Community Overview

Community Overview

The County lies approximately 70 miles southwest of Buffalo, 50 miles northeast of Erie, PA and is served by the major airports in those cities as well as the Chautauqua County Airport. Interstate routes I-86 and I-90 connect with major eastern, Canadian and western cities and markets.

Our climate is varied, parts being tempered by Lake Erie and parts at higher altitudes providing cool summers and snow cover for three major ski resort areas. Our average summer temperature is 77 degrees and our winters average 32 degrees. 

It is home to the world famed Chautauqua Institution and four other major resort and vacation regions, providing a wide variety of spring, summer, fall and winter activities. One can find boating, fishing, hiking, downhill skiing, X-country skiing, cycling, snowmobiling, Amish handicrafts, hunting, antiquing, concerts, and art shows to name a few!

Some say Chautauqua (shah tau' qua) is a Seneca Indian name meaning "Bag Tied in the Middle". A look at the map shows the name fits the lake. It is 17.3 miles long and boasts some of the best fishing opportunities in the country whether you're a novice or an avid angler. Bass, muskie, walleye, perch, and crappie are just some you will pull in. 

Here you will also find some of the most affordable housing in the country, as well as excellent schools and universities, museums, churches and a wholesome life style supported through agriculture, manufacturing, education and a cultural heritage.