Best Neighborhoods to Live: The Capital District

Skyline of Albany, NY, one of the cities in the Capital District serviced by Rosetti Properties.

Are you considering a move to the Capital District? The Capital Region neighborhoods are known for their rich history and cultural hotspots. According to the Albany Times Union, there are 11 counties in the Capital District: Albany, Columbia, Fulton, Greene, Montgomery, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Warren, and Washington.

People first settled in the Capital District over 400 years ago, which is reflected in the varying architectural styles you can experience while exploring the different Capital Region neighborhoods. Many of the Capital Region neighborhoods feature great food, historical sites, fun museums, and activities that people of all ages can enjoy.

Whether you’re here for work or play, your dream community is just waiting to be discovered. Here are 8 of the best Capital Region towns to call home.

1. Guilderland, NY

Guilderland is just minutes away from the heart of the Capital District. It’s close to a wide selection of outdoor recreational areas like Thatcher Park, so whether you plan on hitting the trails or camping with your family, you’ll find something to love in Guilderland, NY.

Our apartments in Guilderland are located near Crossgates Mall, the largest indoor shopping center in the Capital District, as well as other retail destinations such as Stuyvesant Plaza. The town provides easy access to I-90 and I-87, allowing for easy commuting as well as travel to downtown Albany, Schenectady, and other Capital Region neighborhoods.

2. Albany, NY

As the capital of New York State, Albany is a hub of activity for every generation. Albany sits at the center of the Capital Region neighborhoods and boasts great schools, award-winning restaurants, and a multitude of cultural attractions for you to explore.

Downtown Albany features many highly walkable areas, such as Lark Street, which is located in the heart of the Center Square neighborhood. It’s home to restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and more. The street frequently shuts down for block parties and festivals in non-pandemic times, such as Lark Fest in September and Art on Lark in the summer.

College students and families alike love the convenience of our apartments in Albany and the proximity to local schools that our Albany properties afford. From catching a concert at the Egg to exploring local breweries, Albany truly has something for everyone to enjoy.

3. Latham, NY

If you’re looking for fun activities for the whole family, look no further than Latham, NY. Located near Troy, Schenectady, Albany, and other Capital Region neighborhoods, Latham has all the convenience of the city with a laid-back, suburban atmosphere.

Our apartments in Latham, The Woodlands are nestled between two exits of the Northway, making it easy to get around. The area hosts many national retail chains and restaurants, so you never have to go far for a day of shopping or a romantic date night.

Latham also features a variety of unique attractions, including Guptill’s Arena, the world’s largest indoor roller-skating rink! You can also visit the ALL 4 FUN amusement park with the family or experience the indoor driving range at Afrim’s Sports.

4. Saratoga Springs, NY

Saratoga Springs is known for the Saratoga Racetrack, one of the oldest and most prestigious racetracks in the country. During racing season, Saratoga Springs is an enviable tourist destination that’s bustling with food, fun, and nightlife.

Saratoga Springs is also home to the Beekman Street Arts District, a cultural hub featuring local artists’ studios, bars and restaurants, shops, and more. Saratoga and other Capital Region neighborhoods have seen a boom in the brewing and distilling industry in recent years, so if you like touring wineries or sipping samples of craft beer, this is the community for you.

5. Schenectady, NY

If you love the arts, then Schenectady is the place to be! You can take in a concert or Off-Broadway musical at Proctor’s Theatre or tour any of the nearby museums that are in the neighborhood, like the Museum of Innovation & Science.

Schenectady, like many Capital Region neighborhoods, has experienced increased development in recent years. The State Street area now boasts new restaurants, entertainment venues, and even co-working office spaces. Many of these new attractions are located right across the street from Proctor’s, making it easy to do dinner and a show.

However, there’s a healthy balance of history and modernity in this city. Just eight minutes away from State Street, the Stockade Historic District sits along the Mohawk River, delivering scenic views of pre-Revolutionary homes in what is considered one of the oldest neighborhoods in the entire country. Schenectady features historic architecture paired with modern convenience for a one-of-a-kind living experience you won’t find anywhere else.

6. North Greenbush, NY

Located just 10 minutes from downtown Albany, North Greenbush offers proximity to the city while providing a quaint neighborhood feel. It’s a great place to live for individuals, couples, or families who like being close to the action while having some space to breathe and relax.

North Greenbush is close to many great schools, including Hudson Valley Community College, home of the ValleyCats baseball team. It’s also near Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, a huge provider of jobs in the Capital Region neighborhoods. The convenient location and quiet atmosphere make North Greenbush the perfect place to raise a family.

7. Colonie, NY

The town of Colonie is situated near many pools, parks, and other recreational areas, including the Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike Trail and Cook Park, which features a play area for dogs as well as a playground for the kids. It’s right in the middle of the Troy, Albany, and Schenectady areas, so you’ll be just a short drive from all that the Capital Region neighborhoods have to offer.

Colonie is also where you can find Wolf Road, which is home to some of the hottest hotels in the region as well as the Capital District’s second-largest shopping mall. Here you can find a variety of local and chain restaurants, office parks, and amazing retail options for the whole family. Wolf Road is also located near the airport, making it easy to travel or host guests who come to visit the Capital Region.

8. Troy, NY

Troy has seen an influx of new businesses in recent years, with the brownstone architecture found in the Washington Park Historic District making it a scenic location for new coffee shops, restaurants, and fitness studios.

The city of Troy is known for its year-round farmer’s market held every Saturday right on the river that brings in shoppers from all over the Capital Region neighborhoods.

Troy plays host to a wide selection of attractions, including Joseph L. Bruno Stadium, home to the Tri-City ValleyCats! From sports games to river cruises, the city of Troy is where it’s all happening. Families and singles alike will love to explore all of the exciting activities this area has to offer. If you are looking for an apartment in Troy, NY, check out our Glenhaven Square Apartment.

It’s clear that the Capital Region neighborhoods have it all, whether you’re interested in arts and culture or the great outdoors. If you’re looking for Capital Region apartments for rent, let Rosetti Properties help you find your new home. Visit our contact page or call us at (518) 869-5587 today to learn more about the properties we have available.