Location
Sullivan County's central location puts it within a 100 mile radius of 26 million people. Located just 90 miles from NYC. Sullivan County offers the best of both worlds, convenient access to major metropolitan areas and a relaxed, rural lifestyle.
Land Area .............….........1,011 sq. miles
Municipalities ............................…........21
Towns ......................................….........15
Villages .......................................…........6
School Districts ............................….......8
Climate
Average Temperature
January................................................... 20.5
July...........................................................76.0
Annual Precipitation....................... 46 inches
Population
According to U.S. Bureau of the Census, Sullivan County had a year 2000 population of 73,966 persons, a 6.77% increase from the 69,277 persons recorded during the 1990 Census. This makes Sullivan County one of the fastest growing counties in the State and all indicators suggest that this trend will accelerate during the next decade. Factors influencing the growth in Sullivan County include the County’s desirability as a place to live, its affordability when compared to other Counties of the New York Metropolitan region, and recent community and economic revitalization efforts.
Population By Age
Under 5 years .............................5.9%
5 to 9 years ..................................6.9%
10 to 14 years ..............................7.5%
15 to 19 years ..............................7.0%
20 to 24 years ..............................4.8%
25 to 34 years ............................11.7%
35 to 44 years ............................16.4%
45 to 54 years ............................14.8%
55 to 59 years ..............................5.9%
60 to 64 years ..............................4.7%
65 to 74 years ..............................7.9%
75 to 84 years ..............................4.9%
85 years and over ........................1.5%
Housing
According to the most recent Census, Sullivan County had a total of 44,730 dwelling units, representing an increase of 6.97% from 1990 figures. The towns experiencing the greatest percent increase in the number of dwellings were Neversink (25.80%), Thompson (11.13%) and Liberty (7.73%).
The median housing value in the county in 2000 was $93,300. Since 2000 however, the County has experienced a considerable appreciation in its real estate market. The average sales price of a home in the first quarter of 2005 was $190,669 showing an increase of 18.6 since 2004. Median rent in Sullivan County is $545, which is considered modest in comparison with regional rents.
The housing boom can be attributed to a sudden increase in the second home market coupled with rapidly growing demand for housing from people who commute to other areas in the New York metropolitan region. Another trend and ever-growing phenomenon in the County is the development of high-end second homes. These high-end second homes contribute to the area tax base while placing little burden on area schools.
Taxes
Sullivan County is made up of 21 municipal governments and 8 school districts. Real property tax rates vary by municipality and district because in New York State, each taxing jurisdiction has the authority to levy and collect their own taxes. It should be noted that real property tax bills consist of school, town or village, and county tax. The largest share of real property tax goes to the school district, followed by Town/Village tax, and finally the County. For further information in the real property tax law or tax rates, call the Sullivan County Legislature at (845) 794-3000 Ext. 3300.
Income Tax
New York State residents are required to pay state income tax. Military personnel who are not New York State residents are exempt, but dependents and/or spouses who are employed in New York State are required to file state income taxes.
Sales Tax
Sales taxes are collected on most items of personal property including cars, boats and business equipment. Most items of food purchased in unprepared form are not subject to sales tax. The New York State sales tax is four percent with each locality assessing an additional amount. The County’s local rate is four percent making the combined Sales Tax In Sullivan County eight percent.
Income
Median Household Income (2001)........... $34,605
Per Capita Income (2001)........................$18,583
The County’s per capita income compares favorably with surrounding counties. In fact, in 1990, the gap between Sullivan County’s per capita income and surrounding counties was far greater than it was in 2000 which is a reflection of the County’s stronger economy in recent years. It is anticipated that Sullivan County’s per capita will reach Orange County levels by 2010.
Retirement
Sullivan County offers its retirees plenty of opportunities to keep active. The U.S. Department of Agriculture designated Sullivan County as one of the three “rural retirement” counties in New York State. The publication 50 Fabulous Places To Retire In America ranked Sullivan County No. 30.
Senior Programs
The Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) matches volunteers’ skills, interests and talents with community non-profit organizations, and offers RSVP insurance and mileage reimbursements. The Senior Community Employment Program provides part-time employment for individuals 55 or older who meet low-income dead-lines and want to continue to be part of the workforce. Sullivan County Community College (SCCC) offers credit and non-credit courses for those seniors who wish to complete or expand their education. SCCC is also a host site for Elderhostel, a network of 2000 educational and cultural sites. Elderhostel combines the best traditions of education and hostelling (informal, inexpensive lodgings) in a program designed exclusively for adults age 55 and older. Elderhostel is based on the belief that retirement does not mean withdrawal from meaningful activity.
For a full listing of offerings and services can be obtained by calling the Sullivan County Office for the Aging at (845) 794-3000 ext. 5000. |
