Overview
Chemung County lies in the Southern Tier of New York State. The county seat is Elmira. According to the 2010 U.S. census, the county had a population of 88,830. The county is a mix of small cities, towns and rural areas that serve as a local hub for commerce, education and regional services.
Geography and transportation
The county takes its name from the Chemung River, which flows through the valley and is a tributary of the Susquehanna River. Chemung County borders Pennsylvania to the south and features a combination of river valleys and rolling hills. Major roadways and a regional airport provide connections to nearby urban centers and support commuting and freight.
History
Established in the early 19th century, Chemung County was formed from portions of neighboring counties during a period of settlement and development in upstate New York. The county’s name derives from a Native American word often interpreted to mean "big horn"; this reflects the region’s Indigenous heritage and early place names. Over time the area developed industries such as manufacturing, rail transport and agriculture.
Communities
- City of Elmira (county seat)
- Town and village of Horseheads
- Big Flats
- Southport and several smaller towns and villages
Culture, institutions and economy
The county hosts colleges, health-care centers, museums and historic sites. Institutions such as Elmira College and local cultural organizations support education and preservation. The local economy combines manufacturing, health care, education, retail and agriculture, with many residents commuting within the Southern Tier.
Notable facts
Chemung County is known for its historical connections — including Civil War sites and literary ties to Mark Twain — and for outdoor recreation along the river and in surrounding hills. Its mix of small urban centers and rural landscapes reflects the broader patterns of development in this part of New York.