Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Niagara Falls, NY
Considering a move to Niagara Falls, NY? With a population of around 48,000, this city offers very affordable living—median home prices near $121,000 and average rents around $825. Commutes are easy, averaging just 20 minutes, and you'll find access to major hospitals and local colleges. While property and violent crime rates are higher than average, the city has a scenic setting and a rich community life. Education levels are moderate, and you'll experience classic upstate New York seasons, with snowy winters and mild summers. Niagara Falls is a budget-friendly choice for those seeking small-city living and natural beauty.
Demographics - Niagara Falls, NY
Demographics - Niagara Falls, NY
Niagara Falls is home to about 48,000 residents, with a population density of 3,900 people per square mile and a median age of 40.1. The community is diverse, with 21% identifying as Black and 8.5% speaking a language other than English at home. This city offers a balanced gender ratio and a mix of cultures, fostering a welcoming environment for newcomers.
Population:
48,252
Density:
3,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.1
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
64.5%
Black:
21.1%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
13.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Niagara Falls, NY?
Living in Niagara Falls is highly affordable, with a median home value of $120,700 and average rent around $825. The cost of living index is significantly below the national average, making it a budget-friendly choice for both homeowners and renters. Utilities and groceries are also reasonably priced, helping residents keep expenses manageable.
Median House Value:
$120,700
Gross Rent:
$825
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$1,270
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,130
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$495
State Taxes:
Low:
4.0%
|
High:
10.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.3
Grocery:
97.9
Housing:
53.4
Utilities:
98.2
Transportation:
89.4
Health Care:
102.6
Miscellaneous:
96.7
Crime
Is Niagara Falls, NY a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Niagara Falls are higher than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 1,070 incidents per 100,000 people and a 1 in 93 chance of experiencing a violent crime. Property crime is also prevalent, with a 1 in 28 chance. Prospective residents should be aware and take standard precautions to stay safe.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
1,070
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,530
Crime Index:
4,600
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 93
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 28
Weather
What is the weather like in Niagara Falls, NY year-round?
Niagara Falls experiences classic upstate New York seasons, with snowy winters where temperatures can drop to 18°F and pleasant summers reaching up to 80°F. The city receives about 38.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine roughly 48% of the year. Residents can look forward to beautiful fall foliage and refreshing spring weather.

Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
61°F

Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
38.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
Households in Niagara Falls have a median income of around $42,500, though the poverty rate stands at 25.3%. Most residents commute about 20 minutes to work, and 85% have at least a high school diploma. The community is close-knit, with affordable rents and a modest cost of living supporting local families.
Median Income:
$38,400
Household Income:
$42,500
Family Income:
$53,800
Per Capita Income:
$23,900
Income Male:
$36,700
Income Female:
$29,900
Poverty Rate:
25.3%
Non English Speakers:
8.5%
Rent:
$825
Unemployment Rate:
8.2%
Public Transport Usage:
2.1%
Commute Time:
20.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
85.1%
Bachelors or More:
15.9%
Education
How are the schools in Niagara Falls, NY?
Niagara Falls offers a variety of educational options, including public schools like Niagara Falls High School and several nearby colleges such as Niagara University. The student-to-teacher ratio in local schools is favorable, supporting a quality learning environment. Higher education is easily accessible, with respected colleges just a short drive away.

Public Schools
Name:
Niagara Falls High School
Street:
4455 Porter Rd
Phone:
716-278-5800
Students:
2,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.9
Name:
Harry F. Abate Elementary School
Street:
1625 Lockport St
Phone:
716-278-7960
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5

Private Schools
Name:
Niagara Catholic Jr/Sr High School (closed, nearest: St. Peter RC School)
Street:
140 N 6th St, Lewiston, NY
Phone:
716-754-4470
Students:
200

Colleges
Name:
Niagara County Community College
City:
Sanborn
State:
NY
Distance:
9 miles
Students:
5,200
Name:
Niagara University
City:
Lewiston
State:
NY
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
3,300
Healthcare
Residents of Niagara Falls have access to major medical facilities like Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center and Mount St. Mary's Hospital, both offering emergency services. Healthcare coverage is high at 93.7%, and there are 2.4 physicians available per 1,000 people. The city provides convenient healthcare options for families and individuals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center
Address:
621 10th St, Niagara Falls, NY 14301
Phone:
(716) 278-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Mount St. Mary's Hospital
Address:
5300 Military Rd, Lewiston, NY 14092
Phone:
(716) 297-4800
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.7%
Health Care Index:
71.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Niagara Falls, NY?
The Niagara Falls housing market is very affordable, with a median home price of $120,700 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $825. Over half of the homes are owner-occupied, and housing appreciation has been steady at 5.3% year-over-year. Low prices and moderate vacancy rates make it an accessible place for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$120,700
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$825
Owner Occupied Rate:
55.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing are managed by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located on 11th Street in Niagara Falls. Residents can access a full range of DMV services both in-person and online. This makes handling transportation needs straightforward for newcomers and long-time locals.
State:
New York
Department:
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1001 11th St, Niagara Falls, NY 14301
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.