Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Black River, NY
Considering a move to Black River, NY? With a close-knit population of just over 1,200, Black River offers affordable living, with median home prices around $182,000 and average rents at $1,050. Residents enjoy a low violent crime rate (142 per 100k), short 19-minute commutes, and easy access to quality education through local schools and nearby Jefferson Community College. You'll find four distinct seasons, a family-friendly atmosphere, and reasonable cost of living—perfect for those looking for small-town charm with convenient amenities nearby.
Demographics - Black River, NY
Demographics - Black River, NY
Black River, NY is a small village of about 1,285 residents, featuring a youthful median age of 34.7 and a balanced gender ratio. The community is predominantly White, with nearly 8% speaking a language other than English at home, reflecting some cultural diversity. Its high population density gives the village a close-knit, neighborly feel.
Population:
1,285
Density:
1,140 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.7
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.8%

Ethnic Composition
White:
88.2%
Black:
4.7%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
5.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Black River, NY?
Living in Black River is notably affordable, with a cost of living index below the national average and median home values around $182,000. Housing expenses are especially reasonable, while groceries and utilities remain close to state norms. Residents benefit from manageable monthly costs, making this village attractive for budget-conscious families and individuals.
Median House Value:
$182,000
Gross Rent:
$1,050
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,200
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,340
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$495
State Taxes:
Low:
4%
|
High:
10.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
91.0
Grocery:
95.0
Housing:
70.0
Utilities:
104.0
Transportation:
96.0
Health Care:
105.0
Miscellaneous:
97.0
Crime
Is Black River, NY a safe place to live?
Black River enjoys a low violent crime rate of 142 per 100,000 residents, offering a sense of safety for families and individuals. Property crimes are more common but still manageable, with a 1 in 91 chance annually. Overall, the area provides a secure environment compared to many similar-sized communities.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
142
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,102
Crime Index:
1,244
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 704
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 91
Weather
What is the weather like in Black River, NY year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with cold, snowy winters and mild summers reaching up to 80°F. The area receives about 40 inches of rainfall yearly and sees sunshine nearly half the year, making it ideal for those who appreciate seasonal variety. Winters are brisk, while springs and falls are pleasantly cool.

Winter
Min:
12°F
Max:
29°F

Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
55°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
40.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
49%
Neighbors
Black River’s households enjoy a median income of $66,800 and a family-friendly atmosphere, supported by high educational attainment—over 93% of adults have completed high school. Commute times are short, averaging just 19 minutes, and poverty rates remain relatively low at 8.1%. The community is diverse and welcoming, with a low unemployment rate and strong educational values.
Median Income:
$35,000
Household Income:
$66,800
Family Income:
$74,200
Per Capita Income:
$30,600
Income Male:
$42,100
Income Female:
$36,900
Poverty Rate:
8.1%
Non English Speakers:
7.8%
Rent:
$1,050
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
19.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.6%
Bachelors or More:
26.5%
Education
How are the schools in Black River, NY?
Black River offers quality education through its local elementary school, which maintains a favorable student-teacher ratio of 13:1. For higher education, Jefferson Community College is just six miles away, providing a range of academic opportunities. The community supports strong educational outcomes and convenient access to learning at all levels.

Public Schools
Name:
Black River Elementary School
Street:
160 Leray St
Phone:
315-773-5911
Students:
370
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.1

Colleges
Name:
Jefferson Community College
City:
Watertown
State:
NY
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
3,800
Healthcare
Residents have convenient access to healthcare, including Samaritan Medical Center nearby and a strong health insurance coverage rate of 94.1%. With 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people and a favorable healthcare index, Black River ensures quality medical support for its population. Emergency and general care services are readily available within a short drive.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Samaritan Medical Center
Address:
830 Washington St, Watertown, NY 13601
Phone:
(315) 785-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.1%
Health Care Index:
76.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Black River, NY?
The housing market in Black River is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $182,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $1,050. A majority of homes are owner-occupied, and property values have experienced moderate appreciation over the past year. The rental vacancy rate is healthy, supporting a balanced market for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$182,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,050
Owner Occupied Rate:
64.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents can manage their vehicle needs through the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles located in nearby Watertown. The DMV offers a full range of services, and its convenient location makes it easy for Black River locals to register vehicles, obtain licenses, and handle other driving-related matters.
State:
New York
Department:
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
317 Washington St, Watertown, NY 13601
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.