$360,050Average Value$203Average Price per Sq Ft4Homes For Sale
Center Square’s historic charm draws modern convenience seekers
Center Square is a small Albany neighborhood with deep roots dating back to the 1800s and early 1900s. Just a few blocks wide, the area developed due to its proximity to the old state capitol building and the prominent Washington Park. The community quickly became a hub for wealthy and socially notable residents of the late 19th century. Today, the neighborhood attracts a different clientele, but for the same reason – proximity. "There is a large array of young professionals and post-grad students… You have several colleges within the local vicinity," says Colin McDonald, founder and broker of McDonald Real Estate Company LLC. Doctors, government workers and professors who want to live within walking distance of work also choose Central Square. The neighborhood is not just convenient, it's historic, alive and vibrant, McDonald says. "If you're looking for city living or something that has that Brooklyn, East Village or West Village vibe but on a much smaller square, that's Center Square."
Old-world charm and employment proximity drive renter demand
Federal, Colonial Revival, Italianate, Second Empire and Queen Anne rowhomes from the 1830s through the mid-1900s line tree-filled streets, their brick facades often colorfully painted. The area is renter-heavy, with fewer than 20% of residents owning their properties. "People who want to live in those two or three-story townhouses typically owner-occupy one of the studios or one-bedroom units on the garden level," McDonald says. The other units are then rented out, usually by students or professionals. He notes that investors are drawn to the area due to its architecture and proximity to major employers. "They like that old-world historic feel. And because you're near the hospitals and schools, you can garner some of the highest rents in the city," McDonald says. Multifamily homes, which range in size from two to 10 units, typically sell between $220,000 and $1.1 million. Single-family rowhomes sell for $210,000 to $650,000. Townhouses and condos range from $140,000 to $540,000.
Walkable streets near hospitals, colleges and downtown Albany
The area is highly walkable and bike-friendly, with buses stopping along Lark Street, Madison Avenue and Washington Avenue. Along with the office buildings and significant employers in Downtown Albany and Empire State Plaza, performing arts centers, hotels and museums are within walking distance of the neighborhood. Albany Medical Center and Albany Stratton VA Medical Center are less than a mile west, so many doctors and staff walk or bike to work. Russell Sage College, another prominent employer, is just past the hospitals. McDonald says that Center Square residents can get by without a car, but those with vehicles can park on the street with valid passes. U.S. Route 20 and New York state Route 5 are nearby main streets that head south towards downtown Albany and north towards Interstate 90 and 87. Albany International Airport is less than 10 miles away.
Two historic locations for recreation offer year-round activity
For over 150 years, Washington Park has been the city's premier outdoor gathering space. The nearly 90-acre green space features playgrounds, a skate park, sports courts and walking trails, including some that encircle the park's lake and lake house. Activities are year-round, with ice skating in winter, the Tulip Festival in spring and open-air theater performances in summer. Shows at Park Playhouse, the outdoor performing arts center, are free of charge. Albany residents can swim free at Lincoln Park Pool. Initially opened in 1930, the lake-like swimming pool was demolished in 2023 and reopened in 2025 with updated facilities.
Shops, art fairs, parades and markets bring neighbors to Lark Street
Those seeking nightlife, diverse restaurants and shops close to home may consider Center Square to put down roots. "Lark Street is the main thoroughfare with boutique-style restaurants and shops," McDonald says. "There's a plethora of desirable coffee shops, eateries, art galleries, clothing shops and gift shops." The main avenue hosts several community events, including Lark Out Loud, a free music festival, and Art on Lark, an arts-centered street fair where vendors can sell their wares. The Capital Pride Parade also makes its way down Lark each June. Taverns, cafes and restaurants are throughout the neighborhood, with Dove + Deer and Rosanna's amongst the most popular, McDonald says. Specialty markets and natural food stores are in Center Square, and Market 32 is a short walk south.
Public schools reflect the city’s racial and cultural diversity
City School District of Albany earns an overall grade of B by Niche and a diversity grade of A-plus. According to the district site, about 45% of students are Black, 20% are Hispanic, 9% are Asian or Pacific Islander, and 7% are multiracial. Giffen Memorial Elementary School is rated C, and William and Harriet Myers Middle School earns a C-plus. All students in the city feed into Albany High School, which earns an A-minus.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the Center Square neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Center Square
US
Homicide
7
4
Sexual Assault
8
4
Assault with Weapon
7
4
Robbery
6
4
Burglary
7
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
7
4
Larceny
6
4
Crime Score
6
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Center Square Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Center Square, Albany sell after 22 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Center Square, Albany over the last 12 months is $420,000, up 49% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Very rare opportunity to own a unique duplex in Albany's highly desirable Center Square neighborhood. Technically comprised of two separately deeded condominiums, 149 Lancaster Street is being offered as a duplex, providing flexibility for investors and owner-occupants alike. The property features spacious living areas, abundant natural light, and the historic character that makes Center Square
Single-family residence in sought after Center Square neighborhood currently rented for $2,300/ month (tenant pays all utilities). 3-story brick townhouse offering 4 bedrooms & 2 baths. Renovated in 2019 w/ modern finishes, on demand heating system, walk-out basement w/ fenced yard & built-in cabinets. Close proximity to local parks & attractions. Top floor could be converted to additional unit.
Prime mixed-use building in Albany's vibrant Center Square neighborhood. Over 3,100 sq ft with a street-level commercial space (rented at $2,200/mo) approved for a variety of uses. Existing equipment provides a great starting point for food service operation. Three well-maintained residential units above generate $3,350/mo. One unit is a 1BR facing Lark St; another offers skyline views and
Spacious Victorian townhome in Albany's Center Square neighborhood is ''turn key''. Tasteful updates and modern amenities blend nicely with the numerous historic architectural details that remain. The large living room, with period crown moldings, beautiful mantle mirror and marble fireplace, opens into a dining area and updated eat-in kitchen. A perfect floor plan for entertaining!! Large 2nd
One of the most uniqure buildings you will find in Albany! Immaculate 4 unit historical multifamily in the heart of Center Square with all modern units and amenities. Each unit has central air, washer/dryer & dishwasher, fireplaces, hardwood floors throughout. New tile in bathroom, updated appliances, updated heating. 3 units have their own private rooftop decks and a shared private courtyard.
Benjamin HallowLaviano & Associates Real Estate Group
Discover an exceptional opportunity in one of Albany's most sought-after neighborhoods! This well-maintained 4-unit multi-family property sits in the heart of the vibrant Center Square district steps from Washington Park, trendy restaurants, boutique shops, and the energy of downtown Albany. With its classic architecture, tree-lined streets, and walkable lifestyle, Center Square consistently
Unique Tudor style townhouse in Albany's historic Center Square neighborhood! First floor features gracious entry, formal living and dining rooms with original built-ins, updated kitchen with solid surface countertops, and glass garden room that can be used in a variety of ways. 2nd and 3rd floors have 5 spacious bedrooms and 2 full baths. Walk-up attic is great for storage. Mini-splits (A/C &
Four Stories of Living Space. First Floor is large open dining/living room with separate eat in kitchen with bay window overlooking the deck and garden. Half bath. Central A/C. Five Ornamental Fireplaces. Parquet and Hardwood Floors, Tall Ceilings, Large Windows, Original Moldings and Medallions throughout. Second and third floors have two bedrooms with full baths and top floor laundry. Bonus
Single-family residence in sought after Center Square neighborhood currently rented for $2,300/ month (tenant pays all utilities). 3-story brick townhouse offering 4 bedrooms & 2 baths. Renovated in 2019 w/ modern finishes, on demand heating system, walk-out basement w/ fenced yard & built-in cabinets. Close proximity to local parks & attractions. Top floor could be converted to additional unit.
Welcome to 29 Dove Street, a classic Albany 3-unit residence filled with timeless architectural details and inviting living spaces. From the moment you enter, you'll appreciate the high ceilings, original woodwork, and natural light that give this home its unique charm and character. The layout offers comfortable and flexible living space, with generously sized rooms that can be tailored to your
Mixed-Use Opportunity in Historic Albany!Welcome to 204 Lancaster Street, a well-located mixed-use building offering flexibility and versatility. This historic property features a ground-floor retail space with strong street presence, currently operated as a tailor shop, and suitable for a wide variety of commercial uses. Above the storefront are two residential apartments. Situated in a
Brand new one bedrooms. 90 Swan Street is brand new construction - never lived in, never touched. Built from the ground up and completed in 2025, every detail was designed from scratch: wide-plank flooring, premium quartz countertops with a marble finish, full stainless steel appliances, and an in-unit washer and dryer stacked and ready to go. These are not renovated units. Not
Center Square Living – 3 Apartments Available | Prime Location Near the NYS CapitolExperience the charm and convenience of Albany's historic Center Square neighborhood. We currently have one spacious two-bedroom apartment and two studio apartments available, all located just steps from the New York State Capitol, Legislative Office Building, Alfred E. Smith State Office Building,
Move in the Winter and Save$$$$$$ Price Just Reduced!!!!Newly Renovated 1 bedroom/1 bath apartment with private outdoor balcony!!!Avoid the stress of a commute after a long day and come home to style, convenience, and location that is located in an "A+" area of Albany.Stainless Steel Appliances, Dishwasher, Newly Remodeled Bathroom with tiled shower, Built in book-case,
Property Id: 532784A nice studio apartment available for rent heat , hot water and waste disposal included,Tenant only pays electric.its a very safe and quiet building near to transportation and just walking distance to Washington park, all restaurants, pubs and federal offices. No smoking. No pets .
Don't miss out on this newly renovated studio apartment in the heart of Albany/ Center Square (near corner of Dove St). Everything has been redone, from top to bottom. New appliances includes a dishwasher, stove, microwave and refrigerator. Working kitchen includes tile backsplash and gorgeous countertops. Modern bathroom is complete with ceramic title and contemporary vanity. Unit includes
Beautiful 1 bedroom apartment in the heart of center square. Great location only half a block to the capital and NYS plaza. Very large spacious 1 bedroom apartment has great views and lots of sunlight. Very nice deck for added space outdoors a huge plus in center square. Conveniently located to many restaurants, coffee shops, entertainment area, and stores. Kitchen is tiled with granite
Welcome to your new home! If you are moving to Albany, or about to start school or a new job, 206 Lancaster offers an elegant solution. The monthly rent includes heat, hot water, laundry, internet and trash pickup. You only pay for your use of electricity and cooking gas. This beauty has high ceilings, crown moldings and built-in cabinets. Located in the heart of Center Square, you will
Step into this uniquely styled 2-bedroom/2-bathroom walk-up, a true hidden gem perfect for your next getaway! You'll love the vibrant energy that creates an inviting and inspiring atmosphere. These spacious rooms features stylish dark flooring and ample natural light, making it a bright and welcoming retreat. Steps away from Washington Park, Historic Lark Street, and the New York State Capitol.
Welcome to this cozy basement apartment at 253 State Street, Albany, NY, ideally located just steps from the New York State Capitol on a beautiful tree-lined street. This cat-friendly home features attractive vinyl flooring throughout, efficient heating, and a well-equipped kitchen with a stove, oven, and refrigerator.Situated in the heart of Albany, you'll enjoy the convenience of living
: Step into this uniquely styled 2-bedroom/2-bathroom walk-up, a true hidden gem perfect for your next getaway! You'll love the vibrant energy that creates an inviting and inspiring atmosphere. These spacious rooms features stylish dark flooring and ample natural light, making it a bright and welcoming retreat. Steps away from Washington Park, Historic Lark Street, and the New York State Capitol.
Welcome 221 Lancaster St in Albany, NY 12210! This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment offers a cozy and inviting living space in a convenient location. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a spacious living area that seamlessly flows into a well-equipped kitchen, perfect for preparing meals and entertaining guests.The two bedrooms in this unit provide comfortable spaces for rest
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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