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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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Greg Dunbar
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Watertown, NY sell after 92 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Watertown, NY over the last 12 months is $225,000, up 18% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Tucked away on a peaceful dead-end street, this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home checks all the boxes. Walk to Thompson Park, the golf course, and the zoo — everything Watertown has to offer is right at your doorstep. Inside, you’ll find a convenient and functional layout featuring a formal living area, a nicely organized kitchen, and a dining room that flows seamlessly to the back deck —
Joseph MurthaNorth Star Real Estate & Property Management
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
Welcome to a beautifully renewed two-story home on a rare double corner lot with a year-round river view — the perfect blend of modern comfort, thoughtful upgrades, and unbeatable convenience. Located just steps from downtown amenities, shopping, the hospital, and only a short ride to Fort Drum, this home offers the lifestyle you want with the peace of mind you need. Over the years, this property
Spanning over 125 expansive acres, this remarkable recreational property represents a rare opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts, conservationists, and savvy investors alike. Strategically located with direct access along State Route 81, the site offers a unique blend of accessibility and profound seclusion. The property is a true sanctuary for wildlife, having experienced very limited human
STUNNING Liberty Ave home located right outside of Fort Drum with quick access to everything!! Less than 10 minutes to the Base and Watertown! This 3 bedroom 2 bath home has had many recent changes and boasts an absolute awesome open layout with the Kitchen/Dining and living areas PLUS a nice den/office or formal dining nook! Nice Gas Fireplace for those cozy evenings in the winter! Everything is
Prime development opportunity located near the scenic Black River in Watertown, NY. 19 parcels have been bundled together, including 6 on Water St. that already feature approved curb cuts and sewer/water hookups, streamlining site work and timelines. Conveniently located near downtown amenities, bars, restaurants, and riverfront recreation along with Fort Drum proximity. Tiny home neighborhood,
Discover the perfect blend of rural tranquility and convenient access at 28120 NYS Route 126 in beautiful Black River, New York! Nestled in the heart of Jefferson County, this inviting property offers the ideal setting for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle just minutes from Fort Drum, Watertown, Carthage, and the stunning Thousand Islands region. Enjoy easy commuting along Route 126 with quick
Welcome to 282 Thompson Blvd! This well maintained two bedroom, 2 full bath home offers comfortable living close to all of the local amenities. Inside you’ll find a functional layout with the eat in kitchen with updated appliances, spacious living area with lots of natural light, ample storage areas and a bonus-air conditioning! Both bathrooms have been updated and one is located off the primary
Opportunity awaits in this 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath two-story home in Watertown! Offering a functional layout with spacious living areas and great potential, this property is ideal for investors or buyers looking to put their personal touch on a home. Conveniently located near local amenities, shopping, and Fort Drum. Being sold as-is—bring your vision and make it your own!
Danielle StoverNorth Star Real Estate & Property Management
This 4 unit property offers spacious 3 bedroom 1 bath townhouse style apartments. Tenants pay all utilities except water and sewer. Each unit has its own individual access with covered porch. The front porch is in need of roof repair. Presently two units are rented and two have just been prepared to start showing. The two apartments that are rented collect around $900 a month and with a little
Very nice city lot, if you are looking for a bigger parcel of land then this is the deal for you. There are side by side parcels for sale at this time and could be purchased as one. Right off the main hub through Watertown { Arsenal St} so you are close to all the amenities like the Mall, Highway,Ft Drum, and so much more.
This delightful Cape Cod features 4 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms in a convenient spot across from Thompson Park and just minutes from the hospital and local schools.The renovated oak kitchen comes fully equipped and showcases elegant quartz countertops with island.and flows seamlessly into the dining and living spaces, creating a welcoming layout for both everyday living and entertaining. The
Welcome to 106 Girard Avenue in the City of Watertown. This 2-story home offers an open-concept main living area with updated flooring, a gas fireplace, first-floor half bath, spacious kitchen with stainless steel appliances, and a bright dining area with access to the backyard. The enclosed front porch provides additional usable space and a welcoming entry to the home.The second floor
This freshly updated 2 bedroom, 1 bath duplex offers comfortable living in a convenient location. The unit features a bright layout, modern finishes, and easy access to everything you need. Enjoy the benefit of off-street parking in the back, a valuable feature in the area. Inside, the home has been recently updated, giving you a clean and refreshed space to settle into. The kitchen and living
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-
The Preserve at Autumn Ridge in Watertown, NY offers two- and three-bedroom luxury apartments and townhomes in a beautiful setting. Enjoy a fully equipped gourmet kitchen with granite countertops and a breakfast bar, plus a pantry for extra storage. You'll love the convenience of an in-home washer & dryer, and the comfort of central air conditioning, Enjoy some fresh air on your own private patio
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
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
Located just a short walk from beautiful Thompson Park and Zoo New York, Parkstead Watertown at Thompson Park offers residents the opportunity to experience Parkstead living in one of the North Country's most desirable locations. Enjoy the comfort of our two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments and townhomes and our impressive selection of amenities and community features, all in convenient
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,
These beautiful NEW apartments are in a fantastic location within walking distance to Samaritan Medical Center and Downtown Watertown. From the moment you walk through the secure entryways, you will be impressed with the luxurious finishes! The newly refinished hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, new cabinetry, original fireplaces, and character of these apartments are incredible!
Hunter Apartments is a third generation family owned and operated apartment complex that's been in business since 1939. We take pride in offering a personalized touch.
Charming one & two bedroom apartments close to everything!! Boasts an eat in kitchen in the heart of the city center. City View Apartments. Amazing location close to Ft. Drum. The brand new YMCA fitness and aquatic center is across the street. Your home would be steps from Riverwalk Park along the Black River. Walk to bars, restaurants and shopping. Leave the car at home. Large parking lot.
Need to get settled before you arrive? Start your lease prior to your arrival! Call to See how we can Accommodate your needs!The College Heights Apartments are located in a quiet neighborhood on a dead end road with minimal traffic. The apartments are close to I-81, restaurants, shopping, and only 15 minutes from Fort Drum! With several storage options, an on-site laundry facility, 24
Need to get settled before you arrive? Start your lease prior to your arrival! Call to See how we can Accommodate your needs!Affordable apartments conveniently located in Downtown Watertown with ALL UTILITIES INCLUDED! The building features a secured entrance, off street parking, an elevator, and a laundry facility on the 5th floor! Short term leases available!
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