7 Quiet Commuter Communities Within an Hour of NYC

Last updated on December 17th, 2024

New York City is a lot of amazing things, but slow-paced it’s definitely not. However, venturing just outside of the city allows you to live a quiet suburban life, while still being able to enjoy the city and all that it has to offer.

Westchester, NY and New Jersey offer a wide variety of lifestyle choices in picturesque towns surrounded by serene nature. Not only are these suburban neighborhoods a great place to raise kids but they also afford commuters easy access to the Big Apple for work or leisure. Homes ranging from townhomes to estates provide space not often found within the five boroughs, as well as an escape after a busy day or a long night.

Explore some of our New York and New Jersey communities below, all within an hour of NYC, and see what makes them such a great place to call home.

New York

Toll Brothers at Valeria – Cortlandt Manor, NY

• Character in all the right places
• A community of low-maintenance townhomes
• Set within the Valeria master plan on the historic estate of American industrialist Jacob Langeloth
• Amenities include tennis courts, a swimming pool overlooking Dickerson Pond, nature trail, plus, a historic clubhouse with 2,240 sq. ft. grand ballroom, full kitchen, fitness center, game room, reading rooms, private lake featuring boating and canoeing
• 45 miles from Grand Central (see directions)

Summit Estates at Westchester – Valhalla, NY

• A luxurious alternative to the city
• Stunning single-family estates on half-acre home sites
• In the Mount Pleasant Central School District featuring the top-rated Westlake High School
• Go for a walk in one of the local Westchester County parks, enjoy a round of golf nearby, or catch a film at the Jacob Burns Film Center
• 31 miles from Grand Central (see directions)

Brownstones at Edge-on-Hudson – Sleepy Hollow, NY

• A sleek version of suburbia
• 3- and 4-story townhomes featuring large rooftop terraces with fantastic views
• In the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns School District
• Adventure through the adjacent Kingsland Point Park or shop and dine in the vibrant village of Tarrytown and along the streets of historic Sleepy Hollow
• 29 miles from Grand Central (see directions)

New Jersey

Orchard Ridge – Mahwah, NJ

• Surround yourself with the picturesque Ramapo Mountains
• A community of luxurious estate homes
• In the Mahwah School District, with the award-winning Mahwah High School ranked #43 in New Jersey according to 2016 NJ Monthly Magazine Schools issue
• Conveniently located only 11 miles from the Garden State Parkway
• 29 miles from Grand Central Terminal (see directions)

Reserve at Franklin Lakes – Franklin Lakes, NJ

• Lofty and rustic with resort-style living
• A master planned community with two home collections
• In the top-rated Ramapo Indian Hills School District
• Designed to preserve the natural beauty of the surrounding areas with all of your favorite activities nearby, including shopping, dining, golf, and more
• 28 miles from Grand Central Terminal (see directions)

Monroe Place – Monroe Township, NJ

• An elegant start to life outside New York City
• A luxurious enclave of carriage-style townhomes
• In the Monroe Township School District
• Conveniently located along the Route 33 corridor, perfect for commuters who want to enjoy a low-maintenance luxury lifestyle
• 53 miles from Grand Central Terminal (see directions)

Estates at Bamm Hollow – Lincroft NJ

• Escape to serene surroundings with a home where you can grow
• Select from numerous award-winning floor plans with a variety of exterior designs
• In the highly rated Middletown Township School District
• Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of upscale living with superior schools, excellent shopping, and a wide variety of cultural events close to home
• 46 miles from Grand Central (see directions)