Rensselaer is a city that sits just across the Hudson River from Albany and has easy access up to Troy — making it a popular choice for commuters. For those who don't want to live among the activity of the surrounding big cities, Rensselaer is a quieter option with waterfront row homes and suburban subdivisions. Residents also have easy access to hiking and biking trails that stretch out into the greater Rensselaer County.
With views like this Rensselaer is a quick jump to Albany and more.
Two enjoying a meal on the waterfront in Rensselaer, NY.
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Outdoor activities in rural New York
"Some of the biggest draws of Rensselaer are the outdoor activities," says Joan Rapp, a Broker with Coldwell Banker Realty who has experience selling in the area. "The Empire State bike trails run across the whole county, and you're about 45 minutes away from skiing." Closer to home, there are several parks with playgrounds, and Riverfront Park has skyline views and a fishing dock. While much of Rensselaer's open space is quite attractive, the Dunn Landfill sits at the center of the community. Some residents are unbothered by it, but others are working to get it removed — an ongoing fight.
The Empire State Trail runs thru much of this area and a local man is enjoying the day on it.
A great way to stay close is playing a basketball game with your partner during naptime.
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Amtrak line and city commutes
Another draw to the community is the Amtrak station. "The Amtrak is big here, and it's a clean, neat new station," Rapp explains. "It connects down to New York in a couple of hours." While the train does make long trips convenient, it brings some noise to the waterfront area of Rensselaer. For commuting to work, getting the 2 miles into Albany is a quick drive or bus ride across the Dunn Memorial Bridge, which is also lined with a walking path. And Troy is 10 miles north along I-787.
Rensselaer is the 9th busiest rail station in the country and a hub in NY state.
CDTA can get you around in the Rensselaer area and capital region.
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Walk to restaurants, drive to grocery stores
A few eateries are clustered around the waterfront, like Illusive Restaurant and Bar, which has top-rated American fare. Hot Dog Charlie's is a classic regional chain, and Skyline Diner is a locally run place for breakfast. For shopping, locals can head a mile up 3rd Avenue to a shopping center with Walmart and Target. However, the lack of grocery shops within walking distance means having a car in Rensselaer is usually necessary. For more entertainment, Albany is just across the road, and Troy is an option, too. "Troy has much more entertainment than Rensselaer — like live music and a farmers market," Rapp says. "So people will travel up there for the day and can come home to a quieter [community.]"
Residents have easy access to local shops and parks on Broadway.
Illusive is a multiple year runner up to winning the best burger in NY state and a great option.
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Row homes and spacious suburban lots
Closer to the waterfront, tight gridded streets are filled with bungalows and row homes. Prices here usually range from $100,000 for fixer-uppers and $250,000 for newly renovated properties. Many properties have been split up into duplexes, and many homes are rented. Further out, neighborhoods start to lose their urban feel. Here, properties sit on quiet, wooded streets and offer comfortable yards. Midcentury bungalows and ranches range from $200,000 to $400,000, and there are some modern townhomes also available at that price point. Larger colonials with half-acre yards and contemporary properties range from $500,000 to $700,000.
A new colonial is a great start to your move to Rensselaer.
Townhomes are a great option for residents in Rensselaer closer to Albany.
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Proximity to Dunn Landfill
While much of Rensselaer's open space is quite green, the Dunn Landfill sits at the center of the community. Some residents are unbothered by it, but others experience smells, noise and pollution issues. Local organizations and government officials are currently working to get it removed — an ongoing fight.
Dunn Land fill is on the east side of town and has become a sore spot for many locals.
Residents can enjoy the Hudson River views in Rensselaer or just a quiet moment.
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Public schools and UAlbany Health Center
Kids in the area are zoned to start at Van Rensselaer Elementary School, which gets a C-minus grade from Niche. Rensselaer Junior/Senior High School, rated C-plus, is in the same building and caters to older students. The district provides technology devices to all students, and 80% of high school students graduate with college credit. Rensselaer is also home to the University at Albany's Health Sciences Campus, a research center partnering with the New York State Department of Health to benefit both local and larger regions.
Rensselaer Junior/Senior High School provides students in Rensselaer a track and field.
Health Sciences Campus of Albany University is located in Rensselaer bringing medicine close.
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