Are you ready to leave the hustle and bustle of New York City for more greenery, and more space? Thinking of making the move to the suburbs of New York? You are not alone.
Every year, many people move out of NYC to the New York suburb trading in their high-rise NYC apartments for homes in the NY suburbs.
In fact, it was 20 years ago when my husband and I moved to the New York suburbs, we moved out of our Manhattan Upper East Side apartment and to the suburbs of New Jersey.
Our journey didn’t end there, though, and we found ourselves continue exploring the suburbs near NYC.
Ultimately, we settled down in the picture-perfect community of Greenwich, CT, moving to Greenwich was the best decision we’ve made.
Looking back, I remember feeling clueless and lost when we started our house hunting in the New York suburbs. There was so much to consider, so much we didn’t know.
Check out my advice on Moving to Westchester County.
We house-hunted all over the New York suburbs- from New Jersey to Westchester to Connecticut to Long Island!
To help you get started on your move to the New York suburbs, I’ve put together this guide to the top 19 suburbs in New York.
I chose these Manhattan suburbs because they not only have an easy commute to New York City (direct train or bus service), but these NY suburbs also have all the amenities an ex-city dweller would want: convenient shopping, great restaurants, expansive parks, and even beautiful beaches. Yes, it’s true — you can have it all!
The top NYC suburbs are not listed in any order. Use this guide as a starting point for your move to the New York suburbs.
My advice to you is for you to tour as many towns in the New York suburbs (not just the ones on this list!)- house hunt everywhere and you will find the NY suburb that is perfect for you!
Best NYC Suburbs
Greenwich, CT
Median Sale Price: $1,710,154
Fastest Train to NYC: 49 minutes
Greenwich, CT is a really nice suburb of New York City. It has the best of everything- an easy commute to NYC, beaches and amazing shops and restaurants in downtown Greenwich.
Located in Connecticut just past the New York border, Greenwich is only a 50 minute Metro North train ride to Midtown Manhattan.
Greenwich is one of the richest towns in Connecticut, with a median sale price of $1,710,154.
One of the best things about living in Greenwich are the beaches. Greenwich residents are lucky to have not just one but three beaches right in town. There is also a private island for Greenwich residents to enjoy!
Another great thing about Greenwich is Greenwich Avenue. It’s the Rodeo Drive of the East Coast with luxury shops from Saks to Hermès, there is no need to go to Manhattan for shopping!
In fact, Greenwich Sidewalk Sale is the shopping event of the year, drawing shoppers from neighboring towns.
When it comes to groceries, Greenwich doesn’t disappoint either. The town has New York food markets like Citarella and Balducci’s that Manhattan residents are accustomed to, as well as big box stores like Costco for more everyday needs.
Low property taxes is one of the main advantages of living in Greenwich. Property taxes in Greenwich is considerably lower than Westchester County taxes and New Jersey taxes.
Greenwich is a great place to live because you get to enjoy the Connecticut Coastal lifestyle while still being close to New York City- close enough to relax on the beach during the day and watch a Broadway show by night.
Full disclosure: I live in Greenwich!
Check out how much it costs to live in Greenwich. It costs over $17,000 a month for a family of four to live in Greenwich!
Find out what it’s like to live in Greenwich with our interviews with local Greenwich residents:
Why Alessandra Messineo Long loves living in Greenwich, CT
Why Stephanie Norton loves living in Old Greenwich, CT
Katie Fong Biglin’s Life in Greenwich
Montclair, NJ
Median Sale Price: $895,231
Train to NYC (Bay Street): 38 minutes
Bus to NYC (Express Bus from Montclair Heights): 33 minutes
Montclair, NJ is one of the best New Jersey suburbs to commute to NYC.
Montclair has a median sale price of homes of $895,231.
The easy commute to NYC is a significant draw to living in Montclair. An express bus can get you to NYC in 33 minutes, while the train takes just 38 minutes, making Montclair a practical choice for daily commuters.
The town has a vibrant downtown full of shops, bars, and restaurants, which contributes to its appeal. The downtown area is walkable, making it easy for residents. We interviewed Montclair chefs– find out where their go-to restaurants are!
There’s also no shortage of activities in Montclair, as the town hosts several events and attractions. These include the Montclair Jazz Festival, the Montclair Farmers Markets, and the Montclair Art Museum.
In addition, residents can enjoy the ice-skating pond in Edgemont Park during the winter months and summer movies and concerts in the summer. Not to forget the Fourth of July parade, a beloved annual event.
Find out what it’s like to live in Montclair with our interviews with Lauren, a Montclair resident and Laura, a Montclair mom.
Bronxville, NY
Median Sale Price: $1,356,115
Fastest Train to NYC: 31 minutes
Bronxville, NY is one of the best places to live and commute to NYC due to its proximity to New York City.
As one of the closest NY suburbs in Westchester County, Bronxville is an easy commute to the city with just a 35-minute Metro-North train ride to Midtown Manhattan.
Bronxville is one of the richest towns in Westchester County with a median sale price of homes of $1,356,115.
Bronxville residents don’t have to venture far for good food. It has a bustling downtown with shops and restaurants including Michelin award-winning restaurants.
Notably, Bronxville is home to Tredici Social, a restaurant that has earned the Michelin Bib Gourmand award.
Bronxville also has a small-town feel. The village only spans 1 square mile, which makes it very walkable. This means most of Bronxville, including the train station, is within walking distance for most residents.
If you are looking for a walkable New York City suburb that is within a 35 minute train ride to NYC, Bronxville is a good option.
Check out: How Much Does it Cost to Live in Bronxville, NY? ($17,000+ a month)
Find out what it’s really like to live in Bronxville with our interviews with local Bronxville residents: Maura Fitzgerald’s Life in Bronxville, NY and Adrienne Harper’s Move from Boston to Bronxville, NY
Roslyn, NY
Median Sale Price: $990,577
Train to NYC: 50 minutes
Roslyn, NY, located on the North Shore of Long Island, is one of the nicest suburbs of New York.
Roslyn has a median sale price of homes of $990,577.
One of Roslyn’s main attractions is its high-quality education. The Roslyn Union Free School District consistently ranks among the best school districts in Long Island.
It’s also an easy commute to NYC. The LIRR train ride from Roslyn to New York City is 50 minutes. The Roslyn LIRR station is conveniently located within walking distance of the downtown area.
Roslyn’s downtown is both charming and walkable. There is a clock tower, a lot of shops and restaurants plus a movie theater. There is also Gerry Pond Park right downtown where children can feed the ducks in the pond and play in the playground.
For those who enjoy retail therapy, Roslyn’s location just a quick 5-minute drive from Americana Manhasset, an upscale shopping mall, adds another level of appeal.
Roslyn residents also enjoy beach access at North Hempstead Beach Park, 34 acres of sandy beach with a promenade.
Scarsdale, NY
Median Sale Price: $1,730,343
Fastest Train to NYC: 35 minutes
Scarsdale, NY stands out as one of the best suburbs outside NYC for several reasons- proximity to New York City and its top-rated schools.
Scarsdale is an easy train ride to New York City. The Metro North train ride from Scarsdale to Manhattan is just 35-40 minutes.
Scarsdale is an affluent town with a median sale price of $1,730,343.
The Scarsdale School District is consistently recognized as one of the top public school districts in Westchester County. Niche.com ranks Scarsdale as the number 1 school district in Westchester County.
It’s also convenient to live in Scarsdale with its bustling downtown, Scarsdale residents don’t have to venture far for shopping and food.
Additionally, upscale Westchester Mall in White Plains is just a 10 minute drive.
Scarsdale is also home to many restaurants including Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant, Cafe Alaia.
With great schools and an easy commute to Manhattan, it’s easy to see why Suburbs is an attractive New York City suburb.
Find out: How Much Does It Cost to Live in Scarsdale, NY? ($14,000+ a month)
Edgewater, NJ
Median Sale Price: $642,981
Ferry to NYC: 20 minutes
Edgewater, NJ is one of the best NJ suburbs of NYC. Located just across the Hudson River from Manhattan, Edgewater is a waterfront town with impressive views of New York City and the Hudson River.
Edgewater has a median sale price of homes of $642,981, making waterfront living affordable!
Residents enjoy an easy commute to NYC. Edgewater residents can take the ferry to New York City and be in midtown Manhattan in 20 minutes. It’s perfect for daily commuters who live near the ferry!
Edgewater is also a haven for shoppers, home to Cityplace Mall, big-box stores like Target, TJ Maxx, Old Navy, and popular Asian food market, Mitsuwa. Edgewater residents enjoy a variety of shopping close to home.
Adding to the town’s charm is the Edgewater boardwalk. It’s a fantastic place for walking and jogging while enjoying the phenomenal views of the Hudson River.
Larchmont, NY
Median Sale Price: $1,396,818
Fastest Train to NYC: 36 minutes
Larchmont, NY is one of the top suburbs in New York.
It’s one of the few Westchester County towns with its own beach. With Larchmont located right on the water, residents can enjoy swimming, boating, and paddleboarding at the town beach, Larchmont Manor Park.
Larchmont is one of the wealthiest towns in the New York suburbs with a median sale price of homes of $1,396,818.
Larchmont’s proximity to New York City is another significant benefit. It’s an easy Metro North train ride from Larchmont to New York City. Larchmont residents can get to midtown Manhattan in just 36 minutes.
One of Larchmont’s best features is its walkability. Residents can easily walk, bike, or rollerblade to schools, stores, and restaurants.
There is also a bustling downtown in Larchmont, making it easy and convenient for its residents.
For families, Larchmont offers a variety of kids activities. From Hammocks Park ice rink to the town pool, there are a lot of family friendly activities in Larchmont.
How much does it cost to live in Larchmont, NY? According to our Larchmont Cost of Living Calculator, it will cost a family of four $14,587.83 per month to live in Larchmont.
Short Hills, NJ
Median Sale Price: $2,070,000
Train to NYC: 38 minutes (Short Hills station)
Short Hills is one of the best suburbs of NYC. It is a very affluent NJ town with excellent schools and an easy commute to NYC.
It’s expensive to live in Short Hills with the median sale price of homes at $2,070,000!
But it may be worth the hefty price tag since Short Hills is one of the few NJ towns with direct trains to NYC.
It only takes 38 minutes to commute from Short Hills to NYC!
Aside from the easy commute to NYC, Short Hills is also one of the best NYC suburbs for families because of its top-rated schools.
Short Hills school district, Millburn Township Public Schools, is consistently ranked as the best school district in New Jersey.
Short Hills is also famous for The Mall at Short Hills, known for its luxury stores and upscale shopping experience.
Dobbs Ferry, NY
Median Sale Price: $844,339
Fastest Train to NYC: 40 minutes
Dobbs Ferry, NY is one of the best New York suburbs to live in.
Located along the Hudson River, Dobbs Ferry is a popular Rivertown, which makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy living close to the water.
There are many waterfront properties in Dobbs Ferry. With a median home price of $844,339, Dobbs Ferry is one of the most affordable towns in Westchester County.
Dobbs Ferry residents can enjoy the local Waterfront Park for town events and to watch the Fourth of July fireworks.
One of the main draws of living in Dobbs Ferry is its easy commute to Manhattan. The Metro North train ride from Dobbs Ferry to NYC is only 40 minutes.
Dobbs Ferry has a bustling downtown. Residents can enjoy the shops and restaurants on Cedar Street and Main Street, including, The Cookery, a Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded restaurant.
Check out the Most affordable Rivertowns
White Plains, NY
Median Sale Price: $527,173
Fastest Train to NYC: 38 minutes
White Plains, NY is one of the best suburbs near Manhattan. Located in the heart of lower Westchester County, White Plains is a popular commuter town with an urban vibe.
White Plains is one of the most affordable most affordable suburbs near NYC towns with a median sale price of homes of $527,173.
One of the best things about living in White Plains is the easy commute to Manhattan. It only takes 38 minutes on the Metro North to NYC.
There is a high frequency of Metro-North trains in the White Plains station because it is an express MTA stop, meaning minimal waiting times for commuters.
Living in White Plains combines the benefits of suburban living with easy access to NYC.
The town is akin to a small, walkable city, with a multitude of restaurants and shops along Mamaroneck Avenue. Upscale Westchester Mall is also located in White Plains, offering a broad range of shopping options.
For those who appreciate good food, White Plains offers a vibrant restaurant scene. The town is home to TVB by Pax Romana, a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant.
A unique benefit of living in White Plains is the availability of a Universal Pre-K program. This allows 4-year-old residents to attend Pre-K for free.
Easy commute to NYC, affordability and vibrant downtown make White Plains an appealing NY suburb to live in.
Hoboken, NJ
Median Sale Price: $831,115
Fastest Train to NYC: 38 minutes
Hoboken, NJ is one of the closest suburbs to Manhattan. It is a top choice among New Jersey suburbs near NYC for a number of reasons. One of the main draws of living in Hoboken is the fast commute to NYC.
Hoboken is the New York suburb with the fastest commute to NYC on this list. With the PATH train, Hoboken is just a 9-minute ride to Christopher Street and 16 minutes to midtown Manhattan!
Hoboken has a bustling downtown with lots of restaurants and shops. The best part is Hoboken is a very walkable town.
Hoboken’s waterfront location is also a big draw. There are many waterfront condos and homes in Hoboken with stunning views of Manhattan.
With a median sale price of $831,115, you get more bang for the buck by living in Hoboken than by living in Manhattan. Don’t forget the amazing views of the Manhattan skyline from Hoboken!
Find out what it’s like to live in Hoboken with our interview with a Hoboken resident
Rye, NY
Median Sale Price: $1,730,343
Fastest Train to NYC: 43 minutes
Rye, NY is one of the nicest suburbs in New York for several reasons.
Rye is one of the most affluent suburbs of New York City with a median sale price of homes of $1,730,343.
The ease of commuting to Manhattan is a standout feature, with the Metro North train ride from Rye to Midtown only taking 45 minutes.
It’s also one of the few towns in Westchester County to have a beach- in fact 2 beaches! Rye residents can enjoy Rye Town Beach or Rye Playland Beach.
Additionally, four private Westchester County beach clubs are located Rye (Manursing Beach, Coveleigh, Shenorock and Westchester County Club).
Rye also has a bustling downtown with lots of shops and restaurants on Purchase Street, including Rafele Rye, a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant.
Downtown Rye is conveniently walkable. You can easily walk from Rye Metro North train station to Rye Library to the Rye Y and to the shops and restaurants on Purchase Street.
Beyond the downtown area, Rye is a 5 minute drive to the shops and restaurants in Rye Ridge Shopping Center and 10 minute drive to nearby shopping areas including the upscale Westchester Mall, Target and Greenwich Avenue in Greenwich, CT.
Check out: How Much Does it Cost to Live in Rye, NY? ($16,000+ a month for a family of four!)
Mineola, NY
Median Sale Price: $633,356
Train to NYC: 33 minutes
Mineola, NY is one of the best NYC suburbs to live in.
Mineola is one of the most affordable towns on Long Island with a median sale price of $633,356.
Easy commute to NYC is what sets Mineola apart. The town serves as a hub for the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), and there are many direct trains to New York City.
The train ride from Mineola to Penn Station in Manhattan is a quick 33 minutes!
Mineola isn’t just about the commute, though. The town has great recreational facilities.
The John S. DaVanzo Community Pool at Wilson Park is a popular spot during the warmer months. With a 25-foot figure-eight slide and a diving board, it offers fun and relaxation for all ages.
Other recreational facilities include tennis and basketball courts, and there are numerous parks and playgrounds scattered throughout the town.
Mineola has a vibrant downtown with shops and restaurants. Plus the downtown is walkable, adding to the charm and convenience of living in Mineola.
And Mineola is a short 8-minute drive to Roosevelt Field Mall, one of the largest malls in New York State.
Summit, NJ
Median Sale Price: $1,106,346
Fastest Train to NYC: 43 minutes
Summit, NJ is one of the best New York City suburbs in New Jersey.
Summit is one of the richest New Jersey suburbs with a median sale price of $1,106,346.
It’s an easy commute to NYC, the train ride from Summit to New York Penn Station takes only 43 minutes.
Summit has a bustling downtown with lots of restaurants and shops. Whether it’s Asian, Italian, Steak or Classic Diner food- you can find a restaurant in Summit to satisfy your craving.
Summit also has walkable downtown- perfect for ex-city dwellers!
There are lots of things to do in Summit, residents have a variety of recreational options such as sports facilities at Memorial Field, a municipal pool, the Summit YMCA, and a 9-hole golf course. The city is also home to the Reeves-Reed Arboretum, which offers activities like summer camp, kids’ cooking classes, yoga, and hiking.
Englewood, NJ
Median Sale Price: $ 487,192
Bus to NYC: 35 minutes
Englewood, NJ is one of the best NJ suburbs for NYC commute due to its close proximity to the city, just across the George Washington Bridge.
Its convenient location makes it a commuter-friendly town, with express buses to midtown Manhattan from Englewood taking only 35 minutes.
Englewood is also one of the most affordable NYC suburbs with a median sale price of $487,192.
The downtown area of Englewood is bustling with shops and restaurants. The town hosts the annual Englewood Sidewalk Sale drawing shoppers from neighboring towns.
Englewood is also only 20 minutes away from Paramus Mall and 15 minutes away from Bergen Town Center, one of New Jersey’s outlet malls.
Englewood is home to top private schools like Dwight-Englewood School and Elisabeth Morrow School.
Health services in Englewood are top-notch, thanks to Englewood Hospital, recognized as one of the best hospitals in NJ.
Darien, CT
Median Sale Price: $1,656,964
Train to NYC: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Darien, CT, is one of the best CT suburbs of NYC. It is an affluent coastal community, in lower Fairfield County and is one of the best suburbs north of NYC.
With a median sale price of homes of $1,656,964, Darien residents enjoy easy access to New York City and the tranquil life of seaside living.
Beach access is one of the main draws of the town’s appeal. Darien boasts two town beaches, Pear Tree Point Beach and Weed Beach, where residents can indulge in kayaking, fishing, boating or just relaxing at the beach. It’s a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Darien’s downtown is another key feature of its charm. Recent revitalizations, including the development of the Corbin District and Darien Commons, have brought new vitality to the town center. Darien residents can enjoy a wide variety of shopping and dining options without having to leave town.
The easy commute to NYC is another reason why it’s great to live in Darien. The town offers direct Metro-North train service to New York City, with travel times averaging just 1 hour and 5 minutes.
In fact, Darien residents can choose between 2 Metro North train stations- Noroton Heights Station or Darien Station.
The combination of coastal living, easy commuting to New York City, and a bustling downtown full of shops and restaurants make Darien, CT, one of the best New York suburbs.
Check out our interviews with Darien Residents: Shannon Doherty and Stephanie Trotta
Morristown, NJ
Median Sale Price: $696,731
Train to NYC: 1 hour
Morristown, NJ is one of the best NJ towns to live in and commute to NYC. It’s a charming small town, with an area of just 3 square miles.
Morristown is one of the most affordable NYC suburbs with a median sale price of $696,731.
Ease of commuting is one of Morristown’s main draws. The Morristown train station has direct trains to Penn Station. It only takes an hour to commute from Morristown to New York City.
This convenience makes Morristown an attractive spot for those who work in the city but prefer to live in a suburban environment.
Strategically located, Morristown is also just 1.5 hours away from the Poconos perfect for a quick weekend getaway! Plus Morristown is only 38 minutes away from Campgaw Ski Resort means that winter sports enthusiasts are never far from the slopes.
Morristown has a bustling downtown, centered around Morristown Green, a historic park. Shops and restaurants surround Morristown Green.
Entertainment options are abundant in Morristown. Residents can watch a show or a concert at the Mayo Performing Arts Center.
For the active and outdoor-minded, Morristown also offers plenty of recreational facilities. The Burnham Pool is a popular town pool during the summer months, the Mennen Sports Arena for ice skating and Seaton Hackney Stables for horseback riding.
The town is also dotted with parks and playgrounds.
Port Washington, NY
Median Sale Price: $1,057,799
Train to NYC: 35 minutes
Port Washington, NY is one of the best Manhattan suburbs.
Located on the North Shore of Long Island, it’s easy to see why Port Washington is one of the best suburbs of New York City with its charming downtown, waterfront location, top-tier schools, and a quick commute to NYC.
With a median sale price of homes of $1,057,799, Port Washington residents enjoy waterfront living.
Port Washington Union Free School District consistently ranks among the best school districts on Long Island.
Convenience for commuters is another advantage. Port Washington is a quick 35-minute train ride on the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) from New York City.
This easy commuting distance makes Port Washington a very attractive NYC suburb.
The downtown area of Port Washington is both appealing and family-friendly. The main street features a variety of dining options that cater to a wide range of tastes, from pizza to ramen, providing something for everyone.
The beach is also a main draw for living in Port Washington. North Hempstead Beach Park is 34 acres of sandy beach with a promenade for residents to enjoy a peaceful walk along the waterfront. There is also a fishing pier and boat ramp for residents to enjoy.
If you’re looking for a place that combines the comforts of a small town with waterfront living, Port Washington has it.
Mamaroneck, NY
Median Sale Price: $728,154
Fastest Train to NYC: 40 minutes
Mamaroneck, NY is one of the best suburbs of New York City. Its charm lies in its blend of suburban living with convenient accessibility to the city’s hustle and bustle.
Mamaroneck is one of the most affordable towns in Westchester County with a median home price of $728,154.
One of the standout features of Mamaroneck is its easy commute to NYC. Located just a 40-minute Metro North train ride from New York City, it’s an ideal home for commuters who want a break from city life, but still need to be in close proximity to New York City.
The heart of Mamaroneck is its downtown area, on Mamaroneck Avenue. Whether you’re shopping for everyday essentials or looking for a meal out, you’ll find a multitude of options right in town.
Another perk of living in Mamaroneck is the beach access. Unlike many New York suburbs, Mamaroneck has its own beach right in town.
Harbor Island Park has a beautiful beach, a spray ground, playground, tennis, and ball fields, serving as a central hub for community activities.
During the summer, Harbor Island Park really comes to life. Residents can take advantage of free tennis, kayak tours kayak camps, as well as outdoor movies with food trucks.
Mamaroneck, NY is one of the best suburbs of New York City for good reason. Its convenience to the city, bustling downtown and beach access makes it a great place to call home.