New data from the New York State Comptroller’s Office shows that most counties across the Finger Lakes and Central New York saw increases in local sales tax revenue during the first half of 2025.
The eight-county region of Cayuga, Ontario, Wayne, Seneca, Schuyler, Steuben, Yates, and Tompkins brought in a combined $347 million, up from $336 million in the first half of 2024. That represents a 3.3% regional gain, closely aligned with the statewide increase of 3.7%.
“Sales tax collections are a key indicator of economic activity. These numbers suggest consumer confidence is holding strong in the Finger Lakes,” said Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli.
County-by-county breakdown
| County | 2024 Revenue (Jan–Jun) | 2025 Revenue (Jan–Jun) | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cayuga | $20.3 million | $21.4 million | +5.2% |
| Ontario | $24.1 million | $25.6 million | +6.3% |
| Wayne | $21.2 million | $22.6 million | +6.6% |
| Seneca | $10.4 million | $11.1 million | +6.4% |
| Schuyler | $5.2 million | $5.0 million | -3.7% |
| Steuben | $37.4 million | $37.5 million | +0.4% |
| Yates | $7.4 million | $7.6 million | +2.6% |
| Tompkins | $52.5 million | $54.2 million | +3.2% |
Six of the eight counties posted gains, with Wayne, Ontario, and Seneca counties leading the way, each recording growth above 6%. Schuyler County was the only one in the region to experience a decline, down 3.7% year-over-year.
Why the increase?
The report credits the growth to:
- Lower inflation (2.6% average)
- Steady consumer spending
- Rising wages and employment
Many counties also benefit from strong tourism, hospitality, and retail activity, especially during the spring and early summer.
What’s next?
Sales tax is a major source of local funding across the Finger Lakes, supporting everything from infrastructure to public safety. Steady growth may give counties more flexibility in their budgets heading into the second half of 2025.
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