11 Best Places to Live in New York in 2024
For centuries, New York has proudly opened its arms to people of all cultures and backgrounds. But in recent years, it has also gained a reputation for a more expensive lifestyle. And while this reputation may be true for some of its overshadowing cities, beyond New York’s glorious Big Apple, this Northeastern state offers way more affordable towns and cities than one might expect.
In addition to affordability, there is much to consider when planning a move to the Empire State. Many are drawn to its beautiful 4 seasons, from bright autumn foliage to warm beachy summers, while others are captivated by its stunning landmarks, from Niagara Falls to the Catskill Mountains. Some may choose their New York destination based on their college of choice or job market trends, while others prioritize towns that are safe for raising a family or retiring.
Taking into account the cost of living, housing averages, community atmospheres, and notable attractions, here are 11 of the best places in New York to call home in 2024. Bear in mind, despite the unique atmosphere and economic factors of each city and town on this list, they are all united by one thing: the thrill of residing in such a breathtaking and welcoming state.
Albany
Albany, New York’s thriving capital city, continues to rank as not only one of the best places to live in the state, but the entire country. Out of 150 most populated cities in the United States, US News & World Report rated Albany 17th, factoring in desirability, value, job market, and quality of life. Although the cost of living here is 3% higher than the national average, compared to other NY cities, this is relatively low. Additionally, the cost of living is 19% lower than the state average. One should also take into account that Albany has an excellent blend of city and outdoor attractions, including the New York State Museum, a lively nightlife scene, the Hudson River, and the nearby Adirondack Mountains.
This affordable cost of living is also an important feature for the city’s large student presence, which is in part why Albany educates (and houses) over 100,000 university and college students. With a wide range of schools like the University of Albany, Albany Law School, and Albany Medical College to name a few, Albany is a hotspot for those just starting out in their career or those looking to network. In addition to being a flourishing college city, its location in the heart of Tech Valley makes it a popular choice for students and job-seekers alike, especially for those looking to work in fields like healthcare, law, government, the arts, education, and technology.
Buffalo
Voted the #1 Best Place to Live in New York in 2024-2025 by US News & World Report, Buffalo shares a lot of Albany's best characteristics, with some additional perks. The city is more affordable than the state capital, ranking 5% lower than the national average and a whopping 26% lower than the state average. Housing here is also 6% cheaper than the US average, which at times results in a competitive market. But for those willing to house-hunt, it is well worth the effort.
Along with affordability, Buffalo’s unemployment rate is below the national average, meaning new graduates or those seeking a career-change have plenty of opportunities. With a diverse range of industries, from hospitality to healthcare (and much more), the city is a great place for young professionals and new families. Both demographics will also appreciate the city’s welcoming people and recreational opportunities. Nicknamed ”The City of Good Neighbors,” Buffalo’s history of welcoming people of all backgrounds is ingrained in the way of life here. Its location on the Eastern shoreline of Lake Erie and close proximity to the iconic Niagara Falls are also a huge bonus for those who love to get outdoors.
Rochester
As a gateway to the famous Finger Lakes region, Rochester is another highly sought-after home for those who love a balance of nature with an urban lifestyle. As the “Flower City,” lush greenery and gardens are a gorgeous feature of Rochester, with places like Highland Botanical Park dazzling locals with a different scene each season. Downtown is also known for its views of the city’s 96-foot High Falls waterfall, and if you keep along the Genesee River, you can follow the scenic boardwalk at Turning Point Park. To top it all off, Ontario Beach Park is a delight in the summertime. All in all, Rochester is a city of outdoor splendor, beloved by retirees, students, and families alike.
In addition to this natural beauty, the cost of living in Rochester is 11% lower than the US average and 27% lower than the state average. The housing market is also extremely affordable, the median home price averaging at around 70% less than the national average. Similar to Buffalo, this makes for a more competitive market, with homes typically selling within only 12 days. But seeing as Rochester was recognized as the #9 Best Place to Live for Quality of Life in the US in 2023-2024 by the US News & World Reports, you can see why so many continue to make Rochester their home.
Ithaca
For a more laid-back New York town with supreme access to the outdoors, Ithaca offers the best of both worlds. Located on Cayuga Lake in the Finger Lakes region, with less than 32,000 residents, Ithaca is much smaller than the previously mentioned cities. But with over 100 waterfalls within 10 miles of its downtown, and direct access to the longest of all the 11 Finger Lakes, there is definitely no lack of things to do here.
Home to the prestigious Ivy League Cornell University, as a college town, Ithaca is a hub of youthful energy. And with a cost of living 21% lower than the state average, Ithaca is also a great family and retirement town. Reflecting its diverse population, the town has a range of attractions for a range of demographics, including the Ithaca Children's Garden, Buttermilk Falls State Park, the Ithaca Farmers Market, and the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art. All things considered, Ithaca is a lovely choice for those seeking a blend of urban and suburban with a dash of rural bliss.
Syracuse
Syracuse is another lakeside city, meaning waterfront real estate is a bit more on the expensive side. But for those who are happy enjoying the beauty from Onondaga Lake Park, the rest of the city is much more affordable. With a cost of living 20% lower than the NY average and unemployment rates at just 4.1%, Syracuse is another excellent choice for college students, young professionals, and families. As the home of 11 colleges, including Syracuse University and SUNY Upstate Medical University, the city also has a ton to offer as far as arts and culture. Locals can look forward to events like the annual Syracuse Jazz Festival and the Syracuse Film Festival, to name a few favored attractions.
Students will also appreciate the city’s vibrant nightlife. Syracuse has tons of bars, clubs, and lounges with different vibes to choose from. Whether grabbing cocktails at the Gilded Club or live music at a hidden speakeasy in the Oh My Darling restaurant cellar, Syracuse has something for everyone. As for daytime fun, students and families alike can enjoy a wide range of attractions, from the Rosamond Gifford Zoo to the Museum of Science & Technology, and even the famous New York State Fair.
New York City
No list of “Best Places to Live in New York” would be complete without the iconic New York City. And while the Big Apple is notorious for its expensive cost of living and less-than-affordable housing, what it lacks in affordability, it makes up for in so many other ways. In addition to some of the most famous landmarks and attractions in the country (Central Park, Broadway, Coney Island, and so on), as US News artfully explains, “[t]he city is a place of opportunity, which is why—despite the crowds and costs—people keep coming.”
Looking at data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the New York Metropolitan Area saw a job growth of 5.3% while the nationwide growth was just 4% by comparison. From entertainment to real estate, and everything in between, the NYC job market is a flourishing one, welcoming job seekers in just about any industry imaginable. And at the end of the day, whether you come to NYC for school, a career, or to chase your dreams, you will be 1 of the 8 million others who are lucky to have access to one of the world’s greatest hubs of culture, art, and diversity.
Woodstock
A little under 3 hours north of the Big Apple, the mountain town of Woodstock is a wonderful (albeit much smaller) alternative to NYC for the more introverted free spirit. Located in the scenic Catskill Mountains, while the iconic 1969 Woodstock festival was not held in this mountain town, it did inspire the name. Once a community of hippies, artists, and musicians like Bob Dylan, this artistic spirit is still ingrained in Woodstock to this day.
Locals can expect a relaxed, bohemian culture and close-knit community, whether discovering local musical talents at the Bearsville Theater, reconnecting with nature on the Overlook Mountain Trail, or learning an artistic craft at the Byrdcliffe Arts Colony, the oldest operating arts and crafts community in the United States. Woodstock’s cost of living may be a bit higher than the national average, but it is 9% lower than the state average, and 17% cheaper than living in NYC. So, if you are someone who loves a quieter rural lifestyle with a free-spirited, artistic atmosphere, Woodstock is your ticket to bliss.
Skaneateles
Like Woodstock, Skaneateles, the “Jewel of the Finger Lakes region,” is a popular choice for people who enjoy natural beauty and a cozy small town atmosphere. Oprah listed it as #1 on her list of “60 Charming American Towns You Haven't Heard of But Should Visit ASAP,” noting the town’s “beautiful and serene surroundings.” But like others who have visited, you may be tempted to turn that visit into a more permanent stay.
From adorable Victorian buildings to the spotlight Skaneateles Lake, this storybook town is as blissful as they come. The welcoming atmosphere and sense of community is also the cherry on top. Skaneateles hosts countless community events throughout the year to bring people together, like the Skaneateles Festival, Winterfest, and the Dickens Christmas celebration.
Some may be deterred from Skaneateles’ housing market, which is a bit on the pricier side, at 42% higher than the national average. But with low crime rates and highly rated public schools, Niche describes Skaneateles as an excellent town for retirees and families. So if you are someone looking to pay a bit more for safety and peace of mind, then Skaneateles may be the town for you.
Cooperstown
If you are looking for a safe and quiet town without the Skaneateles prices, the village of Cooperstown is a superb substitute. Ranked on a scale from 1 (low crime) to 100 (high crime), BestPlaces rates Coopersville’s violent crime rate at a mere 7.6 while property crime is also low, at 14.8. Compared to the US averages, (22.7 and 35.4, respectively), Coopersville demonstrates itself as a peaceful town, perfect for raising a family. BestPlaces also notes that the cost of living in Coopersville is 17% lower than the US average and 32% lower than state average, meaning you can enjoy the serenity of this safe town without breaking the bank.
Like Skaneateles, Coopersville is also a lakefront community. Otsego Lake can be enjoyed at Glimmerglass State Park, a 593-acre nature area that can be appreciated in all seasons. Summertime is when the park is at its busiest with beachgoers, campers, and hikers. But winter is beautiful in its own ways, with opportunities for ice skating, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing. Other town attractions include the Baseball Hall of Fame, the Fenimore Art Museum, and the Farmers’ Museum, to name a few.
Binghamton
As the home of Binghamton University, Binghamton is one of New York’s more affordable college towns, making it an in-demand place to live for students and new graduates. The cost of living here is 19% lower than the US average and 34% lower than the state average. But even more impressively, the median listing price for a home is under $200K. In terms of the town’s job market, 3 of the top industries are healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing. And with an unemployment rate of just 4.4% as of March 2024, Binghamton proves itself to be a solid choice for those just starting out or those looking for a change of career.
With just under 48,000 residents, Binghamton may not be as large as other college towns, but there are still plenty of things to see and do. Locals can enjoy the arts at places like the Binghamton University Art Museum or Anthony Brunelli Fine Arts gallery, and explore local history at historic sites like the Phelps Mansion Museum or Bundy Museum of History and Art. Others can enjoy nature at the town’s various green spaces, like Confluence Park or Otsiningo Park. The town is also known for its pubs and breweries like Abel's Pub or the West Side Beer Depot. And in addition to great restaurants, Binghamton is known for its quirky food festivals, like their annual Wing Fest and Mac and Cheese Fest.
Kingston
Kingston, home to a population of 24,000, offers the perfect mix of city and suburban living. The colorful Midtown Art District and vibrant Hudson Riverfront downtown offer a more compact and walkable city landscape, with trendy shops like Milne’s At Home Antiques and chic restaurants like Ole Savannah Southern Table and Bar. Alternatively, for a more suburban charm, attractions like Kingston’s Uptown Farmers Market and Sissy’s Cafe offer a delightful contrast, evoking more of a small town feel. Plus, in addition to these town/city-based activities, outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Kingston Point Beach along the Hudson River as well as the nearby Catskill Mountains, accessible via the Catskill Mountain Railroad.
With such a wide range of atmospheres, you can see why living in Kingston costs upwards of 10% higher than the national average. However, even then, it remains 9% lower than the New York state average. So, while living in Kingston may come with a slightly higher price tag compared to other US towns, it still offers significant savings compared to other parts of New York. For many, the blend of a small town atmosphere and urban energy makes this truly worthwhile.
Final Thoughts
Embracing people from diverse backgrounds and cultures has always been a core value of New York, and New York City has long symbolized this opportunity. And while the spotlight may always shine brightest on the Big Apple, there are so many other remarkable towns and cities providing similar prospects for new beginnings, friendships, and adventures. From students and young professionals entering into the world of adulthood in Albany, to retirees looking to enjoy their golden years in Skaneateles, each of these 11 towns and cities has something that makes it worth calling home.
