly, progress on a $4 billion redevelopment of the downtown hall. 10,000 new housing models, hip eating places, procuring facilities, parks, and way more are on the horizon. Nonetheless, it’s a well-liked spot to dwell, which is a part of why it’s costlier than close by Westchester County cities.
Many of the metropolis’s hotspots are situated alongside historic Essential Avenue, like Casaroma Cafe and Colombian Home. Close by, you’ll discover the marinas, yacht golf equipment, and waterside parks, like Horseshoe Harbor, Hudson Park and Seaside, and Glen Island Park. In brief, you’ll all the time discover one thing new in New Rochelle.
New Rochelle properties on the market | New Rochelle homes for lease | New Rochelle flats for lease
Methodology
Redfin’s Greatest Locations to Stay rankings are supposed to assist house searchers make an knowledgeable determination when selecting the place to dwell. To try to measure the general high quality of a metro space, every rating takes into consideration a number of key components, together with entry to healthcare, open outside house, navigability, housing tendencies, employment statistics, revenue, and journey time to work. Solely metros with a inhabitants of fifty,000 or larger have been thought-about for our New York checklist. Extra details about our methodology might be discovered right here.
Knowledge legitimate April 2025. This text is for informational and academic functions solely.
