$210,647Average Value$132Average Price per Sq Ft90Homes For Sale
Peaceful living by the Black River
Named after the many waterfalls throughout the Black River, Watertown was once an industrial center and remains an important commerce, health care and education hub in New York’s North Country region. This seat of Jefferson County has about 24,000 people and a median household income of $49,692, which is less than half of the state’s median. Many people work for the government, services and wholesale and retail sectors. Top employers include the local government and the Samaritan Medical Group. The city is also close to the Canadian border, as well as Fort Drum, a 100,000-acre U.S. Army base.
Named after the many waterfalls throughout the Black River, Watertown was once an industrial center.
Fort Drum, a 100,000-acre US Army base, is only a short drive from Watertown and is a major employer in the area.
1/2
Affordable real estate attracting homebuyers
Watertown’s median home price is $195,000, well below the state’s median. Depending on size and upkeep, single-family homes can start under $60,000 and go over $700,000. Some of the city’s larger, well-maintained historic residences are on the southwest side. Although few in quantity, newer homes from the 2000s tend to be on the outskirts of the city. Houses here were typically built in the 1900s, with some dating back to the late 1800s. Housing styles range from smaller American Foursquare, Workers Cottage and traditional New Englander to larger Colonial Revival homes. Multifamily properties are usually between $100,000 and $450,000. Houses close to the river may experience flooding issues and can require additional flood insurance. “Watertown offers affordable housing compared to larger metropolitan areas in New York State, making it an attractive option for families, retirees and military personnel,” says Noah Taylor, a real estate professional at The Taylor Brothers Team at Keller Williams. “The cost of living is lower, which can provide more value for homebuyers looking for larger properties at a more affordable price.”
Some historic stone colonial homes in Watertown like this one were imported from Ireland, and re-assembled brick by brick.
American Foursquare homes are plentiful and popular in the city of Watertown.
1/2
Water activities along the Black River
Residents can explore water activities, such as boating, kayaking or fishing, at a number of waterfront parks set along the Black River, or walk along one of the city's many trails. The historic 450-acre Thompson Park is home to the New York Zoo and is the gathering place for many community events and festivals. Additional recreation venues include the Ives Hill Country Club, which has a 27-hole course, and the Watertown Family YMCA in downtown. The city experiences mild to warm summers and heavy snowfalls in winter, and nearly two months of the year, it can have below-freezing temperatures.
The historic 450-acre Thompson Park in Watertown is home to the New York Zoo and is the gathering place for many community events and festivals.
Recreation venues include the Watertown Family YMCA in Downtown, where residents can exercise and swim.
1/2
Shopping malls and plazas in Watertown
Most of Watertown’s shopping destinations are located along the Interstate Route 81 corridor, which is on the city’s west side and at the intersection of Interstate 81 and U.S. Route 9. Salmon Run Mall has about 60 retailers, entertainment venues, restaurants and businesses. Many shopping plazas, such as Towne Center at Watertown, are down the street with big-box and department stores. Restaurants are concentrated in downtown, ranging from American, Italian and Asian cuisine to familiar fast-food chains. Also in downtown, the historic Paddock Arcade is the country’s longest continuously operating indoor mall.
Salmon Run Mall in Watertown has about 60 retailers, entertainment venues, restaurants and businesses.
In Downtown Watertown, the historic Paddock Arcade is the country’s longest continuously operating indoor mall.
1/2
Learning opportunities at local public, private and higher education institutes
Watertown City School District serves about 4,000 students, with an overall C-plus Niche grade. General Brown Central School District also serves a small part of the city and receives a C Niche grade. Immaculate Heart Central School is a prekindergarten through 12th grade private Catholic school in Watertown. Located between the intersection of Interstate 81 and the Black River, Jefferson Community College is the city’s only higher-education institution and offers over 60 programs of study.
Watertown Senior High School's Cyclones practice on the football field in the warmer months.
Jefferson Community College is Watertown's only higher-education institute and offers over 60 programs of study.
1/2
Festivals celebrating diversity and military life
Watertown has many events that celebrate the city’s diversity and military presence, including an Italian festival, an Irish festival named North Country Goes Green, the Armed Forces Day Parade and Mountainfest, a concert in June in appreciation of the soldiers stationed at Fort Drum. The Black River Fall Fest takes place downtown, celebrating the city and artistic talents in the community, and the Jefferson County Fair, a tradition for over 200 years, is the oldest continuously operating fair in the country. For entertainment, residents can head to Watertown Arena, which hosts many sports events, trade shows, concerts and community events.
Throughout the year, many events and festivals such as The Black River Fall Fest takes place in Downtown Watertown on the main streets.
For entertainment, residents can head to Watertown Arena, which hosts many sports events, trade shows, concerts and community events.
1/2
Proximity to highways and easy public transit access
Interstate 81, U.S. Route 11 and several state highways run through the city. CitiBus provides public bus and paratransit services within the city, and Trailways of New York, a privately held bus and transportation company, has connections to other cities such as Albany, Syracuse and New York. Watertown International Airport is less than 10 miles away and has daily nonstop flights to Philadelphia via American Airlines, and Syracuse Hancock International Airport is about 65 miles south. Samaritan Medical Center is right in the city, offering a full range of both inpatient and outpatient care and services.
Crime data in recent years
According to data from Watertown’s police department, in 2023, property and violent crimes slightly decreased compared to 2022.
Written By
Christina Xu
Photography Contributed By
Greg Dunbar
Video By
Ruo Zheng
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jack Yao,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Watertown, NY sell after 93 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Watertown, NY over the last 12 months is $212,750, up 12% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Looking for the perfect spot to build your dream home? Newly subdivided lot offers the best of both worlds—peaceful, partially wooded landscapes in a rural setting, yet just minutes from local amenities! Located in the town of Watertown so no city taxes! 1.14 acres of land is no small parcel. Lot C has a well already dug on the property! A second lot is for sale right next to this one and is 0.98
Fantastic investment opportunity in the City of Watertown! This large duplex at 682 Bronson St is priced to sell at just $87,500 and offers great potential for strong returns. The property features two units — one with 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, and the other with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, for a total of 1,734 sq. ft. of living space. A true cash-flow opportunity, this property offers excellent
Fantastic investment opportunity for both new and seasoned buyers! This 3-unit triplex at 132 William St is offered at an affordable price and is ready to start generating income from day one. Whether you’re looking to expand your portfolio with three more doors or take your first step into real estate investing, this property is a great fit. All three apartments are currently rented, providing
Welcome to this truly remarkable 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home offering 2,589 sq. ft. of premium living space. This property blends timeless charm with modern updates and provides an abundance of room to relax and entertain. Step inside to find beautifully restored hardwood floors, a spacious formal dining room, and multiple living areas including a front den, a large back living room, and a
Cozy 1,134 square foot log cabin on 1.68 acres in the quiet town of Rodman! Built in 2007, this home features an inviting open-concept kitchen and living room with a center island that fits the space perfectly. Warm interior finishes include pine wood and oak details throughout, creating a true cabin feel. The main floor offers 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, including a primary bedroom with its
Looking for the perfect spot to build your dream home? Newly subdivided lot offers the best of both worlds—peaceful, partially wooded landscapes in a rural setting, yet just minutes from local amenities! Located in the town of Watertown so no city taxes! 0.989 acres of land is no small parcel. A second lot is for sale right next to this one and is 1.14 acres, both lots can be sold separately or
Welcome to this spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bath home conveniently located close to the heart of Watertown, offering easy access to shopping, dining, schools, parks, and everyday amenities. Step inside to a bright and airy interior filled with natural light that creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout the home. The thoughtful layout provides comfortable living spaces perfect for both
Experience the best of single-story living in this stunning ranch-style home, thoughtfully designed with a mid-century modern flair inspired by the architectural design of Frank Lloyd Wright. Perfectly positioned near the top of Ives Hill on one of the largest and most private lots in the city of Watertown. This residence offers rare sunrise and sunset views along with timeless architectural
Experience modern luxury living at its finest at 14150 Boulder Creek Road — an exquisite 2021-built home located in one of Watertown’s most sought-after neighborhoods. With 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, and 3,106 sq. ft. of pristine living space, this residence offers a seamless blend of striking design, top-quality finishes, and thoughtful functionality.You’ll be captivated by the
Well-maintained two-unit duplex located at 208–210 S Indiana Ave in the City of Watertown, offering a strong income-producing opportunity. Built in 1905, this classic property features a total of 4,458 square feet of living space on a .17-acre lot, providing exceptionally spacious apartments well above average for a duplex—each unit offers over 2,000 square feet. Both units feature functional,
Exceptionally well-maintained ranch-style home with an attached two-car garage, ideally located in a quiet neighborhood close to schools, shopping, and within walking distance to Thompson Park. Pride of ownership is evident throughout, with thoughtful updates and a modern, chic feel in every space. The main level offers three generously sized bedrooms with large closets and a beautifully updated
Over 125 acres of potentially ideal recreational property. Duck hunting abounds on this large acreage site with limited pressure to wildlife. Along State Route 81. Limited commercial opportunity may exist. If you are looking for a site with a swampy lowland for duck or trapping options this is a must see. Marginal upland and slope in a small portion of the site.
Looking for the perfect spot? This charming apartment with 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom is now available! It's not just a place to live, it's in a prime location- you can walk to nearby shops and restaurants, plus the bus line is right around the corner for easy commuting. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity.
Families looking to go big will find all they need at Parkstead Watertown at City Center. Located on 46 acres of picturesque, landscaped grounds and boasting some of the largest apartments in Watertown with floor plans up to 1,764 sq. ft., our residents enjoy the ability to tailor the perfect living experience for their family while enjoying the very best Parkstead has to offer. Our two-, three-
Cute upstairs 2 bedroom apartment! Conveniently located- just minutes to EVERYTHING- all shopping, dining, just a short walk to Thompson park and a short drive to Fort Drum NY. You'll enter through the entry way that offers an additional storage area and a great place to kick off your shoes and coats. That will invite you right into this super cute newer remodeled kitchen, great size living space
Danielle StoverNorth Star Real Estate & Property Management
Returning from Deployment? Need to get settled before you arrive? Start your lease prior to moving in! Call to See how we can Accommodate your needs!The Apartments at Madison Barracks consists of 127 apartment homes. This is a historical property that was established in 1816. President Ulysses S. Grant served two tours of duty at Madison Barracks as a junior army officer. First from 1848
Cozy lower-level apartment featuring 2 bedrooms and 1 full bathroom. This unit offers a functional layout with comfortable living space and convenient access. Located close to local amenities, shopping, and dining, it’s a great option for anyone looking for an affordable and convenient place to call home.
Kelsey Creek Apartments offers beautiful and affordable living in extremely spacious one, two and three- bedroom units. Our community is nestled away in a quiet, residential neighborhood but is also conveniently located just blocks away from Route I-81 and public transportation (there is a bus stop just across the street!). Fort Drum is 10-15 minutes from the property. We are even closer to
Recently updated upper-level apartment featuring 4 bedrooms and 1 full bathroom. This spacious unit offers a comfortable layout with modern updates throughout, plus a screened-in front porch—perfect for enjoying fresh air in any season. Conveniently located just minutes from Fort Drum and close to local shopping, dining, and amenities, this apartment combines space, comfort, and convenience.
Location, Community, Quality Living. It Starts Here!Ontario Village is a well maintained twenty six acre apartment community offering the perfect blend of convenience, affordability and quality. Nestled in the heart of Watertown, Ontario Village offers the right balance of city living while still having the allure of privacy and tranquility. For additional information please go to our
Spacious and recently updated second-level apartment featuring 4 bedrooms and 1 full bathroom. This bright unit offers a comfortable layout with modern updates throughout, providing plenty of room for living, working, or relaxing. Conveniently located near local amenities, shopping, and dining, this apartment is a great option for those looking for space and convenience in one place.
Need to get settled before you arrive? Start your lease prior to your arrival! Call to see how we can accommodate your needs!Riverview Urban & Industrial Lofts offers 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments. These apartments feature updated appliances, cabinetry, flooring, exposed brick, and high ceilings. This property is right on the water and features views of Black River. Water/Sewer, trash,
AMAZING home now available just outside City of Watertown. This roughly 2800 square foot home is less than a 10 minute drive to shopping, restaurants, and 2 of Fort Drum Gates. The spacious layout here separates the three, 1st floor bedrooms from the Bright Living Room and Dining area. There is a sunken den with gas fireplace, Gorgeous kitchen with modern appliances, Plenty of cupboards, and
Come home to convenient living at Beaver Meadow Apartments. This 7 building community is located near I-81 and offers easy access to shopping, entertainment, transportation and Fort Drum. Choose from one, two and three bedroom units that range from 760 to 1,300 square feet. Amenities: •Private community clubhouse with fitness center & lounge•Playgrounds •Convenient to shopping •Open plan
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
