Starter Homes Under an Hour from NYC
Stop throwing rent money away and start building equity—without leaving the NYC area.
If you've been dreaming of homeownership but think it's out of reach, I have good news: affordable starter homes less than an hour from New York City are not only real—they're incredible opportunities waiting for you.
Yes, you can have actual square footage, a yard, parking (!), and still be close enough to hit the city whenever you want. The key? Looking in the right Westchester towns that offer the perfect balance of affordability, community, and commute-ability.
Why Westchester Makes Sense for First-Time Buyers
Westchester Towns Under an Hour from NYC
Here are some of the best towns where you can find starter homes within commuting distance:
Northern Westchester Towns
Peekskill – One of the most affordable options with a thriving downtown, waterfront access, and an artsy vibe. Metro-North access makes the commute manageable.
Ossining – Great value with river views, historic charm, and direct train service. A hidden gem for first-time buyers.
Croton-on-Hudson – Walkable village feel with parks, trails, and a strong community. Slightly higher price point but worth it.
Yorktown – More suburban with great schools and larger properties. Perfect if you want space and don't mind driving to the train.
Cortlandt – Affordable with a mix of housing options and easy access to major highways.
Mount Kisco – Charming downtown with restaurants, shops, and a village atmosphere. A bit pricier but very desirable.
Pleasantville – Adorable downtown, great schools, and strong community feel. Popular with young families.
Briarcliff Manor – Beautiful properties, good schools, and a suburban sanctuary feel.
Chappaqua – Higher-end but worth mentioning for those with bigger budgets. Excellent schools and quaint downtown.
Bedford/Katonah – Rural charm with larger lots. Perfect if you want privacy and space.
Other Options
Somers, North Salem, Lewisboro, and Pound Ridge – These are your "more rural" options with bigger properties and more land. Commute times can push past an hour during rush hour, but the space and value are unbeatable.
What to Expect: Commute Times & Lifestyle
Let's be real about commute times because they vary:
By Metro-North: Most northern Westchester towns offer 45-60 minute rides to Grand Central (off-peak). Add 15-20 minutes during rush hour.
By Car: Driving can range from 45 minutes to over an hour depending on traffic and your destination in the city.
Hybrid Work Advantage: If you're only commuting 2-3 days a week, that hour suddenly becomes very doable.
The lifestyle upgrade is significant:
- Actual closets (multiple!)
- A kitchen you can cook in
- Outdoor space for grilling, gardening, or just breathing
- Parking that's included, not $300/month
- Neighborhoods where people actually know each other
- Access to hiking, farmers markets, and nature
Ready to Stop Renting and Start Owning?
I specialize in helping first-time buyers navigate the Westchester market and find homes that fit their budget and lifestyle. From Peekskill to Pleasantville, Cortlandt to Chappaqua, I know these towns inside and out—including which ones offer the best value and which driveways actually make sense.
