Wide price range of properties in upstate NY

[Levi Helms]

Hello, I am looking at lots/land within 2 hours of nyc, with the intention to build. While sifting through properties, I see huge differences in price, with some land in the low tens of thousands, and some over $1.5 million. I understand that some locations are much better than others, but I can't seem to find any pattern. Can someone please help explain why?

Thanks in advance, and I know it's a broad question so I am happy to answer questions.

[Brian Pulaski]

I am just about 1 hour from NYC, the lord out here can vary from a couple thousand to a couple hundred thousand. Certain towns/cities are desirable and houses are $500-1m+, others houses sell for $40-50k. NY is very diverse between NYC and upstate. If the intent is to provide either rentals or flips to those commuting to NYC I'm not sure I would like 2 hours away. I know people who commute to NYC, but all lived around 1 hour away, and almost all lived very close to the train.