New York City is known for its glitz and glamour, but it’s no secret that the cost of living here can be sky-high. However, don’t be discouraged if you’re on a budget. The city that never sleeps has some hidden gems where you can find affordable living. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of the cheapest places in New York to live, from Brooklyn’s bargains to the Bronx on a budget. Let’s dive in and discover how you can live in New York more budget-friendly.
New York City is notoriously expensive, but plenty of smaller towns in upstate and Western New York offer a high quality of life and affordable living. If you’re willing to sacrifice the glitz and glamour for a more laid-back lifestyle, several towns all over New York State offer a comfortable lifestyle for young adults and families. Here’s a closer look at the 10 cheapest places to live in New York State.
Cheapest Places in New York to Live
Mohawk
Number 10 on the list of cheapest places to live in New York is Mohawk, with a median home value of $136,800 and a median household income of $47,063. Mohawk, located in Herkimer County, is named after the adjacent Mohawk River and offers affordable property values and rents, about 16 percent lower cost of living than the national average, making it a great choice for families, retirees, and young professionals.
Attica
Number 9, Attica, located in Wyoming County, with a median home value of $104,900 and a median household income of $60,843, is known for the Maximum Security Prison that shares its name, providing stable employment and a lower cost of living, about 45 minutes from Buffalo and under an hour from Rochester.
Falconer
Number 8, Falconer, a village in Chautauqua County, New York, has a median home value of $69,900 and a median household income of $40,481, offering a family-friendly atmosphere, proximity to Chautauqua Lake and Lake Erie, and a cost of living about 30 percent cheaper than the national average.
Ogdensburg
Number 7, Ogdensburg, situated in St. Lawrence County on the New York and Canada border, presents a median home value of $67,900 and a median income of $41,965. Despite its northern location and colder climate, Ogdensburg offers considerably cheaper property values, nearly 75 percent lower cost of living than the state average, and a bustling Port City atmosphere.
Port Byron
Number 6, Port Byron, a small village in Cayuga County, boasts a median home value of $86,300 and a median household income of $54,318, known for its historical significance as a former Keyport on the Erie Canal, offering easy access to multiple cities like Syracuse, Rochester, Oswego, and Lake Ontario.
Hornell
Number 5, Hornell, located in Steuben County, with a median home value of $67,500 and a median household income of $42,562, is nicknamed the Maple City, offering lower home values than the national average and a cost of living about 30 percent cheaper, providing scenic beauty, excellent schools, and a tight-knit community.
Weston Mills
Number 4, Weston Mills, a hamlet in Cattaraugus County, offers a median home value of $81,800 and a median household income of $52,991, providing a peaceful small-town atmosphere, high employment, and job growth rates, ideal for families and retirees.
Ilion
Number 3, Ilion, located in Herkimer County, has a median home value of $81,900 and a median household income of $54,397, offering affordability, a central location close to Utica, Syracuse, and Albany, and a lower cost of living, about 22 percent cheaper than the national average.
Bridgeport
Number 2, Bridgeport, a hamlet in Onondaga County, presents a median home value of $85,400 and a median household income of $59,119, known as the cheapest suburb in New York, offering affordable housing, employment opportunities, and a blend of outdoor recreation and urban conveniences.
Celoron
Number 1, Celoron, a quiet village in Chautauqua County, holds the top spot as the most affordable city in New York State, with a median home value of $56,900 and a median household income of $42,030, offering a peaceful waterside village with a low cost of living, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxed small-town atmosphere.
FAQ about the cheapest places to live in New York
Q: What are the cheapest places to live in New York? A: Some of the cheapest places to live in New York include Mohawk, Attica, Falconer, Ogdensburg, Port Byron, Hornell, Weston Mills, Ilion, Bridgeport, and Celoron.
Q: What factors make these places affordable? A: These areas often have lower property values, affordable rents, and a cost of living significantly lower than the national or state average. They might also offer a balance between living costs and available amenities.
Q: Are these places suitable for families? A: Yes, many of these places are family-friendly, offering good schools, community activities, and a generally safe environment.
Q: Do these areas have employment opportunities? A: While some areas might have fewer job opportunities compared to larger cities, many residents are employed locally, and some places are relatively close to larger cities with more job options.
Q: What are the standout features of these affordable places? A: These areas often boast beautiful scenery, access to lakes or rivers, historical significance, and a tight-knit community feel.
Q: How far are these places from major cities? A: The distance varies, but some of these places are within an hour’s drive from larger cities like Buffalo, Rochester, or Syracuse.
Q: Are these places suitable for commuters? A: Some might be a bit far for daily commuters to major cities, but they offer a peaceful lifestyle for those who don’t mind a longer commute occasionally.
Q: Are there particular amenities available in these places? A: Depending on the location, amenities might include proximity to lakes, parks, outdoor activities, and access to necessary services like healthcare and shopping.
Q: Which place stands out as the most affordable in New York? A: Celoron is often noted as the most affordable city in New York State, offering a peaceful waterside village with a low cost of living.
Conclusion
In a city known for its high prices, affordable living is within reach. The cheapest places in New York to live offer a chance to experience the city’s unique culture, diversity, and opportunities without breaking the bank. Whether you’re drawn to Brooklyn’s artistic scene, Queens’ hidden gems, or the Bronx’s revitalized neighborhoods, there’s a budget-friendly option waiting for you.
