Albany Real Estate

The History

Albany is one of the oldest surviving European settlements from the original thirteen colonies and the continuous capital of New York State. First settled by Dutch fur traders in 1614 who constructed Fort Nassau and later Fort Orange, the area was taken over by the English in 1664 and renamed Albany in honor of the Duke of Albany. Chartered as a city in 1686 under the Dongan Charter, Albany grew into a major trade, transportation, and industrial hub during the 19th and early 20th centuries, boosted by the opening of the Erie Canal and the expansion of early railroad networks. Today, historic landmarks like the 19th-century New York State Capitol, the historic Center Square neighborhood, and the iconic Empire State Plaza reflect Albany's rich political, economic, and architectural heritage.

Things to Do

Albany offers a vibrant mix of arts, culture, history, and outdoor recreation. Visitors and residents can tour the magnificent New York State Capitol, explore regional history and art at the New York State Museum, or stroll through Empire State Plaza. Nearby, Washington Park provides a 90-acre urban oasis featuring historic walking paths, lake views, and the annual Tulip Festival each spring. The historic Lark Street neighborhood, often dubbed Albany’s "Greenwich Village," offers an eclectic strip of art galleries, boutiques, and nightlife. For live entertainment, venues such as the historic Palace Theatre, the Capital Repertory Theatre, and The Egg host concerts, theatrical productions, and comedy acts year-round.

Local Restaurants

Albany features a thriving and diverse culinary scene ranging from upscale dining to relaxed neighborhood gastropubs. Fine dining standouts include 677 Prime, a premier downtown steakhouse, and Yono's, renowned for its Indonesian and French-inspired tasting menus. Fine Italian dining can be found at local staples like Cafe Capriccio and Caffe Italia. For daytime fare and brunch, Iron Gate Cafe serves creative dishes on a charming garden patio, while Cafe Madison is legendary for its hearty breakfast options. Neighborhood favorites like Dove & Deer in Center Square and craft breweries in the Warehouse District highlight the city's dynamic casual food and drink culture.

What It's Like Living There

Living in Albany provides a ideal balance of urban convenience, government and educational opportunities, and access to natural beauty. As the heart of New York's Capital Region and a hub for tech, healthcare, and higher education (including the University at Albany and Albany Medical College), the city attracts young professionals, families, students, and state workers. Neighborhoods vary from historic 19th-century brownstones in Center Square to quiet, leafy suburban streets in Buckingham Pond and Pine Hills. Residents enjoy a lower cost of living compared to New York City, distinct four-season weather, and proximity to major outdoor destinations like the Adirondacks, Catskills, and the Berkshires, as well as easy travel to NYC and Boston.

35 Brookland Avenue

$274,000

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Albany Listings Summary

Albany - Town vs. County Stats

Avg Price in Albany: $1,146,900 / County Avg $634,800

181%

Avg Taxes in Albany: $6,100 / County Avg $6,500

94%

Avg Sq. Ft. in Albany: 7,047 / County Avg 3,161

223%

Avg Price per/sqft in Albany:$163 / County Avg $201

81%

Avg Year Built in Albany: 1918 / County Avg 1938

99%

Avg Days on Website in Albany: 65 / County Avg 87

75%