Cities and Towns in Rensselaer County, New York

Founded in 1791, Rensselaer County is one of 62 counties in the state of New York. Historically, Rensselaer County was formed from Albany County. The city of Troy is the county seat. With FIPS code of 83, Rensselaer County has a population of 160,232 and area of 665 square miles (1,722 km²).

List of all cities in Rensselaer County, NY alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Albia, NY 12180 518
Alps, NY 12018 518
Averill Park, NY 12018 518
Berlin, NY 12022 518
Boyntonville, NY 12090 518
Brainard, NY 12024 518
Brookview, NY 12033 518
Brunswick, NY 12180 518
Burden Lake, NY 12018 518
Buskirk, NY 12028 518
Castleton, NY 12033 518
Castleton on Hudson, NY 12033 518
Center Berlin, NY 12022 518
Center Brunswick, NY 12180 518
Cherry Plain, NY 12040 518
Cherryplain, NY 12040 518
Cropseyville, NY 12052 518
12144 518
Dunham Hollow, NY 12018 518
Eagle Bridge, NY 12057 518
Eagle Mills, NY 12180 518
East Greenbush, NY 12061 518
East Nassau, NY 12062 518
East Poestenkill, NY 12018 518
East Schodack, NY 12063 518
Easton, NY 12154 518
Glass Lake, NY 12018 518
Grafton, NY 12082 518
Hoag Corners, NY 12062 518
Hoosick, NY 12089 518
Hoosick Falls, NY 12090 518
Hoosick Junction, NY 12133 518
Johnsonville, NY 12094 518
Lansingburg, NY 12182 518
Melrose, NY 12121 518
Nassau, NY 12123 518
North Greenbush, NY 12198 518
North Hoosick, NY 12133 518
North Petersburg, NY 12138 518
Petersburg, NY 12138 518
Petersburgh, NY 12138 518
Pleasantdale, NY 12182 518
Poestenkill, NY 12140 518
Raymertown, NY 12180 518
Rensselaer, NY 12144 518
Sand Lake, NY 12153 518
Schaghticoke, NY 12154 518
Schodack Landing, NY 12156 518
Snyders Corners, NY 12180 518
Snyders Lake, NY 12180 518
South Schodack, NY 12033 518
Speigletown, NY 12180 518
12182 518
Stephentown, NY 12168 518
12169 518
Stephentown Center, NY 12168 518
Sycaway, NY 12180 518
Taborton, NY 12153 518
Taconic Lake, NY 12138 518
Troy, NY 12180 518
12181 518
12182 518
Valley Falls, NY 12185 518
Walloomsac, NY 12090 518
West Sand Lake, NY 12196 518
West Valley Falls, NY 12185 518
White Creek, NY 12057 518
Wynantskill, NY 12198 518

Major Cities and Towns in Rensselaer County, New York

Troy

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 2.8 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 50,000 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 12180-12182, 12183
  • Latitude: 42.7284° N
  • Longitude: 73.6918° W

City Location and History

Troy, located along the eastern bank of the Hudson River, is one of Rensselaer County’s most historically significant cities. It was first settled in the late 18th century and incorporated in 1816. Troy quickly became an industrial powerhouse during the 19th century, known particularly for its iron and steel industries, textile mills, and the production of precision tools. The city earned the nickname “The Collar City” due to its dominance in producing shirt collars and cuffs, an important part of the textile industry. Troy was a key player in the nation’s industrial revolution and its growth was heavily fueled by its location along the Hudson River, which provided easy access to transportation and trade. As the 20th century progressed, the city’s industrial base began to decline, but in recent decades, Troy has experienced a revitalization, particularly in its downtown area, with an emphasis on preserving its rich architectural heritage. Today, Troy is known for its vibrant arts scene, historical landmarks, and proximity to educational institutions like Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Major Schools and Landmarks

Troy is home to several major educational institutions, most notably Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), one of the oldest and most prestigious technical universities in the United States. The city is also served by the Troy City School District, which includes several elementary and secondary schools. Landmarks in Troy include the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, one of the oldest and most acoustically significant concert venues in the country, and the Elihu Root House, a historic building named after the influential 19th-century lawyer and politician. The Oakwood Cemetery, with its remarkable collection of 19th-century monuments, is another significant historical site. Downtown Troy boasts impressive 19th-century architecture, including grand buildings such as the Troy City Hall and the Burden Iron Works Museum, which highlight the city’s industrial past. Additionally, the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway offers stunning views of the river and surrounding area. The city’s vibrant arts scene, including art galleries, performance spaces, and annual events such as the Troy Riverfront Jazz Festival, make it a hub of culture in the region.

East Greenbush

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 23.8 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 16,000 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 12061, 12144
  • Latitude: 42.6075° N
  • Longitude: 73.7832° W

City Location and History

East Greenbush is located just to the east of the city of Albany, directly across the Hudson River from the state capital. Historically part of the town of Greenbush, it was established as its own town in 1855. The area’s early history is tied to its strategic location along the Hudson River, making it an important transportation and trade route during the 18th and 19th centuries. The construction of the Erie Canal in the early 1800s further boosted the area’s significance as a hub for shipping and commerce. Over the years, East Greenbush transformed from a rural farming community to a suburban area as Albany expanded. Today, it is a growing residential town with a strong focus on education and community development. East Greenbush benefits from its proximity to Albany, offering suburban living while being close to the amenities and opportunities of the state capital. The town has also preserved many parks and natural areas, contributing to its appeal as a family-friendly community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

East Greenbush is home to several highly regarded public schools, most notably those within the East Greenbush Central School District, which includes Columbia High School, known for its academic excellence. The district also offers various elementary and middle schools. A significant landmark in the town is The Greenbush Historic District, which preserves buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, reflecting the area’s historical importance in early American life. The Albany-Hudson Electric Trail, a multi-use trail that stretches along the old railway corridor, offers opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and biking. The town is also home to several parks, such as Wynantskill Park and Schodack Island State Park, which provide recreational options and scenic views of the Hudson River. East Greenbush has also developed a growing business community, with retail and commercial centers providing services to both residents and visitors. The town’s strong sense of community is reflected in its various annual events, including parades, festivals, and farmers’ markets that celebrate local culture.

Schodack

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 55.3 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 14,000 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 12033, 12052, 12123
  • Latitude: 42.5101° N
  • Longitude: 73.7386° W

Town Location and History

Schodack is located to the southeast of Albany, bordering the Hudson River to the west and extending into the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains. The town’s name is derived from a Native American term, possibly referring to a place where “the stream divides.” Schodack was settled in the late 17th century by Dutch and English colonists and was part of the original Rensselaerwyck patroonship. As a rural farming community, Schodack remained relatively undeveloped until the 19th century when the construction of the Erie Canal helped boost transportation and trade in the region. The town has a rich agricultural history, with local farms producing crops and livestock that supported the larger cities nearby. In recent decades, Schodack has developed as a suburban community, attracting families seeking more space while still being close to Albany. Despite its growth, Schodack has maintained a more rural character with plenty of open space and natural beauty.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Schodack is served by the Schodack Central School District, which includes Maple Hill High School, a public school known for its strong academic programs. The town is also home to several small private schools and daycare centers. Schodack is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Schodack Island State Park, located along the Hudson River, is one of the town’s primary recreational attractions, offering hiking, fishing, and boating opportunities. The town also includes several preserved historic sites, including The Van Schaick Mansion, built in the 18th century and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the Schodack Town Hall, a historic building that reflects the community’s roots. The town’s scenic countryside and proximity to the Hudson River make it a popular location for residents who enjoy rural living with easy access to urban amenities. Schodack is also home to a number of small, local businesses that contribute to its charming, close-knit community atmosphere.