Thinking about making a move to Guilderland, NY? If you’re searching for a welcoming, community-oriented neighborhood with a little bit of everything, Westmere might just fit the bill. Situated just west of Albany along the Route 20 corridor, Westmere combines the comfort of suburban living with unbeatable convenience. Let’s take a closer look at what it’s really like to call Westmere home.
Community Vibe: Friendly, Diverse, and Active
The word you’ll hear most from Westmere residents? "Welcoming." There’s a strong sense of community spirit in this neighborhood — new arrivals are greeted warmly, whether you’re a family with children or looking to downsize and enjoy a quieter lifestyle. The blend of longtime residents and newcomers adds to the friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere.
Neighbors often stop to chat during walks along Westmere’s tree-lined streets or meet at local parks for seasonal events. The Westmere Fire Department on Westmere Terrace regularly hosts open houses and children’s activities, creating a true small-town feel in the heart of the Capital Region.
Types of Housing: Something for Everyone
Westmere’s housing stock is pleasantly varied. Here, you’ll find:
- Classic mid-century ranches and Cape Cods along Fuller Road, Gipp Road, and Westmere Terrace
- Spacious Colonials and split-levels tucked into side streets like Meadowdale Drive and Amherst Avenue
- Quaint cottages and bungalows, especially near Crossgates Mall’s eastern border
- Modern townhomes and condos in developments such as Presidential Estates and Presidential Towers off Western Avenue
Larger lots and mature landscaping add a sense of privacy and comfort, and the well-cared-for homes reflect a pride of ownership throughout the neighborhood. Whether you’re seeking your first home or looking to upgrade, Westmere offers a range of price points and styles.
Walkability: Everyday Conveniences Within Reach
One of Westmere’s standout features is its walkability. On any given day, you’ll see joggers, dog-walkers, and cyclists making good use of the sidewalks along Western Avenue (Route 20), Gipp Road, and nearby residential streets.
- The popular Westmere Plaza, anchored by Hannaford Supermarket and featuring a CVS, local eateries, and essential services, is accessible by foot from most homes.
- SUNY Plaza Trail and sidewalks along Fuller Road provide direct, safe routes to nearby shopping and bus stops.
- Within a short walk, you’ll find everything from bakeries and gyms to coffee shops and family-owned businesses.
With so many daily needs just steps away, it’s easy to park the car and truly enjoy the neighborhood at a human scale.
Schools and Family-Friendliness: Top Notch and Welcoming
Families are drawn to Westmere for its outstanding school options and kid-friendly amenities. The heart of the neighborhood is the highly regarded Westmere Elementary School on Western Avenue, part of the Guilderland Central School District. Known for its caring teachers and strong sense of community, Westmere Elementary is a hub of neighborhood activity year-round.
Older students attend Farnsworth Middle School and Guilderland High School, both of which receive high marks for academics, arts, and sports. Outside the classroom, families have access to:
- Safe, walkable routes to schools, with crossing guards at major intersections
- Numerous after-school programs, including local sports leagues and Scouts
- Family-friendly events such as summer outdoor movies and seasonal craft fairs
Parks and Green Spaces: Room to Roam
Despite its proximity to major roads and shopping, Westmere is rich in green space. Residents enjoy:
- Westmere Town Park on Hawes Road, with playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking loops
- The 10-acre Tawasentha Park slightly south, offering swimming, trails, disc golf, and summer concerts
- Community gardens and shaded walking paths near Presidential Estates
Pocket parks and open fields dot the landscape, giving kids and adults plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
Safety: Peace of Mind and Proactive Community
Safety is a top priority for Westmere residents. The neighborhood benefits from an active Neighborhood Watch program and close relationships with the Guilderland Police Department and Westmere Fire Department. Well-lit streets, attentive neighbors, and regular patrols contribute to a feeling of security, day and night.
Parents appreciate that children can bike or walk to friends’ houses and parks with confidence — a rarity in more densely populated areas.
Proximity to Downtown, Shopping, and Major Employers
Westmere’s location is a commuter’s dream. You’re just:
- 10-15 minutes to downtown Albany via Western Avenue or Route 5
- 5 minutes to Crossgates Mall for shopping, dining, and entertainment
- A short drive to SUNY Albany, Albany Medical Center, and State Offices on Washington Avenue Extension
Bus service via CDTA’s Route 10 and Route 12 links Westmere to Albany and Schenectady, further expanding commuter options.
What Residents Love Most
Ask residents what keeps them in Westmere, and the answer is consistently heartfelt: it’s the people, the parks, and the perfect blend of suburban calm and urban convenience. The ability to take evening strolls along quiet streets like Chimney Sweep Road or enjoy impromptu neighborly gatherings at Westmere Park leaves a lasting impression.
Many say it’s the kind of place where you can “put down roots” and know your neighbors — yet still have all the amenities and energy of the Capital Region at your fingertips.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering Guilderland and want a neighborhood that’s safe, inviting, and endlessly convenient, Westmere deserves a spot at the top of your list. From top-notch schools and green spaces to vibrant community connections, it’s easy to see why so many call Westmere home — and why, once you settle in, you may never want to leave.