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Wappingers Falls

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Wappingers Falls is a village located in Dutchess County, New York, nestled within the towns of Poughkeepsie and Wappinger. Known for its scenic beauty and historic charm, the village is named after the picturesque cascade in Wappinger Creek. As of the 2020 census, the population was 6,103. The Wappingers Falls post office serves a larger area, including parts of neighboring towns, which sometimes causes confusion regarding addresses. Historically, Wappingers Falls was a significant industrial center, particularly known for its textile mills. Today, while maintaining its historical character, the village offers a mix of local shops, cafes, and community landmarks. Its location provides convenient access to Route 9 and the Taconic State Parkway, making it an appealing option for commuters. The village has been actively working on revitalization projects, including infrastructure upgrades and business development, to enhance its appeal and economic vitality. Wappingers Falls is distinctive for its blend of natural beauty and historical architecture. The Wappingers Falls Historic District, added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984, encompasses downtown, residential areas, and Mesier Park. The village's commitment to preserving its heritage while fostering a vibrant community makes it a unique place to live and visit.

Wappingers Falls, New York

Overview
Classification
Village
FIPS Code
36-78168
Country
United States
County
Dutchess County
Geography
Region
Hudson River Valley
Elevation
154 ft
Total Area
1.2 sq mi
Land Area
1.12 sq mi
Water Area
0.077 sq mi
Latitude
41.59917
Longitude
-73.91806
Climate
Moderate winters and warm summers
Notable Features
Wappinger Creek · Wappingers Falls
Neighboring Areas
Poughkeepsie · Fishkill · East Fishkill · LaGrange
Demographics
Population (2020)
6,103
Est. Population (2024)
5,761
Median Age
49.8
Median Income
$65,040
Poverty Rate
3.8%
Family Households
49.8%
Owner-Occupied
31.2%
Racial & Ethnic Composition
The racial makeup of the village is 59.1% White, 9.9% African American, and 2.7% Asian. 11.2% are from two or more races. 29.59% of the population is Hispanic or Latino.
Governance
Government Type
Not found
Governing Body
Village Board
School District
Wappingers Central School District
Municipal Services
Police · Fire · Water · Sewer · Parks & Recreation · Library
Economy
Unemployment Rate
4.2%
Economic Profile
Residential · Historic · Small-town
Employment Sectors
Professional Services · Healthcare · Retail
Major Employers
Market Street Industrial Park businesses
Education
Schools
7
Students
5,534
Student-Teacher Ratio
12:1
School Districts
Wappingers Central School District · Arlington Central School District · Beacon City School District
Colleges & Universities
Dutchess Community College (SUNY Dutchess)
Infrastructure
Transportation
US 9 · NY 9D · Taconic State Parkway · Metro-North Railroad (nearby)
Utilities
Municipal water · Sewer · Hydroelectric Plant
Major Facilities
Grinnell Library · Dutchess Community College (nearby)
Recreation
Outdoor Access
Yes
Major Recreation Areas
Mesier Park · Wappinger Creek · Carnwath Farms Historic Site & Park (nearby)
Parks & Trails
Mesier Park · Wappinger Greenway Trail
History
Founded
1741
Incorporated
1871
Named After
Wappinger Native Americans and the falls in Wappinger Creek
Historical Significance
Important industrial center in the 19th century; retains historic architecture and character
Key Events
Dutch settlers purchase land in 1741 and build mills · American Revolution-era incident at Mesier Homestead · Industrial growth in the 19th century · Incorporation as a village in 1871