Upstate New York towns receive contrasting national rankings

Two Upstate New York communities have received contrasting designations from national organizations.

Le Ray, located in Jefferson County, has been identified by the AARP Livability Index as one of the five least livable places in the United States, scoring 38 out of 100. The community faces significant challenges, including drinking water violations affecting over 30 percent of residents and low civic engagement scores. Additionally, the presence of Fort Drum has driven housing costs to an average of $1,489 per month—a 67 percent premium compared to similar communities—which has impacted the civilian workforce.

Conversely, the Village of Liverpool has been named the ‘2026 Nicest Place in America’ by Reader's Digest. The award recognizes the village's culture of grassroots volunteerism and charitable outreach, such as ‘Operation Northern Comfort’ and local community support initiatives. The selection was announced by a panel of judges on the Today show, highlighting the village's strong social fabric and neighborly assistance.