8 Charming Small Towns in New York You’ll Want to Call Home

If you’re thinking about moving to New York, bustling cities like New York City or Albany might come to mind. However, this state has much more to offer. From quaint downtowns to festivals that bring the community together, New York’s small towns are perfect for anyone looking to experience what life is like in its quieter corners. In this Redfin article, we’ll discuss 8 charming small towns in New York, each with their own unique character and plenty of reasons to call home.

1. Clinton, NY

Median Sale Price: $490,000
Homes for sale in Clinton | Apartments for rent in Clinton

Clinton is home to Hamilton College, one of the oldest colleges in the state. Because of this, the town has a rich academic atmosphere with plenty of cultural events and lectures open to the public. On Saturdays, you can find residents at the Clinton Farmers Market, where you can browse fresh produce, local crafts, and listen to live music in the town square. Each fall, the Clinton Art & Music Festival entertains locals with a mix of live performances, art exhibits, and food vendors. The town’s historic district is lined with beautiful 19th-century homes and quaint shops, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll.

2. Livonia, NY

Median Sale Price: $200,000
Homes for sale in Livonia | Apartments for rent in Livonia

Livonia is located in the Finger Lakes region, surrounded by lakes and rolling farmland. Conesus Lake, one of the smaller Finger Lakes, is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and lakeside relaxation. While here, locals often gather for sunset views at Vitale Park. The town’s annual Livonia Autumn in the Village Festival brings the community together with a parade, craft vendors, and delicious local food. For a taste of local flavor, residents enjoy visiting Ember Woodfire Grill, known for its wood-fired pizzas and farm-to-table cuisine. Outdoor enthusiasts love exploring the nearby Hemlock-Canadice State Forest, offering scenic hiking trails and wildlife viewing.

3. Mount Morris, NY

Median Sale Price: $110,000
Homes for sale in Mount Morris | Apartments for rent in Mount Morris

Mount Morris, located at the northern gateway to Letchworth State Park, offers both historic charm and outdoor activities. The town is named after Robert Morris, a financier of the American Revolution, and his legacy is celebrated throughout the town with historic landmarks and tributes. Each summer, Mount Morris hosts the Mount Morris Dam Festival. During the festival there’s live music, craft vendors, and guided tours of the impressive dam located within Letchworth.

4. Lowville, NY

Median Sale Price: $134,000
Homes for sale in Lowville | Apartments for rent in Lowville

If you like cheese then you’ll love the small town of Lowville. The town is home to the annual Cream Cheese Festival, celebrating the area’s dairy farming roots with a quirky mix of food vendors, live music, and the creation of the world’s largest cheesecake. For outdoor lovers, the nearby Whetstone Gulf State Park provides scenic hiking trails through deep gorges and a peaceful reservoir for fishing and kayaking. The town’s agricultural roots run deep, and visitors can often find locals visiting the Lowville Producers Dairy Co-op, which highlights the area’s contributions to New York’s dairy industry.

5. Greenport, NY

Median Sale Price: $1,360,000
Homes for sale in Greenport | Apartments for rent in Greenport

Greenport is a charming coastal village known for its maritime heritage and laid-back vibe. The town’s historic waterfront is a hub of activity, where you can explore Mitchell Park, take a ride on the antique carousel, or stroll along the marina filled with sailboats. Food lovers flock to Greenport for its farm-to-table dining scene, with popular spots like Noah’s offering fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. Each summer, the Greenport Maritime Festival excites residents with boat races, live concerts, and local food stalls, celebrating the town’s maritime past. With its scenic harbor, historic charm, and lively arts scene, Greenport is a must-visit on Long Island’s North Fork.

6. Conesus, NY

Median Sale Price: $430,000
Homes for sale in Conesus | Apartments for rent in Conesus

Conesus is a quiet lakeside town in the Finger Lakes region, known for its peaceful setting. Conesus Lake is the heart of the town, where locals and visitors enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming during the summer months. The annual Ring of Fire celebration, held every July 3rd, is a beloved tradition in Conesus. During the festival, bonfires line the shores of the lake in a stunning display of community and celebration. Nearby, Long Point Park has scenic picnic areas and hiking trails, making it a favorite spot for weekend outings. For a taste of the local craft beer scene, visitors can head to Rising Storm Brewing Company, known for its creative brews and friendly atmosphere.

7. Narrowsburg, NY

Median Sale Price: $865,000
Homes for sale in Narrowsburg | Apartments for rent in Narrowsburg

Narrowsburg is located along the Delaware River in the Catskills. The town’s picturesque Main Street is lined with art galleries, boutiques, and cafes, making it a favorite weekend destination for city dwellers seeking a rural escape. Narrowsburg’s proximity to the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River offers plenty of opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. For an unforgettable dining experience, head to The Heron, a farm-to-table restaurant known for its seasonal dishes and riverside views.

8. Norwich, NY

Median Sale Price: $149,000
Homes for sale in Norwich | Apartments for rent in Norwich

Norwich is home to the Northeast Classic Car Museum, which showcases over 200 classic and vintage cars. Because of this, the town is a must-visit for automotive enthusiasts. Each summer, Norwich comes alive with the Chenango County Fair, a week-long event featuring carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, and live music that has been a local tradition for over 170 years. The town’s downtown is filled with charming shops, cafes, and the Colonia Theatre, where locals enjoy classic films and live performances. With its combination of history, culture, and outdoor recreation, Norwich gives people a classic small-town experience in upstate New York.

Methodology: The median home sale price is from the Redfin Data Center.

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