20 Best Places to Live in New York [2025]

If you’re interested in moving to the Empire State, a state known for its bustling, fast-paced living style and endless opportunity, you’ll be faced with the challenge of figuring out where you’ll want to live. With so many worthy cities to choose from, you might have a hard time narrowing down your options.

Thankfully, we’re here to help you begin your New York apartment search by narrowing down your options and choosing your ideal city. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you learn more about the best places to live in New York and find the best city for you!

1. Albany

• Population: 99,692
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,763
• Median Household Income: $54,736
• Walk Score: 62
• Transit Score: 52
• Bike Score: 55

New York state capital Albany is located 135 miles north of New York City along the west bank of the Hudson River. The Mohicans originally inhabited the city until the Dutch settled in the area and built Fort Nassau. In1797 it became the state capital when the country was formed. Of the original thirteen British colonies, Albany is one of the oldest surviving settlements.

Today, Albany blends a rich history with higher education, culture, commerce, and architecture. Also referred to as the Tri-City Area, Albany comprises smaller metropolitan areas including Schenectady and Troy.

While the downtown area is bustling with life, it is still nothing compared to major metropolitans, like New York City. Instead, Albany is known for having a sort of old-world appeal to it. The city is filled with historical architecture, including the Empire State Plaza and the state capitol building. In terms of residential architecture, in Albany you can find turn-of-the-century brownstones by the rows, all painted in breathtaking colors.

Albany was ranked the #1 Best Places to Live in New York, boasting high value, a strong job market, high quality of life, and peak desirability. In national rankings, the city has been ranked #45 Best Places to Live and #74 Best Places to Retire.

Of the many places in New York to consider, Albany offers a blend of history, higher education, and cultural appeal.

2. Syracuse

• Population: 148,620
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,367
• Median Household Income: $47,525
• Walk Score: 57
• Transit Score: 41
• Bike Score: 48

Syracuse, in Onondaga County, offers residents affordability and proximity to entertainment, making it one of the best places to live in New York for young adults who want a balance of cost and convenience.

Syracuse is historically known for serving as a major crossroads to the country, with the Erie Canal and the railway network. Today, Syracuse is known as being both the educational and economic hub of the area.

Four major colleges can be found in Syracuse, including Le Moyne College, State University of New York (SUNY) College of Environmental Science & Forestry, SUNY Upstate Medical University, and Syracuse University. Syracuse University is the major campus in the city, enrolling over 22,000 students each academic school year.

Central New York is no stranger to cold winters, with 120 inches of snow each year. Although the snow is very much a part of life in Syracuse, you’ll find that the cost of living here can make up for it, especially considering the cost in surrounding areas. cAdditionally, despite being somewhat more affordable than other popular New York cities, Syracuse offers its residents lots of options in terms of entertainment.

Living in Syracuse provides you with the ultimate convenience in terms of location, which is one of its major draws. For wine drinkers, the Finger Lakes region is a short trip away from some of the area's best wineries. Catch a Buffalo Bills game in a three-hour drive, or see the bright lights of New York City in four.

3. Buffalo

• Population: 278,349
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,395
• Median Household Income: $46,458
• Walk Score: 67
• Transit Score: 47
• Bike Score: 63

In Erie County, next to the Canadian border, you’ll find the second-largest city in the state of New York, Buffalo. French settlers began exploring the area in the early 17th century until it was finally incorporated in 1832 following its election as the terminus of the Erie Canal. By the turn of the century, Buffalo became a major transportation hub between the Midwest and the East Coast. While Buffalo saw a decline with the Great Depression, it is on the rise once again.

Experts believe Buffalo is undergoing a renaissance, with the development of one of the country’s most advanced medical corridors and a rapidly developing waterfront. One of the major developments in this area in recent years has been the HarborCenter hockey center.

Residents of Buffalo enjoy its strong neighborly vibe, whether gathering in top-tier restaurants or local pubs sprinkled throughout the city. In comparison to other major cities in New York, the traffic in Buffalo is much more manageable and the streets are lined with trees providing the city with a true suburban feel.

However, that neighborly feel doesn’t take away from the entertainment in Buffalo. If you’re looking for entertainment outside of the city, you can take a quick trip to Niagara Falls which is just 20 miles away. For more adventurous outdoor activities, you can find excellent snow sports, including snowboarding and skiing, less than an hour away.

Overall, for anyone looking at pretty places to live in New York, Buffalo’s charm and community vibe stand out.

4. Rochester

• Population: 211,328
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,475
• Median Household Income: $48,618
• Walk Score: 61
• Transit Score: 41
• Bike Score: 60

The fourth-most populated city in New York is Rochester, which is located in the western region. Rochester experienced rapid population growth, making it one of the country’s first boomtowns. The expansion of Rochester is largely in part of the Genesee River Valley, which became home to several flour mills and eventually manufacturing centers.

More recently, Rochester became a global center for technology, science, research, and development with some of the country’s most iconic companies being born here, including Bausch & Lomb, Xerox, and Eastman Kodak.

Today, Rochester is known as a hub for education and technology, much of which is directly attributed to the presence of numerous internally renowned universities, including the Rochester Institute of Technology and the University of Rochester.

The residents of Rochester tend to be more family-focused and more welcoming than those found downstate, such as in New York City. Whether it be the overall vibe of the city or the fact that many cold, winter days are spent indoors together, Rochester is known for its kind and warm residents.

Homes in downtown Rochester are often original structures dating back more than a century. Others are being renovated for a more modern look. Either way, renters can find anything that fits their style in this uniquely blended region of innovation and history.

5. Long Island

• Population: 1,381,715
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $4,609
• Median Household Income: $137,709
• Walk Score: 95
• Transit Score: 94
• Bike Score: 82

In the southeast region of New York state, you’ll find the densely populated and heavily urbanized Long Island. Four counties make up the island, including Suffolk County, Nassau County, and Kings and Queens counties (known more commonly as Brooklyn and Queens).

When residents of New York refer to Long Island they are speaking primarily about Nassau and Suffolk counties, referring to Brooklyn and Queens as their own entities.

Long Island is the largest and longest island in the contiguous United States at 1,401 square miles. Of New York City, almost half of its residents call Long Island home, specifically in Brooklyn and Queens.

Anyone looking for the perfect combination of entertainment, arts, and nature will find that Long Island might just be the best place to live in New York location for them. The island offers countless villages and towns, numerous hiking trails, two airports, and two Native American reservations.

With its coastal location, Long Island has mild winters compared to New York. However, since it’s located between a humid continental and humid subtropical climate, the summers can be very hot and humid, with thunderstorms occurring semi-regularly. Thankfully, spring and fall in Long Island are beautiful and bring mild weather conditions.

6. White Plains

• Population: 59,421
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $3,800
• Median Household Income: $109,551
• Walk Score: 63
• Transit Score: 50
• Bike Score: 39

The eleventh-largest city in New York is White Plains, which is located in south-central Westchester County. The densely populated inner suburb of New York City has been ranked in the top 10 New York towns. The name, White Plains, is believed to have come from the heavy mist or the groves of white balsam that covered the area in the early 17th century.

White Plains saw significant growth in 1906, with the opening of the Bronx River Parkway. The architectural history of White Plains greatly reflects the American Modernism movement, with many of the businesses built in the downtown region in the 1960s.

Anyone looking for the quiet ease of a suburban lifestyle can look forward to quaint city life in White Plains. Whether you’re looking to work in Manhattan and commute from White Plains or find your work right in the city, there are plenty of options for you. Some of the major employers in White Plains include Danone North America, OrthoNet, and Heineken USA.

Even with a small-town vibe, the city still offers residents plenty to do. You can check out the Cherry trees in full bloom at the J. Harvey Turnure Memorial Park, immerse yourself in modern history at the Garden of Remembrance, or check out some live theater at the White Plains Performing Arts Center.

7. Brooklyn

• Population: 2,736,074
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $3,664
• Median Household Income: $79,912
• Walk Score: 98
• Transit Score: 100
• Bike Score: 84

Kings County, more commonly referred to as Brooklyn, is a borough of New York City that is the most densely populated county in the state, and the second-most in the country, falling second to New York County. You can find Brooklyn along the western end of Long Island. Thankfully, there are plenty of connections to Manhattan from Brooklyn via multiple bridges and tunnel connections.

Brooklyn is one of the best cities to live in New York,* *known for its iconic neighborhoods, many of which you can see in TV shows and movies. Some of the most popular Brooklyn neighborhoods include Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn Heights, Park Slope, Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass (DUMBO), and Williamsburg.

As you can imagine, living in this iconic county comes with a steep price tag. Brooklyn is one of the most expensive places to live in the United States. The one upside to paying such a high cost for your housing in Brooklyn is to be able to take advantage of the countless dining and entertainment options located just steps away. Living in Brooklyn means you will more than likely opt to live a car-free life.

An important thing to remember when opting to live in a densely populated city like Brooklyn is that you’ll need to account for comfortable walking shoes all year round. With four very distinct seasons, you’ll have to remember to find walking shoes for winter, spring, summer, and fall.

8. Manhattan

• Population: 1,579,451
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $5,685
• Median Household Income: $101,078
• Walk Score: 91
• Transit Score: 100
• Bike Score: 74

New York City is made up of five boroughs, including the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, and Manhattan. Often referred to as the “City,” Manhattan is an urban core and the most densely populated borough in New York City. Breaking down the borough even further, you’ll find that Manhattan Island is split into three areas known as Lower Manhattan, Midtown, and Upper Manhattan.

Between the insane traffic, expensive parking rates, and impossible overnight parking options, it’s clear to see that having a car of your own in Manhattan is essentially useless. Thankfully, this can help you save on some monthly expenses, which you’ll definitely need in order to afford your housing costs in this highly sought-after area of New York City.

Manhattan is one of the most walkable places in New York and in the entire country. Also, you can rely on public transportation, including both subway trains and buses, that run all hours of the day and night. Even better, the city is built entirely on a grid system which means if you are transporting by foot it is difficult to get lost.

Some of the most popular Manhattan neighborhoods include Gramercy Park, South of Houston Street (SoHo), and Tribeca. Whichever neighborhood you decide to call home, prepare yourself for some extremely cold winters that can drop as low as 14 degrees. On the opposite range, summers can exceed the 90’s, so make sure your wardrobe can adjust accordingly.

9. Queens

• Population: 2,252,196
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $3,275
• Median Household Income: $82,431
• Walk Score: 63
• Transit Score: 71
• Bike Score: 68

Queens County, more commonly referred to as Queens, is the biggest New York City borough and is located on Long Island. In terms of population, Queens ranks second in the state of New York, only to Kings County, or Brooklyn. One of the most unique features of Queens is that it is one of the most diverse counties in the country as well as one of the most linguistically diverse places on the planet.

Established in 1683, Queens was one of the 12 original counties of the Province of New York. Today, Queens is known for having one of the most diversified economies of New York City. Major economic supporters of Queens include the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, Citi Field, and Flushing Meadows-Corona Park.

Renters will find a wide assortment of options to choose from in Queens. In the eastern region, you’ll find low-rise structures filling neighborhoods. Alternatively, in the central and western areas, there are high-rises, including Long Island City, Astoria, Flushing, Jackson Heights, and Ozone Park.

Since Queens has a significantly lower cost of living, including more affordable housing options than comparable boroughs like Brooklyn and Manhattan, it is a great place for families. Additionally, Queens is known as being one of the safest boroughs of New York City. You can find highly-rated schools in Queens, including Maspeth High School, Martin Luther School, The Windsor School, and Central Queens Academy Charter School, making it one of the best places to live in New York for families.

10. Bronx

• Population: 1,472,654
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,050
• Median Household Income: $47,036
• Walk Score: 93
• Transit Score: 93
• Bike Score: 75

Bronx County, more commonly known as the Bronx, is another New York City borough located just south of Westchester County. Although the Bronx has the third-highest population density of the five New York City boroughs, it is the fourth-highest population and area. Unlike the other boroughs, the Bronx is the only one of New York City that is not primarily located on an island.

With easy access to Manhattan, the Bronx is the perfect blend of ample green space and established arts. Of the New York City boroughs, the Bronx is undoubtedly known for being the most affordable. Some of the safest and most sought-after areas of the Bronx include Riverdale, Morris Park, and Country Club.

Many residents save money by living in the Bronx. For example, you can anticipate a lower cost by nearly 15% to that of surrounding areas on things such as groceries. Thankfully, there’s also a healthy job market to match, with some of the major industries in the Bronx being healthcare, retail, and foodservice.

The Bronx is home to the Fulton Fish Market, which was originally established in 1822 near the Brooklyn Bridge, but has since moved as of 2005 to the Bronx. This fish market is known as being the largest in the country and second-largest in the world, covering over 400,000 square feet of warehouse space.

11. Alexandria Bay

• Population: 1,131
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,050
• Median Household Income: $50,714
• Walk Score: 58
• Transit Score: -
• Bike Score: 33

Nestled along the St. Lawrence River, Alexandria Bay is one of the most beautiful places in New York for those who love the water and the outdoors. Known for Boldt Castle, an opulent estate on Heart Island, the town offers a unique blend of history and scenic beauty that captivates both locals and visitors alike. Living here means you’re surrounded by natural beauty year-round, with endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and exploring the nearby islands. Summer is peak season, with lively waterfront restaurants, festivals, and local events drawing crowds, but the off-season gives the town a quieter, close-knit feel.

Rent in Alexandria Bay is affordable compared to New York’s larger towns, making it attractive for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle in a beautiful setting. Winters are peaceful but can be cold, so residents are well-prepared with cozy community gatherings and indoor events. Local schools are well-regarded, and the town has a welcoming, small-town vibe, making it ideal for families and retirees.

If you enjoy a friendly community, scenic views, and small-town charm with easy access to the outdoors, Alexandria Bay offers a truly unique place to call home.

12. Skaneateles

• Population: 2,539
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,076
• Median Household Income: $117,976
• Walk Score: 67
• Transit Score: -
• Bike Score: 46

Nestled in the Finger Lakes region, Skaneateles is one of the best places to live in upstate New York. With its crystal-clear lake and vibrant downtown, it has long been a haven for residents looking for a peaceful yet active lifestyle. The town is home to Skaneateles Lake, known for its pristine water and perfect for swimming, boating, and paddleboarding in the summer. The historic downtown area is lined with charming shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes, giving it a quaint, welcoming vibe. Throughout the year, you’ll find the city hosting popular events like the Skaneateles Festival and a Dickens Christmas.

The real draw here, however, is the quality of life. With top-rated schools, low crime rates, and a variety of local businesses, Skaneateles is an attractive choice for families. The town is quiet in the winter, but the beauty of the lake in every season adds to the overall appeal. While rents are higher due to the town’s desirability, the investment is worthwhile for those who value scenic surroundings, strong community connections, and a lifestyle centered around nature and recreation. Skaneateles is the ideal spot for anyone seeking the charm of a lakeside town with plenty of character and class.

13. Smithtown

• Population: 25,629
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $3,243
• Median Household Income: $146,506
• Walk Score: 23
• Transit Score: -
• Bike Score: 29

On Long Island’s north shore, Smithtown’s suburban neighborhoods and parks make it ideal for those looking for a beautiful place in New York that balances suburban comfort and city access. With a mix of suburban neighborhoods, scenic parks, and waterfront access, it’s the perfect place for those who want the best of both worlds: easy access to New York City and the tranquility of suburban life.

Residents enjoy spending time in Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, where you can hike, fish, and enjoy nature, as well as the Smithtown Landing Country Club. For families, the local school districts are among the best in Suffolk County, making it a popular choice for those prioritizing education.

Smithtown’s downtown area has a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, adding to its appeal as a charming place to live. For those who want a peaceful, suburban lifestyle without giving up the convenience of city access, Smithtown provides an excellent balance of both worlds.

14. Margaretville

• Population: 656
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,500
• Median Household Income: $36,750
• Walk Score: 49
• Transit Score: -
• Bike Score: 16

Margaretville, located in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, is the perfect escape for those who love nature and small-town charm. This quaint village offers stunning mountain views, making it ideal for anyone seeking a slower pace and close connection to the outdoors.

The East Branch of the Delaware River runs through town, and there are countless trails nearby for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Residents enjoy the picturesque countryside while still having access to local amenities like shops, cafes, and farmer’s markets.

The town has plenty of local events, a cozy arts scene, and a vibrant food culture with restaurants that embrace locally sourced ingredients. Winters can be chilly, but the warmth of the community more than makes up for it, making Margaretville a delightful place to call home for outdoor lovers and anyone drawn to the charm of mountain living.

15. Hunter

• Population: 300
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $5,900
• Median Household Income: $49,844
• Walk Score: 32
• Transit Score: -
• Bike Score: 20

Hunter is a scenic mountain town nestled in the northern Catskills, renowned for its outdoor recreational opportunities and relaxed mountain lifestyle. The town is best known for Hunter Mountain, one of New York’s premier ski resorts, which draws visitors from across the state for skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing in the winter.

In the summer, Hunter is a haven for hikers, with trails that offer stunning views of the Catskills, as well as festivals like the popular Mountain Jam and Oktoberfest events.

Life in Hunter is all about embracing the outdoors, but the community also offers unique local amenities like charming bed-and-breakfasts, restaurants, and artisan shops.

While Hunter has a smaller year-round population, the community makes it easy for newcomers to settle in. Rentals are relatively affordable, though availability can be limited due to the town’s popularity with vacationers. Hunter’s breathtaking scenery, combined with its friendly, laid-back atmosphere, makes it an ideal place for those who crave mountain living and a strong sense of community.

16. Lake Placid

• Population: 2,205
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,083
• Median Household Income: $53,475
• Walk Score: 63
• Transit Score: -
• Bike Score: 16

[Lake Placid](https://www.apartmentlist.com/ny/lake-placid\), famous for hosting the Winter Olympics twice, is a picturesque Adirondack village with endless outdoor activities and a vibrant local culture. The town’s Olympic heritage is still a major draw, with residents and visitors alike enjoying activities at the Lake Placid Olympic Center and nearby Whiteface Mountain for skiing and snowboarding. Summers in Lake Placid are equally enticing, with hiking, fishing, and kayaking in the Adirondack Mountains, as well as Ironman competitions and arts festivals.

Local schools and healthcare facilities are well-regarded, and the town’s shops, cafes, and restaurants offer a variety of options, from casual to upscale. Lake Placid’s blend of natural beauty, sporting heritage, and small-town charm makes it an exceptional place to live.

17. New Rochelle

• Population: 83,742
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: [$2,529](https://www.apartmentlist.com/ny/new-rochelle\)
• Median Household Income: $100,542
• Walk Score: 64
• Transit Score: 42
• Bike Score: 47

New Rochelle, located in Westchester County just north of New York City, offers a balance of urban amenities and suburban comfort. Known for its excellent schools, diverse neighborhoods, and thriving arts scene, New Rochelle is a desirable place for families, young professionals, and retirees.

The city is home to a variety of recreational options, including Glen Island Park, with its beaches and picnic areas, and New Roc City, an entertainment complex with restaurants, an arcade, and even a bowling alley.

Rentals in New Rochelle has a range of options, from apartments to spacious homes, but prices can be on the higher side due to the city’s proximity to New York City.

For commuters, the Metro-North train offers a quick ride into Manhattan, making New Rochelle popular with those working in the city.

18. Yonkers

• Population: 211,569
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,743
• Median Household Income: $81,097
• Walk Score: 69
• Transit Score: 53
• Bike Score: 37

As New York’s fourth-largest city, Yonkers offers the appeal of a major city with the charm of smaller neighborhoods and a vibrant downtown waterfront. Located just north of the Bronx, Yonkers has easy access to New York City while providing a more relaxed lifestyle with lower housing costs. The city has a rich history, with attractions like the Hudson River Museum and the historic Untermyer Gardens Conservancy, where residents can enjoy arts and nature.

Yonkers is known for its family-friendly environment, with excellent schools and plenty of green spaces, including Tibbetts Brook Park and Sprain Ridge Park. Housing options range from apartments to single-family homes, with new developments revitalizing the downtown area.

The waterfront has been transformed with restaurants, shops, and outdoor spaces, making it a great spot for dining or a weekend stroll. Yonkers is perfect for those who want the benefits of city living but with a touch of suburban charm and a strong sense of community.

19. Schenectady

• Population: 159,902
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,448
• Median Household Income: $75,056
• Walk Score: 62
• Transit Score: 38
• Bike Score: 48

Schenectady, in New York’s Capital District, offers a blend of rich history, a growing arts scene, and a lower cost of living, making it a hidden gem for residents looking for affordability and culture.

Known for its connection to the founding of General Electric, Schenectady has evolved into a vibrant community with historic architecture, especially in the Stockade District, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the country. The Proctors Theatre is a local gem, hosting Broadway shows and concerts, and adding to the city’s cultural allure.

While Schenectady is smaller than nearby Albany, it has a revitalized downtown with a variety of restaurants, breweries, and shops, as well as scenic views along the Mohawk River. The local job market is diverse, with opportunities in technology, healthcare, and education, especially with Union College nearby.

20. Binghamton

• Population: 46,927
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,121
• Median Household Income: $42,031
• Walk Score: 55
• Transit Score: -
• Bike Score: 51

Finally, we have Binghamton, located in New York’s Southern Tier, which is a city with a small-town vibe and a low cost of living, making it ideal for families and young professionals. Known as the “Carousel Capital of the World,” Binghamton has six historic carousels, offering unique, family-friendly entertainment.

Binghamton University is one of the town’s major employers, giving the area a youthful energy and helping support a local economy with job opportunities in education, healthcare, and technology.

While Binghamton has cold winters, the city is surrounded by natural beauty, including the nearby Finger Lakes and the Catskills for weekend getaways. Downtown Binghamton has a growing arts scene with galleries, theaters, and unique dining options.

Final Thoughts - Where Should I Move to in New York?

No matter what you are looking for in New York, whether it be incredible historic architecture in Rochester or a laid-back beach lifestyle like that of Long Island, there's something for everyone. That being said, it’s important to note that living in New York can be pretty expensive as the state ranks as the fifth most expensive state in the country.

So, if you are interested in moving to New York, there’s no time like now to start your research. First, find out more information about the cost of living in New York. Next, register with Apartment List today and start checking out the thousands of available apartments to rent in New York!