Let the numbers do the talking.
Queensbury, NY vs Upper West Side, NY
Queensbury, NY vs Upper West Side, NY: What the data shows
Queensbury, NY is in Queensbury, NY while Upper West Side, NY is in Upper West Side, NY — both in the same state. On home prices, Queensbury, NY is the more affordable option at $170,000 median — $1,573,700 less than Upper West Side, NY's $1,743,700. WYLT rates Queensbury, NY as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Upper West Side, NY as “Hard pass” — a neighborhood WYLT does not recommend.
Queensbury, NY has the stronger safety profile of the two. Queensbury, NY has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Upper West Side, NY has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Queensbury, NY has Low flood risk and Upper West Side, NY has Low flood risk.
Upper West Side, NY is the more walkable neighborhood. Queensbury, NY scores 56/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Upper West Side, NY's 98/100 (exceptionally walkable). For families weighing school quality, Upper West Side, NY has the higher school rating — Queensbury, NY rates N/A and Upper West Side, NY rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Queensbury, NY | Upper West Side, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Hard pass |
| Median Price | $170K ✓ Lower price | $1.74M |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $3K |
| Median Income | $63K | $167K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 56/100 | 98/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 10/100 | 79/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 70/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 246 min | 10 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | N/A | 7.3/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with young childrenRemote workers seeking a quiet retreatNature lovers looking for outdoor activities | Young professionals who can afford the high costCultural enthusiasts looking for restaurants, theaters, and galleriesFamilies seeking quality schools and green space |
Bottom line
If you're a young professional who values a high-end urban lifestyle, with no budget constraints, the Upper West Side might be the way to go. However, for families with young children or those prioritizing quiet neighborhoods and a lower cost of living, Queensbury is likely a better fit. Ultimately, the Upper West Side is a poor value for most people, while Queensbury offers a quality suburban lifestyle at a reasonable price.
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