New York Counties List

by countryaah · Published June 28, 2019 · Updated August 27, 2024

There are a total of 62 counties in the state of New York. Among them, Albany County is the oldest one (established in 1683) while Bronx County is the youngest (established in 1914). With population of 2,504,700, Kings County is the most populated. The biggest county by land area is St. Lawrence County (7,306 km²) and the smallest is New York County (87 km²).

Largest Counties in New York

1. St. Lawrence County

County Seat: Canton

Area: 2,821 square miles
Population: 108,505 (as of 2020 census)
Area Codes: 315, 680
Latitude: 44.4473° N
Longitude: 75.1358° W

Location and History

St. Lawrence County, located in northern New York, is the largest county by area in the state. It was established in 1802 and is named after the St. Lawrence River, which forms the county’s northern border with Canada. The area has a rich history, including early Native American settlements, French exploration, and later American industrial development. The county’s economy historically revolved around agriculture, mining, and manufacturing, with a significant influence from its proximity to the Canadian border.

Major Highways and Landmarks

U.S. Route 11 runs through the county, connecting various towns and villages. St. Lawrence County is home to the Adirondack Park, a vast natural preserve that offers numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The St. Lawrence Seaway, an important waterway for shipping, is another major landmark. Additionally, the county features several historic sites, such as the Frederic Remington Art Museum in Ogdensburg, which celebrates the life and work of the famous artist.

2. Essex County

County Seat: Elizabethtown

Area: 1,916 square miles
Population: 36,885 (as of 2020 census)
Area Codes: 518, 838
Latitude: 44.0898° N
Longitude: 73.7775° W

Location and History

Essex County is situated in northeastern New York, within the heart of the Adirondack Mountains. Established in 1799, the county is named after Essex, England. The region has a long history of logging, mining, and tourism, with many small towns developing around these industries. Essex County played a crucial role during the American Revolution, with significant battles fought in the area, including those at Fort Ticonderoga and Crown Point.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Interstate 87, also known as the Adirondack Northway, is the primary highway running through Essex County, providing access to many of its natural and historic sites. The county is renowned for Lake Placid, the site of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics. The High Peaks region, part of the Adirondack Mountains, includes some of the tallest mountains in New York State and is a major draw for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Fort Ticonderoga, a historic fort with roots in the French and Indian War and the American Revolution, is another significant landmark.

3. Hamilton County

County Seat: Lake Pleasant

Area: 1,808 square miles
Population: 4,836 (as of 2020 census)
Area Codes: 518, 838
Latitude: 43.6682° N
Longitude: 74.4971° W

Location and History

Hamilton County is located in the central part of the Adirondack Mountains in New York. It was established in 1816 and is named after Alexander Hamilton, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. The county is the least populated in New York State, with much of its land comprising wilderness areas within the Adirondack Park. The history of Hamilton County is closely tied to the development of tourism in the Adirondacks, which began in the 19th century as the region became a popular destination for city dwellers seeking natural beauty and solitude.

Major Highways and Landmarks

New York State Route 30 and State Route 28 are the major highways traversing Hamilton County, connecting the small towns and providing access to the region’s outdoor attractions. The county is known for its pristine lakes, including Lake Pleasant and Indian Lake, which offer boating, fishing, and camping opportunities. The Adirondack Museum, located in Blue Mountain Lake, provides insights into the cultural and natural history of the Adirondacks. The area is also famous for its extensive network of hiking trails, including those leading to remote mountain peaks and secluded forest areas.

4. Franklin County

County Seat: Malone

Area: 1,697 square miles
Population: 47,555 (as of 2020 census)
Area Codes: 518, 838
Latitude: 44.8483° N
Longitude: 74.2950° W

Location and History

Franklin County, located in the northern part of New York State, was founded in 1808 and named after Benjamin Franklin. The county has a diverse history, with influences from early French and British explorers, Native American tribes, and later American settlers. The region’s economy traditionally relied on agriculture, logging, and manufacturing, with Malone developing as the economic hub. The area also has a history of outdoor recreation, particularly in the Adirondack region.

Major Highways and Landmarks

U.S. Route 11 is the main highway in Franklin County, connecting the county seat, Malone, with other parts of New York State. The county is home to the Adirondack Park, which offers a wealth of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and skiing. The Franklin County Fair, held annually in Malone, is one of the oldest county fairs in the United States and a major event in the region. Additionally, the Paul Smith’s College Visitor Interpretive Center in Paul Smiths provides educational programs and trails that explore the natural environment of the Adirondacks.

5. Delaware County

County Seat: Delhi

Area: 1,468 square miles
Population: 44,308 (as of 2020 census)
Area Codes: 607
Latitude: 42.2680° N
Longitude: 74.8962° W

Location and History

Delaware County is located in the Catskill Mountains region of New York. Established in 1797, the county is named after the Delaware River, which forms its southwestern boundary. The area has a rich agricultural history, with dairy farming playing a significant role in its economy. The county also has historical ties to the early American frontier, with several towns dating back to the colonial era. Over time, Delaware County has developed as a destination for outdoor recreation and tourism, thanks to its natural beauty.

Major Highways and Landmarks

New York State Route 28 and State Route 10 are key highways running through Delaware County, providing access to its scenic landscapes and small towns. The county is known for the Catskill Park, which offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and skiing. The Delaware River is a major natural landmark, popular for fishing and canoeing. The town of Delhi, the county seat, is home to the State University of New York at Delhi, an important educational institution in the region. Additionally, the historic Hanford Mills Museum in East Meredith showcases the area’s industrial heritage.

6. Sullivan County

County Seat: Monticello

Area: 997 square miles
Population: 78,624 (as of 2020 census)
Area Codes: 845
Latitude: 41.6900° N
Longitude: 74.6947° W

Location and History

Sullivan County is located in southeastern New York, within the Catskill Mountains. The county was established in 1809 and named after John Sullivan, a general in the Revolutionary War. The area became well-known in the 20th century as the site of the “Borscht Belt,” a popular vacation destination for Jewish families from New York City, particularly during the mid-1900s. This period of history left a lasting cultural legacy in the county, even as the resorts declined in the late 20th century.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Sullivan County is served by New York State Route 17, which connects it to the rest of the state and provides access to the region’s natural attractions. The county is famous for the 1969 Woodstock Festival, which took place in Bethel and is commemorated at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. The county also features several large reservoirs, such as the Neversink and Rondout reservoirs, which are part of New York City’s water supply system. The Catskill Park extends into Sullivan County, offering hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities.

7. Ulster County

County Seat: Kingston

Area: 1,161 square miles
Population: 181,851 (as of 2020 census)
Area Codes: 845
Latitude: 41.8588° N
Longitude: 74.3118° W

Location and History

Ulster County is located in the Mid-Hudson Valley region of New York. It was one of the original counties established by the Province of New York in 1683, making it one of the oldest in the state. The county is named after the Irish province of Ulster. Kingston, the county seat, was the first capital of New York State and has a rich colonial history. The county has historically been a center for agriculture, manufacturing, and later, tourism, thanks to its scenic landscapes and proximity to New York City.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Interstate 87 (the New York State Thruway) and U.S. Route 209 are major highways that run through Ulster County, connecting it to other parts of the state. The county is known for its natural beauty, particularly in the Catskill Mountains and the Shawangunk Ridge, which offer extensive hiking, climbing, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The Ashokan Reservoir, part of New York City’s water supply, is a major landmark, as is the historic Huguenot Street in New Paltz, which features preserved colonial-era stone houses. The town of Woodstock, known for its arts community, is another significant cultural landmark.

8. Steuben County

County Seat: Bath

Area: 1,404 square miles
Population: 95,379 (as of 2020 census)
Area Codes: 607
Latitude: 42.3085° N
Longitude: 77.3760° W

Location and History

Steuben County is located in the southern tier of New York State. Established in 1796, the county was named after Baron von Steuben, a Prussian general who assisted the Continental Army during the American Revolution. The county has a rich history of agriculture, particularly dairy farming, and also became a center for glass manufacturing with the establishment of the Corning Glass Works (now Corning Incorporated) in the city of Corning. The county’s economy has diversified over time, with tourism and education becoming increasingly important.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Interstate 86 and U.S. Route 15 are major highways running through Steuben County, facilitating travel and commerce. The county is known for the Corning Museum of Glass, which showcases the history and art of glassmaking. Watkins Glen, located just outside the county, is a significant natural and cultural landmark, famous for its gorge and as a location for auto racing. The Finger Lakes region, which extends into Steuben County, offers numerous recreational activities, including wine tasting, boating, and hiking. The historic town of Hammondsport, situated on Keuka Lake, is known as the “Cradle of Aviation” due to its connection with early aircraft pioneer Glenn Curtiss.

9. Saratoga County

County Seat: Ballston Spa

Area: 844 square miles
Population: 235,509 (as of 2020 census)
Area Codes: 518, 838
Latitude: 43.0998° N
Longitude: 73.8640° W

Location and History

Saratoga County is located in the eastern part of New York State, within the Capital District. Established in 1791, the county is named after the famous Battle of Saratoga, a turning point in the American Revolutionary War. The county has a rich history that includes Native American heritage, colonial settlements, and later development as a tourist destination. Saratoga Springs, one of the county’s most famous cities, has been a renowned resort town since the 19th century, attracting visitors for its mineral springs and horse racing.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Interstate 87 (the Adirondack Northway) is the primary highway running through Saratoga County, providing access to the region’s attractions. Saratoga County is best known for Saratoga Springs, home to the Saratoga Race Course, one of the oldest horse racing tracks in the United States. The Saratoga National Historical Park preserves the site of the pivotal Revolutionary War battle. The county also features the Saratoga Spa State Park, which offers mineral baths, a performing arts center, and extensive recreational facilities. Additionally, the Great Sacandaga Lake, located in the northern part of the county, is a popular spot for boating and fishing.

10. Oneida County

County Seat: Utica

Area: 1,257 square miles
Population: 228,671 (as of 2020 census)
Area Codes: 315, 680
Latitude: 43.1107° N
Longitude: 75.3867° W

Location and History

Oneida County is located in central New York, within the Mohawk Valley region. The county was established in 1798 and is named after the Oneida people, one of the original Five Nations of the Iroquois Confederacy. The area has a rich industrial history, with Utica and Rome being major centers of manufacturing and transportation during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Erie Canal, which runs through the county, played a crucial role in its development, facilitating trade and migration.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Interstate 90 (the New York State Thruway) and Interstate 790 are major highways that run through Oneida County, connecting it to other parts of the state. The county is home to the Utica Zoo, which offers a variety of exhibits and educational programs. The Oriskany Battlefield State Historic Site commemorates the Battle of Oriskany, a significant engagement during the American Revolutionary War. The county also features the Adirondack Scenic Railroad, which offers scenic train rides through the northern reaches of the county. Additionally, Oneida Lake, located in the western part of the county, is a popular destination for boating and fishing.

List of All Counties in New York

Below please see all New York counties which are listed in alphabetical order.

New York Counties List

Largest Counties in New York

1. St. Lawrence County

County Seat: Canton

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

2. Essex County

County Seat: Elizabethtown

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

3. Hamilton County

County Seat: Lake Pleasant

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

4. Franklin County

County Seat: Malone

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

5. Delaware County

County Seat: Delhi

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

6. Sullivan County

County Seat: Monticello

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

7. Ulster County

County Seat: Kingston

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

8. Steuben County

County Seat: Bath

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

9. Saratoga County

County Seat: Ballston Spa

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

10. Oneida County

County Seat: Utica

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

List of All Counties in New York

Map of New York Counties

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