Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bethlehem, NY
Considering a move to Bethlehem, NY? With a population of about 35,000, this family-friendly suburb offers a median home price of $350,000 and average rent of $1,350, making it a comfortable option just outside Albany. Residents enjoy low crime rates, top-tier schools with high graduation rates, and a manageable 22-minute average commute. Bethlehem features four seasons, strong healthcare access, and a robust local economy—perfect for those seeking a peaceful yet well-connected community.
Demographics - Bethlehem, NY
Demographics - Bethlehem, NY
Bethlehem, NY is home to approximately 35,000 residents, with a median age of 44.2, reflecting a community of families and professionals. The population is predominantly White, but also features growing diversity, and about 7.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. With a balanced gender ratio and moderate population density, the town offers a suburban feel with a welcoming atmosphere.
Population:
35,000
Density:
950 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
89.2%
Black:
2.2%
Asian:
4.5%
Others:
4.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bethlehem, NY?
Living in Bethlehem is slightly above the national average, with a cost of living index of 108.5. The median home value is $350,000 and average rent is $1,350, while utilities and daily expenses remain reasonable for the region. State income taxes range from 4% to 8.82%, making it important for newcomers to consider both housing and tax implications when relocating.
Median House Value:
$350,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$1,400
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,010
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$770
State Taxes:
Low:
4%
|
High:
8.82%
Cost Of Living Index:
108.5
Grocery:
106.2
Housing:
112.4
Utilities:
105.1
Transportation:
104.8
Health Care:
106.0
Miscellaneous:
103.9
Crime
Is Bethlehem, NY a safe place to live?
Bethlehem is recognized for its low crime rates, with only 68 violent crimes and 960 property crimes per 100,000 people annually. Residents enjoy a high sense of safety, with a 1 in 1,471 chance of being a victim of violent crime. This peaceful environment adds to the town’s appeal for families and those seeking a secure community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
68
Property Crimes Per 100k:
960
Crime Index:
1,028
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,471
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 104
Weather
What is the weather like in Bethlehem, NY year-round?
Bethlehem experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging between 17°F and 34°F, and warm summers peaking around 83°F. The area receives about 40 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine 52% of the year, offering a pleasant climate for outdoor activities throughout the year. Spring and fall are mild and comfortable, making for beautiful transitional seasons.

Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
The community boasts a strong economic profile, with a median household income of $108,900 and a low poverty rate of 4.5%. Nearly 97% of adults hold at least a high school diploma and the unemployment rate is a low 2.7%. Commute times average about 22 minutes, reflecting convenient access to nearby employment and amenities.
Median Income:
$46,300
Household Income:
$108,900
Family Income:
$129,500
Per Capita Income:
$54,200
Income Male:
$63,000
Income Female:
$48,500
Poverty Rate:
4.5%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
2.7%
Public Transport Usage:
2.6%
Commute Time:
21.9 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
96.8%
Bachelors or More:
59.2%
Education
How are the schools in Bethlehem, NY?
Education in Bethlehem stands out with top-rated public schools like Bethlehem Central Senior High School, which features a favorable student-teacher ratio and strong academic performance. Private school options and proximity to higher education institutions such as the University at Albany, SUNY, offer diverse learning opportunities for all ages. The community’s high educational attainment reflects its commitment to lifelong learning.

Public Schools
Name:
Bethlehem Central Senior High School
Street:
700 Delaware Ave
Phone:
518-439-4921
Students:
1,600
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Elsmere Elementary School
Street:
247 Delaware Ave
Phone:
518-439-4996
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.9

Private Schools
Name:
St. Thomas the Apostle School
Street:
42 Adams Pl
Phone:
518-439-5573
Students:
220

Colleges
Name:
The College of Saint Rose
City:
Albany
State:
NY
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
3,800
Name:
University at Albany, SUNY
City:
Albany
State:
NY
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
17,900
Healthcare
Bethlehem residents benefit from excellent healthcare access, with major hospitals like St. Peter’s Hospital and Albany Medical Center just minutes away. The area has a high physician density and 96.4% of residents are insured, ensuring quality medical services are readily available. The strong healthcare infrastructure supports the well-being of individuals and families alike.

Major Hospitals
Name:
St. Peter’s Hospital
Address:
315 S Manning Blvd, Albany, NY 12208
Phone:
(518) 525-1550
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Albany Medical Center
Address:
43 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208
Phone:
(518) 262-3125
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
96.4%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bethlehem, NY?
The housing market in Bethlehem is stable and attractive, with a median home price of $350,000 and a high owner-occupied rate at 74.5%. Home values have appreciated by 4.1% over the past year, while rental vacancy remains low at 4.1%. This makes Bethlehem a desirable location for both buyers and renters seeking long-term community roots.
Median Home Price:
$350,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are provided by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located at 855 Central Avenue in Albany. Residents can access driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in-person and online. The DMV’s proximity simplifies managing transportation needs for Bethlehem locals.
State:
New York
Department:
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
855 Central Avenue, Albany, NY 12206
Phone:
1-518-486-9786
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.