The ten Greatest Locations to Reside in New York in 2025

In the event you’re planning on shifting to New York, add these cities to your listing.

From the bustle of New York Metropolis to the whispers of the Adirondack Mountains, New York has hundreds of thousands of individuals and issues to do. However regardless of its inhabitants and popularity, the state is largely 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 usually 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 dwelling to the commercial hubs of Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo. Furthest south are New York Metropolis and Lengthy Island. Since practically half of the state’s inhabitants lives in and round NYC, most individuals merely name something north of the 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 this 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 most effective locations to stay in New York, rating them on qualities akin to affordability, navigability, and variety of facilities. Yow will discover extra details about our methodology right here or on the backside of the article.

1. Buffalo, NY

Buffalo tops our listing as the most effective place to stay in New York. An Upstate icon identified for its sports activities, trade, and deep snow, Buffalo gives a superb 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 every day life in Buffalo. Chilly Canadian air and loads of Lake Erie moisture often creates “lake-effect” storms that may produce toes of snow, which might be harmful. Snow normally 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 way of and thru. It was an industrial powerhouse for practically 200 years, primarily for metal manufacturing and grain transport. Nonetheless, like most Rust Belt cities, Buffalo’s financial system and inhabitants declined within the Thirties-60s, and as we speak, many buildings are deserted. 

Nonetheless, over the previous 10+ years, the town has begun remodeling itself. Deserted industrial areas are turning into hubs for breweries, lofts, and quirky retailers. The historic waterfront is getting a full 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 latest development, Buffalo has remained comparatively reasonably priced. However individuals have began taking discover. Demand has shot up for the reason that pandemic on account of comparatively reasonably priced housing and a sturdy 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

New York Metropolis. The Huge Apple. A world 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 complete metropolitan space, New York has over 23 million residents, making it the most important metropolis within the U.S. and sixth-largest on this planet. So, after all, it made Redfin’s listing. 

Due to its age and measurement, New York comprises a little bit of the whole lot. 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 traditional bagel retailers. Locals will let you know the place to seek out the most effective bagel and schmear.

Dwelling in New York means getting used to crowds, noise, personalities, and a metropolis that by no means sleeps. Many residents desire it that manner. Prime-tier public transit and a walkable format means most individuals get round through 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 most costly within the nation, and rents can skyrocket into the hundreds of thousands. Manhattan is by far probably the most costly borough, highlighted by the Hudson Yards and TriBeCa neighborhoods, whereas different boroughs are extra reasonably priced. 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

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 remodeling right into a hip, reasonably priced 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 function 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 the whole lot you need with out the crowds, worth, or noise. In the present day, it’s referred to as 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 fashioned 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 continues to be celebrated as we speak. 

The realm’s local weather is mostly nice, with chilly winters and heat, muggy summers. Like Buffalo, Rochester can see heavy lake-effect snow. Plus, as a result of Lake Ontario is deep and infrequently freezes, it produces snow even in late winter. 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

One of many snowiest cities within the nation, Syracuse is available in at quantity 4 on our listing of the most effective locations to stay in New York. A main commerce hub that rose on the success of salt manufacturing, Syracuse noticed its inhabitants dwindle within the Fifties on account of industrial change, city renewal, and racial inequity. This helped present the picture that the town was previous its prime. In the present day, 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 new neighborhood, in hopes of uplifting a segregated portion of the town.

In the present day, affordability, comfort, group, and out of doors entry are among the many metropolis’s finest 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 chew at Pink Chili, Pastabilities, or Sturdy 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 normally 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. 

Syracuse properties on the market | Syracuse homes for lease | Syracuse flats for lease

5. Mount Vernon, NY

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 quite a lot of development and funding. The brand new Stadium at Memorial Area and The Bayou restaurant are a number of the finest locations to see. And maybe the most effective a part of dwelling in Mount Vernon is the simple entry to NYC. You possibly can simply commute into city through the Harlem or New Haven trains.

In 1890, the town was break up in half by the “Lower” – a railroad monitor constructed into an enormous trench alongside First Avenue. This challenge actually and figuratively divided the town, making a wealthier north facet and poorer south facet. Even with latest authorities funding by way of renewed bridges and artwork installations, this divide persists. The south facet additionally continues to cope with sewage overflows due to crumbling infrastructure, though there may be funding to exchange it. Localized flooding close to the Bronx or Hutchinson Rivers is feasible.

Though it’s primarily residential, Mount Vernon has fairly a couple of 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 should journey round Westchester County for a greater variety of actions.

Mount Vernon properties on the market | Mount Vernon homes for lease | Mount Vernon flats for lease

6. Tonawanda, NY

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 comfy 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. Trade dominates between Army Highway and the river. WWII fighter planes have been constructed at a manufacturing unit on Vulcan Avenue, however together with many different factories, it closed down after the warfare.

In the event you’re on the lookout for groceries, retailers, or a bit to eat, yow 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 through the model new Empire State Path, which spans 750 miles throughout the complete state. Opened in 2020, the path runs from Buffalo to Albany and NYC to Champlain, offering days of uninterrupted working, 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 Sizzling Canine when you’re out. 

Tonawanda properties on the market | Tonawanda homes for lease | Tonawanda flats for lease 

7. Yonkers, NY

Yonkers, a quintessential NYC suburb, is available in at quantity seven on our listing. Yonkers covers a big space simply north of the Bronx, between the Hudson River and historic Bronx River Parkway. The town is dwelling to the whole lot, from fashionable flats alongside the revitalized riverfront, to tree-lined neighborhoods lined with colonial homes. It’s widespread for residents who stay in Yonkers to work within the large metropolis. 

One of many main tasks the town just 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. In the present day, although, the river runs freely by way of 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 every 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. 

Nonetheless, a draw back is the difficult every day commute. Only one practice (the Hudson Line) runs by way of city, so that you’ll seemingly want a automobile to get round. Sadly, site visitors could be tough when you determine to drive, and its hilly topography can flip walks right into a exercise, too.

Yonkers properties on the market | Yonkers homes for lease | Yonkers flats for lease

8. Hempstead, NY

The City of Hempstead, normally shortened to simply Hempstead, is a Nassau County suburb simply east of Queens. Hempstead is definitely probably the most populous “city” 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 might trigger confusion. 

Hempstead is previous and large, settled in 1644 and spanning from Previous Nation Highway all the way in which to the Atlantic Coast. So it’s no surprise 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 common 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

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 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 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 as we speak is anchored by Pearl Avenue, the Empire State Plaza, and the New York State Capitol. Brownstones line each block, some dwelling 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 highest 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 workplaces on the town. Don’t neglect in regards to the quick access 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

Located simply east of Mount Vernon, New Rochelle is a gorgeous metropolis located on the sting of Lengthy Island Sound. Walkable streets, waterfront views, massive parks, and quick access to NYC through 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 Metropolis of the Sound,” New Rochelle has undergone super modifications over the previous 5 years, specifically, progress on a $4 billion redevelopment of the downtown hall. 10,000 new housing items, hip eating places, procuring facilities, parks, and way more are on the horizon. Nonetheless, it’s a preferred spot to stay, which is a part of why it’s dearer than close by Westchester County cities. 

A lot of the metropolis’s hotspots are positioned alongside historic Important 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 Seashore, and Glen Island Park. In brief, you’ll at all times 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 Reside rankings are supposed to assist dwelling searchers make an knowledgeable determination when selecting the place to stay. To aim 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 house, navigability, housing tendencies, employment statistics, revenue, and journey time to work. Solely metros with a inhabitants of fifty,000 or higher have been thought-about for our New York listing. Extra details about our methodology could be discovered right here.

Knowledge legitimate January 2025. This text is for informational and academic functions solely.