Athens, NY
Population 1,877 · New York
About Athens, NY
Athens is a small town located in New York with a population of 1,877 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $82,500 per year, which is 10% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 51.6 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Athens features a median home value of $301,200, which is 23% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Athens in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $978, 16% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 958 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (590 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (164 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Athens shows an unemployment rate of 5.4%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 9.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Athens have an average one-way commute time of 28.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
41.5% of Athens residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 8.3% White, 0.1% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, and 3.3% Asian residents, with 12.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Athens, NY
Compared to national averages, Athens has a median household income of $82,500 (10% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $301,200, which is 23% above the national median. Monthly rent at $978 is 16% below the US average of $1,163. Within New York, Athens's income is 15% below the state average of $96,987, and home values are 22% below the state median of $387,181.
Why Live in Athens, NY?
Athens offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $82,500, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $978/month, and a well-educated community where 41.5% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 9.1%, better than the national average.
Athens has a population of 1,877 with a median age of 51.6 years. Compare Athens with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New York.
Similar Cities Near Athens
Cities in New York with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bellport | 1,876 | $147,188 | $699,800 | Compare |
| Stillwater | 1,876 | $80,234 | $243,800 | Compare |
| Black River | 1,880 | $81,111 | $211,000 | Compare |
| Great River | 1,880 | $133,385 | $792,100 | Compare |
| Laurel Hollow | 1,880 | $250,001 | $1,524,700 | Compare |
| Peru | 1,880 | $69,671 | $214,700 | Compare |
| Crest View Heights | 1,873 | $162,756 | $219,700 | Compare |
| St. Johnsville | 1,882 | $49,211 | $81,300 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in New York
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Athens With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Athens
What is the population of Athens, NY?
The population of Athens, NY is 1,877 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in New York.
What is the median household income in Athens?
The median household income in Athens, NY is $82,500 per year, which is 10% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Athens?
The median home value in Athens, NY is $301,200, which is 23% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Athens?
The median monthly rent in Athens, NY is $978, which is 16% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Athens?
The unemployment rate in Athens, NY is 5.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Athens, NY a good place to live?
Athens offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,877 and a median age of 51.6, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Athens, NY?
41.5% of residents in Athens aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Athens?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Athens, NY: median home value is $301,200 (23% above national), median rent is $978/month, and median household income is $82,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.7x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Athens?
The poverty rate in Athens, NY is 9.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Athens, NY?
Athens's population is 8.3% White, 0.1% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, 3.3% Asian, and 0.5% two or more races. 12.3% of residents are foreign-born.