10 Largest Cities in New York State
- New York City
- Hempstead
- Brookhaven
- Islip
- Oyster Bay
- Buffalo
- North Hempstead
- Babylon
- Rochester
- Yonkers
1. New York City (Population: 8,368,479)
The largest city in New York State is New York City. As one of the world’s most influential metropolises, New York City is an international hub of culture, commerce, and entertainment. With its iconic landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty, the city attracts residents from diverse backgrounds seeking a fast-paced, cosmopolitan lifestyle.
New York City offers a wealth of opportunities in various industries, world-class dining, renowned museums, and an unmatched arts and theater scene. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder New York City is home to nearly 8.4 million residents.
If you are considering moving to this gorgeous city, make sure to also check out our article on the most dangerous neighborhoods in NYC to avoid unsafe areas.
2. Hempstead (Population: 768,103)
Hempstead is the second-largest city in New York. Located in Nassau County on Long Island, Hempstead is a diverse city known for its suburban feel and close proximity to New York City. It offers a wide range of housing options, from single-family homes to apartments and condominiums, which support its large population of 770,000 people.
Residents of Hempstead can enjoy access to beautiful parks, recreational facilities, and vibrant community events. Additionally, the city also hosts Hofstra University and Nassau Community College, contributing to its lively academic and cultural scene. All of this and more help make Hempstead Town the second-most populated city in New York.
3. Brookhaven (Population: 488,497)
Brookhaven is another one of New York’s largest cities. A beautiful town located in Suffolk County, Brookhaven is home to roughly 488,500 residents, who prefer the area for its mix of suburban and rural lifestyles. The town is known for its picturesque beaches, nature reserves, and charming downtown areas — all of which are major draws to the area.
Residents of Brookhaven can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating, as well as high-quality amenities like top-rated schools and a thriving economy. Overall, living in Brookhaven offers a great quality of life with its natural beauty, excellent amenities, and welcoming community, making it a popular choice among New York families and working professionals.
4. Islip (Population: 335,543)
Islip is also one of the biggest cities in New York with a population of 335,500. Situated on the South Shore of Long Island, Islip encompasses several hamlets and villages, each with its own unique character. The city boasts beautiful beaches, marinas, and nature preserves, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Residents here enjoy a laid-back coastal lifestyle, complete with fishing, boating, and beach activities available at their fingertips.
Additionally, the city also offers a range of dining options, shopping centers, and community events, fostering a sense of community and a relaxed atmosphere. All of these qualities and more contribute to Islip’s large population size.
5. Oyster Bay (Population: 301,332)
Oyster Bay is a charming town located in Nassau County, New York. With over 301,000 residents, Oyster Bay is also one of the largest towns in New York by population. The town offers a blend of historical and modern living, complete with a quaint downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. In addition to a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, boating, and fishing, residents of Oyster Bay can also enjoy the picturesque waterfront views associated with Oyster Bay Harbor.
Oyster Bay also has an excellent public school system, making it an attractive option for families. With a strong sense of community and a rich history, Oyster Bay provides a welcoming and comfortable place to call home.
6. Buffalo (Population: 276,685)
In addition to being one of the largest cities in New York, Buffalo is also one of the most well known. Located in Western New York, this city harbors about 277,000 people and offers a unique living experience. Known for its rich history, architectural beauty, and friendly community, Buffalo provides a balance between big-city amenities and small-town atmosphere.
The city boasts a thriving arts and cultural scene, with numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues. Additionally, residents can explore attractions like the Albright-Knox Art Gallery and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. The city also offers an array of culinary delights, with a diverse range of restaurants serving everything from Buffalo wings to ethnic cuisines.
With an affordable housing market and lower cost of living, it’s no surprise that Buffalo is considered one of New York’s largest cities. While Buffalo has a lot to offer one area where it struggles is safety as it's one of the most dangerous cities in New York.
7. North Hempstead (Population: 237,639)
North Hempstead is also one of the biggest towns in New York by population, with appromimately 238,000 residents. Located on Long Island, North Hempstead a vibrant and picturesque town known for its rich history and wonderful amenities. The town has diverse neighborhoods, beautiful parks, and a bustling downtown area. Residents can explore historic sites like the Sands-Willets House or enjoy taking in the natural beauty of local parks such as Clark Botanic Garden and North Hempstead Beach Park.
North Hempstead is also well connected to NYC, with direct train service via the Long Island Railroad taking around 1 hour to reach Midtown Manhattan.
8. Babylon (Population: 218,223)
Located on the south shore of Long Island is Babylon, another one of the largest cities in New York. Babylon town is home to about 218,000 people who prefer the city for its vibrant variety of communities. These communities range from the historic village of Babylon to the bustling hamlet of Lindenhurst and are particularly attractive to New York families.
Residents can enjoy the beautiful beaches along the Great South Bay and Fire Island, as well as a variety of parks and nature preserves. With an active local community planning events such as the annual Fall Festival and the Farmers Market, Babylon Town knows exactly how to bring together its thriving neighborhood.
9. Rochester (Population: 209,352)
Rochester is the ninth-largest city in New York, with a population of almost 210,000. The city is located in upstate New York and is known for its scenic parks and the picturesque Genesee River, which weaves through the heart of the city.
The city is a center for higher education in the state and is home to the University of Rochester and the Rochester Institute of Technology. With a highly educated local workforce, Rochester has invested heavily in becoming a hub for the tech industry in recent years.
10. Yonkers (Population: 208,121)
Yonkers, located in Westchester County, is one of New York’s most populated cities. Offering a unique blend of urban and suburban living, this city possesses a variety of neighborhoods — from bustling downtown areas to quiet residential streets. Yonkers is known for its beautiful parks and scenic Hudson River views, with popular spots like the Untermyer Park and Gardens and the Hudson River Museum. Residents can enjoy a variety of cultural attractions, including the Yonkers Arts District and the historic Philipse Manor Hall.
The city also has a strong public school system, making it a popular choice for families. Yonkers has a diverse population, with a variety of ethnic restaurants and shops reflecting the city’s multicultural character. With a convenient location just a short train ride away from Manhattan, Yonkers is a favorite location for nearly 210,000 New York residents.