​Today, York's heritage buildings and streetscapes are acknowledged by the National Trust and the Australian Heritage Commission and the town is recognized as a Historic Town listed on the register of the National Estate. Many of York's older homes and buildings, some dating from the 1850s and 1860s, are being restored by enthusiastic private owners. While the town has enjoyed a considerable modern expansion in recent years heritage areas can still be seen as they were one hundred or more years ago. These areas have been identified as of principal heritage and historical significance. Planning guidelines are in place to check that development is appropriate within the recommendations of these areas.
The older buildings and homes, many of which have been carefully restored by enthusiastic owners, have enhanced the historic heritage of the town and community. The York Society acts as a 'Heritage Watchdog' to put the case for Heritage protection in York.