Vassar College, NY
Population 3,276 · New York
About Vassar College, NY
Vassar College is a small town located in New York with a population of 3,276 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $119,836 per year, which is 59% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 20.5 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Vassar College features a median home value of $0, which is 100% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Vassar College one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,229, 6% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 349 total housing units, 18% are owner-occupied (62 units) and 82% are renter-occupied (287 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Vassar College shows an unemployment rate of 2.8%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 25.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Vassar College have an average one-way commute time of 14.5 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
81.9% of Vassar College residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 2.1% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 1.3% Black or African American, and 6.6% Asian residents, with 10.3% of the population being foreign-born.
How Vassar College Ranks in New York
Cost of Living in Vassar College, NY
Compared to national averages, Vassar College has a median household income of $119,836 (59% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $0, which is 100% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,229 is 6% above the US average of $1,163. Within New York, Vassar College's income is 24% above the state average of $96,987, and home values are 100% below the state median of $387,181.
Why Live in Vassar College, NY?
Vassar College offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $119,836, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $0, below the US average of $244,900, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.8%. Additionally, the city features a well-educated community where 81.9% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 14.5 minutes.
Vassar College has a population of 3,276 with a median age of 20.5 years. Compare Vassar College with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New York.
Similar Cities Near Vassar College
Cities in New York with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Warrensburg | 3,285 | $65,176 | $146,200 | Compare |
| Mount Morris | 3,258 | $52,697 | $89,000 | Compare |
| Ravena | 3,256 | $77,163 | $194,400 | Compare |
| Hartsdale | 3,254 | $152,619 | $341,500 | Compare |
| Lake Erie Beach | 3,247 | $57,234 | $149,300 | Compare |
| Palmyra | 3,306 | $66,647 | $125,200 | Compare |
| Calcium | 3,245 | $64,613 | $216,900 | Compare |
| Red Oaks Mill | 3,235 | $137,813 | $347,400 | 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 Vassar College With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Vassar College
What is the population of Vassar College, NY?
The population of Vassar College, NY is 3,276 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 Vassar College?
The median household income in Vassar College, NY is $119,836 per year, which is 59% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Vassar College?
The median home value in Vassar College, NY is $0, which is 100% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Vassar College?
The median monthly rent in Vassar College, NY is $1,229, which is 6% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Vassar College?
The unemployment rate in Vassar College, NY is 2.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Vassar College, NY a good place to live?
Vassar College offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 3,276 and a median age of 20.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Vassar College, NY?
81.9% of residents in Vassar College 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 Vassar College?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Vassar College, NY: median home value is $0 (100% below national), median rent is $1,229/month, and median household income is $119,836. The home-value-to-income ratio is 0.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Vassar College?
The poverty rate in Vassar College, NY is 25.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Vassar College, NY?
Vassar College's population is 2.1% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 1.3% Black or African American, 6.6% Asian, and 10.5% two or more races. 10.3% of residents are foreign-born.