What to know when moving to Elmira, NY
Elmira at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 46.8% of residents are renters and the median household income is $40,524.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $835, making it relatively affordable.
- The Reality Check:
- 28% of residents live below the poverty line.
- Commute:
- Only 4.5% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median home value of $90,300.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Elmira is home to about 14,430 people, with a median household income of $40,524. The community has a significant renter population, with 46.8% of residents renting their homes. Education is a factor, with only 16.1% holding a bachelor's degree or higher, which may influence the local job market and economic opportunities. Elmira experiences a notable poverty rate of 28%, indicating a mix of economic challenges.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a highly educated population or robust public transit options, as only 4.5% commute via public transit.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $835, while the median owner-occupied home value is $90,300, making homeownership an accessible option.
- 16.1% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, which reflects the educational landscape of the community.
- 28% of the population lives below the poverty line, highlighting economic challenges in the area.
- 46.8% of residents are renters, indicating a significant demand for rental housing.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In New York, the crime rates present a mixed picture, with property crime rates at 1,816.5 per 100,000 people, which is 17.4% higher than the national average. Violent crime stands at 454.9 per 100,000, approximately 39.8% higher than the national rate.
- Violent crime: 454.9 per 100k vs. national 325.3 per 100k, with a 4.7% increase since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,816.5 per 100k vs. national 1,546.9 per 100k, with a 4.6% increase since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicides have decreased by 34.5% since 2022, currently at a rate of 2.7 per 100,000.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for New York).
Schools & Higher Ed
Elmira has access to three postsecondary institutions, providing residents with educational opportunities in the region.
- Arnot Ogden Medical Center
- Elmira College
- Schuyler Steuben Chemung Tioga Allegany BOCES
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Elmira offers several parks and outdoor spaces that locals enjoy, providing opportunities for recreation and relaxation.
- Farmland Animal Park - 4.6 stars (774 reviews)
- Eldridge Park - 4.6 stars (517 reviews)
- National Soaring Museum - 4.7 stars (352 reviews)
- Newtown Battlefield State Park - 4.6 stars (337 reviews)
Source: Google Places API.