Raise A Family In A Connected Community
One of the best small towns to raise a family in Upstate New York
If you’re thinking about raising a family in a small town, you’re likely looking for something that feels different from where you are now.
More space.
More connection.
A place where your kids can grow up with both independence and community.
Schoharie County offers that kind of environment.Considered one of the best small towns to raise a family in Upstate New York for those seeking strong schools, safe neighborhoods, and everyday access to nature, it’s a place where family life can feel both grounded and expansive.
The county is served by several local school districts
Schoharie County is home to small towns with good schools, served by several community-centered school districts that support its towns and villages.
In 2024 Middleburgh Central School was ranked among the Top 10 of Capital District School Districts and Junior/Senior High School Principal Matt Sloane was named a Principal of the Year. JCS Superintendent Tarkan Ceng serves as a SEEC Advisor and is a member of the executive committee for the NYS Rural Schools Association.
There are five public Pre-K through 12 school systems, each offering a range of sports, extracurriculars, and enrichment programs such as Odyssey of the Mind, band and chorus, FBLA, FFA, and drama. High school students also have access to expanded opportunities through BOCES programs (Schoharie and Milford), as well as specialized tracks like New Visions (health) and Tech Valley programs in the Capital District. In addition, SUNY Cobleskill provides higher education opportunities right within the county, with other colleges accessible within commuting distance.
These smaller districts often mean more individualized attention, strong community involvement, and opportunities for students to participate across a wide range of activities.-
![]()
Cobleskill
-
![]()
Schoharie
-
![]()
Middleburgh
-
![]()
Sharon Springs
These districts are known for
→ Smaller class sizes and individualized attention
→ Strong relationships between teachers, students, and families
→ Opportunities for athletics, arts, and extracurricular involvement
→ Programs connected to agriculture, trades, and real-world learning
For example: Schoharie Central School District emphasizes a well-rounded education that supports both academic growth and community engagement, with opportunities for students to participate in sports, arts, and leadership programs throughout their time in school.
In addition: The presence of SUNY Cobleskill brings unique educational pathways into the region, including agriculture, technology, and applied sciences, along with opportunities for early exposure to college-level programs.
For many families, safety is a top priority.
Schoharie County’s small-town structure and close-knit communities contribute to a strong sense of security and familiarity.
→ Local law enforcement and community presence
→ Lower population density compared to urban areas
→ Neighborhoods where people know each other
While every town is different, many families are drawn to the overall sense of calm and stability that comes with rural living.
CrimeGrade.Org lists Schoharie County at a grade A, indicating that the rate of crime is much lower than that of the average US county. Schoharie County ranks in the 91st percentile for safety, meaning it is safer than 91% of counties.
Safety
Libraries play an important role in community life here.
Schoharie County is part of the Mohawk Valley Library System, with local libraries including:
→ Cobleskill Public Library
→ Mary B. Cushing Public Library (Schoharie)
→ Middleburgh Library
→ Sharon Springs Free Library
These spaces offer:→ Access to books, media, and digital resources
→ Programs for children and families
→ Quiet spaces for learning and connection
They often serve as informal gathering places for families throughout the year.
Libraries
Life here naturally creates opportunities for kids to explore and stay active.
-
![]()
Hiking trails, pools, parks, and open land
-
![]()
Farms, gardens, and seasonal events
-
![]()
Youth sports, playgrounds and recreation programs
-
![]()
Local festivals, fairs, and markets
This is a place where kids can spend time outside, build independence, and stay connected to their environment. Nearby access to the Catskills and Adirondacks also expands outdoor opportunities year-round.
Community
What often matters most isn’t just what’s available, but how it feels to live here.
Schoharie County is made up of small towns where:
→ People recognize each other
→ Community events bring people together
→ Families build long-term relationships
There’s a shared sense of investment in the place and in each other.
For many parents, that’s what makes the biggest difference.This combination of safety, education, and community is what makes it one of the best places to raise a family in New York.
A Different Kind of Childhood
Growing up here looks different.
It might mean:
→ Walking through town instead of sitting in traffic
→ Knowing neighbors by name
→ Spending more time outside than inside
→ Being part of a community, not just passing through it
It’s a slower pace, but one that allows for more presence.Out & About With Kids + Family
For many, it becomes clear why this is one of the best small town to raise a family in Upstate New York.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime.
-
Yes. The county is served by several strong school districts with small class sizes, community involvement, and a range of academic and extracurricular programs.
-
Schoharie County is generally considered a safe, rural area with close-knit communities and lower population density than urban regions.
CrimeGrade.Org lists Schoharie County at a grade A, indicating that the rate of crime is much lower than that of the average US county. Schoharie County ranks in the 91st percentile for safety, meaning it is safer than 91% of counties
-
Children have access to outdoor recreation, youth sports, community events, libraries, pools, playgrounds, parks and other seasonal activities throughout the year.
-
Yes. Childcare and early education options are available throughout the county, though availability may vary by location.
-
Students in Schoharie County have access to expanded learning opportunities through programs like Capital Region BOCES Schoharie Campus, which offers career and technical education, as well as SUNY Cobleskill, a local college focused on applied learning in fields like agriculture, technology, and business.
Create a life where your family can feel connected, supported, and at home.
Explore what it looks like to raise a family in Schoharie County.