Considering living in New York? The Empire State frequently ranks among the top five most expensive states in the U.S., with the average house price in New York around $500,000 and average monthly rent about $2,700. But if you’re willing to live outside of New York City, it’s easier to find budget-friendly living! Check out these nine most affordable places to live in Upstate New York.
Albany
- Population: 96,860
- Home Price: $186,800 median purchase price; $992 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 2% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 4.3%
Located along the banks of the Hudson River, Albany is one of the best places to live in New York! Once a fur trading post, New York’s capital city is now an epicenter for jobs in technology, healthcare, commerce, and transportation, drawing professionals from all over due to the presence of the Capital District. Local Albany colleges, such as the University at Albany and Maria College, also see a steady influx of students, prompting residents to develop more business and entertainment districts to retain talent and grow the city’s young population! Thanks to initiatives like first‑time homebuyer programs, down-payment assistance, and home repair grants, many residents can find affordable housing in Albany—even with modest incomes.
Things to Do in Albany
Take a tour, marvel at the original 19th-century architecture, and see the state’s legislative chambers at the New York State Capitol. Walk among over 100,000 tulips, listen to live music, and shop from talented craft vendors at one of the most-loved events in New York, the Albany Tulip Festival. Get tickets to see comedy acts, dance performances, and music shows of all kinds at The Egg. Sign up for golf lessons or play a round of 18 holes at the Capital Hills at Albany golf course. Grab a seat on the garden patio and enjoy some of the best breakfast in Albany, featuring favorites like the John Denver, Bacado Omelet, or Gluten-Free Pancakes all day at Iron Gate Cafe. Experience traditional Turkish and Mediterranean food in Albany with Carrot Tarator, the Kofte Kabob Platter, or a Chicken Gyro Wrap at Spinning Gyro. Order from a wide selection of wines to accompany a Wagyu NY Strip or Sicilian Style Veal Rack Chop with Triple Butter Potato Puree on the side at 677 Prime. Or make a reservation to indulge in Pollo Pesto or Pasta All’amatriciana, accompanied by a Sicilian Cannoli for dessert at Villa di Como Ristorante.
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Buffalo
- Population: 255,805
- Home Price: $101,000 median purchase price; $801 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 11% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 4.5%
Recognized as one of the most affordable cities in the U.S., Buffalo is the place to plant roots if you’re looking to live affordably in New York. Singles, young professionals, and families will be happy to find that the cost of living in Buffalo is 31% lower than the New York average, and housing is 36% lower than the national average, making it one of the best cities for real estate in the U.S.! Also, as the second-largest city in the state, it offers numerous excellent public schools and private schools in the area, as well as quality higher education at the University at Buffalo. Some safe, affordable neighborhoods in Buffalo, such as Allentown, Tonawanda, and West Seneca, offer the highest savings with a relaxed lifestyle.
Things to Do in Buffalo
Cheer on the Buffalo Sabres (NHL) as they shoot last-second goals against their opponents at KeyBank Center. Attend fun events like Zoomagination, meet bison and rhinos, and see hundreds of other animals—including polar bears, red pandas, and giraffes—during a visit to the Buffalo Zoo. Explore outer space, dive in to your senses, and say “hello!” to Seymour the Mastodon and Stanley the Albertosaurus at the Buffalo Museum of Science. Stroll beautiful rows of poinsettias, feed the Koi fish, and take horticulture classes at the Buffalo Botanical Gardens. Relax with a fine meal of a New York Strip Steak, Oysters on the Halfshell, or Jambalaya Pasta at Hutch’s. Pull out a chair and enjoy Fried Coconut Shrimp, Hot Meatball Subs, or world-famous Original Buffalo Chicken Wings—invented here—at Anchor Bar. Dine in or find their Buffalo food truck to order an El Camino Bowl or Tricked Out Nachos with an Aztec Brownie for dessert at Lloyd Taco Factory. Or fill up on the best BBQ in Buffalo with Blackened Catfish, Brisket + Ribs, or a Pulled Chicken Sandwich at Fat Bob’s Smokehouse.
Hornell
- Population: 8,274
- Home Price: $67,100 median purchase price; $629 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 25% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 4.8%
If you’re looking for a small, quiet town, Hornell might be for you. Nicknamed “Maple City” for the abundance of maple trees that once grew there, this town is a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path destination. Hornell is a great place to raise a family due to its excellent safety rating and numerous green spaces and waterways nearby, such as Union Square Park and Veterans Memorial Park, which offer plenty of outdoor fun. If you’re thinking of moving to the City of Hornell, you’ll be happy to know that it’s one of the most affordable places to live in New York—the cost of living is 16% lower than the state average, with housing prices more than 50% lower than the national average!
Things to Do in Hornell
Explore Hornell’s railway past with a memorial, mementos, and art at the Hornell Erie Depot Museum. Challenge friends or family to rounds of bowling, play arcade games, or stop by for karaoke at Maple City Bowl. Practice your swing on the driving range, tee off in virtual games, or play a real round of 18-hole golf at Hornell Golf Club. Go boating or tent camping in Hornell, or rent a cabin for the weekend at nearby Kanakadea Park. Start your day with mouthwatering sips of coffee, including a signature Red Eye or Iced Latte paired with a Chocolate Chip Scone at Brandy’s Cup of Joe. Grab an Italian Sub, Hot Beef Salad, Taco Dog, and other great food in Hornell at Andy’s Sub Shop. Relax in a homey atmosphere to enjoy a Shepherd’s Pie or a 12 oz. Delmonico, while sipping one of the 30 beers on tap at Paddy’s Pub & Grill. Or sample drinks like Dark Rails, Kolsch, or Spiced Red Ale brewed in-house at the Hornell brewery, RailHead Brewing Company.
Ilion
- Population: 7,766
- Home Price: $80,900 median purchase price; $634 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 25% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.4%
Near the center of New York state is the historic village of Ilion, a community known not only for its roots in American manufacturing but also for its affordable small-town lifestyle. Once home to Eliphalet Remington II, whose early 19th-century armory grew into Remington Arms Company, the area continues to benefit from steady local employment. Today, Ilion attracts residents seeking budget-friendly living paired with a quiet, suburban atmosphere. With community spots like the Ilion Marina & RV Park and educational opportunities through Barringer Road Elementary School and the Central Valley School District, parents enjoy raising kids here. New York families will especially appreciate the close-knit feel, supportive neighbors, and the ability to carve out a comfortable lifestyle without big-city costs.
Things to Do in Ilion
Spend some time at the driving range or playing nine holes while enjoying the lovely views at Doty’s Golf Course. Bring your kids to climb monkey bars, ride slides, or sit down for a family picnic at Montgomery Street Playground. Show off your acting skills or attend shows like Goodbye Charlie, Dear Jack, Dear Louise, and Murder on the Orient Express at The Ilion Little Theatre. Go hiking, walk your dog, or meet up with family and friends at Russell Park. Savor fresh slices of Ilion pizza, including a Cheese, Garlic, or Upside-Down Pizza with Bosco Sticks at Sorrento Pizzeria & Restaurant. Order up healthy, feel-good eats like a Berry Acai, Southwest Salad, or the signature Thunder Stacker at SHOOK. Relax with a Fish Fry, Rachel Sandwich, or Buffalo Chicken Salad at Crossway’s Bar and Grill. Or visit an Italian Ilion restaurant for tasty specialties like the Grama C Sub, House Chicken Parm, and Cacciatore’s Carbonara at Cacciatore’s Italian Steakhouse & Primo Pizzeria.
Ogdensburg
- Population: 10,559
- Home Price: $71,100 median purchase price; $591 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 41% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.2%
Separated from Canada by the Ogdensburg–Prescott International Bridge, Ogdensburg is one of the most affordable places in New York—offering excellent scenery, a welcoming community, and plenty of opportunities. With a cost of living approximately 10% below the national average, residents often find their housing and everyday expenses stretch further here. At the same time, the city’s many green spaces, waterfront activities, and community events, like the annual Ogdensburg International Seaway Festival, make it feel much larger. Plus, local jobs at companies like Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center, local schools like Madill Elementary, and the City of Ogdensburg give even young professionals a chance to settle down without breaking the bank.
Things to Do in Ogdensburg
See paintings and bronzes from Frederic Remington, along with exhibits centering renowned artists like Sally James Farnham and Addie Priest Newell at the Frederic Remington Art Museum. Go camping, canoeing, and have a barbecue at nearby Eel Weir State Park. Play a nine-hole game and admire sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River at St. Lawrence State Park Golf Course. Rent a boat to take out onto the Oswegatchie River, buy fishing supplies, and visit the Smuggler’s Cafe at Hosmer’s Marina. Enjoy live entertainment while dining on Cedar Plank Salmon, Honey Bourbon Steak Tips, or Pasta Alla Vodka at the Gran View on the River, a restaurant located inside The Inn at Gran View. Unwind with warm plates of Deep Fried Shrimp, the Hot Beef Sandwich, or a Boom Boom Burger at the family-owned Phillips Diner. Try fresh Mexican food in Ogdensburg, such as a Balsamic Chicken Quesadilla, Peach Bourbon Tacos, or Beef Enchiladas at The Dirty Gringo. Or sit down for a delicious Turkey Bacon Ranch Panini, The Royale Burger, or a Chicken Philly at cozy eatery, The Bayside Grill.
Olean
- Population: 13,580
- Home Price: $76,700 median purchase price; $640 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 32% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 4.2%
Olean is a hub for finance, business, and entertainment in Cattaraugus County offering residents low costs and affordable housing in New York that’s much lower than most major cities. Young professionals are drawn to it, not only for its low unemployment and job openings in Olean with industries like construction, manufacturing, and education, but also for the ability to live securely at a low cost. Families flock to this city due to its high safety ratings and public schools in Olean, such as Washington West Elementary and Olean High School. Olean is also within 40 minutes of several beautiful natural areas like Allegheny National Forest, Golden Hill State Forest, and McCarty Hill State Forest. And with easy day-trip access to big city Buffalo, Olean offers both affordability and great quality of life.
Things to Do in Olean
See the giant rock formations of the world’s largest quartz conglomerate or hike scenic trails at Rock City Park. Go bowling, play arcade games, or join a volleyball league at Good Times of Olean. Check out roller hockey, go ice skating, or swim in the pool at Olean Recreation Center. Appreciate views from Munich-style windows, sit in quiet reflection, or take a self-guided tour of the historic Olean landmark, Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels. Call yourself a carnivore and fill up on the Beefeater’s Julienne Salad, Chargrilled Chicken Breast, or a Porterhouse Steak at Beef ‘N’ Barrel. Come to a top-rated Greek restaurant in New York for dinner specials like Tandoori Chicken Tikka, Chicken Curry, and Chili Rubbed Salmon at Brother’s Bistro. Bite into authentic Asian food in Olean with a Shiso Salmon Poke Bowl, Hibachi Steak, or Mixed Vegetable Teriyaki from Arctic Bite. Or learn about the process of brewing beer while sampling a Marzen Lager, Allegheny IPA, or Allegewi DIPA at Four Mile Brewing.
Rome
- Population: 32,217
- Home Price: $101,200 median purchase price; $779 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 62% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 2.2%
With affordable home prices, a low unemployment rate, and a crime rate lower than most New York cities, Rome offers a stable and budget-friendly lifestyle in Central New York. The birthplace of the Erie Canal and a former key transportation hub, New York’s Copper City has a rich American history that’s shown in its many historical attractions. Since then, Rome has grown into an affordable, welcoming community where residents enjoy easy access to local restaurants, entertainment, schools, and over 25 parks, including Haselton Park, Guyer Park, and Franklyn’s Field.
Things to Do in Rome
Step back in time and explore Revolutionary War history through reenactments, films, and exhibits like A Forgotten Civil War: The Revolution in the Mohawk Valley at Fort Stanwix National Monument. Bring the family to watch daily animal shows with snakes, wolves, and capybaras, or enjoy fun fall days with tractor pulls and pumpkin decorating at Fort Rickey Discovery Zoo. Play a relaxing round of 18-hole golf and enjoy scenic greens at the four-star public course at Rome Country Club. Catch a rotating schedule of concerts, comedy shows, and classic films like It’s a Wonderful Life inside the historic Capitol Theatre. Try out Teddy’s Favorites for lunch in Rome, such as the delicious Sicilian Kiss Sandwich, “Big Daddy” Chicken Sandwich, or Salmon Club at the family-oriented Teddy’s Restaurant. Savor authentic Mexican cuisine, including Pollo Salad, Cheese Nachos, and Steak Ranchero at El Jarocho Mexican Restaurant and Bar. Dig in to Italian food in Rome with flavorful entrees like Haddock Francaise and Chicken Riggies, or try a signature brick oven Margherita Pizza at Dicastro’s Brick Oven. Or make dinner reservations for Bucatini Carbonara, Brown Butter Betty, or Honey Pork Tenderloin at Contemporary diner, Sugarbeets.
[nearby_stores map=’0′ lat=’39.7627782′ lng=’-81.5983895′]Syracuse
- Population: 142,553
- Home Price: $95,800 median purchase price; $830 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 3% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 5.4%
If you’re looking for larger, yet still affordable cities in New York, consider Syracuse! Located in the heart of Upstate New York, Salt City has become a popular area for young professionals looking to build careers and raise families. This is thanks in part to the low cost of living in Syracuse, which is 97.4% less expensive than New York, with housing costs over 51% lower than the national average. Additionally, for those interested in pursuing a degree, this city is home to Syracuse University and nationally recognized liberal arts school Le Moyne College. There are also numerous fun annual events in Syracuse, including The Great New York State Fair and Syracuse Winterfest.
Things to Do in Syracuse
Go shopping in Syracuse at over 250 stores—including local outlets like Larger Than Life Toys & Comics and Rainbow Zen—or ride the Antique Carousel at mega mall Destiny USA. Interact with penguins and elephants, visit the aquarium and wildlife trail, and see amazing animals such as Amur leopards, Komodo dragons, and fennec foxes at 43-acre Rosamond Gifford Zoo. Admire ceramic and painting collections, attend Artist Talk events, or take art classes at Everson Museum of Art. Discover fun nightlife, wonderful restaurants, and engaging activities in Syracuse, including the Museum of Science & Technology in Armory Square. Wake up to a warm Syracuse breakfast featuring Homefries Poutine, Korean Pork Belly Benedict, and a BYO Crepe at Rise N Shine Diner. Pick up homemade pasta with Pesto Fredo, Wicked Chicken Riggies, or Spicy Bolo for lunch at Pastabilities. Indulge in Bar-B-Que Chicken Wings or a Prime Brisket Slider with sides of Mac & Cheese and Simmered Greens at the original location of the popular New York chain, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. Or enjoy a vintage atmosphere with comfort foods such as Chicken Pastina Soup, a Brooklyn Burger, or the Chicken Parmesan Sandwich at Stella’s Diner.
Utica
- Population: 59,984
- Home Price: $102,400 median purchase price; $750 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 24% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 4%
Utica is an affordable Mohawk Valley city boasting reasonable home prices and a local economy supported by key industries in healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Originally incorporated around Fort Schuyler as an Erie Canal trade hub, Utica grew through textiles and manufacturing, as well as its status as a transit nexus. This Upstate New York city, known for its rich culture, boasts over 40 languages and 50 nationalities, represented in its diverse food and entertainment scenes. The City of Utica is also a great place to pursue higher education at New York universities, including Utica University, Mohawk Valley Community College, and SUNY Polytechnic Institute. Thanks to its lower cost of living and affordable housing resources for low-income residents living in Utica, settling down comfortably is inexpensive.
Things to Do in Utica
View rotating exhibitions, attend lectures, and explore vast collections of decorative arts, paintings, and paper ephemera at the Munson. Spend quality time with family while seeing over 200 animals in enclosures like African Ridge, Forever Forests, and Scales & Tails at the Utica Zoo. Cheer on the Utica Comets (AHL) as they make puck slapshots across the ice at Adirondack Bank Center. Watch concerts, Broadway-style shows, and live performances in the beautifully restored Stanley Theatre. Reserve a spot for farm-to-table brunch in Utica, featuring specials like Eggs Benedict, Monte Cristo Sandwiches, and Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding at The Tailor and the Cook. Experience comfort food favorites inspired by the city, including Utica Greens, Chicken Riggies, and The Utica Sunday Sandwich at It’s a Utica Thing! Kitchen & Bar. Order fresh, elevated Utica seafood like Blackened Ahi Tuna, Baked Stuffed Haddock, and Seared Jumbo Scallops at the upscale Ocean Blue Restaurant + Oyster Bar. Or dine on specialty New York steaks with Filet Mignon, Filet Portabella, and New York Strip Sirloin at Delmonico’s Italian Steakhouse.
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City statistics from AreaVibes
The goal of Extra Space Storage’s Best Places to Live selections is to help diverse audiences at varying stages of life make informed decisions about where to live. To provide a well-rounded and accurate view of each metro area, we consider factors like cost of living, job market, local attractions, education, and more. Learn more about our methodology today.
