When it comes to New York, many instantly think of the iconic New York City, with its bustling streets and towering skyscrapers. However, a recent study has shed light on the lesser-known, yet equally vibrant places to live throughout New York State—places that do not include the Big Apple.
Conducted by Stacker and reported by the Hudson Valley Post, the study ranked the best locations across New York by considering crucial factors such as cost of living, education quality, healthcare services, entertainment options, and climate.
The results highlight a diverse range of cities, suburbs, and small towns that feature walkability, thriving nightlife, ample public parks, and excellent educational institutions.
Here are the top ten places to live in New York State, according to this revealing report:
**10. Kensington**
Kensington, a village in Nassau County, has a small population of 1,368 residents. The median home value in this affluent community stands at $1.3 million, while the median household income is a notable $180,750. Noteworthy is its educational excellence, boasting three A+ rated schools: Great Neck South High School, Great Neck North High School, and Manhasset Secondary School.
**9. East Williston**
Incorporated in the Town of North Hempstead, East Williston has a population of 2,572. This village showcases a median home value of $876,300 and a median household income of $196,625, indicating its affluent status. The schools here, including Wheatley School, North Side School, and Willets Road School, all boast A+ ratings.
**8. Williamsville**
Located in Erie County, the village of Williamsville is home to 5,233 people. It is known for its more affordable real estate, with a median home value of $170,800 and average rents at $986. The median household income here is $71,625, and the local schools receive A+ grades, striking a balance between quality education and living costs.
**7. Manhasset Hills**
This hamlet, part of the Town of North Hempstead, has a population of 3,615. Residents enjoy a median home value of $864,800 and average rents of $2,656. With a median household income of $175,139, Manhasset Hills is marked by educational excellence, featuring three A+ rated schools: Great Neck South High School, Herricks High School, and Lakeville Elementary School.
**6. Syosset**
A population of 19,453 calls Syosset home. This hamlet showcases higher median home values averaging $663,400, and rents estimated at $2,734. With a median household income reaching $163,589, Syosset is attractive for families, noted for its selection of A- and A+ graded public and private schools.
**5. Cayuga Heights**
Cayuga Heights, located in Tompkins County, has a smaller community of 3,689 people. The median home cost sits at $413,000, with average rents around $1,185. The median household income is $112,917, highlighting its balanced lifestyle, complemented by Ithaca Senior High School’s A+ rating and the A-rated Dewitt Middle School and Northeast School.
**4. Brighton**
Brighton is the largest community on this list, with a population of 36,272. Residents can find median home costs at $184,600 and an average rent of $1,049, coupled with a median household income of $75,807. Several public and private schools in the area have received A and A+ grades, making it a well-rounded place for families.
**3. Great Neck Gardens**
On the Great Neck Peninsula, Great Neck Gardens has a resident count of 1,150. It boasts a median household income of $218,603 and a home cost of $954,300. This community offers three A+ public schools: Great Neck South High School, Great Neck North High School, and E.M. Baker School, reflecting its educational focus.
**2. Jericho**
Jericho, a hamlet in the Town of Oyster Bay, has a population of 13,889. Here, median home values are at $797,400 along with median rents of $2,008. The median household income is $173,709, and three public schools—Jericho Senior High School, Syosset Senior High School, and Robert Seaman Elementary School—each hold an A+ rating.
**1. Great Neck Plaza**
Topping the list is Great Neck Plaza, a village in the Town of North Hempstead with a population of 6,957. The median home cost is significantly lower at $264,400, while rents are about $1,958, complemented by a median household income of $92,260. Its mix of A+ public and private schools makes it an outstanding place to settle down.
These rankings highlight the rich diversity of living conditions available throughout New York State, showcasing that there’s much more to the Empire State than just its most famous city.
image source from：marca
