2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Ithaca, NY vs Elmira, NY

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Elmira older or younger than people in Ithaca?
- The Median Age in Elmira is 13.5 years older than in Ithaca.

Are housing costs cheaper in Elmira or Ithaca?
- Elmira housing costs are 71.2% less expensive than Ithaca housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Elmira or Ithaca?
- The average commute for residents of Elmira is 2.3 minutes longer than it is for residents of Ithaca.

Things to do in Ithaca?
Ithaca, NY lies along Cayuga Lake with tall gorges giving way to spectacular waterfalls like Ithaca Falls where visitors can marvel at beauty while strolling along its cascades side trails. Not only does this college town have some unique natural sites but it's also a mecca for art buffs since there’s tons galleries featuring works from local artists sprinkled around too!

Things to do in Elmira?
Elmira, NY is a city located in Chemung County and is the only incorporated city in the county. With a population of approximately 28,000 people, Elmira offers numerous activities to its residents from its natural parks to its historic neighborhoods. You can explore several local attractions such as the Mark Twain Study at Quarry Farm or take a ride on the Chemung Valley Heritage Expedition train. The banks of the Chemung River also provide a picturesque view while hosting many outdoor events like Elmira Wine Walk and Jazz Festival throughout the year. Plus, with several shopping malls, golf courses and local cuisine, there's something for everyone in this vibrant town.

 Ithaca, NYElmira, NYUnited States
 Population  Unlock26,737329,725,481
 Median Income$40,973  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock35.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$332,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.16  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Ithaca    32 Reviews

BILL · 

For a small city, its downtown has grown significantly and serves as the hub of the community. The Ithaca Commons remains the central gathering space for locals,  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

Great place to live. Lots to do, vibrant culture, and beautiful scenery. Don't fear the winter--it's even beautiful then. Only complaint is the housing market. Way  More

   |    Reply

I was born, raised, educated there (Ithaca High and Cornell). In my opinion, before leaving to pursue my career, it seemed like the most beautiful, clean, low crime,  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Ithaca

Reviews for Elmira    10 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

Elmira looks like the armpit of the earth. What happened? This could be gorgeous and has such potential. Heck, you've got Mark Twain's grave here, in a historic  More

   |    Reply

Over 7 years ago

I have been living in elmira for 17 years and it is a great place to live i feel safe almost all the time i run the streets with my friends, go hiking, bike riding there  More

   |    Reply

Over 10 years ago

JUST NEEDED TO SAY THAT ELMIRA IS A DISGUSTING HOLE IN THE WORLD AND ITS RUN BY WILD MONKEES THAT ARE RUDE , DISGUSTING , ILLITERATE AND FILTHY PEOPLE THAT SHOW NO  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Elmira


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.