Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Potsdam, NY
Considering a move to Potsdam, NY? Home to just over 8,500 residents, this college town offers affordable living with median home prices around $160,200 and average rents of $950. Crime rates are low, and commutes are a breeze at just 14 minutes on average. With two major universities, strong educational attainment, and a classic upstate New York climate (think snowy winters and mild summers), Potsdam is a friendly, academic community that’s easy on your budget.
Demographics - Potsdam, NY
Demographics - Potsdam, NY
Potsdam, NY is a close-knit college town with a population of about 8,500 and a youthful median age of 22.5, driven by the local universities. The community is predominantly White, with a mix of other backgrounds and about 6.5% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density creates a vibrant but manageable small-town environment.
Population:
8,529
Density:
1,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
22.5
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
85.3%
Black:
4.2%
Asian:
3.6%
Others:
6.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Potsdam, NY?
Living in Potsdam is notably affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values around $160,200. Housing and rental prices are especially attractive, making it a budget-friendly option for families and students. Essential expenses like utilities and groceries remain reasonable, supporting a comfortable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$160,200
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,150
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,140
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$510
State Taxes:
Low:
4.0%
|
High:
10.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.7
Grocery:
98.4
Housing:
55.6
Utilities:
101.1
Transportation:
89.2
Health Care:
98.7
Miscellaneous:
93.3
Crime
Is Potsdam, NY a safe place to live?
Potsdam enjoys a relatively low crime rate, with only about 116 violent crimes and 1,050 property crimes per 100,000 residents. The chance of experiencing violent crime is quite low, at roughly 1 in 862. This makes the town a safe choice for individuals and families alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
116
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,166
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 862
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Potsdam, NY year-round?
Potsdam experiences classic upstate New York weather, including cold, snowy winters with lows around 7°F and comfortable summers peaking near 79°F. The area receives about 35.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine nearly half the year. Seasonal changes are distinct, offering a true four-season climate.
Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
30°F
Spring
Min:
33°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
79°F
Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
35.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
Residents of Potsdam enjoy a friendly, academic atmosphere, with a median income of $28,100 and family income averaging $58,900. The community has a high rate of educational attainment, with over 43% holding a bachelor's degree or higher, and an average commute of just 14 minutes. While the poverty rate is above average, the town’s low cost of living helps make ends meet.
Median Income:
$28,100
Household Income:
$48,300
Family Income:
$58,900
Per Capita Income:
$19,800
Income Male:
$30,400
Income Female:
$26,800
Poverty Rate:
22.7%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
1.7%
Commute Time:
14.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.2%
Bachelors or More:
43.6%
Education
How are the schools in Potsdam, NY?
Education is a strong suit in Potsdam, featuring well-regarded public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and two prominent colleges—Clarkson University and SUNY Potsdam—right in town. Over 93% of adults have completed high school, and nearly half hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The town’s academic atmosphere makes it an excellent place for students and families.
Public Schools
Name:
Lawrence Avenue Elementary School
Street:
40 Lawrence Ave
Phone:
315-265-2000
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5
Name:
A.A. Kingston Middle School
Street:
29 Leroy St
Phone:
315-265-2000
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.2
Name:
Potsdam Senior High School
Street:
29 Leroy St
Phone:
315-265-2000
Students:
435
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.2
Colleges
Name:
Clarkson University
City:
Potsdam
State:
NY
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
4,300
Name:
SUNY Potsdam
City:
Potsdam
State:
NY
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,400
Healthcare
Potsdam is served by Canton-Potsdam Hospital, offering comprehensive emergency and surgical care. With 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 95% health insurance coverage, locals have reliable access to medical services. The area’s healthcare index suggests generally favorable conditions for residents’ well-being.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Canton-Potsdam Hospital
Address:
50 Leroy St, Potsdam, NY 13676
Phone:
(315) 265-3300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.8%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Potsdam, NY?
The housing market in Potsdam is affordable and stable, with median home prices at $160,200 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $950. Homeownership is evenly balanced with rentals, and vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low. Modest home appreciation and slow new construction reflect a steady, accessible market.
Median Home Price:
$160,200
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
47.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
DMV services for Potsdam residents are managed by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, located nearby in Canton. Residents can access services like licensing, vehicle registration, and more at the local office or online through the state DMV website. The convenient location and resources ensure smooth handling of motor vehicle needs.
State:
New York
Department:
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
21 Court St, Canton, NY 13617
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.