What Should I Know Before Moving to Saranac Lake?

Check the cost of living, housing, traffic, and public transit in Saranac Lake. Each neighborhood has its own vibe, so pick one that fits your lifestyle. Be prepared for Saranac Lake climate and weather.

How Much Do Movers Charge in Saranac Lake?

Moving within Saranac Lake usually costs between $300 and $1,500. Moving long distances can cost anywhere from $2,000 to more than $5,000. The price may go up if you need extra services like packing or storage. Fill out Movers.com quote form to compare the quotes easily.

What’s the Best Time of the Year to Move to Saranac Lake?

While moves happen year-round, spring and fall are often more comfortable in Saranac Lake. Booking outside of peak summer or winter seasons can save money and make scheduling easier.

Do Moving Companies in Saranac Lake Offer Packing and Unpacking Services?

Yes! Majority of moving companies in Saranac Lake offer full service moving, which means they will help you pack, unpack, and arrange your belongings.

When You Move from Saranac Lake, How Far in Advance Should I Schedule My Move?

You should plan your move from Saranac Lake at least 4 to 8 weeks in advance, especially if you're moving during the busy season (summer). You can get better availability, prices, and flexibility with your moving date if you book early. If you book at the last minute, you may have fewer choices or pay more.

Moving to Saranac Lake, NY | Find Trusted Movers & Services

Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Saranac Lake, NY

Thinking of relocating to Saranac Lake, NY? This scenic Adirondack village of about 5,200 residents offers a relaxed lifestyle, affordable median home prices around $190,000, and average rent near $900. Commute times are short at 17.5 minutes, and crime rates remain low for the region. You'll find quality schools, a close-knit community, and abundant outdoor recreation—plus brisk winters and mild summers. Saranac Lake is ideal for those seeking small-town charm with easy access to nature.

Demographics - Saranac Lake, NY

Saranac Lake is a close-knit community of about 5,200 residents, with a median age of 44.3 and a predominantly White population. The area features a balanced gender ratio and a small but notable percentage of non-English speakers, making it a welcoming place for newcomers seeking a quieter lifestyle.

Population:

5,200

Density:

1,000 per sq mi

Median Age:

44.3

Gender Ratio:

94 males per 100 females

Non-English Speakers Percentage:

5.6%

Ethnic Composition

White:

92.5%

Black:

2.1%

Asian:

1.2%

Others:

4.2%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Saranac Lake, NY?

Living in Saranac Lake is relatively affordable, with a median home value around $190,000 and average rent at $900—both below national averages. Utility and grocery costs are moderate, and the overall cost of living index sits slightly below the U.S. average, making it an attractive option for families and retirees.

Median House Value:

$190,000

Gross Rent:

$900

Monthly Electricity Charges:

$120

Auto Insurance:

$1,090

House Owner Cost With Mortgage:

$1,250

House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:

$540

State Taxes:

Low:

High:

8.82%

Cost Of Living Index:

97.5

Grocery:

95.1

Housing:

82.0

Utilities:

101.5

Transportation:

92.3

Health Care:

98.1

Miscellaneous:

96.2

Crime

Is Saranac Lake, NY a safe place to live?

Saranac Lake boasts low crime rates for the region, with a violent crime rate of just 210 incidents per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 476 chance of experiencing such an event. Property crime is also relatively uncommon, contributing to the village's reputation as a safe and peaceful place to live.

Violent Crimes Per 100k:

210

Property Crimes Per 100k:

1,350

Crime Index:

1,560

Chance Of Violent Crime:

1 in 476

Chance Of Property Crime:

1 in 74

Weather

What is the weather like in Saranac Lake, NY year-round?

Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters (lows around 5°F) and mild summers reaching up to 77°F. Saranac Lake receives about 39 inches of annual rainfall and sees sunshine on roughly half the days each year, making it ideal for those who appreciate seasonal variety and outdoor activities.

Winter

Min:

5°F

Max:

30°F

Spring

Min:

30°F

Max:

65°F

Summer

Min:

50°F

Max:

77°F

Fall

Min:

35°F

Max:

65°F

Average Rainfall Inches:

38.8 inches

Sunny Days Percentage:

51%

Neighbors

The median household income in Saranac Lake is $48,000, and the area maintains a low unemployment rate of 4.9%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and commute times are short—fostering a strong sense of community and work-life balance.

Median Income:

$31,500

Household Income:

$48,000

Family Income:

$59,500

Per Capita Income:

$27,400

Income Male:

$36,000

Income Female:

$29,400

Poverty Rate:

14.8%

Non English Speakers:

5.6%

Rent:

$900

Unemployment Rate:

4.9%

Public Transport Usage:

1.1%

Commute Time:

17.5 minutes

Education

High School or Higher:

92.9%

Bachelors or More:

34.7%

Education

How are the schools in Saranac Lake, NY?

Saranac Lake offers quality public schools, such as Saranac Lake High School and Petrova Elementary, both with favorable student-teacher ratios. The area is also home to North Country Community College and is close to Paul Smith's College, ensuring educational opportunities from preschool through higher education.

Public Schools

Name:

Saranac Lake High School

Street:

79 Canaras Ave

Phone:

518-891-4450

Students:

350

Student Teacher Ratio:

11.2

Name:

Petrova Elementary School

Street:

79 Canaras Ave

Phone:

518-891-4221

Students:

430

Student Teacher Ratio:

10.8

Private Schools

Name:

St. Bernard's School

Street:

63 River St

Phone:

518-891-2830

Students:

110

Colleges

Name:

North Country Community College

City:

Saranac Lake

State:

Distance:

0 miles

Students:

1,800

Name:

Paul Smith's College

City:

Paul Smiths

State:

Distance:

10 miles

Students:

700

Healthcare

Healthcare in Saranac Lake is anchored by Adirondack Health, offering comprehensive general and emergency services. With 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 94% of people insured, locals have access to solid medical care close to home.

Major Hospitals

Name:

Adirondack Health - Saranac Lake

Address:

2233 State Route 86, Saranac Lake, NY 12983

Phone:

(518) 891-4141

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Physicians Per 1000:

2.2

Health Insurance Coverage:

94.1%

Health Care Index:

77.2

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Saranac Lake, NY?

The housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $190,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $900. Over half of residents own their homes, and the area has seen healthy appreciation rates, making it an appealing market for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price:

$190,000

Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:

$900

Owner Occupied Rate:

54.3%

Rental Vacancy Rate:

7.5%

Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):

5.2%

New Construction Rate:

0.7%

Foreclosure Rate:

0.8%

DMV Information

Residents can access vehicle and licensing services through the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, located in nearby Plattsburgh. The DMV provides comprehensive information and online services for driver’s licenses, registrations, and more.

State:

New York

Department:

New York State Department of Motor Vehicles

Address:

207 Cornelia St, Plattsburgh, NY 12901

Phone:

1-518-486-9786

Website:

https://dmv.ny.gov

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.