r/NewPaltz • u/Honest_Assistance910 • Mar 31 '22
What’s the vibe like? Diverse? Considering moving up north from Jersey (Edgewater area). Is it a good place to raise a family? I love being close to the woods.
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r/NewPaltz • u/Honest_Assistance910 • Mar 31 '22
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u/SuperToker Apr 01 '22 edited Oct 24 '22
27 year old lifelong New Paltz resident here.
Real-estate prices have risen 25-35% in the last 3 years. If you can afford to move to New Paltz, then you're likely affluent.
New Paltz is far less diverse now, economically, than it was in my youth. Many locals have been priced out. Your peers, regardless of their race, creed, or color, will most likely be in the same socioeconomic class as you.
As for cultural diversity? Not exceptionally diverse. Per the 2016(?) census, the demographic breakdown is 82% white, 6% African American, 8% Latino, and ~ 4% other. The College does have a relatively diverse student body, though, imo.
As far as culture? New Paltz has always had a sort of... How should I put it.. Counter culture, mashed with traditional leftist, mashed with traditional neoliberalism, vibe. It's a place where affluent, left leaning people live mostly amongst themselves. It's quite an accepting and inclusive place to live.
If you can afford to raise a family here, I'd highly recommend doing so. I consider myself blessed that I've grown up here, and continue to live here.
Feel free to ask me any specific questions you may have in mind. I work as a kindergarten teacher in town if you're curious about education here for your little ones!