Is Jamestown Safe, Pros and cons of living in Jamestown
Jamestown, New York, offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities, making it a compelling place to consider for a new home. This city provides a unique living experience with a distinct local culture and a community that values its heritage. As you explore the possibility of moving to Jamestown, understanding its various facets, from safety and cost of living to job opportunities and local amenities, will be crucial in making an informed decision.
The city is situated in a region with natural beauty, offering residents access to outdoor activities and a slower pace of life compared to larger metropolitan areas. Jamestown’s economic landscape has evolved over time, with a history rooted in manufacturing and industry now diversifying to include other sectors. This dynamic environment shapes the opportunities and lifestyle available to its residents.
Is it Safe to Live in Jamestown?
Jamestown’s crime rate is a significant consideration for potential residents. The city’s overall crime rate is 38.5% higher than the national average (according to AreaVibes). Specifically, violent crimes in Jamestown are 73% higher than the national average, with 620 violent crimes per 100,000 residents (according to AreaVibes). Property crimes are also elevated, at 31.5% higher than the national average, with 2,315 property crimes per 100,000 people (according to AreaVibes).
When examining crime statistics, it’s important to note that Jamestown’s violent crime rate is 168.7% above the national average, with an average of 285.4 per 100,000 residents over the past five years (according to the FBI Crime Data Explorer). Property crime averages 199.8 per 100,000 residents, which is 22.1% above the national average (according to the FBI Crime Data Explorer). Residents generally consider the southeast part of the city to be the safest, with the chance of being a victim of crime varying by neighborhood (according to AreaVibes).
Housing and Cost of Living
The cost of living in Jamestown, NY, is generally considered more affordable than the national average. The cost of living index is 9% less expensive than the national average (according to ERI Economic Research Institute). This lower cost extends to various aspects of daily life, including housing and utilities.
Housing costs in Jamestown are also favorable compared to national benchmarks. The median home price in Jamestown is $79,100 (according to ERI Economic Research Institute). The average rent in Jamestown, NY, was $657 per month as of May 2026, which is 60% lower than the national average (according to Apartments.com). This makes Jamestown an attractive option for those seeking more affordable housing options.
Job Market and Economy
Jamestown’s economy is supported by a range of industries, with healthcare and social assistance, manufacturing, and retail trade being the most common employment sectors (according to Data USA). From 2023 to 2024, employment in Jamestown saw a slight decline of 1.4%, with 11,720 employees (according to Data USA).
The average annual salary in Jamestown is approximately $49,541 (according to ZipRecruiter). Major employers in the area include healthcare facilities, manufacturing companies, and educational institutions, contributing to the diverse job market. The unemployment rate in Jamestown was reported at 6.1% in 2026 (according to Data Commons), which is lower than the long-term average of 6.56% (according to YCharts).
Climate and Environment
Jamestown experiences a humid continental climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, while summers are warm and humid (according to Wikipedia). The average annual temperature in Jamestown, NY, is 46.4°F, with an average of 45.22 inches of rain per year (according to U.S. Climate Data).
The warmest months typically see average high temperatures around 87°F in July, while winter lows can drop to around 33°F in December (according to myPerfectWeather). The city receives a considerable amount of precipitation throughout the year, with December being the wettest month and August being the driest (according to Best Time to Visit Jamestown).
Education and Demographics
Jamestown is served by the Jamestown City School District, which has a student-teacher ratio of 11 to 1 (according to Niche). State test scores indicate that 40% of students are proficient in math and 35% in reading within the district (according to Niche). The city has a population of approximately 28,200 people (according to Data USA), with a median age of 39.8 years (according to Data Commons).
The demographic makeup of Jamestown is predominantly White, accounting for about 82.96% of the population (according to Wikipedia). Approximately 3.27% of residents were born outside the country (according to Data USA). The median household income in Jamestown is $43,523 (according to Data Commons), with a poverty rate of 25.25% (according to Data Commons).
Major Employers and Economic Drivers
Jamestown’s economy has historically been driven by manufacturing, particularly in the furniture industry, earning it the nickname “Furniture Capital of the World” (according to Wikipedia). While manufacturing remains a key sector, the economic landscape has diversified over time.
Current major employers in Jamestown include healthcare providers, educational institutions, and manufacturing firms. Companies like Valeo Engine Cooling and TitanX Engine Cooling have been significant employers, with Blackstone Corporation being a major force in the past (according to Wikipedia). The healthcare sector, including WCA Hospital, also plays a crucial role in the local economy (according to Zippia).