Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Watkins Glen, NY
Thinking of moving to Watkins Glen, NY? With a friendly population of about 1,800 and affordable median home prices around $159,000, this lakeside village offers small-town charm and modest living costs. Enjoy a short average commute of 18 minutes, low crime rates, and access to Schuyler Hospital nearby. Local schools are well-rated and the Finger Lakes climate brings four beautiful seasons, making Watkins Glen perfect for those seeking a quieter pace and natural beauty.
Demographics - Watkins Glen, NY
Demographics - Watkins Glen, NY
Watkins Glen is home to roughly 1,800 residents, with a median age of 43, reflecting a balanced mix of families and older adults. The community is predominantly White, with small Black and Asian populations, and nearly 7% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The village offers a close-knit, welcoming environment with a moderate population density.
Population:
1,800
Density:
1,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
43.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.5%
Black:
2.0%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
3.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Watkins Glen, NY?
The cost of living in Watkins Glen is notably affordable, with a median home value of $159,000 and average rent at $790. Utilities and healthcare costs are close to the national average, while housing costs are lower, making it an attractive option for those looking to maximize value. State income taxes range from 4% to 10.9%, and the overall cost of living index sits below the U.S. average.
Median House Value:
$159,000
Gross Rent:
$790
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,080
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$480
State Taxes:
Low:
4.0%
|
High:
10.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.5
Grocery:
98.7
Housing:
67.0
Utilities:
104.5
Transportation:
91.2
Health Care:
103.8
Miscellaneous:
95.5
Crime
Is Watkins Glen, NY a safe place to live?
Watkins Glen enjoys a low crime rate, with violent crimes occurring at a rate of 190 per 100,000 and property crimes at 1,420 per 100,000. Residents have a 1 in 526 chance of experiencing violent crime, contributing to a safe and secure community atmosphere. The village’s overall crime index is well below urban averages, making it a reassuring place for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
190
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,420
Crime Index:
1,610
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 526
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 70
Weather
What is the weather like in Watkins Glen, NY year-round?
The village experiences all four seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 81°F and chilly winters dipping to 17°F. Watkins Glen receives about 37 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunny days 52% of the year. Residents appreciate the scenic Finger Lakes climate, which offers vibrant falls and comfortable springs.
Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
34°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
81°F
Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
Local households in Watkins Glen have a median income of $46,700, with a family median income of $61,200 and a poverty rate of 16.3%. Most residents commute about 18 minutes for work, and over 91% have at least a high school diploma. The community is marked by a small-town feel, with limited public transportation and a relatively low unemployment rate.
Median Income:
$31,400
Household Income:
$46,700
Family Income:
$61,200
Per Capita Income:
$26,700
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$29,600
Poverty Rate:
16.3%
Non English Speakers:
6.8%
Rent:
$790
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
17.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.8%
Bachelors or More:
22.4%
Education
How are the schools in Watkins Glen, NY?
Watkins Glen offers quality public education with an elementary and high school, both featuring small class sizes and dedicated staff. Local students benefit from a strong high school graduation rate, and nearby colleges such as Corning Community College and Elmira College are easily accessible. The area fosters lifelong learning opportunities in a supportive environment.
Public Schools
Name:
Watkins Glen Elementary School
Street:
612 S Decatur St
Phone:
607-535-3250
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Name:
Watkins Glen High School
Street:
301 12th St
Phone:
607-535-3219
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.8
Colleges
Name:
Corning Community College
City:
Corning
State:
NY
Distance:
29 miles
Students:
4,200
Name:
Elmira College
City:
Elmira
State:
NY
Distance:
23 miles
Students:
800
Healthcare
Healthcare needs are well served by Schuyler Hospital, located nearby in Montour Falls, offering general and emergency services. About 94% of Watkins Glen residents have health insurance, and the area maintains an average of 1.7 physicians per 1,000 people. Access to care is reliable, making the village a practical choice for families and retirees alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Schuyler Hospital
Address:
220 Steuben St, Montour Falls, NY 14865
Phone:
(607) 535-7121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.9%
Health Care Index:
67.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Watkins Glen, NY?
Watkins Glen’s housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $159,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $790. Homeownership is common, with 54% owner-occupied units, and the market remains stable with a 4.2% annual appreciation rate. Rental options are available, and the area experiences low foreclosure and vacancy rates.
Median Home Price:
$159,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$790
Owner Occupied Rate:
53.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are provided by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles at 105 9th St in Watkins Glen. Residents can access a full range of motor vehicle services both in-person and online via the state DMV website. The office offers convenient support for driver licensing, vehicle registration, and related needs.
State:
New York
Department:
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
105 9th St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891
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.