$271,937Average Value$165Average Price per Sq Ft47Homes For Sale
A hidden gem near the Canadian border
On the banks of Lake Champlain, Plattsburgh is a small city surrounded by the North Country's scenic landscapes situated about 20 miles south of the Canadian border and 60 miles from Montreal. "We're right in the valley between the Adirondacks and the lake," says Gaelan Trombley, associate real estate broker with Kavanaugh Realty, who has been in the industry for over a decade. "Plattsburgh isn't a destination spot everyone wants to move to, but I see many people fall in love with the small-town feel and natural beauty. It's even been named one of the best micro-cities in the nation." The Town of Plattsburgh surrounds the city, but many blur the lines, referring to the entire area as a town. "It's a cool little place. Out-of-towners love it, but residents often overlook its amenities, Gaelan says. "It's like a diamond in the rough in your backyard."
The State University of New York (SUNY) – Plattsburgh is centrally located along the banks of the Saranac River, drawing in over 4,000 students annually. “I have a couple of friends that went to school here and never left,” Trombley says. “There’s a lot of Canadian and college influences, but we’re not just a college town. It’s quieter when the semester ends, but it’s not our only identity.” Many residents share ties with Canadian ancestors, boast French names and work for Canadian-owned companies.
The city was home to The Battle of Valcour Island in 1776, considered one of the first naval battles of the American Revolution, while The Battle of Plattsburgh Bay was a key factor in ending the War of 1812. Today, “The Town of Plattsburgh is the region’s economic hub known for its aerospace and manufacturing clusters, while the city is our arts district," says Town Supervisor Michael Cashman. Other major employers in the area span the healthcare, education and social service sectors.
Plattsburgh sits on the banks of Lake Champlain and plays an intricate role in the cities history and lifestyle.
With over 60 degree programs SUNY Plattsburgh is a great place to advance your education to a higher level.
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19th-, 20th- and 21st-century homes
An array of historic 19th- and 20th-century homes are scattered along densely populated urban streets. Architectural styles include an eclectic mix of cottages, bungalows, American Foursquares and National-style homes with steep gabled roofs. Many single-family homes have been converted into multi-unit properties. On the outskirts of town, 20th-century townhouses, Colonial Revivals and split-levels showcase the city’s expanding development over the years. Median list prices hover around $240,000, ranging from the low-$100,000s to the mid-$500,000s. New construction is rare and typically comes with price tags on the higher end of the scale.
You can find classic Colonial Revivals and more in Plattsburgh.
Just outside the downtown area there are new housing developments popping up with modern builds to meet the chanigng design styles of our day.
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From the mountains to the lake
Several parks dot the banks of Lake Champlain, ranging from open green spaces to small stretches of sandy beachfront. Sunbathers and swimmers can head to Plattsburgh City Beach while furry friends run around the neighboring dog park. A wooded hiking area leads to the neighboring Cumberland Bay State Park. Four miles south are two city marinas. “The city hosts a Lake Champlain International fishing competition every summer,” Trombley says. Plattsburgh boasts many city parks, but Melissa Penfield Park is one of the largest, with a playground, sports courts, a community garden and a skatepark. U.S. Oval Park is another popular green space and home to the local YMCA. The Barracks Golf Course is a public course about 5 miles south of the city. About 10 miles west, Cadyville Park features the area’s only disc golf course. “People come from all over the region and even Canada to use the course,” Cashman says.
The Saranac River Trail spans a little over a mile and leads to Downtown Plattsburgh, while the Empire State Trail winds along the banks of Lake Champlain before merging with U.S. Route 9. Plattsburgh sits just outside Adirondack Park, where 6 million acres of rugged terrain attract hikers, bikers, rock climbers, skiers, snowmobilers and more. With 2,000 miles of hiking trails, 46 mountain peaks and over 3,000 lakes, the Adirondacks is the largest protected area in the contiguous United States. “We’re less than an hour from Whiteface Mountain, which hosted Olympic skiing events back in the day,” Trombley says, while the city is also a jumping-off point for Lake Placid explorations.
Plattsburgh Beach is a quiet place to visit in the winter but during the summer is in full swing with locals and lots of tourist.
At just over 6 miles many can enjoy a stroll along the Saranac River Trail allowing the sights and sounds of many local fauna to enjoy.
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Small-town events
Small-town events range from the Christmas-themed Miracle on Margaret Street to Halloween trick-or-treating downtown. Parks Come Alive! is the city’s annual summer concert series, when residents flock to different parks each month for live music, food trucks and fun. A Fourth of July parade with over 30 floats takes place before live music at City Hall and nighttime fireworks. However, some of the city’s largest events include the Mayor’s Cup Regatta & Festival along the beachfront and the Battle of Plattsburgh commemoration with historical reenactments, live music and more.
Shopping and dining on Margaret Street
Mom-and-pop shops and restaurants line Margaret Street in Downtown Plattsburgh. Establishments include cozy cafes, casual restaurants and a dozen bars catering to college students. Plattsburgh is also the “Home of the Michigan,” a hot dog topped with a tomato-based meat sauce. “All the locals know what a Michigan is, but no one outside Plattsburgh does,” Trombley says. “Every summer, we celebrate Michigan Month, where residents can get a ’passport‘ and travel to all the local eateries known for their dogs. If you visit all four, you win a t-shirt.” Cashman also notes that the city's first Michigan Fest will take place in the summer of 2025.
Local shops range from used bookstores and small boutiques to metaphysical shops with crystals and tarot card readers. Convenience stores are scattered around downtown streets, while the North Country Food Co-Op is known for its organic products. About 2 miles west of the city center, national grocers, big-box stores and additional eateries line both sides of Cornelia Street.
Margaret Street is filled with some new and hip spots popping up for locals and a town favorite is Koffee Kat.
Having access to many large corporate stores like Target can be a necessity for some in the Plattsburgh area.
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Plattsburgh City School District
The Plattsburgh City School District scores an overall B-plus from Niche. The district enrolls around 2,000 students across three elementary schools, one middle and one high school. The city is considered a walking district, so there is no scheduled school bus service. Seton Catholic Central School is the city’s only private school and serves pre-kindergarteners through twelfth graders.
Plattsburgh High School has 552 students and a B+ on Niche.
Seton Catholic School is the only private school located within Plattsburgh.
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60 miles to Montreal
Plattsburgh is a compact, walkable city with ample sidewalks. Clinton County Public Transit bus routes wind around town, connecting residents to surrounding communities such as Champlain, Keeseville, Ellenburg and Lyon Mountain. UVM Health Network - Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital is centrally located within the city, while Plattsburgh International Airport is nearby. Interstate 87 borders Plattsburgh to the west, leading about 60 miles north to Montreal and 160 miles south to Albany. Burlington, Vermont, is the second-largest nearby city, about 30 miles east via a combination of U.S. Route 2 and the Cumberland Head-Grand Isle Ferry or 80 miles away via I-87 and I-89.
Year-round considerations
Plattsburgh experiences all four seasons, with warm and humid summers and cold winters. With its proximity to the Canadian border, the average yearly snowfall hovers around 63 inches. Low-lying areas near the Saranac River are prone to occasional flooding.
According to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, property crimes increased by around 10% between 2022 and 2023, while violent crimes increased by nearly 44% within the same period. The city’s property and violent crime rates fluctuate, sometimes trending higher or lower than the national average.
Written By
Lillie Duston
Photography Contributed By
Brandon Schulman
Video By
Tyler Newbold
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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On average, homes in Plattsburgh, NY sell after 317 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Plattsburgh, NY over the last 12 months is $250,000, up 13% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Unique Plattsburgh City home close to the hospital and school. Built in 2006, this property offers a contemporary design. It has three bedrooms, with flexible space for additional bedrooms utilizing the large loft or the first floor office suite. Originally designed for a medical professional, the home includes dedicated office space with a private entrance. The living room feels extra spacious
Motivated sellers.....Wake up to sweeping views of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains of Vermont from this beautifully positioned second-floor condo--where low-maintenance living meets picturesque scenery.This 2-bedroom, 2-bath home is filled with natural light, with an open-concept living space that flows seamlessly to a covered deck--perfect for morning coffee or unwinding at sunset
Welcome to your serene lakeside retreat! This exceptional lakefront lot offers everything you've been dreaming of—breathtaking, unobstructed views of the shimmering water and sunrises that will take your breath away each morning. The newly constructed deck is the perfect spot to sip your morning coffee or unwind in the evening, overlooking the waters from above. The charming little shed/cabin on
Welcome to easy living in this beautifully maintained ranch style condo offering 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and a layout designed for comfort and convenience. From the moment you walk in, you'll appreciate the bright, tidy interior and functional floor plan. The spacious mudroom area provides the perfect drop zone for coats, shoes, and everyday essentials, while the attached one car garage
Meticulously updated home in Rugar Park. Move-in ready and beautiful this two bedroom and two bathroom home has lots to offer. Located in the Beekmantown School District and close to all shops, restaurants and more in town. Lot rent is $595 and sale will be contingent on park approval.
Move-In Ready Ranch on Cumberland Head! This charming 3-bedroom ranch sits on a spacious 1.31-acre level lot in a desirable Plattsburgh location. Recently renovated and ready for new owners, the home features all new flooring, a 3-year-old roof, and updates that make it both modern and efficient. Enjoy peace of mind with an affordable, easy-to-heat layout and the convenience of a two-car garage.
Welcome to an extraordinary lakefront estate nestled on over 19 private acres in the highly sought-after Cumberland Head area of Plattsburgh. Tucked away down a long private driveway, this remarkable 5,750-square-foot residence offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and unmatched natural beauty, with breathtaking year-round views of Lake Champlain. Designed with both elegance and
Sun-Drenched Serenity:--Your Private Modern Homestead Escape to the end of a quiet, deadend where peaceful living meets thoughtful modern updates. This pristine ranch-style retreat offers the perfect blend of cozy fireside charm and sophisticated utility. At the heart of the home, a warm wood stove create an inviting sanctuary for crisp evenings, while the bright, functional layout flows
Well-located and spacious home in Plattsburgh, offers the perfect blend of comfort, flexibility, and convenience. Bright and inviting common areas set the tone, featuring a large eat-in kitchen ideal for everyday living, separate dining room and a welcome living room--perfect for gathering. The first floor offers true single-level living with a generous primary bedroom, full bathroom, and
Cute City of Plattsburgh listing - Localed on the west end of the city. This 3 bedroom 1 Bath ranch style home is prefect for someone looking to downsize or just starting out. Large 2 car garage detached with a back yard. This home needs some TLC. Large basement with lots of room to use as storage.
Affordable, single floor living! Spacious, fenced in back yard with large deck for enjoying your morning coffee or evening beverage. Close to Town & City amenities. Central air conditioning to keep cool on those hot summer nights. Two sheds for storage. Updated flooring through most of the house. Updated kitchen includes stainless steel appliances! Schedule a showing today!
Experience the best of lakefront living on the shores of Lake Champlain, where every day feels like a retreat and every space is designed for both relaxed living and unforgettable entertaining. The first floor welcomes you with elegant Italian tile flooring and a spacious living room centered around a cozy fireplace, all framed by stunning lake views. Expansive glass doors open to a porch,
Check out this brand-new construction! This 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath colonial sits on a peaceful 1.1-acre lot on a dead end road. The open-concept kitchen and dining room create a great space for entertaining, and French doors in the dining room open up to a private backyard. The spacious, bright living room provides plenty of natural light. The main floor also features a convenient half bath, laundry
From the moment you step inside, this unique home showcases exceptional craftsmanship and stunning lake views throughout. The dining nook flows seamlessly into the custom kitchen featuring granite and quartz countertops, high-end cabinetry, a natural gas six-burner range, and a custom walk-in pantry. The sun-filled living room is highlighted by a beautiful stone gas fireplace. Convenient half
NOW LEASING FOR 2026!Broad Street Commons in Plattsburgh offers updated student & non-student living conveniently located within walking distance to the SUNY campus, stores, restaurants, bars, and more. Our multi-level living has elevators for your convenience, in addition we strive to create a comfortable home-like feel with a nice separation of personal and roommate-shared spaces. Bring
Fully furnished private bedroom & private bath with shared kitchen and dining space. Includes all utilities, heat, Wi-Fi and Basic Cable TV. We are close to local shopping, Major Employers and SUNY. Perfect place for those working, relocating, vacationing or going to College in Plattsburgh, New York. Rent 1-bedroom or the entire 4-bedroom suite with private bathrooms. Leases start as low as
Location, location, location surrounded by single family residences. Walking distance to Plattsburgh State University, CVPH Medical Center, Shopping & Restaurants. Building and units recently renovated. Building upgrades ongoing. Washer/dryer facilities in building. Large off street free parking. Cat friendly. No dogs.
Welcome to the best apartment complex in town! In the Citywell building, there is Chapter One Coffee Shop and Lakecity Coworking Space. You won't have to travel far for your morning coffee!The apartments have been completely remodeled with stainless steel appliances, deep dish sink, butcher block countertops, tiled shower, white painted walls, and nice faux hardwood floors. The units
Large private back yard with separate patio area and off street parking. walking distance to SUNY Plattsburgh, CVPH/University Health center of Vermont, downtown, parks, Saranac River & Lake Champlain. All units include furniture, water, sewer, trash, reycling & snow removal & free use of clothes washer & dryer depending on unit.
City of Plattsburgh - 10 Cogan AveClean and Quiet, great City location.Townhouse - 2 Floors2 Bedroom, 1 BathLaundry roomStainless Steel Appliances (range, refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave, )Granite Counter Tops in Kitchen and BathCeramic Tile FloorsPatioOff Street Parking , snow removal and lawn care included1 Year LeaseNO PETS and no
Large private back yard with separate patio area and off street parking. walking distance to SUNY Plattsburgh, CVPH/University Health center of Vermont, downtown, parks, Saranac River & Lake Champlain. All units include furniture, water, sewer, trash, reycling & snow removal & free use of clothes washer & dryer depending on unit.
Rarely does a rental opportunity of this caliber come available in the heart of Plattsburgh. This beautifully remodeled five bedroom, three full bath home offers the space, quality, and comfort typically associated with ownership, fully furnished and move-in ready from day one.The craftsmanship throughout is immediately apparent. The kitchen has been thoughtfully upgraded with premium
City of Plattsburgh listing close to downtown, the library and the YMCA! This townhouse style apartment offers two floors of living space that has been totally remodeled and updated and a close walk to everything! Off street parking, very nice kitchen and bathroom and ready for occupancy in June! $1,300/month plus security deposit, no pets or smoking.
walking distance to downtown restaurants, shops & convenience store. Also walking distance to 3 historic parks, paved recreation trail. Walking distance to Saranac river & Lake Champlain. Relax in large back yard & gardens. Garden plot if you want to grow your own vegetables. Upstairs unit is bright + clean with lots of storage. Large bedrooms. Large master bedroom with 2 large windows. Cheap to
Bright apartment with hardwood floors and small porch/deck. Within walking distance to Lake Champlain and downtown shops and restaurants. Rent includes water/sewer/trash. Tenant will be responsible for electric. Coin op washer/dryer on site. Large, well lit parking lot for off street parking. We will be responsible for snow removal and lawn care.
Beautiful and spacious apartment has hardwood floors, with large windows in every room for plenty of natural light. Rent includes water/sewer/trash, lawn care and snow removal. Close to downtown shops and restaurants. We will be responsible for lawn care and snow removal. Tenant will be responsible for electric.
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