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5 Up-and-Coming Neighborhoods and Towns In CapNY

Updated: July 2025

Do you want quiet seclusion? Bustling city life and high energy? A little of both?

While the most commonly known cities and towns – Albany, Schenectady, Troy, or Saratoga Springs—are often top of mind, there are smaller neighborhoods and towns sprinkled throughout the region with historic charm and a tangible energy brewing for what’s to come.

Neighborhoods and Towns With Fresh Energy

In CapNY, there are multiple options among these up-and-coming neighborhoods and towns to create the lifestyle you’re looking for. These places are appealing for easy access to the urban centers in the Capital Region, as well as trains and planes. They offer a range of housing options, walkability, river views and mountain highs.

Watervliet

CapNY has no shortage of cities along the Hudson River, and Watervliet is first on our list. This city is known for The Watervliet Arsenal, the oldest continuously active arsenal in the United States. Amy Zawistowski is a marketing professional who moved back to the region after working in the city. Wanting to be closer to family, she found the Arsenal City is a great place to settle down. “It’s laid out in an urban way. Where I live, Walgreens is close by, Price Chopper is walkable. I can walk to the liquor store. I lived in New York City, so I walk whenever I can,” she said.

Zawistowski first lived in other CapNY locations when she moved back to the region. Now she says the convenience of Watervliet is unmatched. “It’s very centrally located,” she said. “With the highway right here, both alternate 7 and 787, I don’t have to go out of my way to get anything.”

The cost of living is reasonable and there are many newer apartment complexes available. More apartments are underway, like The Tilley Lofts and Fenimore Trace apartments. Plus, there are plenty of multi-family homes regularly available throughout the city.

It’s All About Food

If you love food, there’s no better reason to consider this small city. “Schuyler Bakery is amazing. They have the best glazed donuts on the planet,” she said. For more square meals, there are some great options. Enjoy breakfast any time of day (or night!) at Bob’s Diner, wings and beer at the Black Bear Inn, or seafood and pasta at Deacon Blues. To work up an appetite, take a bike ride along the Mohawk Hudson trail. Watervliet has a great parking area to access the trail. Smaller pocket parks are tucked throughout the city.

Cohoes

Cohoes, nicknamed “The Spindle City” for its history as a textile mill town, is in the midst of a renaissance. In the past few years, state grant money has fueled citywide infrastructure improvements. As a result, a host of new businesses have set up along the main drag, Remsen Street, and elsewhere throughout the city. Downtown has everything you need, from great food at The Daisy Bar + Kitchen, sweets at Cake Street Sweets, and unique libations at Bye I Brewing. There’s unique gifts and pharmacy items at Marra’s Pharmacy, and close proximity to Route 9 and the Northway for travel and other needs. Young residents find the small city–population 16,000–to be friendly, lively, and affordable.

“From my neighborhood, downtown is very walkable. It was especially great pre-Covid, when they did concerts downtown. I find Cohoes to be affordable and we are growing in the business department. We have a few really good restaurants and new ones coming. As a community I find something happens the whole city seems to rally around each other. We are small enough to do that,” said resident Erin Roditi, an insurance writer. “My favorite thing to do was walk downtown on a Friday for drinks. I really like just walking around. There is also a short bike path that is especially nice in the spring and summer.”

Scotia

Scotia is just across the river from Schenectady, and this little village has all you need. The main street, Mohawk Avenue, has a family owned grocery store, a locally owned movie theater, a coffee shop (Storied Coffee), a taproom, and more. “We have a lot of great little shops and things that make us unique. We have great restaurants. It’s a nice little walk going down Mohawk Avenue,” said Cathy Gatta, a Scotia resident who frequently works with the downtown business improvement district.

The village has been noticed for its charm by some key players, too. Gabriel’s Supermarket was recently used as a filming location for Amazon Prime’s Modern Love series. Locally owned businesses with great selections are a big draw of the village, she said. “You hardly need to leave Mohawk Avenue to get everything you need,” she said. “It’s walkable, you go to dinner, a movie, get a coffee. It’s a nice night.”

The Scotia Cinema is known for its affordable prices and old-time feel. You can see a movie there for just a few bucks (yes, really). “I can take my family to the movies for about $25, that includes soda and popcorn!” Gatta said. Scotia is home to Collins Park and Jumpin’ Jacks’ Drive In, which offers great food and free concerts, fireworks, and other entertainment in the summer months. There are many options for living spaces as well. There’s luxury apartments, like Scotia Manor, with accessibility to all businesses on Mohawk Avenue and the neighborhoods offer a fantastic community feel too.

Round Lake

The village of Round Lake is a step back in time. The Victorian-style homes are often referred to as “gingerbread houses” for their quirky design elements. The homes are close together and many families have lived there for generations. Younger folks are also moving in, especially those interested in an older home in a unique setting. The village has a library, post office, restaurants, and other businesses, and no big box retail or commercial development. “I liken Round Lake to a tiny city. The houses are close together. There are no high rises, no one is tucked away,” said resident Kim Sheridan. “The village of Round Lake has a quality that I haven’t seen or experienced before in my lifetime.”

A Patchwork Community

Sheridan left New York City in search of a slower pace of life. It’s been a great place to grow closer to her family, enjoy a balanced life creating her crafts, and slowing down overall. “I really believe the proximity of the houses is integral to the way the residents interact. I sort of liken the village to a giant quilt with many pieces stitched together. Many families go back generations,” she said. “New families come in and they become part of the quilt. We’re supporting each other, we’re very tight knit in that way.”

The lake itself is a popular place for recreation in the winter and summer. The Zim Smith trail has an entrance right in the village. “It’s a thoroughfare now. I see bikers, snowmobilers, it’s just out my window. Having proximity to nature is really nice,” said Sheridan. “People are out there all winter playing hockey. There are ice huts. And a lot of kayaks in the summer.” Bikers and runners are drawn to the 8.9 mile trail. Visitors often stop at Leah’s Cakery, a bakery that’s also something of a community hub. Round Lake, and much of Saratoga County has a real estate market with reasonably priced homes that you can make your own.

Glens Falls

If you’re looking to live near nature, the arts, and great eats, Glens Falls is the place. It’s about 40 minutes from Albany and only 20 from Saratoga Springs, and there’s plenty to do in the bustling downtown. This northern city sits on the edge of the Adirondack Park, making it easy to take day trips to complete your list of climbing all 46 High Peaks. Glens Falls is just a few miles from Lake George, Lake Luzerne, and other bodies of water for summer fun.

Downtown has plenty of cool restaurants and shops. A few years back, two brothers-in-law launched Mean Max Brew Works after several years of home brewing. The brewery and taproom has a massive emphasis on community. Though Mean Max doesn’t have a kitchen, they do encourage people to take out from any of the nearby restaurants then grab a drink and a seat.

“Glens Falls is a great community. People are supportive of local, small businesses and value independent shops, restaurants, and taprooms! We love being close to the Adirondacks and all the outdoor adventures they offer,” said Jill Walls of Mean Max. “Importantly, it’s a small city but it has museums, theaters and other cultural opportunities that make it a perfect fit for us. In the era of COVID, we have been blessed by the support of our customers and partnering with local restaurants to create unique partnerships to help each other keep the doors open.”

The arts scene in Glens Falls is a draw. There are great spaces like the Hyde Collection, which features work from, Rembrandt, Rubens, Degas, Renoir, Picasso, and Homer. Glens Falls is home to the Adirondack Theatre Festival.

With state money invested into the city, the best is yet to come. The city was the recipient of a $10 million grant through the NY State Downtown Revitalization Initiative which will focus on rehabbing buildings for housing, supporting the arts, and improving connections to trails. The website Budget Travel ranked Glens Falls as one of the top 10 “Coolest Small Towns in America.” Without question, cost of living is reasonable in this north country city.

6 High-End Apartment Buildings: Living Luxe In Albany and Troy

With many of us spending more time at home than ever before, where you live and lay your head makes a difference in your overall lifestyle.

In CapNY, higher end apartment communities are popping up everywhere. With a higher price point, you can expect a level of luxury and unique amenities.

Luxury Living in Albany & Troy

Many of these high-end apartment buildings are offering some thoughtful additions to their properties, from a dog spa to all-in-one pricing for utilities. If you’re looking for an elevated living space with amenities close by, consider one of these properties located in and around Albany and Troy.

This building is home to hundreds, perhaps thousands, of stories about the city of Troy and its people. For more than a century, the building at 501 Broadway was home to The Record newspaper offices and printing press.

The corner lot is a literal and figurative cornerstone of the Collar City. Positioned on the edge of the downtown district, the building prominently reveals RPI as its backdrop. The old newspaper building is living a second life as a luxury apartment building with a fantastic mix of small businesses – Flowers By Pesha and Bard and Baker are just a few options—on the first level.

“We approached The News with a heavy sense of reverence, responsibility, dare I say, trepidation, to ensure we were able to deliver a historically sensitive but environmentally conscious building,” said Jeff Mirel, Executive Vice President of Rosenblum Companies. There are notes of the newspaper’s past throughout the building from murals to upcycled newspaper dispensing machines serving as tables and the CMYK color scheme. But there is also special attention to the building’s future. The developers paid special attention to energy efficiency and offer amenities to make being a little more environmentally savvy easy. Residents enjoy access to the CDTA bus and bikeshare system, locked bike storage and a repair center.

“Whenever you’re doing a project in a neighborhood where there’s history, it’s really important to try to tap into local culture and creativity to create and expand on that narrative,” Mirel said.

A few blocks over, another Rosenblum property, Vicina offers many similar amenities to The News but with some untapped potential. Currently, there is 2,600 square feet of restaurant ready space waiting for a tenant to move in.

“There’s an opportunity to provide direct access to the space from the residential side, and offer breakfast or coffee, or other options,” Mirel said.

This building also offers immediate access to all the draws of downtown Troy as well as Rosenblum’s all-in-living setup. For a flat fee each month, residents get television, internet, water, and heating/AC with no worries about setup, transfer, or fluctuating utility fees.

“We want it to be easy,” Mirel said. “It not only provides convenience but it makes an environmental impact.”

The Starbuck Island luxury apartment community offers proximity to downtown Troy and the perfect view of one of the region’s most popular downtowns. It’s technically on Green Island, but a five minute walk over the Green Island Bridge takes you right into downtown. It’s close enough that you can gauge how large a crowd is at the Troy Waterfront Farmer’s Market on Saturday morning before you make the walk over.

The sleek building combines waterfront views and enjoyment with a picturesque view of downtown. They’re set back far enough from the bridge so that the island feels exclusive and private, but also not too far from Troy’s downtown conveniences. Many apartments have balconies for enjoying a sunrise cup of coffee. In warmer months, residents can swim in the centrally located pool. The poolside area with waterfront views is reminiscent of a resort with a bar, shaded lounge area, and fire pits. By centering the pool between the four buildings, the space gains privacy and feels like a natural gathering area.

The contemporary space offers a nod to local history and a world famous author with CapNY roots. Fans of author Herman Meville’s Moby Dick may recall Starbuck is the name of Captain Ahab’s first mate. Meville reveals his local roots–including one of his former childhood homes in nearby Lansingburgh–throughout his novels. Many have thought the first mate’s name was a nod to his local ties. More formally, the island’s name comes from the Starbuck Brothers, who operated a foundry on the island in the 1850s.

The property has four separate buildings. Some space is reserved for renters of the 55-plus age range, with others open to any age.

“Our main two demographics have been young professionals and retired folks. In that younger demographic, we have a good mix of single people and couples getting their first apartment together,” Christopher said. “Some of our tenants have moved here for work from out of state. Most of them are familiar with the area and are either coming back to it, or just starting out on their own.”

The Kenmore has a vibrant history as a piece of the Capital City. It started as a happening nightclub in 1922. Crowds were entertained by Frank Sinatra, Duke Ellington, and Sophie Tucker until its closure in 1947. Over years, and various mergers and sales, the building evolved, making it an expansive piece of the downtown Albany landscape.

Now, it’s getting a second act as Redburn Development Partners has transformed it into 90-plus luxury apartments.

Inside, you feel like you’re living among history–and rightfully so!–but the apartments are completely modern and sleek. There are some really cool amenities tucked into the historic structure: indoor dog park, dog washing station, and garden area. There’s also an indoor pool, cryo tub, fitness center, and steam room.

Nearby, downtown Albany offers restaurants like The Hollow Bar + Kitchen and coffee from Stacks. There’s also great entertainment at The Palace, the MVP Arena and in the summer, the Alive at Five concert series.

Day-to-day, residents can enjoy outings to the Empire State Plaza, the NY State Museum, or Jenning’s Landing for waterfront enjoyment.

“50% of people moving to Downtown Albany are moving here from outside of the area,” said Jessica Sheridan, marketing manager with Redburn Development Partners. “We have NYC transplants who are looking for city life, young professionals who can walk to work. And retirees who have downsized, looking for convenience that living in a downtown space can provide.”

If you’re looking for luxury in the Capital City, Park South has city convenience with high level living space. The complex is near major hospitals, universities, and city attractions like Washington Park, and Lark Street’s shops and eateries including the mainstay El Loco Mexican Cafe.

The sleek, spacious Albany apartments feature granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. The open concept living space with huge windows invites you to take in the city sights.

For an extra cozy touch, many feature fireplaces and they welcome pets! Another big draw is a washer and dryer in each unit–a rarity in city living–and covered parking spaces. The 24-hour security and video intercom system is also a notable offering for added safety.

Residents are also have easy access to the CDTA transit system and bus stops are extremely close to the apartments.

Typically, the demographics here range from 20-40 year old single, working professionals, according to the Tri City Rentals marketing office. With two bed and two bathroom apartments, it’s good option for roommates who want their own luxe space.

The Glen at Sugar Hill is another Tri City Rentals property. Inside each unit, there are many amenities similar to Park South. Outside it’s a serene atmosphere tucked away from the bustle of Troy but still close to conveniences.

This property is located just past Hoosick Street and offers beautiful hilltop views. The balconies are perfect for checking out foliage, greenery, or a fresh snowfall. The community pool and tennis court are also tucked in among the scenery.

Nearby, there are several grocery stores and a healthy mix of small businesses and chains for food and shopping. Grab coffee and lunch at The MochaBlend Cafe, mexican food at P ancho’s, or a classic fish fry at Ted’s. It’s also close to the Poestenkill for fishing, kayaking, or enjoying some nature.

The Glen a quick drive to Troy but also worth noting that it’s close to the Vermont and Massachusetts borders. In only about 30-40 minutes you could be in Bennington or MASS Moca!

Lauren Mineau is a marketing and communications professional with a passion for highlighting the places, spaces, and people that make upstate New York a great place to be. Her experience in local news, B2B marketing, and higher education, ignited her passion for telling stories of things people are curious about. In her spare time, you can find her searching for the perfect iced coffee, juggling five craft projects at a time, or cracking the perfect pun.

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