Largest cities in New York

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: 8,379,552 Livability Score: 75

Area Size: 778 KM² Density (sq mi): 27,889 Med. Household Income: $67,046

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: 255,805 Livability Score: 79

Area Size: 105 KM² Density (sq mi): 6,335 Med. Household Income: $39,677

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: 206,357 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 93 KM² Density (sq mi): 5,770 Med. Household Income: $37,395

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: 200,183 Livability Score: 67

Area Size: 47 KM² Density (sq mi): 11,118 Med. Household Income: $69,825

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: 142,553 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 65 KM² Density (sq mi): 5,689 Med. Household Income: $38,893

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: 96,860 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 55 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,525 Med. Household Income: $48,512

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: 79,367 Livability Score: 70

Area Size: 27 KM² Density (sq mi): 7,716 Med. Household Income: $81,735

Living in New Rochelle, NY offers a suburban lifestyle with the convenience of being close to one of the worldâs 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: 73,457 Livability Score: 85

Area Size: 66 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,895 Med. Household Income: $55,459

Mount Vernon Population: 67,623 Livability Score: 70

Area Size: 11 KM² Density (sq mi): 15,393 Med. Household Income: $59,291

Schenectady Population: 65,336 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 28 KM² Density (sq mi): 6,045 Med. Household Income: $47,773

Full list of the largest cities in New York

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	New York	8,379,552	778	$67,046	75
2	Buffalo	255,805	105	$39,677	79
3	Rochester	206,357	93	$37,395	76
4	Yonkers	200,183	47	$69,825	67
5	Syracuse	142,553	65	$38,893	77
6	Albany	96,860	55	$48,512	78
7	New Rochelle	79,367	27	$81,735	70
8	Cheektowaga	73,457	66	$55,459	85
9	Mount Vernon	67,623	11	$59,291	70
10	Schenectady	65,336	28	$47,773	77
11	Brentwood	62,743	28	$89,872	73
12	Utica	59,984	43	$42,624	78
13	White Plains	58,171	25	$96,715	71
14	Hempstead	55,153	10	$68,946	78
15	Levittown	51,266	18	$121,260	80
16	Irondequoit	50,141	39	$63,647	82
17	Troy	49,253	27	$48,834	79
18	Niagara Falls	47,978	36	$41,137	59
19	West Seneca	45,272	55	$66,362	80
20	Binghamton	44,819	27	$35,730	77
21	Freeport	42,993	12	$85,540	80
22	Hicksville	42,468	18	$119,190	84
23	West Babylon	42,316	20	$104,940	69
24	Coram	40,630	36	$86,625	64
25	East Meadow	37,992	16	$109,895	85
26	Valley Stream	37,489	9	$116,746	86
27	Commack	36,903	31	$144,825	72
28	Elmont	36,245	9	$100,923	78
29	Brighton	36,163	40	$71,099	81
30	New City	34,060	40	$143,873	79
31	Huntington Station	33,612	14	$99,774	76
32	Central Islip	33,591	18	$79,645	74
33	Long Beach	33,475	6	$106,709	81
34	Baldwin	32,939	8	$121,630	82
35	Uniondale	32,621	15	$89,192	77
36	Spring Valley	32,295	5	$45,646	65
37	Rome	32,217	194	$51,752	63
38	Bay Shore	31,819	14	$87,278	72
39	Franklin Square	31,537	7	$111,749	84
40	Centereach	31,100	23	$109,247	69
41	Ithaca	30,715	14	$38,019	76
42	Poughkeepsie	30,341	13	$47,008	76
43	North Tonawanda	30,338	26	$60,673	86
44	Oceanside	29,850	13	$116,619	85
45	Jamestown	29,290	23	$34,767	68
46	Port Chester	29,210	6	$81,586	72
47	Shirley	28,640	29	$92,426	59
48	Harrison	28,363	43	$128,393	72
49	Newburgh	28,146	10	$43,435	59
50	Saratoga Springs	28,056	73	$85,946	81

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.