Exploring New York's Longest Border: Ontario vs Pennsylvania

When discussing New York's borders, the concept of the longest border can be a source of debate. On one side, some state within the United States encompasses a longer land border with New York. On the other, one international province stands out due to its extensive water border. This article will delve into the specifics of who has the longest border with New York—Ontario, the Canadian province, or Pennsylvania, the state within the United States.

The Border with Ontario, Canada

New York's longest border is, in fact, with the Canadian province of Ontario. This border stretches approximately 445 miles (716 kilometers) along the northern edge of New York State. This fact is supported by various sources and can be confirmed by detailed geographical mapping records. However, some individuals argue that if you take into account the water borders, the total length could be even longer. For instance, some internet resources suggest that the combined length of the border with Quebec and Ontario is approximately 445 miles. While the exact measurement of the border with Ontario alone is not widely documented, a rough estimate based on Google Maps measurements indicates that the border with Quebec is about 65 miles. Given this, the Ontario border would be approximately 380 miles.

Friendly Rivalry and Dual Borders

Those who live in areas like Waverly, NY, South Waverly, Sayre, and Athens, PA, are fortunate to have access to the benefits of both states. These areas are situated along the border between New York and Pennsylvania, experiencing the best of both worlds in terms of services and amenities. The presence of such areas has led to a friendly rivalry between the neighboring states, with each state striving to outdo the other in terms of offering better services and facilities. This unique position has made living in these areas highly desirable, offering residents the best of both states.

The Case for Pennsylvania

Despite the extensive border with Ontario, many sources argue that Pennsylvania is the state with which New York has its longest land border. According to Wikipedia, the length of the border between New York and Pennsylvania is approximately 236 miles. However, when considering the water borders, the argument for Ontario's longer border comes into play. Some suggest that including the water border, the total length might be longer than 236 miles. The key point of contention is whether the water borders should be included in the total measurement.

Conclusion

When considering New York's longest border, the answer depends on how you define 'longest.' If you are strictly talking about the land border, Pennsylvania emerges as the winner. However, if you include the water borders, the border with Ontario takes the lead. This debate highlights the geographical complexity of state and international borders, showcasing the importance of clear definitions and accurate measurements in defining such boundaries.