Orange Lake is purportedly named for its round lake, which is shaped like an orange. Go figure.
An old world gem, right off of the Hudson River Valley! Though technically part of Newburgh, Orange Lake has a feel all its own. Indeed, it is a fantastic place to gather "round," with numerous famous people having traveling through over the years. And, like an orange, it is a treat for all. Frank Sinatra himself stayed in Orange Lake, performing there and "singing its praises." This tranquil community, only 73 miles upstate from NYC, provides all the homey warmth and comfort of small town New England life, with hints of the 20th century glamour that put Orange Lake on the map.
Moving to Orange Lake
Median rent in Orange Lake is a bit higher than other cities, but the median household income has risen significantly since the year 2000, so economic growth here is likely what's driving these higher rents. Folks are making more money in Orange Lake and are able to pay a bit more to live there. People value the tranquility and beauty here, as well as its proximity to the Big Apple and the world renowned Dia Beacon Museum just a few miles away.
Renting
When should you look for apartment rentals in Orange Lake? As winters can be chilly and a bit snowy, spring, summer, or fall might be the best times. Check out the New York Gazetteer and other online listings to help you with your search.
Once you've found a home, be prepared that if you're really serious about renting a place, you'll need to put down first and last month's rent, plus a security deposit. This is standard here in Orange Lake, as well as many other places. To ensure that you get the place you want, you'll need to print out your credit report. You can find these online, sometimes free, but generally you will have to pay a small fee. In addition, you should provide your tax return from last year or copies of recent pay stubs. This is just some reassurance to your potential landlord that you will not completely flake on them. Show them the money! Lastly, you'll want to include references from previous landlords, along with contact information. Your potential landlord might not even call these former landlords, but simply providing this information helps to put their mind at ease.
Neighborhoods in Orange Lake
The neighborhood action in Orange Lake tends to focus around, yes, the lake. Since there is no public access, one must either own or rent a lakefront property to enjoy the recreational possibilities of the water. On the west side of the lake, Rock Cut Drive provides numerous housing opportunities. On the east side, running along Lakeside Rd. sits the Orange Lake Estates community, a highly desirable place to live! Orange Lake has fewer options to find apartments and condo rentals than other cities nearby, like Newburgh. However, if you're in the market for housing for rent, you've found a great spot.
Orange Lake Estates: Running along Lakeside Drive, Orange Lake Estates directly abuts the eastern shore of Orange Lake between South Plank and North Plank roads. Expect to pay a bit more for places to live in this area, certainly for the lakefront access, but also for the easy access to the Interstate Highway 87, which runs close to the neighborhood northwards all the way to the tip of New York State.
West Orange Lake: Less easily accessible to Interstate Highway 87 than Orange Lake Estates, but for some folks, that might be a good thing! Expect similar properties to Orange Lake Estates, albeit with a smaller rental pool.
Living in Orange Lake
It's easy to soak in the serenity and tranquility of Orange Lake. The area has been continuously settled since the days of the Native Americans, who called the lake "Oussak." Dutch settlers later moved in, and finally, in 1684, industry arrived to the area when numerous mills popped up along Bushlet Creek, an outlet from the lake. Yes, Orange Lake is indeed very old! You can truly sense the history here. In fact, the one room schoolhouse built in 1849 was in continuous use until 1952! Time indeed slows down here for the town's 6,982 residents, with the tranquility blowing across the lake's surface like a fresh breeze.
Dia Beacon, just a few miles away, is a world-class art museum center that focuses on modern and large-scale works. Every visit here is rewarded with fresh insights. The scale of the place is simply mind boggling! They also have rotating exhibits so be sure to check in frequently on what they're currently showing, in addition to their permanent exhibits.
Adams Fairacre Farm is a local favorite for shopping and dining, with the freshest farm produce, a meat market, and a florist all in one. After picking up your groceries, you can head over to the Downing Film Center, a hub for local cinemaphiles and lovers of classic and independent cinema. It's a nice antidote to the mega-mall IMAX movie experience. For a further taste of local flavor, hit up the Newburgh Brewing Company for freshly crafted brews and fantastic bar food.
For something more nature friendly, a short drive outside town is the Lawrence Farms Orchards, where one can harvest apples straight from the tree, play in a pumpkin patch, ride a horse, and so much more. It's a great place to spend the day.
After that, you can hit the Commodore Chocolatier, which produces the area's finest chocolate. If you want a dining spot right on the lake, make sure to hit up the Lake View House, which provides down home food with a fantastic view.
Orange Lake, with its storied history, famed resort, and the famous figures who have passed through, has more than its fair share of glamorous history. But today Orange Lake is having another moment in the sun. There are numerous shops and yes, you could always hop on the train or Interstate 87 and pop down to NYC, but perhaps you've chosen Orange Lake because its tranquility is precisely what attracts you, as it has attracted famed performers and artist in its long history.
