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Rensselaer

Rensselaer

$313,757 Average Value
$243 Average Price per Sq Ft
4 Homes For Sale

A quiet commuter community

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.
With views like this Rensselaer is a quick jump to Albany and more.
Two enjoying a meal on the waterfront in Rensselaer, NY.
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 neighborhood 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 neighborhood. 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.
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.
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 neighborhood 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.
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.
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 neighborhood."

Residents have easy access to local shops and parks on Broadway.
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.
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.
A new colonial is a great start to your move to Rensselaer.
Townhomes are a great option for residents in Rensselaer closer to Albany.
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 neighborhood. 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.
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.
Residents can enjoy the Hudson River views in Rensselaer or just a quiet moment.
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Public schools and UAlbany Health Center

Neighborhood kids 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.
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.
Health Sciences Campus of Albany University is located in Rensselaer bringing medicine close.
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Tina Davis
Written By
Tina Davis

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Garry DeGonza, an experienced agent in this area.

Agents Specializing in this Area

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Schools

Source:
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

Rensselaer Housing Trends

Housing Trends

Median List Price
$650,000
Median Sale Price
$515,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$599,999
Median Change From 1st List Price
-5%
Last 12 months Home Sales
8
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
94%
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$243

Neighborhood Facts

Number of Homes in Neighborhood
5,598
Number of Homes for Sale
4
Median Year Built
1956
Months of Supply
6.00
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
1,536
Significantly below the national average
1,924
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
1,724
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
1,125
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
9,147

Open Houses

  • 2 Birchwood Ave, Rensselaer, NY 12144

    $299,900

    • 4 Beds
    • 1.5 Baths
    • 1,563 Sq Ft
    • 2 Birchwood Ave

    Welcome to this beautifully updated 4 bedrooms, 1.5 bath home offering 1,563 sq ft of comfortable living space. Situated in a convenient neighborhood location, this property features comfort and modern updates throughout. Enjoy the kitchen with quartz countertops, large island, and newer s/s appliances. Spacious living room perfect for relaxing or entertaining, separate dining room, and a back

    Agent Photo
    Nicole Wilkie
    Howard Hanna Capital Inc
    (518) 600-3539
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  • 821 7th St, Rensselaer, NY 12144

    $159,900

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 740 Sq Ft
    • 821 7th St

    New Price! Looking for easy, one-floor living? This charming home offers just that—with two cozy bedrooms, a full bath, and everything you need on a single level. Whether you're downsizing or just starting out, this home is the perfect fit! Enjoy your morning coffee on the front deck and unwind in the evening on the private back deck. Located right in the heart of Rensselaer, you're close to

    Agent Photo
    April Seney
    Core Real Estate Team
    (518) 666-8243
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  • 1232 3rd St, Rensselaer, NY 12144

    $275,000

    • 4 Beds
    • 1.5 Baths
    • 1,756 Sq Ft
    • 1232 3rd St
    • New 2 days ago

    Check out this stunning turn of the century home with all of its antique charm beautifully maintained! All hardwood floors and doorways are original to the home and meticulously kept. at this location, you will find yourself minutes from the highway, downtown Albany, and the train station while still enjoying a quiet living without the normal bustle of bigger cities. This property sits right on

    Jordan James KW Platform

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Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Average Home Value





Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

Rensselaer Has More Renters

Demographics

Total Population
8,637
Median Age
40
Population under 18
22.4%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
19%
On par with the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$68,010
Below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$79,303

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
90%
College Graduates
30.3%
On par with the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
10.6%
% Population in Labor Force
69.2%
On par with the national average
65.1%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
41''
Average Winter Low Temperature
16°F
Average Summer High Temperature
84°F
Annual Snowfall
42''

Area Factors

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score®®

11 / 100

Car-Dependent

Walk Score®®

16 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.

Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
Rensselaer
Garry DeGonza
DeGonza Realty
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