Is Mattydale Safe, Pros and cons of living in Mattydale

Mattydale, a hamlet within the town of Salina in Onondaga County, New York, offers a suburban environment with proximity to the city of Syracuse. This community, with a population of approximately 5,971 residents (as of 2024), provides a blend of residential living with access to urban amenities. Its location in Central New York positions it within a region known for its historical ties to salt mining and its role in the development of the Erie Canal.

The character of Mattydale is shaped by its housing stock, which predominantly features single-family homes and apartment complexes, with many residences built between 1940 and 1969. The community is characterized by a sparse suburban feel, where most residents own their homes. This residential makeup contributes to a community atmosphere that many find appealing for raising families.

Is it Safe to Live in Mattydale?

Mattydale’s crime rates present a mixed picture, with overall crime rates being higher than the national average. The total crime rate in Mattydale is 34.54 per 1,000 residents annually. Property crime rates stand at 26.27 per 1,000 residents, and violent crime rates are reported at 6.186 per 1,000 residents. These figures indicate a higher likelihood of experiencing crime compared to the average U.S. city.

However, safety can vary significantly by neighborhood within Mattydale. Residents generally consider the northern parts of the hamlet to be the safest. Conversely, the northwest neighborhoods tend to see the most crime incidents. The hamlet is considered safer than 18% of U.S. cities, according to one analysis.

Housing Costs and Real Estate

Housing in Mattydale is generally more affordable than the national average. The median home value in Mattydale is approximately $121,900. This median value is considerably lower than the national median of $332,700.

The homeownership rate in Mattydale is high, at 80.5%. This indicates a strong preference among residents for owning their homes rather than renting. The median gross rent in Mattydale is $1,163 per month. This figure includes not only the base rent but also utilities and other fees, providing a comprehensive view of rental costs.

Job Market and Economy

The economy of Mattydale is supported by a workforce of approximately 3.15k individuals. Key employment sectors for residents include Retail Trade, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Manufacturing. These industries provide a significant portion of the employment opportunities within the area.

The most common job groups in Mattydale are Office & Administrative Support Occupations, Sales & Related Occupations, and Production Occupations. While employment has seen a slight decline in recent years, these sectors form the backbone of the local job market. Some of the major employers in the broader Syracuse metropolitan area, which Mattydale is part of, include Upstate Medical University, Syracuse University, and various healthcare systems.

Cost of Living

Mattydale offers a cost of living that is generally lower than both the national average and the average for New York State. The overall cost of living in Mattydale is approximately 5% less expensive than the national average. It is also about 26% less expensive to live in Mattydale than in the average city in New York.

This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life. Food costs in Mattydale are more affordable than the U.S. average, and healthcare costs are also below the national average. Transportation costs, however, are noted as being less affordable than the U.S. average.

Climate and Weather

Mattydale experiences distinct seasonal weather patterns. Summers are warm and partly cloudy, while winters are cold, snowy, and predominantly cloudy. The temperature typically ranges from 16°F to 82°F throughout the year, with rare occurrences of temperatures below -1°F or above 90°F.

The warmest month is July, with average high temperatures around 81°F and lows of 63°F. Conversely, January is the coldest month, with average lows of 18°F and highs of 32°F. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with October receiving the most rain (3.4 inches) and February receiving the least (1.0 inch). The average annual rainfall is around 39 inches.

Education and Schools

The public schools serving Mattydale generally receive above-average ratings. Niche.com provides ratings for schools in the area, with several public schools and the North Syracuse Central School District receiving favorable grades. These ratings are based on analyses of test scores, college readiness, and graduation rates, utilizing data from the U.S. Department of Education.

For higher education, the Continental School of Beauty Culture-Mattydale is located within the area, awarding degrees in beauty and cosmetology. Residents also have access to educational institutions in the broader Syracuse area, which includes universities and colleges offering a wide range of programs.

Demographics

Mattydale is home to a population of approximately 5,971 residents as of 2024. The population is predominantly White, making up about 77.0% of residents. Other racial groups include Multiracial (9.2%), Asian (4.7%), Hispanic (4.6%), Native American/Other (2.6%), and Black or African American (1.9%).

The median age in Mattydale is around 39.3 years. The gender distribution shows slightly more females than males, with 54.2% female and 45.8% male. The majority of residents are U.S. citizens, with a high homeownership rate of 80.5%.

Pros and Cons of Living in Mattydale

Mattydale offers several advantages, including its relatively affordable cost of living and housing prices, which are below both national and New York State averages. The community provides a sparse suburban feel with a high homeownership rate, appealing to those seeking a quieter lifestyle while remaining close to Syracuse. The public schools in the area are generally rated above average.

On the other hand, Mattydale’s crime rates are higher than the national average, although safety can vary by neighborhood. While the cost of living is affordable overall, transportation costs are noted as being higher than the U.S. average. The job market, while diverse, has seen a slight decline in employment in recent years.