With a focus on downtown revitalization, home ownership in charming Oswego welcomes families, young professionals and empty nesters to its diverse range of homes – from modern apartments and condos to spacious lofts in historic buildings, within easy distance of dining, shops and river walks. Located on the Southeastern shore of Lake Ontario and along the Oswego River, the port city is home to July Harborfest, a large outdoors musical event and an incredible fireworks display.

A family-oriented, small college town with nearly 17,000 residents, Oswego is located about 35 miles northwest of Syracuse and 69 mileseast of Rochester, and promotes itself as “The Port City of Central New York.” Once a major railroad hub, it’s home to Fort Ontario, a historic military fort that in World War II served as a refugee shelter for survivors of the Nazi Holocaust.

Its location in the Eastern shore of Lake Ontario places it in the center of the Snowbelt, which can produce quite a bit of winter snow. One year, after two weeks of snowstorms, the snow measured 11 feet deep.

As for taking in the sights, numerous museums and historical monuments pay tribute to historical figures. For those who are more adventurous, hunting, boating, fishing and hiking are popular activities, and there are ice-skating rinks and a swimming pool. Enjoy biking or snowshoeing on the trails of Rice Creek Field, visit small businesses along the waterfront or grab a meal at a nearby restaurant.

The Oswego City School District has one high school, one middle school and five elementary schools. The Oswego location of the State University of New York resides just outside the city limits. Children interested in sports can choose from hockey, little league. Basketball, Pop Warner football and cheer, lacrosse and figure skating.

Job seekers will find opportunities with the region’s major employers, which include Oswego Health, Novelis, Exelon Generation, Oswego City School District, Oswego County Government, SUNY Oswego and St. Luke’s Health Service.

Median home values are just under $90,000 – significantly lower than the national average. Median household income is $45,2165, nearly $20,000 lower than the national average.

For income-qualified buyers, the city offers an Affordable Home Ownership Program, which provides financial assistance to purchase a home. The assistance is provided in the form of a deferred loan that is forgiven over a 10 year period, and it can be used to lower mortgage payments or pay closing costs.

Ready to explore? Check out the city’s interactive business and attraction map, or dig through the resident’s guide online.