Before you pack up your life and head to the Empire State, let’s go through a list of towns you might want to cross off your retirement dream list.
Some of these spots are less about ‘sipping apple cider’ and more about ‘why is everything so expensive?
Table of Contents
1. Newburgh, New York
Newburgh presents a picturesque setting on the Hudson River, but looks can be deceiving. The town is often cited for its high crime rates, which is a significant concern for residents, especially the elderly.
While it boasts some beautiful architecture and rich history, the local government faces challenges in maintaining safety and public services. This situation affects the quality of life for its residents.
Reason for Ranking: The high crime rate in Newburgh makes it a risky choice for peaceful retirement.
2. Poughkeepsie, New York
Poughkeepsie serves as a cultural hub along the Hudson River with its art galleries and colleges. Despite these attractions, the city has a high cost of living, including property taxes and healthcare expenses, which are steep for retirees.
The city’s public transportation is not the most reliable for those who no longer drive, and winters can be particularly harsh, posing challenges for senior mobility.
Reason for Ranking: The high cost of living and poor public transportation options make Poughkeepsie less favorable for retirees.
3. Monticello, New York
Monticello, known for its historical sites and proximity to natural attractions, might seem appealing at first glance. However, the small town in Sullivan County has its drawbacks. With a population just over 6,000, it offers fewer healthcare facilities crucial for retirees.
The town has struggled with economic stability, reflected in its above-average cost of living compared to national levels. This economic factor can be challenging for those on a fixed income. Additionally, Monticello experiences harsh winters, which can be difficult for seniors.
Reason for Ranking: High living costs and limited healthcare options make Monticello less desirable for retirees.
4. Hempstead, New York
Hempstead, one of the oldest towns in New York, is rich in history but faces modern challenges. It has a higher-than-average crime rate, which can deter retirees looking for a safe, peaceful place to settle.
The town also struggles with traffic congestion and a high cost of living, which can eat into retirees’ budgets. Public services are often stretched thin, impacting quality of life.
Reason for Ranking: Safety concerns and high living costs make Hempstead a less desirable retirement destination.
5. Niagara Falls, New York
The allure of living near the iconic Niagara Falls can be tempting, but the town has more than its share of challenges. It suffers from economic decline, with limited job opportunities affecting local services and infrastructure.
The area’s popularity as a tourist destination does not translate to quality living conditions for the permanent residents. This includes overcrowded facilities and seasonal fluctuations in the quality of life.
Reason for Ranking: Economic difficulties and the impact of tourism detract from the residential appeal of Niagara Falls for retirees.
6. Elmira, New York
Elmira is known for its historic charm and the nearby Finger Lakes wine country, but these features mask some issues. The town has a low median household income, which reflects broader economic challenges.
It also has a limited number of medical facilities, an important consideration for retirees needing regular healthcare. The social amenities for seniors are lacking, making it less appealing for those seeking an active retirement community.
Reason for Ranking: Limited healthcare and economic stagnation place Elmira on this list of less desirable towns for retirees.
7. Utica, New York
Utica, once a thriving textile and manufacturing hub, has seen better days. The city’s decline in industry has left it with economic and social challenges, including a high poverty rate.
While there are efforts to revitalize the city, retirees may find the pace of improvement too slow for comfort. The city also experiences significant snowfall, which can be a challenge for mobility during winter months.
Reason for Ranking: Economic decline and harsh winters make Utica a tough sell for retirees.
8. Schenectady, New York
Schenectady, known for its role in the American industrial revolution, now struggles with urban decay and a high crime rate. These issues are deterrents for retirees looking for a secure and peaceful environment.
The city’s infrastructure is in need of updates, and while there are cultural attractions, they might not be enough to outweigh the negatives for potential retirees.
Reason for Ranking: High crime rates and decaying infrastructure place Schenectady among the worst retirement destinations.
9. Binghamton, New York
Binghamton offers access to beautiful natural surroundings, but the city itself faces significant challenges. It has one of the highest unemployment rates in the state, contributing to economic instability.
The weather in Binghamton can be extreme, with long, cold winters and short summers, which can affect outdoor activities for retirees. The city also has issues with urban blight and public services.
Reason for Ranking: Economic instability and harsh climate conditions make Binghamton a less desirable place for retirees.
10. Gloversville, New York
Once famous for its glove manufacturing, Gloversville now faces economic hardships with high unemployment rates and a declining population. This decline affects the availability of local services and overall quality of life for residents.
The city lacks modern healthcare facilities, which are critical for the elderly. Additionally, the public amenities such as parks and recreational services are underfunded.
Reason for Ranking: Economic decline and lack of essential services for seniors make Gloversville a poor choice for retirement.
11. Watertown, New York
Watertown’s military presence at Fort Drum adds to its community spirit but also brings challenges. The town has long, severe winters that can be tough on retirees, especially those with mobility issues.
The cost of living, while lower than in urban centers, still presents a challenge due to higher energy costs in winter. Additionally, the remote location makes access to specialized healthcare and entertainment options limited.
Reason for Ranking: Harsh winters and limited healthcare services make Watertown less appealing for retirees.
12. Jamestown, New York
Jamestown, the birthplace of Lucille Ball, has cultural sites and museums, but faces economic challenges. The town has one of the higher poverty rates in the state, impacting the quality of life for its residents.
While it has a community feel, the limited job market and low median income levels can be a deterrent for those considering moving here for their golden years.
Reason for Ranking: Economic difficulties and limited employment opportunities make Jamestown a challenging place for retirees.
13. Rome, New York
Rome’s rich history and architecture draw visitors, but living there is another story. The town has struggled with job growth and retention, impacting the local economy and availability of amenities.
Public transportation options are sparse, making it difficult for those retirees who do not drive. The town also has a relatively high crime rate for its size.
Reason for Ranking: Economic stagnation and limited transportation options contribute to Rome’s placement on this list.
14. Cortland, New York
Cortland, known as the gateway to the Finger Lakes, offers scenic beauty but has limited attractions for retirees. The local economy relies heavily on education and manufacturing, sectors that have seen better days.
The town’s small size means healthcare and entertainment options are not as robust as in larger cities. Additionally, property taxes are relatively high, which can strain retiree budgets.
Reason for Ranking: High taxes and limited healthcare facilities make Cortland less attractive for retirees.
15. Auburn, New York
Auburn prides itself on its historical sites and cultural heritage, including the Harriet Tubman Home. However, it struggles with a stagnant economy and a lack of job opportunities, which affects service quality and living standards.
The town also has issues with infrastructure and public services, which can impact daily living for retirees looking for convenience and accessibility.
Reason for Ranking: Economic stagnation and poor infrastructure place Auburn on this list.
16. Fulton, New York
Fulton’s history as a small industrial city is evident, but so is its decline. The closure of several factories over the years has led to economic downturns and a decrease in population.
This decline affects the availability of services, including healthcare, which is a significant concern for the elderly. The town also has a higher crime rate than the national average.
Reason for Ranking: Economic decline and limited healthcare options make Fulton a less desirable place for retirees.
17. Olean, New York
Olean is surrounded by natural beauty, but the town itself has limited amenities and services for retirees. It has a low cost of living, but this comes at the expense of access to high-quality healthcare and leisure activities.
The town’s economic focus on manufacturing does not offer much for the growing retiree population looking for services tailored to their needs.
Reason for Ranking: Lack of amenities and healthcare services makes Olean less appealing for retirees.
18. Dunkirk, New York
Dunkirk offers lakeside views but struggles with economic and social issues. The town has a high unemployment rate and a declining population, which affects the vibrancy of the community and availability of services.
Limited cultural and recreational activities can leave retirees feeling isolated and without necessary social engagement.
Reason for Ranking: Economic struggles and a lack of recreational activities make Dunkirk a challenging place for retirees.
19. Amsterdam, New York
Amsterdam was once a thriving mill town but now faces the challenges of industrial decline. The city has significant urban blight with many vacant and deteriorated buildings, which does not promote a healthy environment for retirees.
Though there are efforts to revitalize the city, progress is slow, and current conditions may deter retirees looking for a safe and engaging community.
Reason for Ranking: Urban decay and slow revitalization efforts place Amsterdam on this list.
20. Salamanca, New York
Salamanca, uniquely located on a Native American reservation, offers a unique cultural experience but faces distinct challenges. The town has a complicated relationship with land ownership and taxation, which can complicate real estate transactions for retirees.
Additionally, the local economy is not very diversified, leading to limited job opportunities and services, which impacts the quality of life for its aging population.
Reason for Ranking: Unique land ownership issues and economic limitations make Salamanca a complicated choice for retirees.