What to know when moving to Ithaca, NY
Ithaca at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A highly educated area where 71.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree.
- The Major Draw:
- Median household income is $69,689, providing a solid economic base.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 18.3%, financial challenges exist for some residents.
- Commute:
- Only 7.8% of residents commute using public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median gross rent of $1,446.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Ithaca has a population of 66,495 and is home to a large student population, partly due to institutions like Cornell University and Ithaca College. The community has a renter percentage of 55.8%, indicating a significant number of people living in rental properties. The high education level, with 71.8% of residents holding a bachelor's degree, contributes to the area's character. However, the 18.3% poverty rate suggests that not everyone shares in the economic prosperity.
Probably not your spot if you are seeking a low-cost living environment, as the median gross rent is relatively high compared to local incomes.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,446, while the median owner-occupied home value is $334,800.
- 71.8% of the population has a bachelor's degree or higher, indicating a well-educated community.
- The poverty rate stands at 18.3%, reflecting economic diversity.
- 55.8% of residents are renters, showing a significant rental market.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In New York, property crime is at a state annual rate of 1,816.5 per 100,000 residents, which is about 17.4% higher than the national rate. Violent crime is at 454.9 per 100,000, which is approximately 39.8% higher than the national average.
- Violent crime: 454.9 per 100k vs. national average of 325.3
- Property crime: 1,816.5 per 100k vs. national average of 1,546.9
- Notable trend: Homicide rates have decreased by 34.5% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for New York).
Schools & Higher Ed
Ithaca has access to multiple higher education institutions, enhancing educational opportunities for residents.
- Postsecondary institutions: 3
- With College Scorecard data: 3
- Notable schools include Cornell University, Ithaca College, and Tompkins Cortland Community College.
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
While specific climate data is unavailable, Ithaca offers access to several beautiful outdoor parks and trails that residents can enjoy during the year.
- Taughannock Falls State Park - 4.8 stars (10,141 reviews)
- Buttermilk Falls State Park - 4.7 stars (5,898 reviews)
- Robert H. Treman State Park - 4.8 stars (4,197 reviews)
- Stewart Park - 4.7 stars (2,160 reviews)
Source: Google Places API.