What Are People From New York Called?

North America, United States

The demonym for people from New York is:

New Yorker

Pronunciation:

/njuː ˈjɔːrkər/

New York in United States
Image via Wikimedia CommonsCC BY-SA 3.0

About New York

Albany is the capital of New York and sits on the Hudson River in the eastern part of the state. New York was admitted to the Union on July 26, 1788, as the 11th state. The city has served as the seat of state government since 1797, and its historic architecture reflects the state's long political tradition. Albany lies within reach of New York City, a global finance and media hub, and the capital region benefits from that proximity. The state's landscape is equally varied, with the Adirondack Mountains and the Finger Lakes drawing hikers, boaters, and wine lovers from across the country. The Empire State Plaza, the New York State Capitol, and the riverfront give visitors a window into the government and history that have shaped New York for more than two centuries.

Quick Facts about New York
Population:
19,500,000 (2024 est.)
Country:
United States
Region:
North America

Recommended Geography Resources

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Etymology of the New York Demonym

The name New York was given in 1664 when the English seized the Dutch colony of New Netherland. It was named in honor of James, Duke of York (later King James II of England), who was granted the territory by his brother, King Charles II.

The city and state were previously known as New Amsterdam and New Netherland under Dutch rule. The name "York" itself comes from the historic city of York in northern England, which has Roman and Viking roots.

New York became the 11th state on July 26, 1788. The demonym New Yorker is formed by adding the English agentive suffix -er to the state name.

Notable People Associated with New York

This place has been connected to many influential figures throughout history.

Politics & Leadership

Franklin D. Roosevelt

Hyde Park, NY

32nd U.S. President who led the nation through the Great Depression and WWII.

New Deal and longest-serving president
Eleanor Roosevelt

New York City, NY

First Lady, diplomat, and activist who redefined the role of the First Lady.

Human rights advocacy

Business & Innovation

John D. Rockefeller

Richford, NY

Industrialist and philanthropist, founder of the Standard Oil Company.

Wealthiest American of all time
Mark Zuckerberg

White Plains, NY

Co-founder of Facebook (Meta) and a pioneer of social media.

Social media revolution

Music & Entertainment

Al Pacino

New York City, NY

Academy Award-winning actor known for 'The Godfather' and 'Scent of a Woman'.

Intense and iconic acting style
Alicia Keys

New York City, NY

Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and pianist known for 'Empire State of Mind'.

R&B and soul music

Sports Legends

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

New York City, NY

NBA legend and all-time leading scorer for 39 years.

Skyhook and six NBA championships
Lou Gehrig

New York City, NY

MLB legend known as 'The Iron Horse' for his durability and skill.

2130 consecutive games played

Top Things to Do in New York

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