Introduction

In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the different neighborhoods and suburbs in Albany and the types of apartments available. We will provide an overview of rental rates, popular amenities and tips for finding your ideal Albany rental. Whether you're a student, young professional or family, you'll discover why apartment living in Albany is an excellent choice.

Downtown Albany Apartments

Downtown Albany is the central business, entertainment and cultural district of New York's capital city. Living downtown puts you steps from major employers like the state government offices, Albany Medical Center and Albany Law School. It also gives walking access to attractions like the Empire State Plaza, Times Union Center arena, the Egg performing arts center and the Albany Institute of History & Art.

The downtown Albany apartment scene is dominated by luxury high-rise buildings offering extensive amenities. Many occupy historic renovated buildings with unique architectural details. Expect features like fitness centers, rooftop lounges, golf simulators and heated outdoor pools. Apartments feature high-end finishes like granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and hardwood floors. Most have floor-to-ceiling windows with great views of the Hudson River and downtown.

Rental rates currently average around $1600-$2800 per month for one bedrooms and $2200-$4000 for two bedrooms.

Some of the most popular luxury buildings downtown include:

• The Monroe - Ultra-modern high-rise with studio to 3 bedroom units. Great views and amenities like pet spa.
• 17 Chapel Street - Luxury rentals in a historic 19th century building. Large apartments with high-end details.
• The Reserve at Washington Park - Steps from the park with a rooftop terrace and pool. Spacious floor plans.
• The Alexander at Patroon Creek - Riverfront building with fire pits, dog run and 24/7 concierge service.

While pricey, these upscale downtown Albany apartments offer a walkable urban lifestyle close to entertainment and amenities. Proximity to work makes the higher rents worthwhile for many professionals.

Apartments in Pine Hills Neighborhood

Just northwest of downtown Albany sits the Pine Hills neighborhood. It is home to the main campus of the University at Albany. Pine Hills offers a vibrant mix of residential streets lined with brick row houses and small apartment buildings. It has an urban feel while still being quiet and family-friendly.

A big draw is the neighborhood's walkability and proximity to campus. There are coffee shops, restaurants, bars and small grocery stores scattered throughout. It allows residents to live a car-free or car-lite lifestyle.

Apartments in Pine Hills run the full gamut from student housing to luxury condos. Rents average from $800 for a studio to $1500 for a 2 bedroom apartment.

Options include:

• Pre-war walk-up and row house apartments - Offer great architectural details, large layouts and yards/porches. Ideal for roommates.
• Small courtyard-style apartments - Affordable 2-20 unit buildings with parking. Great for grad students.
• Large student apartment complexes - Fully furnished options with individual leases and amenities.
• Condo rentals - High-end condos and townhomes for rent. In-unit laundry and secured access.

Pine Hills' vibrant mix of people and housing options make it one of Albany's most interesting and livable neighborhoods. Proximity to campus and downtown gives it an urban beat.

Delaware Area Neighborhood

On the western edge of Albany sits the Delaware Area neighborhood. It is a more suburban district but still only 10 minutes from downtown. Delaware Avenue is a historic street lined with shops, restaurants and offices. It forms the heart of the neighborhood's business district.

The area has a mix of single-family homes, row houses and low-rise apartment buildings. Rents are very affordable compared to downtown. One bedroom units can be found for $600-$900 per month on average. Two bedrooms rent for $800-$1500.

Some features renters enjoy include:

• Wood frame Victorian, brick and clapboard row homes - Offer front porches, yards and driveways. Also multi-family options.
• Low-rise garden apartment complexes - More modern with pool, gym and clubhouse access.
• Proximity to grocery stores, cafes, banks and shops along Delaware Ave.
• Quick access to I-90 and Route 85 for commuting.

The Delaware Area combines walkability, historic architecture and low costs. It appeals to University students and staff as well as young families. Its local vibe provides a nice alternative to downtown living.

Apartments in Center Square Neighborhood

Adjacent to downtown Albany sits the prestigious Center Square neighborhood. This National Historic District is home to beautiful brownstones, row houses and churches built in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It mixes residential streets with buzzing cafes, local shops and small businesses.

Center Square is Albany's most in-demand and expensive neighborhood. Rental rates currently average $1100-$1700 for one bedroom units. Two bedrooms rent for $1600-$2500 per month. Low availability keeps prices high, but the historic ambiance is unmatched.

Popular housing options include:

• Brownstone row houses -Typically three stories with large layouts, backyards, porches and driveways. Most don't have private laundry.
• Apartments in renovated townhouses - Offer modern kitchens and bathrooms along with historic details. Smaller in square footage.
• Low-rise apartment buildings - Found along the edges of the neighborhood. More affordable but with less character.
• Condos for rent - Luxury furnished condos with high-end details and amenities.

The beauty, charm and convenience of Center Square make it a top choice. Renters flock to live in this preserved historic neighborhood within walking distance of downtown attractions.

Apartments in Westland District

On Albany's western edge, the Westland District boasts spacious apartments at affordable rates. Its proximity to downtown is close but the environment is much more relaxed. The neighborhood features mostly residential streets and small parks. Retail and dining options are limited but improving.

Rents in Westland are roughly $700-$1100 per month for one bedrooms and $900-$1500 for two bedrooms. The more budget-friendly rates allow residents more living space.

Typical options include:

• Apartments in 3-story walk-ups - Offer layouts up to 2 bedrooms along with back porches and yards. Also very pet-friendly.
• Brick row houses and duplexes - Provide driveways and side yards in addition to porches. Hardwood floors and brick walls add charm.
• Mid-rise elevator buildings - For greater accessibility with amenities like parking, gyms and laundry.

Westland brings affordability without sacrificing convenience. Residents appreciate the quick commute to downtown and a parking spot for every apartment. More retail and grocery options continue to grow as well.

Apartments in Columbia-Greene Neighborhood

Situated just south of Albany's University Heights district sits the Columbia-Greene neighborhood. It combines stately homes and residential streets with bustling student life. The area directly borders the Albany College of Pharmacy campus. It is also within walking distance of Sage College of Albany.

The influx of students makes one bedroom apartments the most common offering. Rents range from $750 to $1250 per month. Two bedrooms rent for $900-$1500 on average.

Housing options include:

• Apartments created from old Victorian homes - Offer built-ins, fireplaces, large rooms and porches. Also multi-family rentals.
• Small courtyard-style brick apartments - Affordable and well located student housing close to campus.
• Single family homes for rent - Fewer in supply but offer yards and driveways.

The accessibility of classes, downtown and Lark Street make the Columbia-Greene neighborhood very student-centric. It also appeals to young couples and families drawn by the appealing historic architecture.

Apartments in Melrose Neighborhood

Bordering Pine Hills and downtown Albany, Melrose is a more suburban feeling residential area. It provides quiet tree-lined streets within a quick drive to major employers and attractions. Proximity to Albany Med also attracts medical residents and nurses.

Melrose apartments range from $700 for smaller 1 bedroom units to $1500 for larger 2 bedrooms.

Typical options include:

• Apartments in 3-story Victorian homes - Offer classic detailing, backyards and porches at affordable rates.
• Duplexes and row houses- Also provide yards/driveways and porches in a walkable neighborhood.
• Low-rise garden-style complexes - Clustered apartment buildings near amenities with parking.

Melrose gives renters a peaceful neighborhood environment just outside the city. The mix of apartment types in historic homes and small complexes appeals to medical personnel, families and professionals.

Apartments in Park South Neighborhood

Adjacent to Albany Medical Center sits the Park South neighborhood. It combines leafy residential streets and small shops with medical offices and patient services. The neighborhood directly borders Albany Med, the region's largest employer.

Most Park South apartments cater to medical residents and nurses with convenient proximity. Rents average $900-$1500 for one bedrooms and $1100-$1700 for two bedrooms.

Options include:

• Apartments in older Victorian homes - Offering built-ins, fireplaces and other historic details at mid-range price points.
• Small courtyard-style apartment buildings - Affordable but basic apartments for residents on a budget.
• New luxury apartments - Some brand new buildings with luxury finishes, gym and secured access. More expensive.

Proximity to work at Albany Med draws many hospital employees to Park South. The range of housing types suit different needs and budgets.

Finding an Apartment in Albany

Albany offers prospective renters diverse neighborhoods and apartment types to consider. But how do you start your apartment search?

Here are some tips:

• Narrow your neighborhood search - Decide whether you want to live downtown, in a historic area like Center Square or a more residential neighborhood. Consider commutes and amenities.
• Determine your budget - Set a rental range based on average rents for neighborhoods you like. Include parking fees, pet rent and other costs.
• Start your search early - The peak Albany rental season is late spring and summer. The best units get scooped up quickly.
• Do some legwork - Walk or drive around your desired neighborhoods to spot FOR RENT signs. Many landlords don't advertise online.
• Prepare documents - Have your ID, income docs, credit/background check and references ready to apply for units you like.
• Act fast on listings - Have all your documents ready to apply as soon as you find an apartment you love. The rental market moves swiftly in Albany.
• Use a broker if needed - Some landlords work exclusively with brokers and won't list units publicly. Brokers can advise and simplify the search process.

With an understanding of the neighborhoods and average rents, you can find your perfect Albany apartment. The rental market moves fast, so prepare your documents, search early and be ready to apply. Enjoy living in one of New York's most historic and thriving capital cities.