20 Worst Places to Live in New York: Undesirable Cities Revealed

ByLiz Flynn Posted on Updated on

A rundown street with dilapidated buildings and litter strewn about. Graffiti covers the walls, and the atmosphere is bleak and unwelcoming

New York offers diverse living experiences across its many cities and towns. From bustling urban centers to quiet rural communities, the state presents a wide range of options for residents.

However, not all areas provide the same quality of life or opportunities.

This article examines 20 locations in New York that face significant challenges in terms of livability.

These places struggle with issues like high crime rates, limited economic prospects, inadequate infrastructure, or other factors that negatively impact residents’ daily lives.

By highlighting these areas, readers can gain insight into the complex dynamics shaping different parts of the state.

1. Albany

An abandoned, graffiti-covered building in Albany, New York, with broken windows and overgrown weeds in the front yard

Albany, the capital city of New York, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. Crime rates in certain neighborhoods remain a concern, with property crimes and violent offenses occurring at higher rates than the national average.

The city’s aging infrastructure presents problems for inhabitants. Many roads and bridges require repairs, leading to traffic congestion and potential safety hazards. Public transportation options are limited, making car ownership a necessity for many.

Albany experiences harsh winters with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. This climate can be difficult for residents to navigate and increases home heating costs. The city’s economy relies heavily on government jobs, limiting diversity in employment opportunities.

High property taxes burden homeowners in Albany, affecting affordability. The public school system struggles with budget constraints and academic performance issues in some areas. These factors contribute to Albany’s reputation as a challenging place to live in New York.

2. Binghamton

A run-down, dilapidated street in Binghamton, New York, with graffiti-covered buildings, litter-strewn sidewalks, and a general sense of neglect and decay

Binghamton, located in New York’s Southern Tier, faces significant challenges. The city has experienced a steady decline in population over the past few decades, impacting its economic vitality.

Unemployment rates in Binghamton remain higher than the state average. Many residents struggle to find well-paying jobs, leading to financial hardship for families.

Crime rates in Binghamton are concerning, with property crimes being particularly prevalent. This has led to safety concerns among residents and potential newcomers.

The city’s aging infrastructure poses problems for daily life. Deteriorating roads and outdated public facilities require substantial investment to improve.

Binghamton’s harsh winters can be difficult for residents to endure. Heavy snowfall and prolonged cold spells create challenges for transportation and increase living costs.

Limited entertainment options and cultural amenities make Binghamton less appealing to young professionals and families seeking a vibrant urban experience.

3. Buffalo

A run-down neighborhood with dilapidated buildings, overgrown lots, and graffiti-covered walls. Trash litters the streets and abandoned cars sit on the curbs

Buffalo faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with a high poverty rate, exceeding 30% of the population. This economic hardship affects many aspects of daily life for Buffalonians.

Crime rates in Buffalo are a concern, with property crimes being particularly prevalent. The city’s violent crime rate also surpasses the national average, contributing to safety concerns for residents.

Buffalo’s harsh winters are notorious, with heavy snowfall and frigid temperatures lasting for months. These extreme weather conditions can make daily life difficult and increase living expenses.

The city’s education system faces obstacles, with some public schools underperforming compared to state averages. This can affect students’ academic opportunities and future prospects.

Buffalo’s economy has been slow to recover from industrial decline, resulting in limited job opportunities in certain sectors. This economic stagnation has led to population loss over the years.

4. Elmira

A rundown street with dilapidated buildings and overgrown weeds, abandoned cars, and litter strewn across the sidewalk. The atmosphere is desolate and neglected

Elmira, a city in Chemung County, New York, faces significant challenges that impact its residents’ quality of life. The city’s economy has struggled since the decline of manufacturing, leading to high unemployment rates and limited job opportunities.

Crime rates in Elmira exceed state averages, raising safety concerns for its inhabitants. The city’s aging infrastructure and housing stock contribute to urban decay, with many buildings in need of repair or renovation.

Elmira’s public schools underperform compared to state standards, affecting educational prospects for local youth. The city also grapples with a shortage of healthcare facilities and providers, limiting access to medical services.

Harsh winters and frequent flooding from the Chemung River pose environmental challenges for residents. These factors, combined with limited recreational and cultural amenities, have contributed to population decline and decreased property values in Elmira.

5. Newburgh

Abandoned buildings in a run-down neighborhood, overgrown with weeds and littered with trash. Cracked sidewalks and broken streetlights add to the desolate atmosphere

Newburgh, located in Orange County, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with high crime rates, consistently ranking among the most dangerous places in New York State.

Poverty is a pressing issue in Newburgh, with a substantial portion of the population living below the poverty line. This economic hardship contributes to various social problems and limits opportunities for many residents.

The city’s public schools underperform compared to state averages, raising concerns about educational quality and future prospects for local youth. Aging infrastructure and neglected properties are common sights throughout Newburgh.

Limited job opportunities within the city force many residents to commute elsewhere for work. This situation strains household budgets and reduces time spent in the community.

Despite some revitalization efforts, Newburgh continues to grapple with these longstanding issues, making it a challenging place to live for many of its inhabitants.

6. Poughkeepsie

A rundown street in Poughkeepsie with dilapidated buildings, littered sidewalks, and a general sense of neglect and decay

Poughkeepsie, located in the Hudson Valley, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city grapples with a higher crime rate compared to the national average, raising concerns about safety for residents.

Economic issues plague Poughkeepsie, with a unemployment rate exceeding the state average. Limited job opportunities contribute to financial struggles for many inhabitants.

The city’s public schools perform below state standards, potentially affecting the quality of education for students. This factor may deter families from settling in the area.

Poughkeepsie’s infrastructure shows signs of aging, with some neighborhoods experiencing deteriorating roads and buildings. This neglect impacts the overall quality of life for residents.

High property taxes burden homeowners in Poughkeepsie, making it less affordable for many. The cost of living in the city surpasses the national average, straining household budgets.

7. Rochester

A rundown street in Rochester, New York with dilapidated buildings, graffiti-covered walls, and littered sidewalks, creating a sense of urban decay

Rochester faces significant challenges as a city in upstate New York. The city’s crime rate exceeds the national average, with higher instances of both violent and property crimes.

Rochester’s economy has struggled in recent years, leading to job losses and a declining population. The poverty rate is notably high, affecting a substantial portion of residents.

The harsh winters in Rochester can be particularly difficult, with heavy snowfall and prolonged cold temperatures. This climate can impact daily life and increase living expenses.

The city’s education system has faced criticisms, with some schools underperforming compared to state standards. This has led to concerns about the quality of education available to students.

Rochester’s infrastructure shows signs of aging, with some areas requiring updates and repairs. This can affect the overall quality of life for residents.

8. Schenectady

The scene depicts a run-down neighborhood in Schenectady, New York, with dilapidated buildings, overgrown lots, and littered streets. The atmosphere is desolate and neglected

Schenectady, located in eastern New York, faces significant challenges that contribute to its reputation as one of the worst places to live in the state. The city struggles with a high crime rate, particularly in certain neighborhoods.

Unemployment remains a persistent issue in Schenectady, with job opportunities limited compared to other New York cities. This economic instability affects the overall quality of life for many residents.

The city’s aging infrastructure poses problems for inhabitants. Many roads and buildings require repairs or updates, impacting daily life and property values.

Schenectady’s public schools have faced criticism for underperformance, with some struggling to meet state education standards. This situation concerns parents and affects children’s educational opportunities.

The harsh winters in Schenectady can be difficult for residents to endure, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures lasting for months. These conditions create additional challenges for daily life and city maintenance.

9. Syracuse

The scene depicts rundown buildings, littered streets, and graffiti-covered walls in Syracuse, New York, suggesting a less desirable living environment

Syracuse faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with high crime rates, particularly in certain neighborhoods. Property and violent crimes occur at rates above the national average.

Economic issues plague Syracuse, with a poverty rate exceeding 30%. Many residents struggle to make ends meet due to limited job opportunities and low wages. The city’s unemployment rate remains consistently higher than state and national averages.

Syracuse experiences harsh winters, with heavy snowfall and frigid temperatures lasting for months. This weather can make daily life difficult and increase heating costs for residents.

The city’s infrastructure is aging and in need of repairs. Many roads are in poor condition, and some neighborhoods lack adequate public transportation options. Syracuse also grapples with vacant and abandoned properties, which can attract crime and lower property values.

10. Troy

A rundown street with dilapidated buildings and litter strewn across the sidewalk. Broken windows and graffiti cover the walls

Troy, located in Rensselaer County, faces significant challenges that impact the quality of life for its residents. The city struggles with high crime rates, particularly in certain neighborhoods, raising concerns about safety and security.

Economic difficulties plague Troy, with limited job opportunities and a higher-than-average unemployment rate. This has led to financial instability for many residents and a stagnant local economy.

The city’s infrastructure shows signs of neglect, with aging roads, bridges, and public buildings in need of repair. This deterioration affects daily life and can pose safety risks to residents.

Troy’s public school system faces obstacles, including underfunding and low test scores. This educational shortfall can limit future prospects for the city’s youth.

The harsh winter climate in Troy brings additional challenges, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures causing transportation issues and increased living costs.

11. Utica

A run-down street with abandoned buildings and littered sidewalks in Utica, New York. The atmosphere is desolate and unwelcoming, with a sense of neglect and decay

Utica, located in central New York, faces significant challenges that contribute to its reputation as one of the worst places to live in the state. The city has experienced a steady population decline over the past few decades, leading to a shrinking tax base and reduced services.

Unemployment rates in Utica remain higher than the state average, with limited job opportunities available to residents. The city’s economy has struggled to recover from the loss of manufacturing jobs that once formed its backbone.

Crime rates in Utica are a concern for many residents. The city consistently ranks above the national average for both violent and property crimes, affecting the quality of life and sense of safety in many neighborhoods.

Utica’s education system faces difficulties, with some schools underperforming compared to state standards. This can impact the future prospects of young residents and make the city less attractive to families.

The harsh winters in Utica, characterized by heavy snowfall and cold temperatures, can be challenging for residents and contribute to increased living costs.

12. Niagara Falls

The powerful Niagara Falls cascades over rugged cliffs, surrounded by a desolate and neglected urban landscape, earning its place as one of the 20 worst places to live in New York

Niagara Falls, a city in western New York, faces significant challenges despite its famous waterfall attraction. The city’s population has been steadily declining for decades, dropping from over 100,000 in the 1960s to around 48,000 today.

Crime rates in Niagara Falls are higher than the national average. The city struggles with property crime and violent offenses, making safety a concern for residents.

The local economy heavily relies on tourism, which can be unstable and seasonal. This dependence has led to limited job opportunities in other sectors, contributing to a high poverty rate of about 28%.

Niagara Falls also grapples with aging infrastructure and abandoned properties. Many buildings in the city are in disrepair, detracting from its overall appeal and quality of life.

The harsh winters in the region can be difficult for residents, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures lasting for months. This climate can lead to increased utility costs and transportation challenges.

13. Oswego

The scene shows a rundown neighborhood in Oswego, New York, with dilapidated buildings, overgrown lots, and littered streets. The overall atmosphere is bleak and neglected

Oswego, located on the shores of Lake Ontario, faces significant challenges as a place to live in New York. The city struggles with a high poverty rate, exceeding the state average. Limited job opportunities contribute to economic instability for many residents.

Harsh winters plague Oswego, with heavy lake-effect snow and bitterly cold temperatures. These conditions make daily life difficult and increase heating costs for households. The city’s aging infrastructure requires substantial upgrades, straining municipal resources.

Crime rates in Oswego surpass the national average, raising concerns about safety. The local education system faces budget constraints, impacting the quality of schools. A declining population has led to vacant properties and decreased property values in some neighborhoods.

Limited entertainment options and cultural amenities leave residents with few recreational choices. The remote location of Oswego makes access to larger cities and their amenities challenging for residents.

14. Jamestown

A run-down, graffiti-covered building in Jamestown, with broken windows and overgrown weeds in the front yard

Jamestown, located in Chautauqua County, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city has experienced a steady population decline over the past few decades, leading to a shrinking tax base and reduced resources for public services.

Crime rates in Jamestown are higher than the national average, particularly for property crimes. This has contributed to a sense of unease among some residents and potential newcomers.

The local economy has struggled to recover from the loss of manufacturing jobs. Unemployment rates remain above the state average, limiting opportunities for many residents.

Jamestown’s aging infrastructure presents ongoing issues. Many roads and buildings require repairs or upgrades, straining the city’s budget.

The harsh winters in Western New York can be particularly challenging in Jamestown. Heavy snowfall and prolonged cold spells often disrupt daily life and increase living costs.

15. Watertown

The scene depicts a rundown neighborhood in Watertown, New York, with dilapidated buildings, overgrown lots, and littered streets

Watertown, located in Jefferson County, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city experiences harsh winters with heavy snowfall, often exceeding 100 inches annually. This extreme weather can lead to difficult driving conditions and increased heating costs.

The local economy has struggled in recent years, with limited job opportunities outside of government and healthcare sectors. Unemployment rates in Watertown tend to be higher than the state average.

Crime rates in Watertown are a concern for residents. Property crimes, in particular, occur at rates above the national average. This can create a sense of unease among community members.

The city’s aging infrastructure presents ongoing issues. Many roads and buildings require repairs or updates, straining local resources. Public transportation options are limited, making car ownership necessary for most residents.

Watertown’s isolated location, far from major metropolitan areas, can lead to feelings of remoteness. Access to diverse cultural experiences and entertainment options is often restricted compared to larger cities.

16. Hudson

A rundown street with dilapidated buildings, littered sidewalks, and graffiti-covered walls. Trash cans overflow and stray animals roam

Hudson, a city in Columbia County, New York, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with a high crime rate, exceeding both state and national averages. This has led to concerns about safety among residents and visitors.

The local economy presents another obstacle. Hudson has limited job opportunities, with many residents commuting to other areas for work. This lack of economic diversity can make it difficult for people to find stable employment within the city.

Housing affordability is also an issue in Hudson. While the city has experienced some gentrification, this has led to increased housing costs. Many long-time residents find it challenging to keep up with rising rents and property taxes.

Education is another area of concern. The local school district has faced budget cuts and struggles to maintain high academic standards. This can be a deterrent for families considering moving to the area.

17. Olean

A rundown street with dilapidated buildings and litter strewn about, surrounded by a gloomy and desolate atmosphere

Olean, located in Cattaraugus County, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city has experienced a steady population decline over the past few decades, leading to a shrinking tax base and reduced funding for public services.

Unemployment rates in Olean consistently exceed the state average. Limited job opportunities contribute to economic instability for many residents. The city’s median household income falls below the New York state average.

Crime rates in Olean are higher than the national average, particularly for property crimes. This raises concerns about safety and security for residents and businesses alike.

The city’s aging infrastructure requires significant updates and repairs. Many roads, bridges, and public buildings show signs of wear and tear, affecting the overall quality of life for residents.

Olean’s harsh winters bring heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures, which can pose difficulties for transportation and increase heating costs for residents.

18. Rome

A rundown street in Rome, New York with dilapidated buildings, littered sidewalks, and graffiti-covered walls

Rome, a city in Oneida County, New York, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The area struggles with a declining population, which has led to reduced economic opportunities for residents.

Crime rates in Rome are higher than the national average, particularly for property crimes. This contributes to a sense of unease among some community members.

The city’s infrastructure shows signs of aging, with some roads and public facilities in need of repair or renovation. This can affect the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

Rome’s job market has been stagnant, with limited growth in new industries. Many residents commute to nearby cities for work, leading to longer travel times and increased expenses.

The harsh winters in upstate New York can be challenging for Rome’s inhabitants, with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures lasting for extended periods.

19. Plattsburgh

A run-down, graffiti-covered building in Plattsburgh, surrounded by litter and abandoned cars. The sky is overcast, adding to the overall sense of neglect and desolation

Plattsburgh, located in upstate New York, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city experiences harsh winters with heavy snowfall and frigid temperatures, making daily life difficult for residents.

Economic struggles are evident in Plattsburgh. The area has limited job opportunities, particularly in high-paying sectors. This contributes to a lower median household income compared to state averages.

Crime rates in Plattsburgh are higher than the national average, raising safety concerns for inhabitants. Property crimes are especially prevalent in certain neighborhoods.

The city’s infrastructure is aging, with some roads and public facilities in need of repairs. This can affect the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

Plattsburgh’s remote location can lead to a sense of isolation. Limited access to diverse cultural amenities and entertainment options may leave some residents feeling disconnected from larger urban centers.

20. Glen Cove

A rundown street in Glen Cove with dilapidated buildings and littered sidewalks, surrounded by a sense of neglect and despair

Glen Cove, located on Long Island’s North Shore, faces challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with a high cost of living, making it difficult for many residents to afford housing and daily expenses.

Traffic congestion is a significant issue in Glen Cove, particularly during rush hours. This leads to increased commute times and frustration for those traveling to and from work.

The city’s aging infrastructure requires attention, with some roads and public facilities in need of repairs and updates. This can affect the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

Glen Cove’s limited public transportation options make it less accessible for those without personal vehicles. This can be particularly challenging for elderly residents or those who prefer not to drive.

The city’s school system has faced criticism for underperformance in recent years, raising concerns among parents about educational quality. This factor may deter families considering a move to the area.

Factors Contributing to Poor Livability

A rundown city street with dilapidated buildings, overflowing trash cans, and graffiti-covered walls. The scene is filled with a sense of neglect and decay, contributing to poor livability

Several key issues negatively impact quality of life in certain New York areas. These factors create challenges for residents and hinder community development.

High Crime Rates

Crime remains a significant concern in some New York neighborhoods. Violent offenses like assaults and robberies occur at higher rates in these areas. Property crimes, including burglaries and car thefts, also pose problems for residents.

Law enforcement struggles to maintain adequate staffing levels in high-crime zones. This can lead to slower response times and reduced police presence. Gang activity persists in certain communities, contributing to safety issues.

Some neighborhoods lack proper lighting and security measures, making them more vulnerable to criminal activity. Residents may feel unsafe walking alone, especially at night.

Economic Challenges

Unemployment rates exceed state averages in struggling areas. Job opportunities are limited, particularly for skilled positions. Many residents face underemployment or rely on part-time work.

Low-income neighborhoods often have fewer businesses and amenities. This creates food deserts and reduces access to essential services. Property values stagnate or decline, discouraging investment and development.

High costs of living strain household budgets. Rent and housing prices remain unaffordable for many. Some residents spend over 50% of their income on housing alone.

Limited Access to Healthcare

Certain areas lack adequate medical facilities and providers. Residents may need to travel long distances for routine care or specialists. Wait times for appointments can be lengthy, delaying necessary treatments.

Public transportation limitations make it difficult to reach healthcare services. This particularly affects elderly and disabled individuals. Emergency medical response times may be slower in underserved communities.

Mental health resources are often scarce in struggling neighborhoods. Substance abuse treatment options may be limited or unavailable. Preventive care and health education programs are less prevalent in these areas.

Environmental Concerns

A polluted cityscape with smog, littered streets, and industrial buildings emitting toxic fumes. Rivers and waterways are contaminated, and wildlife is scarce

New York faces significant environmental challenges that impact quality of life in certain areas. These issues range from high pollution levels to a scarcity of green spaces in urban centers.

Pollution Levels

Air quality remains a pressing concern in many New York communities. The Bronx and parts of Manhattan experience elevated levels of fine particulate matter, often exceeding EPA standards. This pollution stems from heavy traffic, industrial activities, and aging buildings.

Water pollution affects several areas, particularly along the Hudson River and in Long Island Sound. Industrial runoff and sewage overflows contribute to contamination. Some communities struggle with lead in drinking water due to outdated infrastructure.

Noise pollution plagues densely populated neighborhoods. Constant traffic, construction, and nightlife activities create excessive noise levels that can disturb sleep and increase stress for residents.

Lack of Green Spaces

Many New York neighborhoods suffer from a shortage of parks and natural areas. Concrete jungles dominate the landscape in certain boroughs, leaving little room for trees, grass, or community gardens.

Urban heat island effects intensify in areas lacking vegetation. Temperatures can be several degrees higher in these zones, straining energy resources and posing health risks during heatwaves.

Limited access to green spaces impacts mental and physical health. Residents in affected areas have fewer opportunities for outdoor recreation, relaxation, and connection with nature.

Some initiatives aim to address this issue:

  • Green roofs on buildings
  • Pocket parks in vacant lots
  • Tree planting programs along streets

However, progress remains slow in many underserved communities.

Share on Reddit Share on WhatsApp
Liz Flynn

Liz Flynn has worked as a full-time writer since 2010 after leaving a career in education. She finds almost all topics she writes about interesting, but her favorite subjects are travel and food. Liz loves the process of researching information, learning new things, and putting into words what others who share her interests might like to read. Although she spends most of her time writing, she also enjoys spending time with her husband and four children, watching films, cooking, dining out, reading, motorsports, gaming, and walking along the beach next to her house with her dog.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply