Is Harris Hill Safe, Pros and cons of living in Harris Hill

Harris Hill, a hamlet within the town of Clarence in Erie County, New York, offers a suburban lifestyle with a population of approximately 6,069 residents (as of the latest Census data). It is part of the Buffalo-Niagara Falls metropolitan area, providing residents with a balance of quiet living and access to urban amenities. The community is characterized by its sparse suburban feel, with most residents owning their homes.

The demographics of Harris Hill indicate a community with a median age around 40 to 45 years old, suggesting a mix of families and older adults. The racial makeup is predominantly White, with small percentages of other races. The area is known for its highly-rated public schools, which contribute to its appeal for families.

Is it Safe to Live in Harris Hill?

Harris Hill is generally considered a safe place to live, with crime rates significantly below the national average. The overall crime rate is reported to be 45% below the national average. Violent crime, in particular, is notably low, with one source indicating it is 92% below the national average.

While property crimes can occur, the overall safety of the community is a significant draw for residents. The low crime statistics contribute to a sense of security and peace of mind for those living in Harris Hill, making it an attractive option for families and individuals seeking a secure environment.

Housing Costs in Harris Hill

The housing market in Harris Hill presents a range of options for both buyers and renters. The median home value in Harris Hill is approximately $280,400 (as reported by Kurby AI), though other sources indicate a median home value of $295,873 (as reported by Livability.com). These figures are considerably lower than the New York state average, which stands at $481,023.

Rental prices also offer a competitive landscape. The median rent for an apartment in Harris Hill is around $2,088 per month, with a decrease of 1.94% compared to the previous year. Another source reports a median rent of $1,624 per month (as reported by Kurby AI), while Livability.com indicates a median monthly rent of $1,170. The largest share of rentals falls between $2,001-$2,500 per month.

Cost of Living and Salaries

The cost of living in Harris Hill is considered moderate, with housing being a significant factor. The median household income in Harris Hill was reported as $109,031 in 2024, showing a 1.5% increase from the previous year (U.S. Census Bureau). Another report indicates a median household income of $95,816 (as reported by Livability.com), and $95,603 (as reported by Kurby AI). The median income for renters was $41,538 in 2022 (U.S. Census Bureau).

The unemployment rate in Harris Hill is very low, reported at 0.1% (Niche). This low unemployment rate suggests a strong local job market. The per capita income in Harris Hill was $49,547 (U.S. Census Bureau), and the average annual household income was $109,031 in 2024 (U.S. Census Bureau).

Major Employers and Job Market

While specific major employers within Harris Hill are not detailed in the provided search results, the broader Buffalo-Niagara Falls metropolitan area offers a diverse employment landscape. The robust median household income suggests a healthy local economy with potential employment opportunities. The job market is supported by a workforce of approximately 3,217 residents.

The general economic environment in the region likely provides a variety of job sectors. Given the suburban nature of Harris Hill, many residents may commute to larger employment centers within the Buffalo-Niagara Falls area for work.

Climate in Harris Hill

Harris Hill experiences a climate typical of Western New York, characterized by distinct seasons. The average high temperature is around 56°F, with an average low of 40°F (Livability.com). The area receives approximately 40 inches of average annual rainfall.

Winters in this region are generally cold with significant snowfall, with an average annual snowfall of 104 inches. Summers are typically warm and pleasant. The climate supports outdoor activities for much of the year, though residents should be prepared for cold, snowy winters.

Education in Harris Hill

Harris Hill is served by highly-rated educational institutions, making it an attractive location for families with children. Harris Hill Elementary School, part of the Clarence Central School District, consistently performs above state and district averages in English Language Arts and Math assessments. The school has received high rankings, placing it within the top 10-20% of New York elementary schools.

Harris Hill Elementary boasts a student-teacher ratio of 10:1 and high proficiency rates in math and reading. The Clarence Central School District itself is also well-regarded, ranked among the top districts in New York. This strong educational environment is a key factor in the community’s appeal.

Demographics of Harris Hill

Harris Hill is home to approximately 6,069 residents, with a median age in the mid-40s (as of the 2020 Census). The population is relatively diverse in terms of age, with significant segments of both younger and older adults. The gender distribution shows a slight majority of males, with 52.4% male and 47.6% female.

The racial composition is predominantly White, accounting for over 95% of the population, with smaller percentages of African American, Asian, and individuals of two or more races. A large majority of residents are US-born citizens. The community tends to be liberal, and many young professionals and retirees choose to live in Harris Hill.

Pros and Cons of Living in Harris Hill

Harris Hill offers a compelling blend of safety, strong education, and a suburban atmosphere. Its low crime rates provide residents with peace of mind. The highly-rated schools are a significant draw for families seeking quality education for their children.

The cost of living, particularly housing, is more affordable compared to the New York state average, making homeownership attainable for many. Residents also benefit from a generally pleasant climate with four distinct seasons. The community’s sparse suburban feel and proximity to Buffalo offer a balanced lifestyle.

However, potential drawbacks include the relatively higher cost of rent compared to some other areas, with the largest share of rentals falling between $2,001-$2,500 per month. While the climate is generally pleasant, winters can be harsh with significant snowfall. Some may also find the predominantly White demographic less diverse than desired.