New poll shows New Yorkers cite cost of living as their biggest financial threat

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WBNG) -- Cornell University’s Industrial and Labor Relations (ILR) school found that roughly 80% of New York residents said their biggest financial threat is the cost of living within the state.

The numbers come from Cornell’s annual Empire State Poll, which asks state residents about the struggles they are facing each year.

The cost of housing was one of the largest factors this year, as rents across the state have skyrocketed.

Director of Research at Cornell ILR’s Buffalo Office, Russell Weaver, told 12 News that respondents said the cost of living is holding back residents from achieving the quality of life they desire.

“79.6% so basically 80% of New Yorkers overall said the cost of living or housing is what’s holding their household back from achieving the quality