Discover the charm of Albany, the capital city of New York State, where tradition meets innovation and endless opportunities await. If you’re considering making Albany your home, rest assured that living in this vibrant city offers a plethora of benefits, from attending hockey games to savoring apple cider donuts to basking in the scenic beauty. With its captivating architecture, small-town appeal, and abundant outdoor activities, Albany is a place worth exploring and embracing. However, before you make the leap, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. Whether you’re a student in search of apartments in Albany or a family looking for homes for sale, Redfin is here to assist you. Keep reading for a detailed list of the advantages and disadvantages of living in Albany to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.
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Quick Facts about Albany
| Median home sale price | $268,000 |
| Average monthly rent | $1,461 |
| Walk Score | 65/100 |
| Transit Score | 52/100 |
| Bike Score | 55/100 |
1. Pro: Affordable cost of living
Albany is renowned for its affordable cost of living, making it an attractive choice for those seeking to save money. Housing prices in Albany are notably lower than in other major Northeastern cities. With a median sale price of $268,000 and an average rent of $1,461, owning or renting a home at a reasonable cost is within reach. Additionally, the overall cost of living in the city is relatively low, with affordable groceries, healthcare, and transportation compared to other nearby urban areas.
2. Con: Snowy winters
Albany experiences an average annual snowfall of 59 inches, leading to winter snowstorms that can disrupt travel and even prompt school and business closures. Winter temperatures hover around 34 degrees Fahrenheit, with January being the coldest month, seeing lows of 14 degrees Fahrenheit. While the city takes measures to manage winter weather, such as plowing streets and salting roads, residents must take precautions to stay safe and warm. Explore this article on preparing your home for winter.
3. Pro: Access to outdoor recreational activities
Albany is blessed with the scenic Hudson River, offering breathtaking views and a range of water-based activities like kayaking, fishing, and boating. The city boasts numerous parks and green spaces, including Washington Park and the Albany Pine Bush Preserve, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore the nearby Adirondack Mountains for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and camping, creating year-round adventure opportunities.
4. Con: High property taxes
Property owners in Albany County pay an average of 1.74% of their property’s assessed fair market value in property taxes. Albany’s property taxes are relatively high compared to national averages, potentially burdening homeowners with significant tax expenses that impact their overall finances. These taxes fund essential services like public schools and infrastructure maintenance, contributing to the city’s operational costs.
5. Pro: Hockey culture
Albany embraces a strong hockey culture, with the Albany Devils, a professional ice hockey team, garnering local support. The Times Union Center hosts various hockey events and tournaments, including NCAA Division I and AHL All-Star Games, catering to hockey enthusiasts of all ages. Beyond professional teams, the city offers opportunities for youth and adult leagues to engage in the sport, fostering a vibrant hockey community.
6. Con: Limited transportation options
Albany’s transportation infrastructure is relatively limited compared to larger cities, with public bus services like CDTA serving the city and surrounding areas. While the bus system offers transportation, its routes may be less extensive and frequent than desired. The city also has a train station connecting to major Northeastern cities, albeit with potentially high costs. Residents living outside the city may rely on private vehicles for commuting and transportation needs.
7. Pro: Proximity to major cities
Albany’s strategic location provides easy access to major cities like Boston, New York City, and Montreal, all within a few hours’ drive or train ride. Residents can enjoy the cultural and entertainment offerings of bustling metropolises while relishing the relaxed pace of life in Albany. The city’s proximity to popular destinations like the Adirondack Mountains, Lake George, and the Catskills ensures year-round access to diverse outdoor activities. With a central location and excellent connectivity via highways and airports, Albany serves as a convenient hub for travel, business, and leisure.
8. Con: High summer humidity
Albany experiences high humidity levels during the summer months, intensifying the warmth and creating discomfort. July and August see peak humidity levels, with temperatures averaging around 82 degrees Fahrenheit. High humidity can pose challenges in staying cool and maintaining comfort without adequate air conditioning, leading to issues like mold growth. Understanding how to manage home humidity is crucial for safeguarding your home and well-being.
9. Pro: Scenic seasonal changes
Albany’s captivating blend of historic and contemporary architecture, highlighted by landmarks like the Empire State Plaza, offers a picturesque backdrop. The city’s location along the Hudson River affords stunning waterfront views and mountain vistas. Autumn transforms Albany into a colorful masterpiece, with trees displaying vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. Whether wandering through parks, exploring historic neighborhoods, or admiring architectural marvels like the Capitol building, Albany’s allure is truly irresistible.
10. Con: Abundant college presence
Albany hosts several colleges, including the University at Albany, Albany Medical College, and Albany Law School, attracting a significant student population. While the college presence enriches the city’s cultural fabric, it can lead to increased traffic congestion and noise due to the influx of students and young professionals. Consider the vibrant college atmosphere as both a positive aspect of Albany’s identity and a potential challenge for residents.
Methodology: The data on median home sale price and average monthly rent is sourced from the Redfin Data Center. Walk Score, Transit Score, and Bike Score information is provided by Walk Score.