In the event you’re planning on transferring 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 thousands and thousands of individuals and issues to do. However regardless of its inhabitants and status, the state is essentially rural. Some 7,600 lakes, seven million acres of farmland, and hundreds 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 residence to the economic 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 the town “Upstate” and the remaining “Downstate.”
The state’s local weather is diversified, however is usually 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 one of the best locations to stay in New York, rating them on qualities reminiscent of affordability, navigability, and variety of facilities. Yow will discover extra details about our methodology right here or on the backside of the article.
The perfect locations to stay 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 one of the best place to stay in New York. An Upstate icon recognized for its sports activities, trade, and deep snow, Buffalo offers 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 position in each day life in Buffalo. Chilly Canadian air and loads of Lake Erie moisture frequently creates “lake-effect” storms that may produce toes of snow, which may 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, follow 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 transport. Nonetheless, like most Rust Belt cities, Buffalo’s economic system and inhabitants declined within the Nineteen Thirties-60s, and right this moment, many buildings are deserted.
Nonetheless, over the previous 10+ years, the town has begun reworking itself. Deserted industrial areas are turning into hubs for breweries, lofts, and quirky retailers. The historic waterfront is getting an entire makeover. And importantly, the federal government has labored to draw companies and startups to place down roots and put money into the area.
Even with latest development, Buffalo has remained comparatively inexpensive. However individuals have began taking discover. Demand has shot up because the pandemic resulting from comparatively inexpensive housing and a powerful job market, which has begun pushing costs up and amplifying an already strained housing provide.
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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 Massive Apple. A worldwide heart 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 the whole 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, after all, it made Redfin’s checklist.
Due to its age and dimension, New York comprises a little bit of every little thing. Dense, winding neighborhoods lined with historic brownstones butt up in opposition to glowing skyscrapers and historic landmarks. Meals, leisure, and leisure of every kind dot each block nook, the place Michelin-starred eating places meet basic bagel retailers. Locals will let you know the place to seek out one of the 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 favor it that means. Prime-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 thousands and thousands. 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 battle to afford housing, however there are quite a few applications and worth management measures to assist.
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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 stay in New York. A gritty, industrial metropolis baked in historical past, Rochester is reworking right into a hip, inexpensive city with sights and facilities on each nook. The well-known Higher Falls, Rochester Public Market, high quality universities, and great-tasting water outline the 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 long-lasting Erie Canal performed a pivotal position by serving barges and stays a preferred vacationer attraction. You possibly can 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 every little thing you need with out the crowds, worth, or noise. At this time, it’s often known as Flower Metropolis for its Lilac Competition and gardens, with a rising give attention to greenery. Plans to revitalize the Genesee River waterfront and join the Internal North Loop are additionally underway.
Rochester has typically performed host to social change. The Underground Railroad fashioned on the town within the 1830s, and a few of the first labor strikes occurred a few a long time later. Legendary activists Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass each lived in Rochester within the 1800s. Activism continues to be celebrated right this moment.
The world’s local weather is usually 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.
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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 one of the best locations to stay in New York. As a significant commerce hub that rose on the success of salt manufacturing, Syracuse noticed its inhabitants dwindle within the Nineteen Fifties resulting from industrial change, city renewal, and racial inequity. This created the trope that the town was previous its prime. At this time, whereas it grapples with previous errors, Syracuse is redefining itself.
Whereas industries have modified, the town’s character has remained. Micron and Amazon now have headquarters on the town, and the deserted Syracuse Growth 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 the town.
At this time, affordability, comfort, neighborhood, and out of doors entry are among the many metropolis’s finest traits. Homes value 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 whilst you’re out. Or, seize a chew at Purple Chili, Pastabilities, or Sturdy Hearts. You’re additionally close to Oneida Lake, the New York State Truthful, and loads of city parks.
Syracuse is commonly the butt-end of jokes about climate, and for good purpose; it’s often cloudy, wet, or snowy. You possibly can 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.
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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 stay in New York. Mount Vernon is a comparatively small metropolis that’s seeing numerous development and funding. The brand new Stadium at Memorial Area and The Bayou restaurant are a few of the finest locations to see. And maybe one of the best a part of dwelling in Mount Vernon is the simple entry to NYC. You possibly can simply commute into city by way of the Harlem or New Haven trains.
In 1890, the town was cut up in half by the “Cut” – a railroad monitor constructed into a large trench alongside First Road. This venture actually and figuratively divided the town, making a wealthier north facet and poorer south facet. Even with latest authorities funding by renewed bridges and artwork installations, this divide persists. The south facet additionally continues to take care of sewage overflows due to crumbling infrastructure, though there may be funding to switch it. Localized flooding close to the Bronx or Hutchinson Rivers is feasible.
Although 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 area is proscribed and facilities are pretty unfold out, although, so that you’ll doubtless should journey round Westchester County for a greater variety of actions.
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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 commonly lumped along with the City, however they’re separate locations. Affordability, Nineteen Fifties-style neighborhoods, and comfortable winter climate are main attracts of the world. 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 Street, Delaware Road, and Sheridan Drive. Trade dominates between Army Street and the river. WWII fighter planes have been constructed at a manufacturing unit on Vulcan Road, however together with many different factories, it closed down after the warfare.
In the event you’re in search of groceries, retailers, or a bit to eat, you could find every little thing 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 the whole 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 whilst you’re out.
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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 residence to every little thing, from fashionable residences alongside the revitalized riverfront, to tree-lined neighborhoods lined with colonial homes. It’s frequent for residents who stay in Yonkers to work within the massive metropolis.
One of many main tasks the town not too long ago took on was restoring the historic Sawmill River. Like many different post-industrial river restorations, it was a significant endeavor, taking years and reshaping the world. At this time, although, the river runs freely by the guts of the town and is a beloved landmark for individuals, bugs, birds, and extra.
Moreover quiet neighborhoods and loads of greenery, Yonkers is thought for its procuring. Spending a day perusing high-end retailers and each 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.
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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 simply 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. Inside the city are 50 separate villages and hamlets, together with the pricier Village of Hempstead, which may trigger confusion.
Hempstead is outdated and large, settled in 1644 and spanning from Previous Nation Street all the way in which to the Atlantic Coast. So it’s no surprise there are literally thousands 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 widespread 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 hire | Hempstead residences for hire
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 stay in New York. Albany is lovingly nicknamed “Smalbany” for its small-town really feel and quaint character, containing every little thing you need in a metropolis with out the noise or site visitors. It could lack a stylish nightlife, however that’s a part of its laid-back attraction. You’ll need to find out about hockey earlier than you progress.
Albany’s historic downtown is its centerpiece. It was settled within the 1600s alongside the Hudson River, and right this moment is anchored by Pearl Road, the Empire State Plaza, and the New York State Capitol. Brownstones line each block, some residence to fashionable eateries like The Hole Bar + Kitchen and 677 Prime, whereas others jut up in opposition to Gothic-style buildings like St. Peter’s Church. The long-lasting Corning Riverfront Park is close by, as are leisure choices on the Palace Theatre, MVP Enviornment, 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 Categorical, GE, and Worldwide Paper all have workplaces on the town. Don’t neglect concerning the easy accessibility to nature, both, like at Thacher State Park, Washington Park, and Albany Pine Bush Protect.
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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 an attractive 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 adjustments over the previous 5 years, specifically, progress on a $4 billion redevelopment of the downtown hall. 10,000 new housing models, hip eating places, procuring facilities, parks, and far more are on the horizon. Nonetheless, it’s a preferred spot to stay, which is a part of why it’s costlier than close by Westchester County cities.
A lot of the metropolis’s hotspots are situated alongside historic Foremost Road, 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 Seashore, and Glen Island Park. In brief, you’ll at all times discover one thing new in New Rochelle.
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Methodology
Redfin’s Finest Locations to Dwell rankings are supposed to assist residence searchers make an knowledgeable resolution when selecting the place to stay. To try to measure the general high quality of a metro space, every rating takes under consideration a number of key elements, together with entry to healthcare, open out of doors area, navigability, housing traits, employment statistics, earnings, 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 may be discovered right here.
Information legitimate April 2025. This text is for informational and academic functions solely.
