Albany, NY

Below Avg · 79

New York · Population 100,081 · Updated March 2026

$1,178
Median Rent / Month
$59,485
Median Income
$223,000
Median Home Value
$1,217
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Albany

23.8%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in New York

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

10.9%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
4.0%
Sales Tax
1.62%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$14,136
Annual Rent
$6,484
State Income Tax
$3,613
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Albany is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 79 (where 100 equals the national median), Albany residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,178/month while earning a median household income of $59,485/year.

The median home value in Albany, NY is $223,000, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,217 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 23.8% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

New York's top income tax rate of 10.9% is among the highest in the nation, adding to the overall cost burden. Combined with a 4.0% sales tax rate and 1.62% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Albany.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Albany

What is the cost of living in Albany, NY?
The cost of living index in Albany, NY is 79 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,178, median household income is $59,485/year, and the median home value is $223,000.
Is Albany, NY affordable?
Yes, Albany is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 79. The rent-to-income ratio is 23.8%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Albany, NY?
The median gross rent in Albany, NY is $1,178 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $14,136.
What is the median household income in Albany?
The median household income in Albany, NY is $59,485 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in New York?
New York has a top income tax rate of 10.9%, a sales tax of 4.0%, and an effective property tax rate of 1.62%.