New York / Saint Lawrence County

Moving to Potsdam, NY

Thinking of making a move to Potsdam, NY? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Potsdam, NY

Considering a move to Potsdam, NY? This welcoming community of 8,529 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $160,200 and average rents near $950. Commute times average 14 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (48% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Potsdam's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Potsdam, NY

Potsdam has a population of 8,529 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 23 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 85% White, 4% Black, and 4% Asian residents, and over 7% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

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?

The cost of living in Potsdam is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 84.7. Median home values are around $160,200 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $950. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

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 is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 116 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 95. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in New York.

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 four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 79°F and cold winters dipping to 7°F. The area receives about 36 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 48% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
7°F
Max
30°F

Summer

Min
54°F
Max
79°F

Spring

Min
33°F
Max
65°F

Fall

Min
38°F
Max
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches
35.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
48%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $48,300 and a low poverty rate of 22.7%. Over 93% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 44% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 14 minutes, and almost 2% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

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?

Potsdam offers quality education options, with public schools like Lawrence Avenue Elementary School, A.A. Kingston Middle School, and Potsdam Senior High School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Clarkson University and SUNY Potsdam. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

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 residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Canton-Potsdam Hospital nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.3 per 1,000 people and 94.8% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Canton-Potsdam Hospital
Address
50 Leroy St, Potsdam, NY 13676
Phone
(315) 265-3300
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

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 local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $160,200 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 47%. The market has seen a 2.2% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 7.8%. Potsdam offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

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

Residents of Potsdam handle vehicle services through the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Canton. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
New York
Department
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
Address
21 Court St, Canton, NY 13617
Phone
1-518-486-9786

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.

FAQs About Moving to Potsdam, NY

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Potsdam, review the core fields on this page: population 8,529, median home value $160,200, average rent for 2 bedroom $950, commute time 14.2 minutes, and sunny days percentage 48%.

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