# upstate

/ˈəpˈsteɪt/ (US) · /ʌpstˈeɪt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/upstate
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

towards or in the northern part of a state. People usually use this to talk about the parts of New York that are far from the city.

For teachers: towards or in the northern or more rural part of a state, particularly in reference to New York. Often used to distinguish a region from a major coastal or southern metropolitan area.

## Examples

- We are driving upstate for the weekend.
- Many families move upstate to find more affordable housing and larger gardens away from the city center.
- While the city remains the economic engine of the region, many residents prefer to commute from upstate, trading a longer travel time for a quieter, more scenic lifestyle.

## Usage notes

- Typically follows the verb of motion or the main verb; can also function as an adjective preceding a noun.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.