General Information

Located in the center of New York State, Onondaga County is home to the city of Syracuse. We are within 350 miles of all major cities in the Northeast, conveniently situated at the intersection of Interstate Highways 81 and 90 (NYS Thruway). Local Amtrak and Greyhound terminals are located in our new Regional Transportation Center. Arriving by air brings you in to the newly remodeled Hancock International Airport, while the New York State Barge Canal System provides local connection by boat to the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River.

The County of Onondaga is located in the central New York region, has a land area of 793.5 square miles and is approximately 35 miles in length and 30 miles in width. The County is governed under a home rule charter, which provides for the separation of the executive and legislative functions. This charter was approved by voter referendum in 1961. The 2010 U.S. Census showed a population of 467,026 for Onondaga County, which included a population of 145,170 for the City of Syracuse. The City of Syracuse is situated in the approximate center of the County and serves as the focus for commercial and business activities.

Pursuant to New York State Law, the County is responsible for the local funding of mandated social service programs, such as Medicaid. The County also administers health care services, such as immunization clinics and health screenings. The County, in conjunction with its underlying units, is responsible for providing police, fire, sanitation and water services, as well as the maintenance of streets, parks and recreational facilities.