New York is more than just the city that never sleeps. Beyond the skyscrapers of Manhattan lies a diverse state made up of 62 counties, each with its own government, culture, and economic footprint. From wealthy suburbs to vast rural lands, New York’s counties offer something for everyone.
How Many Counties Are in New York?
There are 62 counties in New York State. This includes the five boroughs of New York City—Bronx, Kings (Brooklyn), New York (Manhattan), Queens, and Richmond (Staten Island)—which are each considered counties in their own right.
List of 63 counties in New York – Alphabetical order
- Albany County
- Allegany County
- Bronx County
- Broome County
- Cattaraugus County
- Cayuga County
- Chautauqua County
- Chemung County
- Chenango County
- Clinton County
- Columbia County
- Cortland County
- Delaware County
- Dutchess County
- Erie County
- Essex County
- Franklin County
- Fulton County
- Genesee County
- Greene County
- Hamilton County
- Herkimer County
- Jefferson County
- Kings County (Brooklyn)
- Lewis County
- Livingston County
- Madison County
- Monroe County
- Montgomery County
- Nassau County
- New York County (Manhattan)
- Niagara County
- Oneida County
- Onondaga County
- Ontario County
- Orange County
- Orleans County
- Oswego County
- Otsego County
- Putnam County
- Queens County
- Rensselaer County
- Richmond County (Staten Island)
- Rockland County
- St. Lawrence County
- Saratoga County
- Schenectady County
- Schoharie County
- Schuyler County
- Seneca County
- Steuben County
- Suffolk County
- Sullivan County
- Tioga County
- Tompkins County
- Ulster County
- Warren County
- Washington County
- Wayne County
- Westchester County
- Wyoming County
- Yates County
Richest and Wealthiest Counties in New York
New York is home to some of the richest counties in the United States, especially in and around New York City and the Hudson Valley.
Top 10 Richest Counties in New York (by Median Household Income)
- Nassau County – Located on Long Island, this suburb of NYC has a median household income exceeding $120,000 in some areas.
- Westchester County – Just north of NYC, home to affluent towns like Scarsdale, Rye, and Bronxville.
- Rockland County – A smaller but wealthy county located north of Bergen County, NJ.
- Putnam County – Known for its quiet towns and high income levels.
- Suffolk County – Eastern Long Island, includes the Hamptons and other wealthy communities.
- New York County (Manhattan) – High per capita income, though economic inequality is notable.
- Richmond County (Staten Island) – Higher incomes than many outer boroughs.
- Orange County – Growing commuter hub with high household incomes.
- Albany County – The state capital and a strong center for government jobs.
- Saratoga County – Popular for its horse racing and affluent communities.
Best Counties in New York to Live In
Choosing the best counties in New York depends on your lifestyle—urban, suburban, or rural. Here are some top choices:
- Westchester County – High-quality schools, great public transportation, and scenic suburbs make it one of the best places to raise a family.
- Nassau County – Excellent schools, safety, and proximity to NYC.
- Saratoga County – Known for its charming towns, quality healthcare, and outdoor recreation.
- Tompkins County – Home to Ithaca and Cornell University, known for education, diversity, and quality of life.
- Onondaga County – Syracuse is an affordable, mid-sized city with good amenities and job opportunities.
Largest Counties in New York by Land Area
While the richest counties are mostly downstate, the largest counties in New York by land area are found in the north and west.
- St. Lawrence County – The largest by area, located on the Canadian border.
- Sullivan County – Known for its scenic views and Catskill Mountains.
- Essex County – Includes part of the Adirondack Park.
- Hamilton County – One of the most rural areas in the state.
- Delaware County – Known for its farmland and forests.
Conclusion
With 62 counties, New York offers a wide variety of living experiences, from bustling urban life to peaceful mountain retreats. Whether you’re exploring the richest counties in New York, looking to settle in one of the best counties in New York, or simply want to know which are the largest counties in New York, this state has a county that fits just about every lifestyle and income bracket. From the wealth of Westchester and Nassau to the natural beauty of Hamilton and St. Lawrence, New York is a state of contrasts—and opportunity.
