Albany, the capital of New York State, lies on the west bank of the Hudson River. Established in 1696 and now covering 21.9 square miles, its median age is 30.7 (2022). Government, healthcare, education, and technology are main drivers of its economy.

In terms of real estate, Albany is full of rowhouses, family homes, and historic architecture. The average price of a home in the city is $279,129, which is an increase of 12% over the past year (Zillow, 2022). Year-round annual events engage and entertain both residents and visitors alike. They include a fireworks festival, Latin Fest, the African American Family Day Arts Festival, and the Albany Jazz Festival.

The major highways serving Albany are I-87, I-90, and I-787. Center Square, west of I-787, features cobblestone streets that are lined with rowhouses built in the 1800s. The area is a top choice for couples and young professionals. Bordered by I-90 and I-787, North Albany-Shaker Park consists of rowhouses and loft-style apartments. The Mansion Historic District, meanwhile, is rich in Italianate, Federal and Greek Revival style homes.

Albany is attractive because it lacks the crowds and costs of a large city, and because it has charm, courtesy of its rows of colorfully painted rowhouses, and turn-of-the-century brownstones. Hidden gems include an art-filled underground shopping concourse.