Let the numbers do the talking.
Albany, NY vs Syracuse, NY
Albany, NY vs Syracuse, NY: What the data shows
Albany, NY is in Albany, NY while Syracuse, NY is in Syracuse, NY — both in the same state. On home prices, Syracuse, NY is the more affordable option at $82,100 median — $167,900 less than Albany, NY's $250,000. WYLT rates Albany, NY as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Syracuse, NY as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Albany, NY has the stronger safety profile of the two. Albany, NY has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Syracuse, NY has Moderate violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Albany, NY has Low flood risk and Syracuse, NY has Low flood risk.
Syracuse, NY is the more walkable neighborhood. Albany, NY scores N/A/100 versus Syracuse, NY's 47/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Albany, NY has the higher school rating — Albany, NY rates 6.9/10 and Syracuse, NY rates 6.7/10.
| Category | Albany, NY | Syracuse, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $250K | $82K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $864 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $45K ✓ Higher income | $26K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 47/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 47/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 54/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 197 min | 50 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.9/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.7/10 |
| Best for | Families with young childrenFirst-time homebuyersPeople looking for a relatively affordable suburban lifestyle | Young professionals seeking low upfront housing costsStudents or interns with limited budgetsRemote workers who can tolerate limited on‑site amenities |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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