Average Rent in Elmira, NY↑ Rents rising 5.1% YoY

Elmira, NY has rental prices ranging from $1,020/month to $1,793/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,030/month — 26% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $63,469/year, spending $1,030/month on a 1-bedroom represents 19% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Elmira Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,348/month, Elmira ranks #16 most expensive of the 43 cities tracked in New York — pricier than 84% of all US cities in our data.

The Elmira Rental Market

The Elmira, NY area has a population of about 82,805 and 30% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Elmira, NY have risen by $65/month (5.1%) over the past year, from $1,283 to $1,348. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Elmira, NY without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $41,200. The local median household income of $63,469 exceeds that threshold by $22,269, making Elmira relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Rent vs. Buy

The median home value in Elmira, NY is $133,827, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 8.3. At this ratio, buyers who plan to stay 8 or more years may find purchasing more cost-effective than renting at current market prices.

Is Elmira, NY Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Elmira?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Elmira

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.