Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Albany, NY
Considering a move to Albany, NY? Home to 98,498 residents, Albany offers affordable living with a median home price of $237,000 and average rents around $1,250. Commutes are short, averaging just 21 minutes, and the city boasts strong healthcare options, higher education institutions, and a vibrant, diverse community. While crime rates are above national averages, Albany's walkability, public transport, and historic charm make it a unique choice for newcomers seeking culture and convenience in upstate New York.
Demographics - Albany, NY
Demographics - Albany, NY
Albany is home to nearly 99,000 residents, with a relatively young median age of 31.3 and a diverse population that is almost half White, over a quarter Black, and nearly 8% Asian. The city’s density creates a lively urban feel, and about 15% of residents speak a language other than English at home, contributing to the city’s multicultural atmosphere.
Population:
98,498
Density:
4,600 per sq mi
Median Age:
31.3
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
15.4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
49.6%
Black:
27.7%
Asian:
7.7%
Others:
15.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Albany, NY?
Albany offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $237,000 and average rents around $1,250 per month. The cost of living index is just below the national average, making it an attractive choice for those seeking value in housing, groceries, and transportation.
Median House Value:
$237,000
Gross Rent:
$1,250
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,650
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$605
State Taxes:
Low:
4.0%
|
High:
10.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.6
Grocery:
100.2
Housing:
84.3
Utilities:
106.5
Transportation:
100.9
Health Care:
102.7
Miscellaneous:
100.1
Crime
Is Albany, NY a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Albany are higher than the national average, with a 1 in 145 chance of being a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 34 chance for property crime. Residents should remain aware of their surroundings but will find active community initiatives aimed at improving safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
687
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,912
Crime Index:
3,599
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 145
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 34
Weather
What is the weather like in Albany, NY year-round?
Albany experiences all four seasons, with cold, snowy winters and warm, pleasant summers where highs reach into the low 80s. The city enjoys about 54% sunny days annually and receives approximately 39 inches of rainfall, providing a true northeastern climate.
Winter
Min:
16°F
Max:
34°F
Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Albany neighborhoods are characterized by a median household income of $54,668 and a diverse, educated community where nearly 39% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Commute times are short, averaging just over 20 minutes, and about 14% of residents use public transportation to get around.
Median Income:
$31,900
Household Income:
$54,668
Family Income:
$60,740
Per Capita Income:
$32,063
Income Male:
$37,600
Income Female:
$34,200
Poverty Rate:
21.8%
Non English Speakers:
15.4%
Rent:
$1,250
Unemployment Rate:
5.0%
Public Transport Usage:
13.7%
Commute Time:
20.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
88.6%
Bachelors or More:
38.4%
Education
How are the schools in Albany, NY?
Albany boasts a variety of educational opportunities, including public schools like Albany High School and top private institutions such as The Albany Academies. The city is also home to higher education centers like the University at Albany (SUNY), offering robust academic resources for families and students.
Public Schools
Name:
Albany High School
Street:
700 Washington Ave
Phone:
518-475-6200
Students:
2,400
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
William S Hackett Middle School
Street:
45 Delaware Ave
Phone:
518-475-6475
Students:
750
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.7
Private Schools
Name:
The Albany Academies
Street:
135 Academy Rd
Phone:
518-429-2300
Students:
700
Colleges
Name:
University at Albany (SUNY)
City:
Albany
State:
NY
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
17,000
Name:
Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
City:
Albany
State:
NY
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,400
Healthcare
Albany provides excellent healthcare access, featuring major hospitals like Albany Medical Center and St. Peter's Hospital, and a high physician-to-population ratio of 3.2 per 1,000 residents. Nearly 96% of the city's residents have health insurance coverage, ensuring broad access to medical services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Albany Medical Center
Address:
43 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208
Phone:
(518) 262-3125
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
St. Peter's Hospital
Address:
315 S Manning Blvd, Albany, NY 12208
Phone:
(518) 525-1550
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
95.6%
Health Care Index:
77.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Albany, NY?
The Albany housing market is affordable and dynamic, with a median home price of $237,000 and continued appreciation over the past year. Just under 40% of residents own their homes, while rental options remain plentiful with a 7.2% vacancy rate.
Median Home Price:
$237,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,250
Owner Occupied Rate:
38.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
8.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Albany residents are provided by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located on South Pearl Street. Residents can access in-person and online services for licensing, registration, and more.
State:
New York
Department:
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
224-260 South Pearl Street, Albany, NY 12202
Phone:
1-518-486-9786
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.