10 Largest Cities in New York

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The state of New York is rich in history, diversity, and exciting places and people. In 2022, it will be home to approximately 19.45 million people, making it the fourth most populous state, trailing only California, Florida, and Texas.

New York is a land of contrasts in many ways. It has a mix of the world’s most famous urban settings, some densely populated with pedestrians and others with empty rolling hillsides and countryside as far as the eye can see. Some people in New York state are so connected to nature that they have created new types of food. In 2013, Cornell University scientists in Ithaca successfully bred the SnapDragon and RubyFrost apples.

Are you considering relocating to New York? The Empire State is home to some of America’s most beloved and diverse cities, from the busy & lively streets of New York City to the family-friendly neighborhoods of Rochester. It also has over 19 million people, making it the fourth-largest state. If you’re having trouble deciding which popular city in New York is right for you, a review by World Population offers a compiled list of the top ten largest cities in New York by population.

See Also: How Much Does It Cost to Move Out Of NYC?

New York City

NYC, the largest city in the state of New York and the United States, is home to over eight million people of all ages and backgrounds. This melting pot of a city is also one of the world’s most important cultural and financial centers. The far-reaching influence of New York City on everything from fashion trends to the global economy continues to impact the country – and the world – as a whole.

New York City is known to be one of the most exciting cities. When the entire metropolitan area, including the five boroughs, is considered, it is one of the world’s most populous cities. New York has a story on every nook & corner, from Broadway to Greenwich Village, Manhattan to Wall Street, Times Square to the likes of billionaires, crooks, presidents, superstars, and more.

New York City also has the most people in the United States and is the world’s largest metropolitan area, covering 4,585 square miles. This city has the most people packed into a relatively small space, making it the most densely populated in the United States. New York City, located on America’s northeast coast on the Atlantic Ocean, is a well-known tourist destination and a cultural and media world capital. The population is 8,601,186.

Notes on population growth: According to World Population Review, the New York City borough of Brooklyn experienced a 5.3 percent increase in population between 2010 and 2016. It is also the area of New York City that has seen the greatest population growth. The median listing price for a home is $675,000.

See Also: New York DMV Change of Address

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Buffalo

Buffalo is New York’s second-most populous city. This city in Western New York is located on Lake Erie, just 20 miles from Niagara Falls. Buffalo has recently experienced a remarkable renaissance. The city’s increased development, expanding businesses, and thriving job market attract young professionals, students, and families from across the country.

Buffalo is located south of the Canada-US border, between the Canadian province of Ontario and the state of New York in the US. As a result, it is a popular shopping and gambling spot for Canadians. Despite its location in New York State, which is in the American northeast, some consider Buffalo’s culture to be more akin to that of the American midwest.

Buffalo was a thriving city in its heyday. Its streets were lit up with America’s first electric street lights in 1902. These illuminated one of the world’s first skyscrapers (the Guarantee Building, completed in 1894) and Ellicott Square, the world’s largest commercial building of that time. Manufacturing, once the city’s lifeline, has given way to a thriving service sector. As a result, the city has yet to regain its former prominence in the United States. Buffalo is currently dealing with economic stagnation and a shrinking population. 252,555 people live here.

Notes on population growth: According to the World Population Review, the City of Buffalo is attracting young people once again. The number of Millennials has increased by more than 10% since 2006. The average listing price for a home is $140,000.

Rochester

Despite its negative population growth, Rochester is still one of the best cities for students and families. It’s because of its exceptionally affordable housing market, low cost of living, and highly rated schools. Residents will tell you that the advantages of living in Rochester far outweigh the disadvantages (namely, those bitterly cold winters). Two hundred six thousand three hundred eighteen people live there.

Notes on population growth: Rochester was one of America’s first boomtowns, according to World Population Review. However, the city has begun to lose residents in recent years. The city’s population is now declining at 1% per year. The median listing price for a home is $129,000.

Yonkers

Yonkers, a suburb of New York City located less than an hour’s drive from Manhattan, is one of the most famous & preferred places to live in the state. Families and professionals will enjoy all of the top-tier amenities of a large city and the small town’s charm and community feel. Every year, more people are drawn to the city’s thriving downtown and influx of new housing developments. 202,127 people live here. Yonkers is “one of the fastest-growing cities in the State of New York,” according to World Population Review, and its rapid growth is expected to continue in the future. The median listing price for a home is $539,000.

Syracuse

Syracuse is well-known for its educational institutions, including Le Moyne College and Syracuse University. Furthermore, students and residents will find plenty to see and do in and around town. Syracuse, known as the “Gateway to the Finger Lakes Region,” is a short drive from several local wineries and state parks. Newcomers will also discover a vibrant downtown scene with numerous dining options and cultural attractions. 141,353 people live here.

Notes on population growth: According to the World Population Review, Syracuse’s population is finally increasing after 70 years of negative growth. Over the last decade, the city’s downtown area has seen a 47 percent increase in population. The average listing price for a home is $107,250.

Albany

New York’s capital city is also one of the most popular places to live in the state. The central location of Albany allows residents easy access to the Hudson Valley, Adirondack Mountains, Finger Lakes, and Berkshire Mountains. The New York State Museum, the Albany Institute of History and Art, and the Egg are among the city’s cultural attractions. 97,640 people live here.

Notes on population growth: Even though much of New York is losing population, Albany and the Capital Region have grown moderately, according to the World Population Review. The median listing price for a home is $207,280.

New Rochelle

The City of New Rochelle, located in Westchester County, is a bustling, vibrant community with a diverse populace and several cultural attractions. Its residents have easy access to New York City and a plethora of beaches, biking paths, and parks along Long Island Sound. The city’s downtown area has plenty of high-end dining options and a vibrant nightlife scene. 79,518 people live here.

Notes on population growth: From 2000 to 2016, New Rochelle experienced consistent population growth, according to the World Population Review. However, the city’s population has been declining in recent years. The median listing price for a home is $735,020.

Mount Vernon

It is located between Yonkers and New Rochelle, is considered a New York City inner suburb. The urban feel and numerous housing options draw commuters and families to New York City. There are a variety of playgrounds, parks, and after-school programs for families with school-age children. The Mount Vernon Public Library is one of the largest libraries in New York City and the state of New York. Sixty-eight thousand two hundred twelve people live here.

Notes on population growth: According to World Population Review, Mount Vernon’s population increased slightly from 2011 to 2015 but has declined slowly but steadily. The median listing price for a home is $449,000

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Schenectady

The City of Schenectady, located just north of Albany, has a bustling downtown with a business district, a large farmers market, and several tasty restaurants. 63,536 people live here. Weekends can also be spent kayaking along the Mohawk River, biking the Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike Trail, and exploring nearby Blatnik Park.

Notes on population growth: According to the World Population Review, the City of Schenectady has experienced a population decline since reaching its peak population in 1930. However, in 2010, the city began to see a slight increase in population growth. The median listing price for a home is $175,000.

Utica

The City of Utica, located east of Syracuse in the Mohawk Valley, offers exceptionally affordable housing and plenty to do. Despite its negative growth, the city is still a family-friendly destination with various kid-friendly restaurants, parks, and activities. The Utica Zoo and Utica Children’s Museum draw visitors and families from all over the region.

59,608 people live there.

Notes on population growth: According to World Population Review, Utica’s population has been steadily declining over the last decade, and this trend continues.

The median listing price for a home is $108,900.

See Also: Moving from Chicago to New York City – A Complete Guide

Conclusion

Each of New York’s major cities has its distinct flavor and history. The state’s urban centers are currently lagging behind the rest of the country in terms of economic growth, but it was growing rather than stalling before the coronavirus pandemic. The state’s largest economic driver is the financial sector, followed by transportation and professional and business services.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the name of New York’s capital?

Albany, New York’s capital, has a population of 96,460 people as of the most recent census and is the sixth-largest city in New York.

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What is New York’s fastest-growing city?

Kiryas Joel is the fastest growing city in New York, with a population that has increased by 101.9 percent since 2000.

See Also: What Salary Do You Need To Live In NYC

What is New York’s fastest shrinking city?

Ogdensburg has the fastest shrinking population among New York’s 100 largest cities, with a 15.3 percent decrease since 2000. Ogdensburg had a peak population of 13,572 in 1990, and its current population of 10,436 represents a 23.1 percent drop from that peak. Ogdensburg was once the 1,925th largest city in the United States, but it is now the 2,994th.

Written by


Alex Sherr is the founder of My Long Distance Movers, a blog that provides moving information and resources for people who are relocating. He has more than two decades of experience in the moving and relocation industry, and he is passionate about helping people relocate smoothly and efficiently. When he's not writing or blogging, Alex enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children.