The city of Canandaigua is the seat of Ontario County. The Town of Canandaigua, founded in 1791, surrounds the city to the east, west, and north. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 11,264 and the town 7,649. The city and town maintain separate governments.

To the south of the City lies the gorgeous Canandaigua Lake, the fourth largest of the renowned Finger Lakes. This dynamic destination is a year round tourist attraction, noted for its wineries, fruits and vegetables. In the spring and summer, one can enjoy the sailing and fishing on the lakes or take the whole family for refreshing water play at Roseland Water Park.  The Victorian Sonnenberg Mansion & Gardens is also open to the public during the warmer months of the year. In the colder months, there is ice fishing, or skiing at places such as Bristol Mountain Resort. A wide variety of quaint Bed & Breakfasts are sprinkled along the wine trails for those who enjoy the region's beauty year round.

The Canandaigua public schools are committed to excellence by enhancing the connection between parents, schools and the community.  The Finger Lakes Community College (SUNY) is the only higher learning institute located directly in Canandaigua; however, there are nearly forty colleges and universities within an hour's drive of Ontario County.  Syracuse University and Cornell University in Ithaca are just a sampling of the fine institutions available.

The Ontario County Office of Economic Development/Industrial Development Agency reports that more than a hundred manufacturing firms are currently contributing to the vibrant economy in the county.  The local market consists of a manufacturing sector, a retail sector and a service sector as well as the tourist sector. Some of the county's top companies, such as Thompson Health/Hospital Health Care Service and the Ontario County Government, are located in Canadaigua.

Canandaigua residents are proud of their beautiful New York community and boast an extraordinary quality of life. This charming small town community, blessed with stunning natural beauty offers a myriad of opportunities for families and businesses alike.