Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Chenango County, NY had a population of approximately 47,220. The median age was 45.3 years, reflecting an older demographic. About 50.1% were female and 49.9% male. The county was predominantly White (94.3%), with smaller shares of Black or African American (1.1%), Native American (0.3%), Asian (0.6%), and Hispanic or Latino (2.1%) residents. Other races made up the remainder.

Elections

Chenango County, NY, had approximately 30,000 registered voters in 2022, with about 38% Republican, 29% Democrat, and 25% unaffiliated. Voters participate in local, state, and federal elections, including primaries, with notable close results—e.g., in 2020, Trump received 60% and Biden 37%. There are 42 polling locations across 21 towns. Key issues include agriculture, rural broadband, and opioid response. The Board of Elections, jointly administered by the two major parties, oversees processes. Third parties like the Conservative and Working Families parties also field candidates, though in smaller numbers.

County Crime & Safety

Chenango County, NY, experiences relatively low crime compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported a violent crime rate of 127.2 per 100,000 residents, well below the U.S. average of 380. Property crime stood at 876.5 per 100,000, compared to the national rate of 1,958. Local law enforcement actively encourages community reporting through hotlines and online systems. Overall, Chenango County remains a safe area, with proactive policing and community programs contributing to consistently low crime statistics.

Education, Employment and Housing

Chenango County, NY, has approximately 15 public schools, including 5 high schools. About 87% of adults have a high school diploma, while 17% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average standardized test scores are slightly below the state average, with a graduation rate of 86%. School safety is rated moderately, with few major incidents reported annually. The county offers some adult education programs, including GED and vocational training. Educational programs in STEM and the arts are available in most districts, supporting student development.

As of 2023, Chenango County, NY, has an unemployment rate of approximately 4.1%. Major employment sectors include manufacturing (18%), health care and social assistance (21%), and retail trade (11%). The leading occupations are production (13%), office/administrative support (11%), and sales (9%). Roughly 77% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 22 minutes; about 69% work within the county. Major employers include Chobani and UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital.

Chenango County, NY, has a homeownership rate of about 75%, with median home values around $113,000 as of 2023 and median gross rents about $780. The market has seen slight appreciation, roughly 3% annually post-pandemic. Housing types are mainly single-family homes, with some multi-family units in Norwich and Greene. Neighborhoods are predominantly rural, with denser housing in small towns. Property taxes average 2.5% of home value, typical for Upstate NY. The cost of living remains affordable, attracting buyers seeking value and renters looking for reasonable rates in a tranquil setting.