New York
The Empire State
Quick Stats
Map
Seal & Motto
"Excelsior"
Latin for "Ever upward," New York's motto was officially adopted in 1778 — still during the Revolutionary War — embodying the state's relentless spirit of ambition and progress. It was proposed by the Secretary of State as part of the original coat of arms, and perfectly captures the drive that would transform New York into the financial, cultural, and creative capital of the world over the following two centuries.
Flag Meaning
New York's flag features a deep blue field displaying the state coat of arms. Two allegorical figures — Liberty and Justice — flank a central shield showing the sun rising over the Hudson Highlands, with ships on the river. An American eagle sits atop a globe, and the motto "Excelsior" is emblazoned on a ribbon below.
- Blue Field — The state color, representing loyalty, vigilance, and the deep waters of the Hudson River and Long Island Sound.
- Liberty & Justice — Liberty holds a pole topped with the Phrygian cap of freedom; Justice stands blindfolded with sword and scales, representing the rule of law.
- Rising Sun Shield — The central shield depicts a sun rising over the Hudson Highlands with two ships, symbolizing commerce, prosperity, and New York's role as the gateway to America.
- Eagle on Globe — An American bald eagle perched on a globe facing the viewer, representing New York's national prominence and its global outlook.
State Symbols
Overview
New York, the "Empire State," is the cultural, financial, and creative capital of the world. While New York City dominates the global imagination with its skyline, Wall Street, and Broadway, the state also encompasses the soaring Adirondacks, thundering Niagara Falls, world-class wine country, and a rich diversity that defines modern America.
Geographically, it shares borders with Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, as well as internationally with Canada, forming a closely connected regional network.
Historical Significance
New York officially joined the Union on July 26, 1788, as the 11th state. Its history is the history of America — from Dutch New Amsterdam to the first national capital, from the Erie Canal that opened the Midwest to the tidal waves of immigration through Ellis Island that built the modern nation and gave New York its unrivaled energy.
Famous Natives
Top Cities & Hubs
New York City
Population: ~8.3MThe most influential city on Earth — the global center of finance, media, fashion, and culture. Home to 8 million people and 800 languages, it is the most visited city in the Western Hemisphere.
Buffalo
Population: ~278,000A resurgent Great Lakes city on the eastern shore of Lake Erie, gateway to Niagara Falls, known for its passionate sports culture, vibrant arts scene, and legendary chicken wings.
Rochester
Population: ~211,000The "Flower City," an historic center of precision optics and imaging technology — birthplace of Kodak and Xerox — now a growing hub for photonics and university research.
Yonkers
Population: ~211,000The "Gateway to the Hudson Valley," a major residential and commercial city directly north of NYC, offering Manhattan accessibility with a distinct character and diverse communities.
Syracuse
Population: ~148,000The "Salt City," a key educational and distribution hub in Central New York, home to Syracuse University and an emerging leader in drone technology and advanced manufacturing.
How New York Ranks
Compared to all 50 states — bar shows relative standing (#1 = full bar)
Neighbors
Key Landmarks & Economy
Did You Know?
- New York City was the first capital of the United States from 1789 to 1790, where George Washington was inaugurated as the first president at Federal Hall.
- Adirondack Park in upstate New York is the largest publicly protected area in the contiguous United States, larger than Yellowstone, Everglades, Glacier, and Grand Canyon combined.
- The first pizzeria in the United States was Lombardi's, opened on Spring Street in Manhattan in 1905, and has been serving pizza continuously ever since.
Additional Information
10001 (NYC) → 14975 (Wellsville)
~2,300+ ZIP codes statewide
212 / 347 / 516 / 518 / 585 / 607 / 631 / 646 / 716 / 718 / 845 / 914 / 917 / 929
Demographics
Population Growth
You Might Also Like
New York Trivia Quiz
Test your knowledge of the Empire State — 5 questions await.
What is New York's official state nickname?
In what year was New York admitted to the Union?
Which U.S. President was born in Hyde Park, New York?
What is the capital city of New York State?
In what year was George Washington inaugurated as the first U.S. President in New York City?