Demographics

As of 2022, Broome County, NY, has a population of approximately 198,000. The median age is about 41 years. Females comprise 51.1% and males 48.9% of the population. Racially, the county is 82.6% White, 6.1% Black or African American, 4.4% Asian, and 3.4% Hispanic or Latino of any race, with 3.5% identifying as two or more races.

Elections

Broome County, NY, has around 124,000 registered voters as of 2023, with Democrats (approximately 43%), Republicans (35%), and unaffiliated/others (22%). Elections include federal, state, county, and local races. In the 2022 gubernatorial election, Democrat Kathy Hochul received 49% versus Republican Lee Zeldin’s 50% in the county. There are over 85 polling locations run by the bipartisan Board of Elections. Key issues include economy, public safety, and education. The Board oversees voter registration, election day operations, absentee ballots, and certification, ensuring compliance with New York State’s electoral laws.

County Crime & Safety

Broome County, NY, reported a crime rate higher than the state average in recent years. In 2022, the county recorded approximately 2,900 total crime incidents, including 390 violent crimes and over 2,000 property crimes. The violent crime rate was about 3.7 per 1,000 residents, and property crime was 18.9 per 1,000, surpassing New York’s averages. Local law enforcement encourages prompt crime reporting, often utilizing online and anonymous tip lines to aid investigations and improve community safety efforts.

Education, Employment and Housing

Broome County, NY, hosts 19 public high schools and offers access to SUNY Broome Community College and Binghamton University, where 33% of adults hold at least a bachelor’s degree. The average high school graduation rate is around 86%, with standardized test scores matching state averages. The county provides adult education through workforce training and GED programs. School safety initiatives have led to below-average incident rates, and diverse educational programs include STEM and Advanced Placement courses designed to enhance college readiness and career pathways.

Broome County, NY, had an employment rate of approximately 57.5% in 2023. The largest industries include healthcare (20%), educational services (17%), and retail trade (12%). Major occupation types are office/administrative support (15%) and sales (10%). About 80% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 20 minutes. Most employees work within the county, with Binghamton as the primary employment center.

Broome County, NY, has a homeownership rate of about 62%, with a median home value around $145,000 as of 2023. Median monthly rent is approximately $900. Housing types range from historic single-family homes in neighborhoods like West Side Binghamton to newer apartments in Vestal. The local market has seen 5% annual value appreciation. Property tax rates average 3.1%, among the highest in NY, contributing to median annual taxes of $4,500. Popular neighborhoods include Binghamton’s South Side and suburban Endwell, offering varied amenities and price points for owners and renters alike.