Albany is the capital of the U.S. state of New York and the seat and largest city of Albany County. Located on the west bank of the Hudson River approximately 10 miles south of its confluence with the Mohawk River, Albany has a population of 97,279 as of the 2020 census.
Albany is known for its rich history, commerce, culture, architecture, and institutions of higher education. Albany constitutes the economic and cultural core of the Capital District of New York State, which comprises the Albany–Schenectady–Troy, NY Metropolitan Statistical Area, including the nearby cities and suburbs of Troy, Schenectady, and Saratoga Springs.
History
The area that later became Albany was settled by Dutch colonists in the early 17th century as part of the colony of New Netherland. The fur trade brought in a wealth of furs which attracted merchants and traders, making Beverwijck (today’s Albany) a trading hub by 1660.[1]
In 1664, the English took over the Dutch settlements and renamed the city “Albany” after the Duke of Albany. In 1687, Albany was officially chartered as a municipality by Governor Thomas Dongan. Albany was one of the ten largest cities in the United States in 1790.[1]
Albany quickly developed into a major transportation hub due to its central location on the Hudson River and was the site of the first operational railroad in the state. During the 19th century, Albany was home to key political figures such as Teddy Roosevelt and was an important center for trade and transportation.
Today, Albany retains much of its historic character and landmarks such as the New York State Capitol, the Albany Institute of History and Art, the Palace Theatre, and many others. It continues to be an influential center of commerce, politics, and culture.
Geography and Climate
Albany is located approximately 150 miles north of New York City at the convergence of the Hudson and Mohawk Rivers. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 21.4 square miles, of which 20.3 square miles is land and 1.1 square miles, or 5.44%, is water.[2]
The Hudson River forms the western border of Albany and the City of Rensselaer lies opposite Albany on the eastern bank. The Capital District stretches northwards from the city along both sides of the Hudson River and into the surrounding counties of Saratoga, Schenectady and Troy.
The climate of Albany is classified as humid continental. Winters can be very cold with the average January high temperature at 34°F. Summers are warm to hot and humid with temperatures in July averaging 81°F. Albany receives around 36 inches of rain per year with moderate snowfall in winter.[3]
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States census, the population of Albany was 97,279 people. The racial composition of the city was:
- White: 52.8%
- Black or African American: 34.9%
- Hispanic or Latino: 15.8%
- Asian: 7.2%
- Two or more races: 4.1%
The median income for a household was $42,699 and 18.2% of the population was below the poverty line. The population density was 4,273 inhabitants per square mile.[4]
Culture and Tourism
Albany has a rich cultural history and many landmarks and institutions that attract visitors.
Performing Arts Venues
The Palace Theatre and The Egg offer various concerts, Broadway shows, stand-up comedy, and other events throughout the year. The Times Union Center hosts major concerts and sporting events.
Museums
The Albany Institute of History and Art contains artifacts and works of art reflecting the area’s history as well as a large collection of paintings, sculptures, prints, furniture and decorative arts. The New York State Museum highlights history, anthropology, natural history and science.
Historic and Cultural Sites
The New York State Capitol offers free tours showcasing its architecture and collection of historic paintings and murals. The Quackenbush House is an example of Dutch architecture. The Schuyler Mansion and Cherry Hill showcase 18th and early 19th century life.
Parks and Recreation
Popular parks include Washington Park which has a lake, walking paths and music events in summer. The Corning Preserve is located along the Hudson River and hosts festivals and concerts.
Higher Education
Albany is a center for higher education and home to several major universities:
- University at Albany, SUNY – public university and part of the State University of New York system
- Skidmore College – private liberal arts college
- The Sage Colleges – private college
- Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences – private pharmacy college
These universities contribute to the city’s culture, employment, and overall economy.
Economy
As the capital of New York, much of Albany’s economy revolves around state government. The largest employers are the State of New York and the U.S. government.[5]
Other major industries and employers include healthcare, education, technology, insurance, banking, and retail. The Albany Medical Center and its affiliated colleges and hospitals employs over 11,000 people in the Albany region.[6]
Companies with a major presence in Albany include commerce and financial services firm CommerceHub, technology companies Transfinder and Plug Power, and insurance companies MVP Health Care and CDPHP.
The typical occupations for Albany residents are in the fields of education, social services, healthcare, government, and professional services.[7] The median household income is $52,953 and the unemployment rate is 5.2% as of 2018.[5]
Sports
Despite being a smaller city, Albany has a rich sports tradition and is home to several professional teams.
The Albany Patroons basketball team play in the NBA G League (formerly the CBA) and have won several league championships.
Ice hockey is popular in Albany and the Albany Devils play in the American Hockey League. From 1993 to 2017, they were known as the Albany River Rats.
Horse racing and harness racing events take place at Albany-Saratoga Speedway and the Times Union Center regularly hosts major boxing and UFC events.
The Times Union Center is the largest indoor arena in the Capital District and hosts college sports, concerts, family events, NBA preseason games, and more.
City Government
The government of Albany consists of a mayor serving as chief executive and the City’s Common Council as legislative body. The current mayor is Kathy Sheehan. The Common Council is made up of 15 members each representing a ward. Albany’s current Common Council President is Corey Ellis.
In addition to the mayor’s office and city council, Albany city government includes departments of administrative services, assessment & taxation, buildings & codes, city clerks, engineering, fire, general services, planning, police, recreation, and water & water supply.
The city government manages public services, public safety, development, and various regulations within Albany. They work to serve local residents, businesses, and visitors.
Attractions and Landmarks
Some of Albany’s most notable attractions and landmarks include:
- Empire State Plaza – Large complex of state government offices, convention center, and performing arts center
- New York State Capitol – Seat of state legislature with free tours available
- Washington Park – Large public park featuring lake, walking trails, amphitheater for events
- Lincoln Park – One of the oldest public parks in the country, trails and ravines along natural scenery
- The Egg – Performing arts theater hosting concerts, comedy, independent films
- Albany Institute of History and Art – Oldest museum in New York with diverse collections and exhibits
- Times Union Center – Multi-purpose indoor arena hosting sports, concerts, family shows
- Palace Theatre – Historic 1920s theater located on Albany’s main street, Broadway
You can follow the latest news and events happening in Albany by liking the city’s official Facebook page. The page includes information on local government announcements, public notices, programs and activities, job openings, and more.