City Profile
Syracuse, New York
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Syracuse, New York, often referred to as 'The Salt City' due to its historical salt production, is a vibrant urban center located in the heart of New York State. Formally established in 1820, the city was named after the ancient Greek city of Syracuse in Sicily, sharing similar natural features. It serves as the economic and educational hub of Central New York, strategically positioned at the interchange of major interstates I-81 and I-90, and home to the region's largest airport. People are drawn to Syracuse for its relatively affordable cost of living compared to other New York cities, a growing job market, and a strong presence of educational institutions like Syracuse University and SUNY Upstate Medical University.
New York, USA, is a diverse state offering both the fast-paced, culturally rich environment of New York City and the more tranquil, naturally beautiful landscapes of upstate regions. The state's economy, the third largest in the U.S., is heavily driven by service-providing sectors, with finance, healthcare, and professional and business services being major industries, particularly in NYC. Living costs are significantly higher than the national average, especially in New York City where housing is a primary expense, though more affordable options exist upstate. The climate ranges from humid continental in upstate areas with cold, snowy winters and warm summers, to a humid subtropical climate in the New York City metropolitan area, characterized by hot, humid summers and moderately cold winters. The lifestyle varies from the constant energy and extensive cultural, dining, and career opportunities of NYC to a slower pace with abundant outdoor recreation in other parts of the state.
How this 60/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 95 / 100 | 95.0 | 30% | 28.5 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 103.0 | 40.0 | 25% | 10.0 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $47,819 Income needed to live here: $75,000 Unemployment rate: 5.1% | 30.6 | 20% | 6.1 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.5% Job growth rate: 2.5% | 53.8 | 15% | 8.1 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 70 / 100 | 70.0 | 10% | 7.0 |
| Overall score | 59.7 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 3 (deep think), q=77), last refreshed
29 July 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Performance
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Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Syracuse, NY, is slightly higher than the national average, with an index of 103, meaning it is approximately 3.1% more expensive than the U.S. average. Housing costs are a significant factor, being about 9.9% higher than the national average, with both rental and home prices contributing to this figure. However, utilities in Syracuse are generally more affordable, running about 4.9% lower than the national average, which can help offset other expenses. Grocery costs are also slightly lower, at 3.2% below the national average, influenced by access to interstate freight corridors and nearby agricultural regions.
Income
Salary Insights
Syracuse boasts a growing and diverse job market, with a particular strength in the service sector, which has become the primary source of job creation. The city's economy is anchored by robust healthcare and educational services, advanced manufacturing, and technology sectors. Major employers include SUNY Upstate Medical University and Syracuse University. The Syracuse metro area experienced a job growth rate of 2.3% over the year ending June 2025, outperforming state and national averages. This growth is further bolstered by significant projects like Micron's upcoming semiconductor facility, projected to create numerous new jobs in the region.
The average salary in Syracuse is $58,525 per year. You would need approximately $75,000 to live comfortably.
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Mobility
Transport
Getting around Syracuse primarily involves driving, as indicated by its Walk Score of 57, suggesting that some errands can be accomplished on foot but a car is often necessary. Most residents drive alone to work, with an average commute time of 18 minutes. While public transportation exists through the Centro Bus system, its reliability and coverage can be a drawback for some residents. The city's central location at the intersection of major interstates also makes it a convenient hub for regional travel.
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Community Q&A
Questions about Syracuse
What people ask about living in and moving to Syracuse, New York.
What are the main industries hiring in Syracuse right now?
Syracuse’s job market is anchored by education, health care, and technology sectors. Large institutions in higher education and medical services are major employers, and there is a growing tech scene with startups and IT support roles. For specific openings, browse the city’s employment portal, regional job boards, and the state labor department’s listings. Networking through local professional groups and attending c...
How are the public schools rated in Syracuse?
Public schools in Syracuse are administered by the city school district, which provides performance data on its website, including test scores and graduation rates. While some schools rank above state averages, others face challenges typical of urban districts. To gauge fit for your child, review the district’s school report cards, visit campuses during open houses, and talk to parents in community forums. The distri...
How does Syracuse's cost of living compare to the national average?
Syracuse’s cost‑of‑living index is 103, which means it is about 3 % above the national average of 100. This modest increase reflects slightly higher prices for goods and services such as groceries, utilities, and transportation, while housing costs are relatively moderate. With an average rent of $1,546 per month, your housing budget will be a key factor, but overall daily expenses should not be dramatically higher t...
What should I know about utilities and services when moving to Syracuse?
When you move into a Syracuse residence, you’ll need to set up electricity, natural gas, water, internet, and waste collection. The city’s utility providers list contact numbers and online portals on the municipal website, where you can schedule service start dates and compare rate plans. Some apartments include certain utilities in the rent, so review your lease carefully. For internet and cable, several regional ca...
Is Syracuse considered a safe city to live in?
Syracuse has a safety score of 95 out of 100, indicating a relatively high level of safety compared to many U.S. cities. Crime statistics vary by neighborhood, so it’s wise to research specific areas using the city’s public safety reports and crime mapping tools available on the police department’s website. Community watch groups and local resident forums can also provide insight into day‑to‑day safety. When choosing...
What public transportation options are available in Syracuse?
Syracuse is served by a city transit authority that operates bus routes throughout the city and surrounding suburbs. The system includes regular daytime service, limited evening routes, and a few express lines that connect major employment and shopping districts. You can find schedules, fare information, and route maps on the transit authority’s website or at major transit hubs. For longer trips, regional rail and in...
Where can I find hospitals and clinics in Syracuse?
Syracuse hosts several major hospitals and a network of clinics offering primary, specialty, and emergency care. The city’s health department website lists all licensed facilities, their locations, and the services they provide. To choose a primary care physician, you can use the health insurer’s provider directory or the state medical board’s search tool, which includes patient reviews and office hours. For emergenc...
What are the top free or low‑cost activities in Syracuse?
Syracuse offers a variety of low‑cost attractions, including extensive park systems, riverfront trails, and seasonal festivals that are often free to the public. The city’s parks department website provides maps of hiking and biking paths, as well as information on community events such as outdoor concerts, farmers’ markets, and cultural celebrations. Museums and galleries sometimes have free admission days, and the...
What’s the average salary in Syracuse and how does it affect buying power?
The average annual salary in Syracuse is $58,525. When paired with the city’s cost‑of‑living index of 103, this income provides a modest but manageable buying power, especially given the relatively affordable average rent of $1,546 per month. After taxes and typical expenses—housing, utilities, transportation, and food—many residents find they can maintain a comfortable lifestyle, though budgeting for discretionary s...
What is the typical rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Syracuse?
The average rent in Syracuse is $1,546 per month across all unit sizes. One‑bedroom apartments in central areas tend to be close to this average, while units farther from the city core may be a bit lower. To find current listings, check online rental platforms, local classifieds, and the city’s housing authority website, which also provides information on affordable‑housing programs. When budgeting, factor in utiliti...
Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Syracuse? Add your own.
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