Finding an affordable place to live in New York can be tough. But there are still some hidden gems where rents are reasonable. Today we’ll cover 15 of the cheapest places to live in New York State.
Whether you are looking for budget-friendly apartments or vibrant communities, the cities featured below all offer great options for anyone making the move to New York on a budget.
1. Hamburg
Average rent: $1,056
With an average rent of $1,056, Hamburg is a great spot for budget conscious renters to settle down. Studio apartments average $762, making them a steal. One-bedroom units are also reasonable at $1,095, while two-bedroom apartments average $1,312. Hamburg’s affordability makes it a top contender for renters looking to save.
A couple of the key employers in Hamburg are Ford Motor Company and FedEx. For a fun day out, visit the Hamburg Beach or Woodlawn Beach State Park, both of which are budget-friendly. Hamburg Farmers Market, established in 1977, is the place to go for fresh, local produce at a reasonable cost.
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2. Syracuse
Average rent: $1,164
Syracuse earns a spot on our list with an average rent of just $1,164. Studio apartments in Syracuse are especially budget-friendly at $817, while one-bedroom units average $1,170. Even two-bedroom apartments remain affordable at $1,504. This makes Syracuse an excellent choice for those seeking to balance cost and quality of living.
Syracuse is known as the home of Syracuse University which is also one of the city’s largest employers. This connection solidifies Syracuse’s status as one of New York’s top college towns. For entertainment, check out the Erie Canal Museum and Onondaga Lake Park, which offer free or low-cost activities.
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3. Irondequoit
Average rent: $1,200
Irondequoit has an average rent of $1,200. One-bedroom apartments average $1,150 and two-bedroom units are about $1,250. This small difference in prices between different apartment sizes is a bonus for those needing more space.
In Irondequoit, one of the most impactful employers is Rochester Regional Health. For an affordable day on the town, check out Durand Eastman Park and the Seabreeze Amusement Park.
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4. Buffalo
Average rent: $1,340
Buffalo boasts an average rent of $1,340. Studio apartments in Buffalo are very affordable at $772, and one-bedroom units average $1,523. Two-bedroom apartments come in at $1,725, making Buffalo a cost-effective place to call home.
The University at Buffalo is hands-down one of the most significant employers in Buffalo. Explore free attractions like the Albright-Knox Art Gallery on certain days and the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens.
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5. Greece
Average rent: $1,345
With an average rent of $1,345, Greece is a solid choice for affordable New York living. One-bedroom apartments average $1,180, and two-bedroom units are about $1,510. The city’s cost-effective living options appeal to those wanting suburban comfort without the hefty price tag.
Major employers in Greece include the Greece Central School District and Wegmans Food Markets. Dog owners love Greece Canal Park, which is one of just two off-leash dog parks in the area. The Greece Historical Society & Museum is another low-cost attraction worth visiting.
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6. Rochester
Average rent: $1,468
Rochester has an average rent of $1,468. Studio apartments average $1,175, while one-bedroom units are $1,364. Two-bedroom apartments cost around $1,865. Rochester balances affordability with a range of living options, making it a great choice for many renters.
The city’s major employers include Eastman Kodak and Xerox. For fun, take a trip to the George Eastman Museum or Highland Park, both of which offer budget-friendly activities. The Rochester Public Market is a favorite for its low-cost, fresh produce and community events.
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7. Troy
Average rent: $1,532
Troy offers an average rent of $1,532. Studio apartments cost about $1,465, and one-bedroom units are $1,560. Two-bedroom apartments are similarly priced at $1,572.
Troy’s major employers include Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and St. Peter’s Health Partners. We recommend checking out the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market and the scenic Riverfront Park. The historic architecture and local festivals add to Troy’s affordable charm.
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8. Schenectady
Average rent: $1,557
Schenectady has an average rent of $1,557. Studio apartments are priced at $1,125, while one-bedroom units average $1,612. Two-bedroom apartments are a bit higher at $1,934, but the overall affordability remains attractive.
Major employers in Schenectady include General Electric and Union College. Visit the Central Park Rose Garden or the free Schenectady County Public Library for budget-friendly activities.
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9. Utica
Average rent: $1,563
With an average rent of $1,563, Utica is a practical choice. Studio apartments are especially cheap at $625. However, one-bedroom units are $1,600, and two-bedroom apartments average $2,464, reflecting a wider range in rent prices.
Utica College is one of the more impactful employers in Utica. Expand your creative boundaries at the Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute, which offers free admission on certain days. The Utica Zoo and solid selection of local parks also provide low-cost recreational options.
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10. Cheektowaga
Average rent: $1,602
Cheektowaga’s average rent is $1,602. Studio apartments are around $2,274, with one-bedroom units at $1,467 and two-bedroom apartments at $1,065.
Major employers include the Cheektowaga Central School District and Walmart. For activities, visit Stiglmeier Park or Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve, both of which offer free entry. The annual Polish-American Festival is a cultural highlight that’s easy on the wallet.
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11. Albany
Average rent: $1,783
Albany has an average rent of $1,783. Studio apartments in Albany cost about $1,462, and one-bedroom units are $1,665. Two-bedroom apartments average $2,222.
Albany’s major employers include the State of New York and Albany Medical Center. For fun, explore the New York State Museum or the beautiful Washington Park, both free to the public.
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12. Mount Vernon
Average rent: $2,195
Mount Vernon offers an average rent of $2,195, making it one of the more affordable cities near New York City. One-bedroom apartments average $2,185, and two-bedroom units are around $2,800. These rents are quite reasonable given its proximity to NYC, providing a great balance between affordability and access to big city amenities.
Major employers in Mount Vernon include Mount Vernon Hospital and Wartburg. For a fun day on the town, visit Willson’s Woods Park, known for its wave pool and water playground. The city also boasts historical sites like Saint Paul’s Church National Historic Site, which offer educational and free activities.
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13. Islip
Average rent: $2,452
Islip’s average rent is $2,452, with one-bedroom apartments averaging $2,191 and two-bedroom units at $2,634. This city is a great mix of affordability and coastal living.
Major employers in Islip include Southside Hospital and Islip Public Schools. Bayard Cutting Arboretum State Park, which offers free entry, is a must-see on a beautiful day. The Islip Arts Council sets up affordable events throughout the year, adding to the town’s appeal.
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14. Yonkers
Average rent: $2,709
Yonkers has an average rent of $2,709. Studio apartments in Yonkers are the most affordable option at $2,232, with one-bedroom units averaging $2,475. Two-bedroom apartments are higher, averaging $3,420, reflecting the city’s growing popularity and development.
In Yonkers, you’ll find large employers like St. John’s Riverside Hospital and Yonkers Contracting Company. To kick back, consider a trip to Untermyer Gardens, which is free to the public. The Hudson River Museum and the scenic waterfront provide additional low-cost entertainment options.
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15. Smithtown
Average rent: $2,737
Smithtown has an average rent of $2,737, making it a viable option for those seeking a suburban lifestyle. One-bedroom apartments average $2,370, and two-bedroom units are about $3,767.
A couple of the larger employers in Smithtown are Arrow Security and Delta Chemicals. Locals love the ability to enjoy the outdoors at Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, which supports hiking and picnicking for free.
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16. Huntington
Average rent: $2,867
Huntington has an average rent of $2,867. One-bedroom apartments average $2,850, and two-bedroom units come in at $3,450. While not the cheapest, Huntington’s strong community and amenities justify the cost.
A couple of Huntington’s larger employers include Huntington Hospital and Newsday. Visit Heckscher Park for free outdoor activities and community events. Artsy types love the town’s creative scene, anchored by the Cinema Arts Centre.
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Methodology
All cities must have over 50,000 residents per the US Census and have an average rent price under the median rent price for the state – which is $3,560 per month according to Redfin data. Average rental data from Rent.com July 2024.
