Upstate New York has breathtaking views, charming towns, and magical fall foliage...

But if it’s so picturesque, why isn’t everyone rushing to live there?

Before diving in, let’s clarify what “Upstate New York” means. It includes regions like the Capital District, the Mohawk Valley, Central New York, the Southern Tier, the Finger Lakes, Western New York, and the North Country.

Despite all this space and beauty, there are still a few big reasons why folks aren’t exactly lining up to move in:

Harsh Winters

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Think you can handle winter? Think again.

Upstate New York’s snowy season isn't just cold; it’s downright brutal. We’re talking blizzards, icy roads, and months of mostly darkness (4:30pm sunset)that can break even the hardiest spirits. Heating bills skyrocket, snow shovels become your best friends, and winter tires are a must. It’s a lifestyle that makes anyone dreaming of a milder climate want to run to the nearest beach.

Limited Job Opportunities

AndreyPopov from Getty Images
AndreyPopov from Getty Images
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The days when factories buzzed with industry are long gone. Most of those jobs disappeared, and they aren’t coming back. What’s left behind is a stagnant job market that offers little for young professionals or ambitious entrepreneurs. If you want a career that’s more than just getting by, you’re probably heading to bigger cities where opportunities are actually growing, not shrinking.

Transportation Woes

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You better love driving, because you’ll be doing a lot of it. Public transportation is almost non-existent, and the roads are often in dire need of repair. For those used to efficient public transit or Uber rides on demand, Upstate’s car-centric setup is a big adjustment—and not always a welcome one. Forget walking to the corner store; here, your “quick trip” involves starting up the SUV.

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High Property Taxes

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Yes, the cost of living might be lower than in Manhattan; 43% of New York state's population lives in the 305 square miles of New York City. But those sky-high property taxes are a dealbreaker for many. If you thought owning a home would be cheaper up there, think again.

The tax burden in Upstate New York can be just as heavy as a downstate mortgage, making potential homeowners look elsewhere for a better bang for their buck.

Lack of Healthcare Access

Physical therapists are checking patients elbows at the clinic office room.
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Need to see a doctor? Good luck with that. While walk-in clinics have popped up to handle minor ailments, more serious issues require a real hospital—and those aren’t exactly close by.

The nearest one could be a long drive away, which isn’t ideal if you’ve got kids or older adults in tow. Upstate's healthcare landscape can be a major turn-off for anyone who prioritizes health and wants reliable, nearby care.

Upstate New York may offer stunning views and small-town charm, but these five factors make it a hard sell for anyone considering a move. You might be the exception if you think you’re ready for snowy mornings, car-centric living, and sky-high taxes. For everyone else? Maybe stick to a fall road trip instead.

Don't Believe Me?  Simpsons Did It.

22 Upstate New York Restaurants With A Great "Old School" Vibe!

What make a restaurant "old school?" Well, it does not mean that it is a n old restaurant, but that helps. Old school is more of a feeling. Snappy, chatty waitresses, homey ambiance, red leather covered swivel stools, huge pancake portions, old photos on the wall, nostalgic music on the jukebox, and more. All of it adds up to an old school vibe that these 22 Upstate New York restaurants definitely have. Some of them are elegant, fine dining eateries, and others are rural diners. All excel in the "old school" category!

Gallery Credit: Chuck DImperio

A Baker's Dozen Of The Best Cider Donut Places in Upstate New York

Fall in Upstate New York and apple cider donuts. You can't say one without thinking about the other!

You can get a great apple cider donut at any of these places in our gallery. Some are big orchards, some are mere roadside farm stands. But all are delicious. You will note that tow of the cider places in this gallery have been honored by USA Today as "the best ciderie in America" award over two different years!

Here are 13 great places to get a hot fresh warm apple cider donut.; Of course there are over a hundred places to get these autumnal treats, so if your favorite did not make this list please give it a shout out over on our Facebook page. we really do want to hear from you!

Gallery Credit: Chuck DImperio

Meet Your Friendly Ghosts On These Great Upstate NY Haunted Walking Tours!

Ghost and haunted stories are the order of the day when we reach the middle of October. And Upstate New York has plenty of ways for you to get in touch with your own supernatural favorites. This gallery looks at a bunch of fun haunted ghost walking tours in Upstate New York. The leaders of these tours, many of them in costume, will regale you along your midnight (or earlier) walks through haunted buildings, old cemeteries, and places where the unexplainable happened. Walk the streets of Albany and Utica and Rochester and here some real chilling tales. Take a tour of the creepy but historic old Rolling Hills Asylum where inmates are said to be still trying to get out. Walk through a haunted 1928 movie palace, and a couple of great mansions. All are fun for you this "haunted season."

Gallery Credit: Chuck DImperio

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