Known as "The Electric City," Schenectady earned its nickname when Thomas Edison moved his Edison Machine Works there in 1887, establishing what would become General Electric. This historic city along the Mohawk River sits just 15 miles northwest of Albany, offering renters a rich industrial heritage alongside a revitalized downtown district. With a population of about 67,000, Schenectady provides convenient access to the entire Capital District region.

Rental options in Schenectady range from renovated historic properties to modern apartments, with average monthly rents of $912 for studios, $1,202 for one-bedroom units, and $1,448 for two-bedroom homes. The Stockade Historic District features Dutch and English Colonial houses from the 18th and 19th centuries, making it New York's first designated historic district. The General Electric Realty Plot neighborhood showcases grand homes in various architectural styles that once housed GE executives, while Upper Union Street offers proximity to shops and restaurants near the Niskayuna boundary.

Schenectady's downtown renaissance includes the Rivers Casino & Resort along the waterfront and a thriving arts scene. State Street features independent boutiques, cafes, and the restored 1926 Proctors Theatre, which hosts Broadway shows and performances throughout the year. Transportation options include Amtrak rail service, CDTA bus routes connecting to Albany and surrounding communities, and easy access to Interstate 890 and the New York State Thruway. Major employers include General Electric, which maintains its steam turbine manufacturing facilities in the city, along with healthcare and education sectors.