New York stands out as a highly populated and culturally varied state in the US, yet the appeal of its towns for living varies. Some towns are facing a decrease in population, quality of life, and economic opportunities, which is making them less attractive to both current residents and potential newcomers. Here are seven New York towns that are experiencing high rates of people leaving, as reported by multiple sources and indicators.
1. Monticello
Monticello, a town in Sullivan County, is situated in the Catskills region. It used to be a favored spot for Jewish tourists, but has sadly deteriorated over time. Monticello’s poverty rate is 36.6%, the crime rate is 55.8 per 1,000 residents, and the median household income is $26,615. The town’s population has been steadily declining from 6,726 in 2010 to 6,231 in 2019, marking a decrease of 7.4%.
2. Newburgh
Newburgh, located in Orange County, is positioned along the Hudson River. It used to be a bustling industrial and commercial hub, but has faced challenges like deindustrialization, urban decay, and social issues since the mid-20th century. Newburgh’s poverty rate is 31.2%, the crime rate is 42.9 per 1,000 residents, and the median household income is $38,968. The city’s population has been declining steadily, dropping from 28,866 in 2010 to 27,856 in 2019, which represents a 3.5% decrease.
3. Elmira
Elmira is situated in Chemung County within the Southern Tier region. It used to be a significant railroad hub and a hub of culture and education, but has experienced economic decline and social issues since the late 20th century. Elmira’s poverty rate is 30.7%, the crime rate is 40.5 per 1,000 residents, and the median household income is $31,825. The city’s population has been declining consistently, dropping from 29,200 in 2010 to 27,204 in 2019, a decrease of 6.8%.
4. Binghamton
Binghamton sits in Broome County, where the Susquehanna and Chenango rivers meet. It used to be a thriving hub for manufacturing and research, but it has faced an economic slowdown and a decline in population since the 1980s. Binghamton’s poverty rate is 32.4%, the crime rate is 39.3 per 1,000 residents, and the median household income is $32,449. The city’s population has decreased from 47,376 in 2010 to 44,785 in 2019, a 5.5% decline.
5. Utica
Utica, a city in Oneida County, is situated in the Mohawk Valley region. It used to be a busy textile and manufacturing hub but has experienced economic downturns and shifts in population since the mid-20th century. Utica’s poverty rate is 30.3%, the crime rate is 37.4 per 1,000 residents, and the median household income is $35,388. The city’s population has been gradually decreasing from 62,235 in 2010 to 59,750 in 2019, a 4% decrease.
6. Jamestown
Jamestown is situated in Chautauqua County in the far western region of the state. It used to be a well-known hub for furniture and comedy but has faced economic challenges and a loss of cultural vibrancy since the late 20th century. Jamestown has a poverty rate of 27.9%, a crime rate of 36.8 per 1,000 residents, and a median household income of $33,970. The city’s population has been declining steadily, dropping from 31,146 in 2010 to 28,862 in 2019, a decrease of 7.3%.
7. Niagara Falls
Located on the border with Canada, Niagara Falls is a city in Niagara County. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and thriving tourism sector, the region has faced challenges such as economic downturn and environmental concerns starting in the mid-20th century. Niagara Falls has a poverty rate of 27.5%, a crime rate of 35.7 per 1,000 residents, and a median household income of $35,995. The city’s population has seen a significant decline, dropping from 50,193 in 2010 to 47,720 in 2019, a decrease of 4.9%.
In conclusion
These seven New York towns are facing a range of issues and difficulties, which have impacted their appeal for residents and businesses. Many individuals are relocating from these towns in search of improved opportunities and a better quality of life, leading to a decrease in population and additional decay. Although attempts have been made to rejuvenate and repair these towns, they continue to encounter numerous challenges and unknowns ahead.