PROPERTYSPARK ARTICLE

The Best Cities for Home Buying in NY

Learn where it’s smart to settle down in New York to get the most bang for your buck.

Author: Sarah Hollenbeck

When you think of New York, your mind probably immediately goes to New York City. Skyscrapers, docks, Central Park. It’s natural, with New York City being the largest in the state and one of the biggest cities in the world. However, it may surprise you (or not) that it doesn’t even make the top 10 cities for home buying in the state. So, what cities did make the list?

#1 Rochester

Rochester is one of the most business-friendly cities in New York. It is also an amazing small town with lower housing prices. These days, it’s becoming increasingly harder to find a city like this that’s the best of both worlds. The average value of a Rochester home is $194,665, with a property value gain over 10 years of 54.49% Rochester is also in the top ten of the most hike and bike-friendly cities in New York! Pet owners will be happy to hear that Rochester is a great city for dogs, too! In total, there are 21 pet-friendly businesses and 66 pet-friendly restaurants all around Rochester. There are also three dog parks in town, more than enough considering the small size of the city.

Aside from Rochester, there are a number of other cities in New York that are great options for those looking to move. Here are just a few to keep in mind when you’re making your decision.

 Average home value – $194,665
Property value gain (over 10 years) – 54.49%
Walkability – 65
Bike score – 61
Percent of property crime (compared to population) – 4.90%
Pet-friendly restaurants – 66

#2 Syracuse

Out of all of the cities that were studied, Syracuse placed 6th for the most affordable home values. The property values in Syracuse have also increased a fair amount, 53% over the past ten years. A great, pet-friendly city, you’re sure to love the fifth most populated city in New York state.

 Average home value – $150,641
Property value gain (over 10 years) – 52.8%
Walkability – 60
Bike score – 50
Percent of property crime (compared to population) – 4.57%
Pet-friendly restaurants – 33

#3 Kingston

Kingston is a small town on the Hudson River, not far away from New York City. Kingston has good property value gains and a vibrant downtown area, hosting entertainment and restaurants that’ll keep you busy.

 Average home value – $343,847
Property value gain (over 10 years) – 70.22%
Walkability – 57
Bike score – 53
Percent of property crime (compared to population) – 3.06%
Pet-friendly restaurants – 15

#4 Niagara Falls

Out of all of the cities studied, Niagara Falls was the third-cheapest to buy a home in all of New York. Outside of housing prices, Niagara Falls has a low cost of living and of course, the waterfalls. However, Niagara Falls did have the highest level of property crime among all 100 cities studied.

 Average home value – $135,077
Property value gain (over 10 years) – 85.83%
Walkability – 49
Bike score – 55
Percent of property crime (compared to population) – 5.96%
Pet-friendly restaurants -12

#5 Buffalo

Behind New York City, Buffalo is the second-most populated city in New York. With an average home price south of $200K, Buffalo has seen its property values rise 137% over the past ten years. It’s an extremely bike-friendly and walkable city, making getting around easy for anyone.

 Average home value – $195,767
Property value gain (over 10 years) – 136.97%
Walkability – 68
Bike score – 55
Percent of property crime (compared to population) – 4.91
Pet-friendly restaurants -12

See the full list at:

https://www.hippo.com/blog/best-places-to-buy-a-house-in-ny