New York is one of the most populous and diverse states in the US, but not all of its towns are equally attractive to live in. Some towns have been experiencing a decline in population, quality of life, and economic opportunities, making them less appealing for residents and newcomers alike. Here are seven New York towns that people are fleeing as soon as possible, according to various sources.

1. Monticello

Monticello is a town in Sullivan County, located in the Catskills region. It was once a popular tourist destination, especially for Jewish vacationers, but its glory days are long gone. The town has been struggling with poverty, crime, unemployment, and a lack of investment for decades. According to the US Census Bureau, Monticello’s population dropped by 9.4% from 2010 to 2019, making it one of the fastest-shrinking towns in the state.

2. Newburgh

Newburgh is a town in Orange County, situated on the Hudson River. It has a rich history and a diverse culture, but it also has a reputation for being one of the most dangerous places in New York. The town has been plagued by gang violence, drug trafficking, corruption, and poverty, resulting in a high rate of homicides, assaults, robberies, and shootings. According to the US Census Bureau, Newburgh’s population decreased by 5.4% from 2010 to 2019, indicating a loss of residents who seek safer and more prosperous environments.

3. Ogdensburg

Ogdensburg is a town in St. Lawrence County, located near the Canadian border. It was once a thriving industrial and commercial center, but it has been hit hard by the decline of manufacturing, trade, and tourism. The town has been facing a fiscal crisis, forcing it to cut public services, raise taxes, and lay off workers. According to the US Census Bureau, Ogdensburg’s population fell by 8.3% from 2010 to 2019, reflecting a lack of economic opportunities and incentives for staying.

4. Salamanca

Salamanca is a town in Cattaraugus County, located in the Allegheny Plateau. It is the only US city that is situated on an Indian reservation, namely the Allegany Indian Reservation of the Seneca Nation. The town has been suffering from a dispute between the Seneca Nation and the state of New York over casino revenues, which has affected its budget and development. According to the US Census Bureau, Salamanca’s population declined by 7.6% from 2010 to 2019, showing a dissatisfaction with the town’s governance and prospects.

5. Seneca Falls

Seneca Falls is a town in Seneca County, located in the Finger Lakes region. It is best known for being the birthplace of the women’s rights movement, hosting the first Women’s Rights Convention in 1848. However, the town has been losing its charm and relevance, as it has been overshadowed by other nearby attractions and destinations. According to the US Census Bureau, Seneca Falls’ population dropped by 6.5% from 2010 to 2019, indicating a low demand for living in the town.

6. Sherrill

Sherrill is a town in Oneida County, located in the Mohawk Valley. It is the smallest city in New York by population, and it is nicknamed the “Silver City” for its history of silverware manufacturing. However, the town has been struggling to maintain its identity and vitality, as it has been affected by the closure of factories, the aging of residents, and the competition of larger cities. According to the US Census Bureau, Sherrill’s population decreased by 6.1% from 2010 to 2019, suggesting a lack of appeal and growth for the town.

7. Watervliet

Watervliet is a town in Albany County, located on the west bank of the Hudson River. It was formerly known as West Troy, and it was a major center of iron and steel production in the 19th and early 20th centuries. However, the town has been facing a decline in population, income, and quality of life, as it has been dealing with environmental issues, urban decay, and social problems. According to the US Census Bureau, Watervliet’s population fell by 5.9% from 2010 to 2019, indicating a dissatisfaction with the town’s conditions and outlook.

Conclusion

These seven New York towns are examples of places that have been losing their attractiveness and livability, as they have been facing various challenges and difficulties. People are fleeing these towns as soon as possible, seeking better opportunities and lifestyles elsewhere. While some of these towns may have potential for revival and improvement, others may be doomed to fade away and become ghost towns.