Home to the Finger Lakes region, Lake Ontario, and mountains like the Catskills and Adirondacks, New York has a wide range of landscapes, perfect for enjoying the great outdoors. With fall foliage, winter sports opportunities, and hiking in the summer months, there’s a reason people live in New York’s mountain towns.
To help you find the right place to call home, Rent. has collected a list of the best mountain towns in New York to live in. Whether you’re drawn to the quaint charm, rich history, or remote wilderness, there’s a place for you. Read on to find out which towns made the list.
1. Cooperstown
Mountain range: Catskill Mountains
Average rent price: $2,650
Population: 1,900
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Cooperstown is situated in the scenic Catskill Mountains and has a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. This charming town, located about halfway between Albany and Binghamton, is renowned for the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, attracting thousands of visitors each year. With Otsego Lake nearby, residents and tourists enjoy boating, fishing, and picturesque views. You can also explore trails like the Star Field Trail or check out Glimmerglass State Park.
The town’s small population creates a close-knit community atmosphere, with local eateries like the Cooperstown Diner and Stagecoach Coffee offering cozy dining experiences. For those seeking adventure, the nearby Catskill Mountains provide ample hiking, skiing, and camping opportunities. Whether you spend a day in town, along the lake, or in the woods, Cooperstown has it all.
2. Corinth
Mountain range: Adirondack Mountains
Average rent price: $1,695
Population: 2,570
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Apartments for rent in Corinth, NY
Corinth is a gateway to the Adirondack Mountains, offering residents a serene environment and a plethora of outdoor activities. This town is awesome for those who love the great outdoors, with the Hudson River providing opportunities for kayaking and fishing. Corinth is about 20 miles from the famous Lake George, making it a perfect spot for those who enjoy water sports and hiking trails like the Western Ridge Trail.
The town’s history is rich, with several landmarks and museums that tell the story of its past such as the Ulysses S. Grant Cottage National Historic Landmark. Local dining options include rustic cafes and locally-owned restaurants, which showcase the community’s vibe.
3. Glen Falls
Mountain range: Adirondack Mountains
Average rent price: $1,400
Population: 14,330
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Glen Falls is one of the many gateways to the Adirondacks, known for its proximity to state parks, trails, and ski resorts. For example, you can check out Canalway Trail- Glens Falls Feeder Canal Trail great for scenic walks and bike rides, Coles Woods, and Cooper’s Cave. If you’re looking to enjoy the winter season be sure to ski or snowboard at West Mountain or during the summer months you can boat at Moreau Lake State Park.
The town has a vibrant arts scene, whether you check out the Hyde Collection or see a performance at the Charles R. Wood Theater. Glen Falls’ downtown area is bustling with shops, cafes, and restaurants, alongside museums like the Chapman Museum and events like the Glens Falls Farmers Market. With its proximity to the Adirondack Mountains, this mountain town caters to anyone looking to be near the great outdoors.
4. Hunter
Mountain range: Catskill Mountains
Average rent price: $2,500
Population: 400
Apartments for rent in Hunter, NY
Hunter is a picturesque small town in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature. Even with a small year-round population, Hunter is a vibrant community with a strong sense of camaraderie among residents. The town is famous for Hunter Mountain, a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
During the warmer months, the area transforms into a hiker’s paradise, with trails leading to breathtaking views and waterfalls. Some popular spots include Mountain Top Arboretum, Rusk Mt Trail, and Plateau Mountain. Local dining options include cozy mountain lodges and bistros, offering hearty meals after a day of outdoor adventures.
5. Lake Placid
Mountain range: Adirondack Mountains
Average rent price: $689
Population: 2,080
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Lake Placid is a renowned destination for winter sports enthusiasts, famously hosting the Winter Olympics twice. This town is not just a winter haven – it offers year-round activities, including hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking in the surrounding Adirondack Mountains. Some popular spots include the Haystack Mountain Trail, Heaven Hill Trails, Lake Placid Olympic Ski Jumping Complex, and High Falls Gorge.
Lake Placid’s Main Street is lined with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants, reflecting the town’s welcoming spirit. Mirror Lake provides a stunning backdrop for residents and visitors, with opportunities for paddle boarding and swimming. Lake Placid’s small population and natural beauty make it an idyllic mountain town.
6. Phoenicia
Mountain range: Catskill Mountains
Average rent price: $5,500
Population: 280
Houses for rent in Phoenicia, NY
Apartments for rent in Phoenicia, NY
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Phoenicia is a hidden gem in the Catskill Mountains, offering a tranquil escape with its stunning natural surroundings. This small town is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with the Esopus Creek providing excellent opportunities for tubing and fishing. You can also find trails like the Romer Mountain Trail, the Panther Mountain Trail, and the Mount Tremper-Willow Trail. Phoenicia’s tight-knit community is welcoming, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere. The town is also known for local restaurants, shops, and the Rail Explorers: Catskills Division.
7. Saranac Lake
Mountain range: Adirondack Mountains
Average rent price: $2,600
Population: 5,460
Houses for rent in Saranac Lake, NY
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East of Lake Placid is Saranac Lake another popular spot in the Adirondack Mountains. This community is known for its vibrant arts scene and outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and camping. Be sure to explore Mount Baker Peak, walk the Bloomingdale Bog Hiking Trail, or spend the day at Saranac Lake Village Beach.
Saranac Lake’s downtown area is bustling with galleries, shops, and eateries. You can also find a variety of landmarks like the Robert Louis Stevenson Cottage, the Adirondack Carousel, and The Saranac Laboratory Museum. The Winter Carnival, a tradition since 1897, brings the community together with ice sculptures, sports, and parades. This town combines the beauty of the Adirondacks with a charming atmosphere, making it a great place to call home
8. Saratoga Springs
Mountain range: Adirondack Mountains
Average rent price: $2,647
Population: 27,900
Houses for rent in Saratoga Springs, NY
Apartments for rent in Saratoga Springs, NY
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Saratoga Springs is a bustling town known for its historic mineral springs and vibrant downtown. The Saratoga Race Course, one of the oldest in the US, attracts visitors from all over during the racing season. You can also learn about the city’s racing history at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame. Just outside of town, you’ll find beautiful forest areas like Woods Hollow Nature Preserve, Daketown State Forest, Saratoga County Kalabus Perry Trails, and Waterfront Park located at Saratoga Lake.
The town’s parks, such as the Saratoga Spa State Park, offer beautiful settings for picnics, walks, and events. Saratoga Springs’ arts scene includes the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, hosting performances from classical music to rock concerts. With a larger population, Saratoga Springs offers a dynamic community with a mix of small-town charm and city-like amenities.
9. Watertown
Mountain range: Adirondack Mountains
Average rent price: $1,637
Population: 25,640
Houses for rent in Watertown, NY
Apartments for rent in Watertown, NY
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Watertown serves as a commercial hub in the northern part of New York, offering a blend of urban amenities and access to the natural beauty of the Adirondack Mountains. The town features a variety of parks and walking trails such as Waterworks Park, the Black River Running Trail, the Historic Thompson Park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, and Dry Hill Ski Area.
Watertown’s historic downtown area is filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions, like the Jefferson County Historical Society. The town’s proximity to Lake Ontario and the Thousand Islands makes it a great location for water sports and exploring. If you’re looking for the best of lakeside living and mountain charm, check out Watertown.
Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the mountain towns in New York. Towns must have average rental data to be included on the list. Average rental data from Rent.com during September 2024. Population data is sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
