11 Best Places to Live in New York

5) The Finger Lakes Region

If you want to live somewhere in which you can embrace the beauty of nature and avoid the bustle of big cities, the Finger Lakes region may be the right place for you. There are several small towns and villages in the region, but there are also cities relatively close by, such as Syracuse and Rochester, for when you need access to more opportunities and resources. In the autumn, the area is fantastic for apple picking and viewing bright fall foliage, and the winters often bring a great deal of snow. Additionally, vineyards are a major attraction to the region for many people. Home prices can differ greatly depending on where in the region you settle—lakefront houses may be anywhere from a few hundred thousand dollars into the millions. The area generally has low crime rates, and there are museums and colleges around as sources of cultural immersion.