11 Wallet-Friendly Small Towns To Retire In New York
When some people think of the prospect of retiring in New York, the thought of how expensive a decision like that could be may rear its head. New York can be unfairly painted as an unaffordable place to live, which is why it's important to highlight the unique and affordable towns found across the state. New York City’s median listing price for homes is roughly $864,500, and the state average sits at around $620,000, according to Zillow, yet there are plenty of places with far more wallet-friendly prices. Those willing to look around are sure to find some beautiful and historic towns to call home, featuring a balanced blend of comfort and convenience.
Binghamton
If you want to retire to a wonderfully unique town that manages to have something for people from every walk of life, Binghamton might be your dream option. The median home listing price sits at about $184,000, and a population of roughly 46,500 people means access to plenty of amenities. Fans of attending baseball games are certainly in luck, thanks to Mirabito Stadium Ballpark, home of the Eastern League's Rumble Ponies.
For those who might enjoy something a bit more quaint, the Cutler Botanic Garden is ready to wow you with its fourteen different themed areas designed for teaching about horticulture and environmental issues. The Bundy Museum of History and Art honors the legacy of local entrepreneurs and serves to educate and inspire the general public on the fine arts in an open gallery. The Roberson Museum can also be a great place to spend time taking workshops, from watercolour painting to making your own pottery, all at a discounted rate for seniors.
Elmira
Whether you are looking right in the heart of the city or in the immediate surrounding area, Elmira has plenty to offer those who love history and the outdoors. Homes here can be very wallet-friendly, considering the median list price for Elmira is roughly $111,600. A major draw to this area is the Tanglewood Nature Center & Museum, a place that will allow you to enrich yourself through your learning about more than 40 different native and non-native species through an indoor museum and outdoor trail system.
A great stop for those who want a place to visit when younger family comes by, or just a place for a nice walk, is Eldridge Park, an amusement area complete with a restored carousel that dates back to the 1890s. Should you want to explore the region's storied history, pay a visit to the John W. Jones Museum to learn more about an Underground Railroad Station Master, and head to Mark Twain’s Study to see where the man himself wrote some of his most famous novels.
Jamestown
With the Chadakoin River running right through the town, Jamestown is perfect for those who love to be on or near the water. The median list price for the area is around $108,000, making it affordable for those on a fixed income or limited budget. One of the best parts of the community is that it is home to the National Comedy Center, a museum that explores the history of American comedy in the heart of Lucille Ball's hometown. For fans of classic television, be sure to check out the massive I Love Lucy Mural in town.
The Fenton History Center offers veterans a year-long membership and access to the Fenton Research Center to explore family genealogy, find fellow veterans, and help preserve the service records of past veterans. If you are willing to go a bit out of your way, you may find the Roger Tory Peterson Institute, a beautiful museum filled with pieces that showcase and celebrate the natural world.
Malone
Malone may be worth considering thanks to its low population of just over 5,000 and median list price for homes sitting at roughly $223,000. Those who love to bowl can head on over to Lucky Strike Lanes for a few games, and don't forget to consider their Friday afternoon Seniors League. If bowling just is not your game, and golf is actually your sport of choice, the Malone Golf Club has you covered with 36 holes across two courses and various discounts for seniors. To learn more about the history of the area, the House of History Museum offers tours and even volunteer opportunities to engage with your new community in a welcoming environment.
Corning
Corning is another enticing retirement option, thanks to its proximity to the Chemung River, the tight-knit local community, and wallet-friendly home prices, with a median list price of $212,000. A unique option, take some time to visit the Corning Museum of Glass in order to gain a new appreciation of the material through their many colorful exhibits, and the museum even offers accessible parking, assistive listening devices, and free entrance to caregivers to ensure that anyone and everyone can enjoy and learn.
Once you're finished at the museum, you will no doubt be inspired to stop off at Hands-on GLASS, a glassmaking studio that invites visitors ages 2 and up to blow their own ornaments, making it a wonderful stop for you and any visiting family. For another engaging learning experience, explore the Heritage Village of the Southern Finger Lakes to see how life was lived many years ago. The museum offers guided tours by scheduled appointment with special rates for seniors, and there are also volunteer opportunities if you are so inclined.
Plattsburgh
If a place by the water where life moves at a comfortable pace sounds right up your alley, Plattsburgh might be exactly what you’re looking for. Cumberland Bay is close at hand, and the median home price is $275,800, giving you natural beauty and outdoor recreation at a reasonably low cost. For a bit of sunshine and time spent near the water, take a stroll or simply relax on Plattsburgh City Beach. Beach wheelchairs and mats are available to rent, making the shoreline accessible and comfortable for everyone.
For seniors interested in history, particularly military or veterans’ history, the War of 1812 Museum offers a thoughtful look into the past, complete with a small theater, an interpretive center, an art gallery, and exhibit space, as well as a lovely museum shop. Art lovers can explore more than 10,000 works at SUNY's Plattsburgh State Art Museum, and if the experience inspires you, consider applying to the Docent program to volunteer your time. It’s a rewarding way to help the museum bring art and education to the public while engaging with people of all ages.
Watertown
With median home prices around $236,000, Watertown is an appealing option for a stress-free retirement. Beginner and seasoned golfers alike can take advantage of senior discounts at Ives Hill Country Club, where you can play 9 or 18 holes, spend time on the driving range, or book lessons to sharpen your skills.
Animal lovers will enjoy Zoo New York at Thompson Park, which offers seniors a 10% discount and plenty of charming furry residents to visit. If you’re passionate about science and wildlife, you can even apply to the EdZOOcator Program to help educate the public. Meanwhile, readers will appreciate the Roswell P. Flower Memorial Library not only for its collection, but also for its many senior-focused events, including introductory workshops on topics like smartphone photography.
Auburn
Not all small towns combine a lively, shop-filled downtown with significant history, but Auburn and its homes with a median list price of about $263,000 manage to do exactly that. For a meaningful look at the past, visit the Harriet Tubman Home and pay respects to an important historic abolitionist. For a bit of art with your history, explore the Schweinfurth Art Center, which offers rotating exhibits featuring quilts and watercolors, along with events that allow you to learn even more.
Sometimes history is not what you are in the mood for, and you may want a show instead. Fortunately, the Auburn Public Theatre offers plenty of choices, including live performances, classic films, open mic nights, and even the option to continue your own learning through their adult education classes.
Rome
Monuments, parks, museums, and much more are all available in Rome, New York, with no need to travel to Italy, and homes here are about as affordable as you can hope for in New York, with a median list price of around $222,600. A unique local stop is the Rome Sports Hall of Fame & Museum, where you can explore the city’s fascinating sports history through a variety of artifacts, including an actual NASCAR championship race car.
You can also visit The Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers of the American Revolution at the corner of North James and West Liberty, and enjoy a walk through town to see its other impressive landmarks. For a bit of outdoor recreation and friendly competition, you can spend time at the Rome Country Club, a public 18-hole course that offers a good balance of challenge and affordability, and provides a slight discount for seniors.
Oneonta
While you can certainly enjoy plenty of nature and history in Oneonta, anyone who loves science and space may find even more to appreciate, especially with a median list price of only $286,000. Be sure to visit the accessible SUNY Oneonta Planetarium, a large theater that lets you experience the night sky in a whole new way, supported by the scientific outreach of the local academic community.
Another enjoyable stop with many options is the Oneonta Family YMCA, which offers a range of programs and classes for seniors that encourage community engagement and support healthy living. If you like those activities, you may also enjoy The Wilber Mansion, a Victorian home filled with art exhibits such as the annual Quilt Show, along with classes for adults and seniors, including their popular Paint a Plate workshop.
Olean
With a relatively small population of about 13,500 and a median list price of around $223,900, Olean offers something for almost anyone preparing for retirement. Golfers have several choices, including the Bartlett Country Club, which features a challenging 18-hole course, a clubhouse for socializing, and membership options suited to retirees.
You could also visit Woodside Tavern On The Range to spend time at the driving range seven days a week, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful day focusing on perfecting your swing. Another wonderful option in Olean for geology enthusiasts is Rock City Park, where you can explore enormous rock formations and take in incredible views on a scenic hike, all with a senior discount available.
Finding Your New York
Choosing the right place to retire in New York can be both affordable and inspiring, and towns like Binghamton and Plattsburgh show how much variety the state has to offer. Whether you want peaceful trails, engaging museums, or a lively community atmosphere, each of these small towns provides its own blend of comfort and opportunity. With so many wallet-friendly choices, finding a town that fits your lifestyle can be an enjoyable part of planning your next chapter.
