RPI offers a service through their web site to aid people looking for apartment housing in the Troy and Albany areas. You may have to leave your name and number first and someone from RPI will call back to answer your questions. Albany and its surrounding suburbs have a wide variety of available housing at just as varied prices. Keep in mind that these numbers are very rough and you will find the best deals if you take some time to call landlords in advance and select a number of apartments to visit before making a commitment. Prices in the area are generally very reasonable.
Gas prices are on the low side for New York State, and other products run at about average levels.
Most other taxes you will likely not have to worry about if you decide to rent or room at a nearby college. UCS has a very nice facility in Troy. It is in a quiet and spacious park-like area while at the same time not being too far from some nice restaurants and shopping centers for lunch or other chores.