A riverfront, tight-knit community in East New York
The Village of Scotia is a place where people are a priority, and a slower pace is appreciated. Situated on the north side of the Mohawk River across from Schenectady, Scotia leaves its mark on every resident. Jeffrey Keith is an associate broker with Keller Williams Capital District and a former resident. He gets to the beating heart of the Village of Scotia. "It's a really small tight-knit community and there's a lot of comfort in that. You know almost everybody. It gives you some security." For folks moving from a different region, you should know that this part of the state has its own flavor. "We live in New York and people think it's one big Manhattan, but there are a lot of little communities like this," says Keith. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the area, considering the nearness of the Adirondack Mountains or prime winter sports and the colorful change of seasons.
Low inventory, long sidewalks in the village
On the current housing market in the Village of Scotia, Keith says, "Inventory is at a painful low, at any and every price point, there are a handful of houses for sale." While this is a trend seen in many parts of the country, it may seem exaggerated in Scotia. Residents will find a mix of four-square bungalows and Cape Cods ranging from $150,000 to $270,000 with modest yards. Ranches and colonials are also sprinkled along the neighborhood, ranging from $310,000 to $530,000. Most homes have proximity to one another and sidewalks for walking, jogging, or riding bikes.
Student-ran programs at Scotia Glenville Middle
Scotia-Glenville Central School District serves young students in the area, with a B-minus from Niche. Children can attend Sacandaga School, which has a B, before advancing to Scotia Glenville Middle School. This school has a B-minus and GIVE, a student-run service-learning program. Kids can move on to Scotia Glenville Senior High School, which offers a champion-winning wrestling team, along with many other organized sports, and has a B-minus from Niche. Keith's experience with the district is personal but positive. "My wife teaches here, and I send my child here. And I couldn't be happier," he says. The University of Albany is 14 miles away.
Take a plane, bus, or car
Some people use Schenectady County Airport, which is 3 miles away, and Albany International Airport, which is 10 miles away. Residents seek public transportation through the Capital District Transportation Authority’s bus service. Drivers use New York State Route 5 to get to work, appointments and grocery stores like Gabriel’s Supermarket. People visit CVS Pharmacy for medications, prescriptions and vaccines.
Dining at cozy mom-and-pop shops
For dining out, residents have many local choices. "The Village of Scotia has that character that suburbs lose sometimes because they pull in every name brand in the book," says Keith. "I can only think of two national chains here. Beyond that, everything is mom-and-pop." For comfort food and brews, residents dine at Mohawk Taproom & Grill for a cozy spot with an extensive beer menu. Jumpin' Jacks Drive-In is the summertime spot for juicy grilled burgers, fish-fry dinners and soft-serve ice cream. Locals dig in at one of the picnic tables outside of the famous eatery from May through September.
Host picnics or launch kayaks
Collins Park is a premier green space for Scotia residents, whether for daily playground visits or occasional picnics. Athletic courts and ball fields encourage healthy competition, while water enthusiasts use the boat and kayak launch onto the Mohawk River. Just a stone's throw from Collin's Park, on the other side of Schonowee Avenue, Freedom Park hosts a lively summer concert series with bands and entertainers from across the region. Golfing enthusiasts and amateurs can visit Mohawk Golf Club for its 18-hole course, while those who ski head to Maple Ski Ridge in the winter season.
Annual car shows and classic theaters
From daily activities to big events, Scotia has a place for the many moments in life. The Memorial Day Parade always gets the whole community out and mingling. Cruisin' on The Avenue is the big Father's Day car show that celebrates the dads in Scotia. In addition to cool cars from every era, there are food vendors, balloon artists and a live DJ. People can find classic entertainment at Scotia Cinema, which has been in business since 1929, then known as the Ritz Theater.
Photography Contributed By
Brandon Schulman
