CARMEL, N.Y. – Putnam County has been named the second wealthiest county in New York State, according to new data released by the U.S. Census Bureau, highlighting its strong economic standing in both state and national rankings.
The report reveals that Putnam County’s median household income stands at over $107,000, placing it behind only Nassau County on Long Island, which holds the top spot in New York.
Income Far Above State and National Averages
Putnam’s median household income is 50.8% higher than the New York State average of approximately $67,000, and 65% higher than the national median, underlining the county’s economic strength and affluence.
Additional income data reveals:
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53.5% of households in Putnam earn over $100,000 annually.
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Only 3.6% of households report incomes of less than $15,000.
These figures not only position Putnam as one of the most prosperous areas in the state but also among the top earners nationally, with a ranking of 25th highest-earning county in the United States.
Educational and Demographic Factors Drive Income
The Census Bureau noted that median household income often correlates with education level, race, ethnicity, gender, and geographic location. In areas like Putnam County, a well-educated population and proximity to economic centers such as New York City likely contribute to higher earnings.
Across the U.S., one region stood out significantly: five of the seven richest counties in the country are located within the Washington, D.C. metro area — specifically in Maryland and Northern Virginia. Their proximity to the nation’s capital and concentration of jobs in law, public policy, and high-level government services are credited for the high income levels in those counties.
Surrounding Counties Also Rank High
Putnam is not alone in its economic prosperity. Neighboring counties in the Hudson Valley and suburban New York region also placed high in statewide income rankings:
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Westchester County ranks fourth in New York with a median income of $99,000
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Rockland County follows in fifth with $94,000
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Dutchess County is ninth, reporting $81,000
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Orange County comes in at tenth, with $80,000
These figures reinforce a broader trend of economic strength in the region just north of New York City, which continues to attract professionals and families seeking a balance of suburban living with access to high-paying jobs in the metro area.
A Snapshot of Affluence
Putnam County’s second-place position is not only a point of local pride but also an indicator of the broader economic health of the region. The county’s performance in national rankings emphasizes its role as a significant contributor to New York’s economy and underscores the value of continued investment in education, infrastructure, and workforce development.
As the county continues to grow and evolve, local officials and residents alike may look to this data as both a validation of their community’s progress and a call to ensure that prosperity is shared across all demographics.
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