Schenectady, NY Rent To Own Homes

Rent-to-Own Homes in Schenectady, NY: What You Need to Know

Schenectady combines lush nature, rich history, and world-class shopping and dining seamlessly. With a population of 66,135, it’s New York’s ninth-largest city. 

Schenectady’s History 

Schenectady’s abundant history dates back to pre-settlement times when the Mohican and Mohawk tribes occupied the land. The Mohawks originally called the land “Schau-naugh-ta-da", or “over the pine planes”. In 1661, Dutch settlers claimed the land as their own, but a short 40 years later, in 1690, French forces and their Indian allies invaded the region in a bloody combat that we now call the “Schenectady Massacre”. During the Revolutionary War, local troops fought in the Battle of Saratoga. When Thomas Edison moved to town in 1887, he brought his genius along with him, and the city ultimately became General Electric’s home base. As a result, the city boasts one of America’s first radio stations and first regular TV broadcasts. 

Outdoor Adventure in Schenectady, NY

Schenectady boasts ample green spaces scattered across its boundaries. Take for example Central Park, which features a rose garden, live music stage, public pools, lake, and more. One of its smaller counterparts, Riverside Park, offers a charming green expanse along the Mohawk River. In addition to city parks, there are numerous nature preserves that will instantly transport you from the bustling city to a peaceful oasis. The Indian Kill Nature Preserve at the north end of town features 100 acres of forests and wetlands to hike and fish. But we can’t do enough justice for the bountiful beauty surrounding this city- you’ll have to go out and explore it for yourself to truly understand. 

Shopping in Schenectady, NY

From major retailers like Wal-Mart and Target to small business boutiques, you can easily satisfy your shopping needs in Schenectady. Downtown, in particular, is a boutique hotspot. Don’t miss Clinton Street Mercantile, where you can shop local handmade goods over a cup of coffee. 

What is the Best Way to Get Around in Schenectady, NY?

Many locals choose to make the 26-minute commute to Albany for work each day. They don’t necessarily need to by car, though, as the Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) provides BusPlus Rapid Transit between Downtown Schenectady and Albany. The Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike Trail also offers a scenic open-air alternative to getting around.

What is the Cost of Living in Schenectady, NY?

While an east coast state like New York isn’t as affordable as others more inland, Schenectady’s cost of living offers a bargain for its standards. Here, you’ll find quality homes for far less than neighboring cities like Albany. If you’re relocating to town, expect average living prices to cost about the following:

• Median Home Price: $186,000
• Median Rent: $1,188 per month
• Housing: 16% below the national average
• Healthcare: 1% below the national average
• Groceries: 8% above the national average
• Utilities: 10% below the national average
• Transportation: 8% above the national average
• Gas: $2.83 per gallon 
• State Income Tax: 4-10.9% 
• State Sales Tax: 4-4.5%