A Long Island county has been named the best place to live in New York for the second consecutive year, according to a new ranking from Niche.
Niche, a website that reviews and ranks schools, colleges and communities, ranked Nassau County No. 1 among New York’s counties based on factors including public schools, housing, jobs, diversity and access to local amenities.
Why Nassau County ranked No. 1
Located directly east of New York City, Nassau County received an A+ overall grade from Niche.
The county earned high marks for its public schools, family-friendly communities, diversity, nightlife and access to amenities. Niche noted that many of the county’s roughly 1.3 million residents own their homes and have access to highly rated schools, health care systems, restaurants, parks and other recreational opportunities.
However, Nassau County received lower scores for housing affordability, commuting, jobs and weather.
Housing costs remain significantly higher than national averages. According to Niche, the county’s median home value is about $658,700, compared with the national median of $303,400. Median monthly rent is $2,195, more than $800 above the national median.
Top 10 counties to live in New York
Niche’s rankings changed little from last year. Saratoga and Monroe counties each moved up one spot, while Dutchess County entered the top 10, replacing Suffolk County.
The top-ranked counties in New York are:
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Best counties to live in New York ranked. Did yours make the top 10?
Reporting by Alexandra Rivera, New York Connect Team / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Alexandra Rivera, New York Connect Team | USA TODAY Network
