RANK #568 / 996 · POP 83,584 · NY
PROJECTED GROWTH: +0.5%
Chemung County, located in the Southern Tier of Central New York State, is known as "Mark Twain Country" because the author spent over 20 summers writing in Elmira. The county seat, Elmira, is also recognized as the "Soaring Capital of America," with Harris Hill hosting national soaring competitions since 1930. Situated along the Pennsylvania border, Chemung County is considered the "Gateway to the Finger Lakes" region, offering scenic drives through rolling hills. Commuting options within the county include local bus routes serving Elmira and Horseheads, with some extending to nearby cities like Corning and Ithaca. Outdoor recreation opportunities abound, with numerous parks, nature preserves like Tanglewood Nature Center, and trails for hiking and other activities.
Life in Chemung County offers a suburban-rural feel, with many residents owning their homes. The community is characterized by a friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere and a strong sense of togetherness, evident in local events. Public schools in towns like Horseheads, Elmira, and Big Flats are generally well-regarded. The economy is experiencing revitalization, with public and private investments expanding housing options and improving business districts. Efforts are underway to develop a strategic economic plan that considers workforce, housing, and quality of place. The Chemung County Industrial Development Agency provides incentives for projects that positively impact the local economy, including support for industrial infrastructure.
Below national median
Above national median
Below-average climate & terrain
Housing looks undervalued at 2.9x — home prices are low relative to local economic output. The typical U.S. county is 4–6x.
Source: Redfin · Census BPS — Browse sales on Redfin →
| PROJECT | AMOUNT | STATUS |
|---|---|---|
|
Southern Tier CO2 to Clean Energy Solutions (STS) - Natural Gas & Carbon Capture Hub
Southern Tier CO2 to Clean Energy Solutions LLC
|
$500M | Proposed |
|
Community Solar Portfolio (Multiple Projects)
Various (Generate Capital, Altus Power America Management, LLC, etc.)
|
$50M | Operating/Under Construction |
Source: public records, news, corporate announcements. Amounts are estimates where noted.
Bars show percentile rank among all 996 counties.
Chemung County has a Boom Town Index score of 43/100, ranking #568 among 996 U.S. counties. With job growth at +1.4% and a median household income of $61,358, it faces some economic headwinds compared to faster-growing counties.
The median home value in Chemung County is $128,200 with median rent at $991/month. The income-to-home-value ratio is 0.4786, which is more affordable than the national average.
Population growth: -1.0% year-over-year. Job growth: +1.4%. Home values changed +1.5% in the past 12 months.