Largest cities in New York

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New York, known for its iconic skyline and vibrant cultural scene, is a state that offers a diverse range of living experiences. With a population of approximately 19.5 million, it ranks as the 4th most populated state in the U.S. New York has seen stable population growth, driven by its robust economy and high quality of life. Bordered by Canada to the north and west, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and Pennsylvania and New Jersey to the south, New York offers a variety of urban and rural living environments across its roughly 1,611 cities and towns.

Living in New York provides numerous benefits, including access to world-class education, a strong job market, and a rich cultural scene. The state's high population density in major urban areas creates a dynamic and energetic atmosphere, while its rural areas offer tranquility and space. New York's economy is diverse, with strengths in finance, technology, and healthcare. The state's stable population growth supports a robust and sustainable development path. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in New York, is compiled using data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, highlights New York cities by population, showcasing the state's most populous and influential urban centers.

New York Population: 8,575,966 Livability Score: 75

Area Size: 778 KM² Density (sq mi): 28,552 Med. Household Income: $98,495

Living in New York, NY, known as 'The Big Apple,' offers a dynamic and vibrant lifestyle unmatched by any other city. Located in the southeastern part of New York State, New York City is a vast metropolis that embodies urban living with its towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and relentless energy. Neighboring major cities like Newark and Philadelphia add to its appeal as a central hub in the Northeast corridor. The city's diversity is reflected in its neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm, from the artistic vibes of Greenwich Village to the luxury of the Upper East Side.

Buffalo Population: 262,656 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 105 KM² Density (sq mi): 6,504 Med. Household Income: $58,521

Buffalo, NY, known as 'The City of Good Neighbors,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in western New York, Buffalo is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Niagara Falls and Rochester enhance its status as a central point in the region. Buffalo's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Rochester Population: 211,665 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 93 KM² Density (sq mi): 5,917 Med. Household Income: $55,136

Rochester, NY, known as "The Flour City," offers a rich blend of history, culture, and innovation. Located in the western part of New York State on the southern shore of Lake Ontario, Rochester is just 74 miles east of Buffalo and 90 miles west of Syracuse. This medium-sized city provides a balance of urban amenities and a strong sense of community, making it an attractive place to live.

Yonkers Population: 204,945 Livability Score: 68

Area Size: 47 KM² Density (sq mi): 11,378 Med. Household Income: $104,790

Yonkers, NY, known as "The City of Gracious Living," offers a unique urban experience with a suburban feel. Located in Westchester County, just north of the Bronx and New York City, Yonkers is strategically positioned for those who work in the city but prefer a quieter residential environment. This proximity to NYC allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Syracuse Population: 146,063 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 65 KM² Density (sq mi): 5,836 Med. Household Income: $56,925

Syracuse, NY, known as 'The Salt City,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in Onondaga County, Syracuse is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Rochester (87 miles) and Albany (146 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Syracuse's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Albany Population: 99,012 Livability Score: 79

Area Size: 55 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,629 Med. Household Income: $73,530

Albany, NY, known as 'The Capital City,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in Albany County, Albany is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like New York City (150 miles) and Boston (170 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Albany's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

New Rochelle Population: 81,413 Livability Score: 69

Area Size: 27 KM² Density (sq mi): 7,866 Med. Household Income: $119,927

Living in New Rochelle, NY offers a suburban lifestyle with the convenience of being close to one of the worldâ€™s most dynamic urban centers. Located in Westchester County, New Rochelle is just a short train ride from Manhattan, making it an ideal location for those who work in the city but prefer the tranquility of suburban living. The city is known for its rich history, diverse community, and beautiful waterfront along the Long Island Sound.

Cheektowaga Population: 76,395 Livability Score: 84

Area Size: 66 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,013 Med. Household Income: $81,678

Mount Vernon Population: 69,130 Livability Score: 71

Area Size: 11 KM² Density (sq mi): 15,763 Med. Household Income: $88,733

Schenectady Population: 66,726 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 28 KM² Density (sq mi): 6,183 Med. Household Income: $70,897

Full list of the largest cities in New York

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	New York	8,575,966	778	$98,495	75
2	Buffalo	262,656	105	$58,521	77
3	Rochester	211,665	93	$55,136	76
4	Yonkers	204,945	47	$104,790	68
5	Syracuse	146,063	65	$56,925	77
6	Albany	99,012	55	$73,530	79
7	New Rochelle	81,413	27	$119,927	69
8	Cheektowaga	76,395	66	$81,678	84
9	Mount Vernon	69,130	11	$88,733	71
10	Schenectady	66,726	28	$70,897	78
11	Brentwood	64,448	28	$134,910	75
12	Utica	61,299	43	$63,273	80
13	White Plains	59,856	25	$145,270	71
14	Hempstead	56,908	10	$103,495	79
15	Levittown	53,191	18	$181,282	82
16	Irondequoit	51,610	39	$95,806	81
17	Troy	50,436	27	$73,958	81
18	Niagara Falls	49,651	36	$62,452	60
19	West Seneca	46,478	55	$99,987	79
20	Binghamton	46,285	27	$53,827	78
21	Freeport	44,654	12	$128,947	83
22	Hicksville	43,793	18	$175,518	85
23	West Babylon	43,319	20	$156,970	72
24	Coram	41,733	36	$127,924	66
25	East Meadow	39,378	16	$160,651	86
26	Valley Stream	38,754	9	$175,766	87
27	Commack	38,358	31	$218,642	73
28	Brighton	37,402	40	$104,434	81
29	Elmont	37,081	9	$148,308	79
30	New City	34,823	40	$213,620	80
31	Huntington Station	34,661	14	$151,141	79
32	Central Islip	34,526	18	$118,982	78
33	Long Beach	34,428	6	$160,503	82
34	Baldwin	34,096	8	$178,305	85
35	Rome	33,399	194	$76,859	64
36	Uniondale	33,340	15	$131,222	78
37	Spring Valley	33,202	5	$68,552	67
38	Bay Shore	32,913	14	$127,677	75
39	Franklin Square	32,413	7	$165,092	85
40	Centereach	31,808	23	$160,199	72
41	Ithaca	31,399	14	$57,263	77
42	Poughkeepsie	31,213	13	$69,776	78
43	North Tonawanda	31,006	26	$91,455	85
44	Oceanside	30,680	13	$171,028	86
45	Jamestown	30,127	23	$51,027	69
46	Port Chester	29,796	6	$123,087	73
47	Shirley	29,314	29	$137,537	62
48	Middletown	29,092	13	$86,182	82
49	Harrison	29,018	43	$193,825	72
50	Saratoga Springs	28,832	73	$128,431	82

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in New York, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.