countyscore
59.1
County Score
Safety 83.7Health 80.2Schools 70.8

County Report Card

About Allegany County, New York

Allegany Beats the National Benchmark

With a composite score of 59.1, Allegany County outperforms the national median of 50.0. It ranks in a high percentile for overall livability across the United States.

A Top Performer in New York

Allegany’s 59.1 score is notably higher than the state average of 47.0. It represents one of the most balanced livability profiles in rural New York.

Superior Safety and Affordable Living

The county boasts an impressive Safety Score of 83.7 and a Health Score of 80.2. Housing is exceptionally accessible with a median home value of just $97,900.

High Property Taxes and Moderate Risks

The Tax Score is a low 0.1 because of the high 2.943% effective rate. A Risk Score of 30.3 also points toward potential environmental or climate vulnerabilities.

Perfect for Safety-Conscious Budget Seekers

Allegany is a prime choice for families or retirees looking for safety and cheap housing. It offers a high quality of life for those who don't mind high tax rates.

Score breakdown

Tax0.1Cost67Safety83.7Health80.2Schools70.8Income42.8Risk30.3Water43.1Weather54.7
🏛0.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠67
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼42.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡83.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤80.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓70.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡30.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧43.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤54.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨65.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱61.8
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Deep Dives

Allegany County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Allegany County

via TaxByCounty

Allegany's high rate, modest homes

Allegany County's effective tax rate of 2.943% sits well above the New York state average of 2.046% and the national trend. Though median home values are just $97,900—less than one-third the national median—the county's aggressive rate drives median annual taxes to $2,881, right at the national median.

Among New York's highest tax counties

Allegany ranks in the top tier of New York's 62 counties for effective tax rates at 2.943%, significantly higher than the state average. This makes the county a costly place to own property relative to home values.

Higher than rural neighbors

Allegany's 2.943% rate exceeds Cattaraugus County's 2.693% and Chautauqua County's 2.386%, making it the priciest tax burden in this corner of southwestern New York. Rural home values ($97,900) are comparable to neighbors, but the tax bite is noticeably sharper.

Pay roughly $2,881 on median home

On Allegany's median home value of $97,900, you'll owe approximately $2,881 in annual property taxes. Mortgaged homes see bills rise to $3,277; outright ownership drops the tab to $2,616.

Assessment appeals could cut costs

With tax rates this high, even modest overassessments add up quickly—potentially hundreds of dollars annually. If your home has declined in value or the assessed amount seems inflated, a free appeal could deliver real savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Allegany County

via CostByCounty

Allegany offers rare affordability

Allegany County residents spend just 14.8% of income on rent—significantly below the national average of 17.0% and among the most affordable in the nation. Despite a median household income of $61,233, which trails the national median of $74,755 by $13,522, residents here enjoy housing costs that consume far less of their paychecks.

Most affordable county in New York

Allegany County ranks as one of New York's most affordable places, with a rent-to-income ratio of 14.8%—well below the state average of 17.6%. At just $754 monthly, median rent is $379 cheaper than the state average, making it a rare gem for budget-conscious New Yorkers.

Rural affordability champion

Allegany's $754 rent undercuts neighboring Cattaraugus County by just $5, but both drastically beat the state average and compete favorably with the most affordable rural counties nationwide. Home values of $97,900 represent some of the lowest in the state, offering genuine entry-level homeownership options.

Housing takes minimal income bite

Renters spend 14.8% of the $61,233 median income on a $754 monthly rent, while homeowners dedicate 15.0% to ownership costs ($762/month). Both figures leave substantially more disposable income for other expenses compared to state and national averages.

Seek authentic small-town living

If affordability is your north star and you don't require urban amenities, Allegany County delivers exceptional housing economics—rent and home prices that won't drain your budget. With a median home value under $100,000, first-time homebuyers can build equity without the crushing debt loads of metro areas.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Allegany County

via IncomeByCounty

Allegany's income trails the national benchmark

Allegany County's median household income of $61,233 falls $13,522 short of the U.S. median of $74,755, representing an 18% gap. This below-average income reflects the county's rural character and reliance on agriculture, manufacturing, and smaller-scale employment.

Among New York's lower-income counties

Allegany ranks in the lower half of New York State's 62 counties, with a median household income roughly $15,200 below the state average of $76,433. The county's per capita income of $30,016 lags the state average by $11,117, reflecting limited high-wage employment opportunities.

Allegany faces income headwinds in the region

Allegany's $61,233 median household income sits below most neighboring counties, including Cattaraugus ($58,248) and Chautauqua ($56,507), though it outpaces Bronx significantly. The income gap reflects Allegany's distance from major urban centers and limited access to high-paying professional sectors.

Affordability supports housing stability

Allegany's rent-to-income ratio of 14.8% is among the most favorable in the state, well below the 30% threshold, thanks to low median home values of $97,900. For renters and homebuyers, housing costs remain manageable relative to household earnings.

Build wealth despite income constraints

Even with below-average incomes, Allegany's low housing costs create an opportunity to save and invest surplus earnings. Focus on employer retirement plans, local investment in community assets, and skill development that could unlock higher-wage employment pathways.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Allegany County

via CrimeByCounty

Allegany County Ranks Among Nation's Safest

Allegany County boasts an impressive safety score of 99.4, reflecting a quiet environment for residents. Its total crime rate of 385.4 per 100K is far below the national average of 2,385.5.

Exceeding New York’s High Safety Standards

Allegany outperforms the New York state average safety score of 98.3. Its total crime rate of 385.4 is roughly one-third of the state average, which sits at 1,074.4 per 100K.

Quieter Than Neighboring Cattaraugus County

Allegany County maintains a lower crime rate than neighboring Cattaraugus, where the rate hits 1,279.2 per 100K. Local law enforcement across 12 agencies maintains one of the state's most peaceful jurisdictions.

Low Violent and Property Crime Rates

Violent crime is rare here, with only 88.9 incidents per 100K residents reported in 2022. Property crimes account for the remaining 296.5 incidents per 100K, which is well below national figures.

Maintain Peace of Mind in Allegany

While local crime is exceptionally low, basic home awareness ensures these numbers stay down. Regular safety audits of entry points help preserve Allegany’s reputation as a secure community.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Allegany County

via HealthByCounty

Allegany lags behind national health trends

At 76.8 years, Allegany County's life expectancy falls about 1.3 years short of the U.S. average of 76.1 years. With 15.5% of residents reporting poor or fair health—above the national 18% average—the county faces meaningful health challenges.

Below New York's health benchmarks

Allegany County's 76.8-year life expectancy trails New York State's 77.9-year average by 1.1 years. Its 5.1% uninsured rate closely mirrors the state average of 5.3%, indicating moderate insurance coverage.

Struggling with provider shortages

Allegany's 35 primary care providers per 100,000 residents ranks it among the least well-served counties in upstate New York, well below the regional average of 60. Mental health access is also limited at 262 providers per 100,000.

Provider shortage creates access gap

With just 35 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Allegany County residents often face long waits and limited appointment availability. The 5.1% uninsured rate compounds this challenge, as those without insurance delay or skip preventive care.

Make insurance a priority today

In a county with limited primary care availability, having health insurance is critical to getting timely care. Check your coverage now at healthcare.gov or contact New York's health marketplace to ensure you're protected.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Allegany County

via SchoolsByCounty

Rural Educational Excellence in Allegany

Allegany County operates 18 public schools serving a total enrollment of 5,771 students across 12 districts. The landscape is unique, featuring nine 'other' level schools that often combine multiple grades under one roof.

Outperforming State and National Standards

The county boasts an impressive 88.8% graduation rate, significantly higher than the national 87% benchmark and the state average of 85.3%. Investment is high at $14,497 per pupil, contributing to a strong school score of 69.1.

Community-Centered Districts and Unified Schools

Bolivar-Richburg and Cuba-Rushford are among the largest districts, each serving over 700 students across three schools. There are currently no charter schools in the county, with education delivered entirely through traditional districts.

Small Schools in a Rural Setting

With 16 of the 18 schools located in rural areas, students enjoy an intimate learning environment with an average school size of just 321. Fillmore Central is the county's largest school, yet it remains small by state standards with 650 students.

Discover a Close-Knit Educational Community

Allegany County is ideal for homebuyers seeking high-performing rural schools and small class sizes. Explore homes in the Wellsville or Fillmore districts to find the perfect match for your family's needs.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Allegany County

via RiskByCounty

Allegany's risk sits near the middle

With a composite risk score of 69.75 and a relatively low rating, Allegany County tracks close to the national average and is among the safer counties in its state. This moderate exposure means targeted insurance and preparedness can effectively manage your risk.

One of New York's calmer counties

At 69.75, Allegany sits right at New York's state average of 69.42, placing it in the middle tier of risk across the state. Several neighboring counties face notably higher exposure, making Allegany a relatively stable part of the region.

Lower risk than southern neighbors

Allegany County's score of 69.75 is considerably lower than Broome County (87.47) to the east and Chautauqua County (84.64) to the west. It's comparable to Cayuga County (61.51) and less risky than nearby Cattaraugus County (81.58).

Floods present the clearest concern

Flood risk dominates at 84.57, while tornado risk (41.51) and earthquake risk (26.97) remain well below state averages. Your primary focus should be understanding local flood maps and ensuring proper drainage around your home.

Prioritize flood coverage above all

With flood risk at 84.57, flood insurance is your essential protection—check FEMA's flood maps and consider coverage even outside high-risk zones. Standard homeowners insurance covers tornado and other hazards adequately, so your budget can focus on the flood gap.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Allegany County

via WeatherByCounty

Allegany's Place in the National Climate

Allegany County is significantly cooler than much of the U.S., with an annual average temperature of 45.6°F. This reflects a classic northern continental climate characterized by long, cold winters and short, mild summers.

One of New York's Cooler Southern Tier Counties

At 45.6°F, Allegany stays nearly two degrees cooler than the New York state average of 47.4°F. It ranks among the chillier counties in the Southern Tier region due to its elevation and geography.

Cooler and Steadier Than Its Neighbors

Allegany is cooler than nearby Cattaraugus County, which averages 45.9°F. While both counties see plenty of winter weather, Allegany experiences fewer extreme heat days, averaging only 3 days above 90°F annually.

Heavy Snow and Refreshing Summers

Winter dominates the calendar with 76.4 inches of snow and a frigid January average of 22.4°F. Summer provides a brief respite, with July temperatures peaking at a comfortable average of 67.4°F.

Focus on Winter Resilience

Winter tires and high-quality insulation are essential for the 76 inches of snow and sub-freezing winter averages. Air conditioning is rarely a necessity here, as the county only sees 3 days of extreme heat per year.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Allegany County

via SoilByCounty

Allegany's High-Quality Highland Soil

Allegany County maintains a pH of 5.48, making it less acidic than the New York state average of 5.11. While it remains below the national median of 6.5, these levels support a wide variety of regional flora.

Silt-Heavy Foundation for Better Retention

The profile shows a silt-heavy foundation at 53.0%, paired with 24.7% sand and 16.7% clay. This balance provides excellent workability and better nutrient retention than the sandier soils found in neighboring regions.

Strong Organic Richness and Water Capacity

At 10.43%, the organic matter content is more than five times higher than the national average. Its available water capacity of 0.192 in/in beats the state average of 0.182, signaling high potential for consistent crop growth.

Monitoring Moisture in Dense Soils

Specific drainage and hydrologic group data are not available for this county. However, the high silt and clay content generally suggest a soil that holds moisture well, requiring careful monitoring during wet seasons.

Hardy Crops for the Southern Tier

Hardiness zone 5b defines the growing season, which is perfect for apples, potatoes, and hardy root vegetables. A robust soil score of 65.9 proves this is a prime location to start your backyard garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Allegany County

via LawnByCounty

Strategic Planning in Zone 5b

Allegany County posts a 61.8 lawn difficulty score, placing it slightly above the New York average of 61.1. Residents in Hardiness Zone 5b face a shorter growing window than neighbors in warmer zones, requiring more strategic planning for lawn maintenance.

Cool Summers Mean Slower Growth

The county receives 40.3 inches of rain annually and experiences only 3 extreme heat days, much lower than the state average of 7. However, the lower 2,074 growing degree days mean turf develops more slowly than in warmer downstate regions.

Managing Moderate Soil Acidity

Soil pH sits at 5.48, which is moderately acidic and requires amendments to reach the 6.0-7.0 ideal. The 16.7% clay content provides some water retention, though homeowners should monitor drainage as specific local class data is limited.

Recovering from Significant Dry Spells

Allegany faced a challenging 26 weeks in drought over the last year, with 84.6% of the county currently classified as abnormally dry. Lawns here benefit from deep, infrequent watering to encourage resilient root systems during these extended dry spells.

Hardy Varieties for Cool Climates

Fine fescues are excellent choices for Zone 5b as they tolerate cooler temperatures and limited heat days. Plan your primary seeding for late spring, once the threat of frost passes around May 18.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Allegany County's county score?
Allegany County, New York has a composite county score of 59.1 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Allegany County rank among counties in New York?
Allegany County ranks #3 among all counties in New York on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Allegany County, New York?
The median annual property tax in Allegany County is $2,881, with an effective tax rate of 2.94%. This earns Allegany County a tax score of 0.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Allegany County?
The median household income in Allegany County, New York is $61,233 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Allegany County earns an income score of 42.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Allegany County, New York a good place to live?
Allegany County scores 59.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #3 in New York. The best way to evaluate Allegany County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Allegany County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.