Top Westchester Towns with Easy Commutes to NYC

Westchester County is probably the most well-known secret regarding suburban retreats within earshot of NYC.

Yet, even with its accessible commutes and coveted real estate, Westchester County still retains an idyllic air in many of its towns and hamlets, free from the bustling city pace of its iconic neighbor. What is overwhelming, though, is the number of towns you can choose from. 

For Manhattanites ready to say goodbye to endless subway delays, or for homebuyers who want to bypass the NYC experience and head straight to bucolic bliss, living in Westchester County can be a dream come true.

Below, we highlight some of the best Westchester towns with easy commutes to NYC, from the happening streets of New Rochelle to the unbeatable views of Hastings-on-Hudson.

Westchester towns with easy commutes to NYC

• Pleasantville
• Sleepy Hollow
• Irvington
• Hastings-on-Hudson
• Bronxville
• Pelham Manor
• New Rochelle
• Mamaroneck
• Rye

Pleasantville

It may take only one visit to this tranquil enclave for buyers to realize just how well the name suits the town.

Pleasantville is tucked into the Mount Pleasant area of Westchester County and rests only 30 miles north of New York City. Even though its proximity to one of the busiest metropolises in the world makes it a top commuter town, the pleasant vibe - pun intended - evident throughout Pleasantville almost makes you forget you’re about an hour away from Grand Central Terminal. 

Vibrant community life is a top priority for Pleasantville. Here you’ll find the largest farmers market in Westchester County, Rockefeller State Park and its array of outdoor activities, and the iconic Jacob Burns Film Center, all of which help create a dynamic blend of exciting but laid-back cultural life. 

Interested buyers will get to explore a range of real estate options, from historic Colonials to modern apartment buildings and townhouses. There’s even a cozy downtown area, where buyers can find eateries serving wood oven Neapolitan-style pizza and classic Italian cuisine. 

The Metro-North Railroad's Harlem line will be your best friend for commuting needs; the train typically travels to Grand Central from Pleasantville Station in just under an hour.

Browse homes for sale in Pleasantville, NY

Sleepy Hollow

Offering an easy commute, abundant outdoor opportunities, and an array of historical homes, Sleepy Hollow is a lot more than the title for Irving’s famous tale. Like Pleasantville, the town sits less than 30 miles from Manhattan, making it a valued part of the commuter belt.

Manhattan lies within easy reach for Sleepy Hollow's residents, thanks to the Metro-North Hudson line. The train can deliver commuters to Grand Central Station in under an hour, making it a popular option for those who prefer to settle in the upper reaches of Westchester County yet still have comfortable access to the Big Apple.

Anyone seeking greenery and outdoor recreation should feel at home in Sleepy Hollow. Residents have even easier access to the massive Rockefeller State Park Preserve than their Pleasantville neighbors. The park provides a wide range of hiking trails, access to sections of the historic Old Croton Aqueduct trails, and horseback riding lessons at Fox Hill Farms.

Historical landmarks form the backbone of Sleepy Hollow's cultural fabric. Iconic attractions like the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Philipsburg Manor, and the Headless Horseman Bridge add a unique layer of cultural identity for its residents.

Browse homes for sale in Sleepy Hollow, NY

Irvington

Named after "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" author Washington Irving, Irvington offers a unique blend of small-town charm, rich history, and an easy commute to New York City.

The residential appeal of Irvington lies in its diverse housing stock. Stately Victorian homes line leafy streets, while modern condos offer a contemporary touch to the town’s prominent historic architecture. Regardless of home preference, residents get to enjoy stunning views of the Hudson River and the surrounding natural beauty on a daily basis.

History buffs will get to explore Irvington’s unique historical landmarks, such as Sunnyside—Washington Irving's Gothic Revival mansion—and the Armour-Stiner Octagon House, known as one of the most visually unique homes in the world. 

For those with a penchant for outdoor life, Irvington offers scenic parks, walking trails, and waterfront recreation. The popular Old Croton Aqueduct Trail provides residents with stunning vistas, while Matthiessen Park's waterfront location is a coveted spot for picnics and summer concerts.

The Metro-North Hudson line will be the go-to for commuters, offering residents a trip to Grand Central Station in less than 40 minutes.

Browse homes for sale in Irvington, NY

Hastings-on-Hudson

Located just 20 miles north of Midtown Manhattan, Hastings-on-Hudson offers a tranquil retreat from NYC’s urban cacophony without compromising accessibility.

The Metro-North Hudson line serves Hastings-on-Hudson and provides regular service to Grand Central, with the commute taking approximately 35 minutes. 

A diverse range of architecture characterizes Hastings-on-Hudson's real estate offerings. The village's quaint streets showcase a mix of charming Victorian homes, mid-century modern builds, and various condos; some of the area’s most coveted residences enjoy panoramic views of the Hudson.

One of Hastings-on-Hudson's unique features is its commitment to art and culture. The Hastings-on-Hudson Village Arts Commission allows artists, sculptors, and curators to use the town’s public spaces to showcase their work. There’s also a variety of homegrown art galleries, such as the Upstream Gallery, which originated in 1991 and showcases exhibitions year-round.

Outdoor enthusiasts have no shortage of recreational options, either. Within town limits, Hillside Park is a local favorite, offering leisurely trails and plenty of space for impromptu picnics during warmer months. But if you prefer a more complete experience, a 6-minute drive will get you to Sprain Ridge Park, an expansive green space with a golf course, public pool, and various trails.

Browse homes for sale in Hastings-on-Hudson, NY

Bronxville

Bronxville, NY, a petite village located within the town of Eastchester, might just be the most charming town in Westchester County. Covering just one square mile, Bronxville champions a tightly-knit community and an exceptionally fast commute to Manhattan.

As tiny as Bronxville is, it lacks almost nothing regarding an idyllic suburban getaway. A homegrown downtown offers outdoor cafes, mom-and-pop shops, and a batch of delicious food options. Pockets of bucolic beauty are just around the corner, yet blend seamlessly with the laid-back village lifestyle. 

Residential pockets in Bronxville feature a majestic blend of stately Tudors, Victorians, and historic Colonials. Many of the homes you’ll find here come with expansive plots of land, offering residents an idyllic retreat and an unbeatable commute.

Because Bronxville is so close to Manhattan, driving can sometimes be an option when you’re in a pinch (or if public transit experiences delays). 

The Metro-North Harlem line whisks commuters to Grand Central in just under 30 minutes, but for drivers, the village's proximity to the Cross County Parkway, Bronx River Parkway, and Sprain Brook Parkway also allows for a 35-minute commute in favorable traffic conditions.

Browse homes for sale in Bronxville, NY

Pelham Manor

Pelham Manor takes a page out of Bronxville’s book in the size department but is equally jam-packed with rich history and a lively community. 

Tucked away in the southernmost corner of Westchester County, Pelham Manor’s roots go as far back as 1654. The pivotal 1776 Battle of Pelham was fought in this area during the Revolutionary War. 

Historically known for its eclectic mix of architecture, Pelham Manor is a treasure trove of distinctive home styles, from grand Tudor Revival and classic Georgian to unique Mediterranean designs. These homes often sit on expansive lots, creating an airy, open atmosphere that's a rarity in closer proximity to New York City.

Pelham Manor makes the most of its boutique size, tastefully scattering art galleries, farm-to-table restaurants, and entertainment hotspots like the Pelham Picture House, which dates back to 1921. Yet the smattering of eateries and shops never clash with the overarching residential feel the town is coveted for. 

The accessible commute to Manhattan is, of course, a significant draw for Pelham Manor residents; a short train ride on the Metro-North’s New Haven Line delivers commuters to Grand Central Terminal in around 35 minutes. For drivers, the Hutchinson River Parkway provides a direct route into the city, typically lasting about 30 to 40 minutes in favorable traffic conditions.

Browse homes for sale in Pelham Manor, NY

New Rochelle

New Rochelle, situated in southeastern Westchester County, is a fusion of suburban comforts and the conveniences of city living, offering residents the best of both worlds.

Anyone with the city lifestyle embedded in their DNA will want to consider New Rochelle; whenever you experience a craving to walk past busy streets and high-rises, you can satisfy without submerging yourself in the blistering pace of the Big Apple.

The commute from New Rochelle to Manhattan is a significant factor for many residents choosing to move here, as well. 

The city is serviced by the Metro-North’s New Haven line, connecting residents to Grand Central Terminal within 30 to 40 minutes, depending on whether you catch the express train or not. Those who prefer to drive have equally convenient options, with both the Hutchinson River Parkway and I-95 offering accessible routes into the city.

Yet, even though New Rochelle is known for being a developed city, there’s no mistaking that it’s still privy to what makes Westchester County so desirable. You should have no trouble finding quiet residential districts, local shops and restaurants, open green spaces, and village-like vibes.

The city is packed with outdoor features that cater to almost any recreational activity; there are full-service marinas on the city’s coastline, to expansive green spaces complete with golf courses, picnic areas, and trails, to beaches with stunning views of the Long Island Sound.

Browse homes for sale in New Rochelle, NY

Mamaroneck

Few Westchester towns blend suburban calm with a vibrant waterfront lifestyle like Mamaroneck.

The town’s perch on the Long Island Sound unsurprisingly plays a huge role in the city’s lifestyle and recreational opportunities. Mamaroneck Harbor is a local favorite for boating and fishing, while Harbor Island Park's sprawling green space and central location is an ideal setting for picnicking, pick-up soccer or volleyball games, or launching your boat for an afternoon on the water.

Mamaroneck's real estate presents a compelling mix of housing styles, from vintage bungalows and mid-century ranches to modern condos and grand waterfront estates. This architectural diversity enhances the town's distinct character, reflecting a range of lifestyle choices.

The commuting from Mamaroneck to Manhattan is handled by the Metro-North’s New Haven line, which gets riders to Grand Central Terminal in roughly 45 minutes. Drivers, meanwhile, can use I-95 as a direct route to the city.

Brows homes for sale in Mamaroneck, NY

Rye

Rye, the smallest city in New York State, is a coveted destination in Westchester County. Its sophisticated suburban feel, stunning coastal vistas, and accessible location make it an attractive spot for those desiring a smooth commute to NYC without sacrificing the perks of relaxed, waterfront living.

Rye's architectural landscape is diverse, boasting everything from charming Cape Cods and gracious Colonials to stately Tudors and contemporary waterfront properties. 

The Long Island Sound, Rye Beach, and various local marinas are the lifeblood of Rye’s waterfront recreation scene, providing a sanctuary for boating enthusiasts and casual sunbathers alike. The sprawling Marshlands Conservancy and Rye Town Park, meanwhile, complete the outdoor experience shoreside, offering plenty of options for weekend plans.

Though seemingly further north than the other towns we mentioned, Rye easily competes with the rest of its Westchester County neighbors with its accessible commute. Thanks to Rye’s Metro-North New Haven line, residents can reach Grand Central Terminal in under an hour. Additionally, I-95 and the Hutchinson River Parkway are also accessible, offering a straightforward route for drivers.

Browse homes for sale in Rye, NY