Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Utica, NY
Thinking of moving to Utica, NY? This city of 64,523 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $143,000 and average rents near $950. Residents enjoy short commutes averaging just 18.5 minutes, access to reputable local colleges, and four distinct seasons. While property and violent crime rates are higher than average, Utica welcomes a diverse community and boasts a lower cost of living, making it an attractive option for budget-minded movers looking for a close-knit city with educational opportunities.
Demographics - Utica, NY
Utica is a diverse city of 64,523 residents, with a median age of 34.8 and a balanced gender ratio. The population features a mix of ethnic backgrounds, including a significant White, Black, and Asian presence, and nearly one in five residents speak a language other than English at home. The city’s density and youthful median age contribute to its vibrant community feel.
Population:
64,523
Density:
3,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.8
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
18.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
67.2%
Black:
15.8%
Asian:
8.5%
Others:
8.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Utica, NY?
Utica offers a notably affordable cost of living, with median home values at $143,000 and average rents around $950 per month. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. Utilities and groceries are reasonably priced, supporting an overall economical lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$143,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,230
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,110
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
4%
|
High:
8.82%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.2
Grocery:
92.4
Housing:
53.7
Utilities:
104.5
Transportation:
90.1
Health Care:
96.2
Miscellaneous:
92.8
Crime
Is Utica, NY a safe place to live?
Utica experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with a 1 in 207 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 47 chance of property crime. While the city’s crime index reflects these risks, many neighborhoods remain safe and active, and local law enforcement is engaged in community-focused initiatives. Prospective residents should consider specific neighborhoods when evaluating safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
484
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,122
Crime Index:
2,606
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 207
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 47
Weather
What is the weather like in Utica, NY year-round?
Utica enjoys four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 80°F and cold winters dipping to 15°F. The city receives about 42 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine roughly 47% of the year, offering a mix of snowy winters and pleasant, mild summers. Residents experience a true Northeastern climate with changing foliage and seasonal activities.

Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
47%
Neighbors
Residents of Utica benefit from an average commute time of 18.5 minutes and a strong sense of community. The median household income is $43,540, though the poverty rate is higher than average at 26.5%. Educational attainment is moderate, with over 80% holding a high school diploma or higher and nearly 18% earning a bachelor’s degree or more.
Median Income:
$25,800
Household Income:
$43,540
Family Income:
$56,200
Per Capita Income:
$23,100
Income Male:
$34,800
Income Female:
$28,100
Poverty Rate:
26.5%
Non English Speakers:
18.5%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
6.8%
Public Transport Usage:
2.7%
Commute Time:
18.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
81.9%
Bachelors or More:
17.6%
Education
How are the schools in Utica, NY?
Utica features a range of educational options, including public schools such as Thomas R. Proctor High School and several private institutions. The city is home to Utica University and Mohawk Valley Community College, offering higher education opportunities for local and commuting students. Families benefit from accessible schooling and a supportive learning environment.

Public Schools
Name:
Thomas R. Proctor High School
Street:
1203 Hilton Ave
Phone:
315-368-6400
Students:
2,600
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.8
Name:
Kernan Elementary School
Street:
929 York St
Phone:
315-368-6700
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.2

Private Schools
Name:
Notre Dame Junior/Senior High School
Street:
2 Notre Dame Ln
Phone:
315-724-5118
Students:
375

Colleges
Name:
Utica University
City:
Utica
State:
NY
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,500
Name:
Mohawk Valley Community College
City:
Utica
State:
NY
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
5,800
Healthcare
Utica provides access to quality healthcare, including two major hospitals with emergency services and a physician density of 2.2 per 1,000 residents. Over 92% of the population has health insurance coverage, ensuring broad access to medical care. The city's healthcare index indicates reliable services for families and individuals alike.

Major Hospitals
Name:
MVHS St. Elizabeth Campus
Address:
2209 Genesee St, Utica, NY 13501
Phone:
(315) 801-8100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
MVHS St. Luke's Campus
Address:
1656 Champlin Ave, Utica, NY 13502
Phone:
(315) 624-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.1%
Health Care Index:
70.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Utica, NY?
The housing market in Utica is highly affordable, with a median home price of $143,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $950. Nearly half of the homes are owner-occupied, and the area has a moderate home appreciation rate, making it attractive for buyers and renters. The city's vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low, supporting housing stability.
Median Home Price:
$143,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
46.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.5%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Utica residents are served locally by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles office at 301 Bleecker St. This DMV location offers a full range of licensing and registration services, making it convenient for drivers and vehicle owners. Residents can also access information and services online through the New York DMV website.
State:
New York
Department:
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
301 Bleecker St, Utica, NY 13501
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.