If you’d like a bigger home but still have access to Manhattan, consider moving to Westchester. Westchester County sits just north of New York City. It’s a mix of suburban neighborhoods and busy downtown areas, including towns along the Hudson River.
But here’s the thing: Moving to Westchester isn’t the same as moving within New York City.
In some cases, it’s an easier move. Relocating to a suburban area means having access to driveways. Moving your stuff in isn’t going to be an issue. However, you might find yourself dealing with HOA restrictions and other issues.
In today’s post, we’ll show you everything you’ll need to know about moving to Westchester. You’ll also learn whether hiring Westchester movers is worth it and what factors you have to consider.
Why People Are Moving to Westchester
Westchester offers a completely different vibe from New York City. But it’s still relatively close for anyone who needs regular access to the big city. That makes it ideal for commuters and those who are starting a family.
It’s also a good option for some businesses or for anyone looking for a relaxing environment to go home to.
For context, Westchester is home to 1,006,447 people as of 2024.
Proximity to New York City
Westchester sits just north of Manhattan. So if you’d like to commute to New York City, you can. Metro-North trains connect towns like White Plains, New Rochelle, and Yonkers to Grand Central.
Depending on the town, commute times to Manhattan often range from about 30 to 60 minutes. You can work in the city and still come home to a quiet neighborhood.
Suburban Lifestyle with Urban Access
You get more living space than most city neighborhoods offer. But that doesn’t mean you lose access to establishments that make city living convenient. Many downtown areas have restaurants, shops, and grocery stores within walking distance.
You can enjoy parks and residential streets while staying connected to everyday essentials.
School Districts & Family Appeal
Many families move to Westchester for its public schools. Communities often revolve around schools, youth activities, and neighborhood events. If you’re moving with kids, you’ll find Westchester suitable for family life.
It’s popular with older folks as well. 94% of surveyed Westchester County residents age 50 and older said they were satisfied with their community
Property Types
Westchester offers a range of housing options to match different budgets and lifestyles.
- Single-Family Homes: These are common across the county and offer more privacy and space.
- Condos & Co-ops: You’ll often find these near downtown areas and train stations.
- Luxury Estates: Larger properties are available in more residential towns with expansive lots.
- Rentals: Apartment buildings and rental communities are available in city centers and near transit lines.
Best Cities & Towns in Westchester to Move To
Each city in Westchester offers a different pace, price point, and commute experience. Some areas feel more urban and walkable. Others are more residential and quiet.
Where you move to will ultimately depend on your budget and lifestyle.
Below you’ll find a breakdown of five popular places people consider when relocating.
White Plains
Median Home Price: $710,000 to $820,000
White Plains feels like a small city within Westchester. You get true downtown living with restaurants, retail, and high-rise apartments.
The area near the train station is especially apartment-heavy. Condos tend to list at lower prices depending on size and building amenities. Metro-North express trains reach Grand Central in about 35 minutes. That commute time makes it attractive if you still work in Manhattan.
If you want walkability and transit access without living in NYC, White Plains offers one of the most convenient setups in the county.
Scarsdale
Median Home Price: $1.36 million to $1.57 million
Scarsdale is known for luxury homes and quiet residential streets. You’ll mostly find single-family houses on larger lots. Buyers move here because of the school district’s strong reputation.
The Metro-North ride to Grand Central takes about 35 to 40 minutes. Many residents here commute daily.
If you want a classic suburban environment with train accessibility, Scarsdale fits that profile. However, you should expect higher property taxes compared to more urban parts of the county.
New Rochelle
Median Home Price: $830,000 to $950,000
New Rochelle blends waterfront living with active development. You’ll see new residential towers rising near downtown and the train station. Condos can be priced lower than single-family homes, while waterfront properties push prices higher.
The Metro-North ride to Grand Central takes about 30 to 35 minutes on express trains. That short commute attracts many NYC professionals.
If you want coastal views with urban-style housing options, New Rochelle gives you both growth potential and strong transit access.
Yonkers
Median Home Price: $620,000 to $710,000
Yonkers is the most urban option in Westchester. It directly borders the Bronx and offers some of the shortest Metro-North commute times in the county.
The condo market is active, especially along the waterfront. Many condos are priced lower than single-family homes.
Metro-North trains can reach Grand Central in about 30 minutes from some stations. That short commute appeals to city workers. If you want easier entry pricing and a familiar urban setting, Yonkers may offer the smoothest transition from apartment living in NYC.
Rye
Median Home Price: $2 million to $2.3 million
Rye offers coastal living along the Long Island Sound. You’ll find beaches, marinas, and quiet residential neighborhoods. However, luxury properties near the water can be expensive.
The Metro-North commute to Grand Central usually takes about 40 minutes. While it’s a longer commute, many buyers accept the tradeoff because they like the shoreline setting.
If you want privacy, waterfront access, and a small-town feel, Rye definitely delivers.
Cost of Moving to Westchester
Moving to Westchester comes at a cost. Below are just some of the expenses that you have to consider before making your decision.
- Home Prices and Rent: Home prices vary by town. But keep in mind that rent is often lower than what’s available in Manhattan. You typically get more space for the price.
- Property Taxes: Property taxes are higher than in NYC. Rates vary by municipality and school district.
- Cost of Living Comparison: Housing often costs less per square foot than in Manhattan. Property taxes are typically higher. Also, commuting may require car ownership depending on where you live.
Local moving costs in Westchester typically range from $400 to $1,200 for smaller apartments. Homes with more rooms and furniture require more labor hours, which increases the total cost.
There are other factors that can increase costs.
- Long Carry Distance: Movers must walk a long distance from the truck to the door. This often triggers additional fees.
- Walk-Ups: Third- or fourth-floor apartments without elevator access require more labor time.
- Full Packing Service: Hiring movers to pack everything is typically an additional service that increases costs.
- Bulky Items: Moving items like pianos, safes, or large sectionals requires extra crew members and specialized equipment.
- Storage Services: You’ll have to pay an additional fee if you’re storing items before moving into your new home. For example, this can happen if your home purchase is delayed because the seller hasn’t cleared inspection issues.
What Makes Moving in Westchester Unique
Moving in Westchester comes with different logistics than a typical NYC move.
Most homes aren’t high-rise buildings. Truck access, driveway length, and local town rules can affect how your move is handled. Seasonal weather can also play a role.
Suburban Moving Logistics
Suburban moves usually involve driveways instead of curbside loading. Longer driveways can increase the carry distance from the truck to the home. Some houses sit far back from the road, which adds labor time.
In northern areas, narrow or winding roads may limit truck size. Larger trucks sometimes park farther away. Unlike NYC buildings, you usually won’t reserve freight elevators.
However, multi-level homes require careful planning for stairs and tight turns. Measuring furniture and entryways ahead of time helps prevent last-minute problems.
Local Regulations & Permits
Some towns require parking permits for moving trucks in busy areas. Condo buildings and managed communities often require certificates of insurance.
Certain properties limit move-in hours to weekdays. Others require reserved time slots for loading areas. Failing to confirm these details can delay your move.
Also, requirements vary by municipality. You can’t assume rules are the same everywhere. Checking with your building or town office ahead of time helps avoid unnecessary complications.
Seasonal Considerations
Snow and icy driveways can make moving in the winter problematic. Slippery surfaces slow loading and increase safety risks. Short daylight hours may also affect scheduling.
Summer is the busiest moving season in Westchester. Demand rises from May to September, which can increase pricing. Availability may also become limited during peak weeks.
Booking early gives you better date options. Fall and early spring often offer milder weather and more flexible scheduling.
How to Choose the Right Westchester Moving Company
There are four things you have to consider when choosing the right moving company in Westchester.
- Licensing & Insurance: Make sure the company is properly licensed and carries active liability and cargo insurance. Ask for proof before signing anything.
- Local Experience: Movers familiar with Westchester understand town rules, driveway access, and building requirements. Local knowledge helps prevent delays.
- Reviews & Reputation: Check recent online reviews and look for consistent feedback about reliability and professionalism.
- Transparent Pricing: Request a written estimate that outlines labor, travel time, and any potential additional fees.
Why Choose Oz Moving & Storage?
Oz Moving & Storage is a New York–based full-service moving company that provides residential and commercial moving, packing, and storage services throughout Westchester County, New York City, and the surrounding tri-state area.
Why Oz Moving is a Strong Option for Westchester Moves
If you’re moving from NYC to Westchester, you need a team that understands both environments.
Oz Moving is licensed and insured in New York, so your move meets state requirements. The crew knows how to handle city building rules and suburban access challenges.
You can request full packing and specialty handling for items like pianos or antiques. Storage is available if your closing dates don’t line up. Estimates are provided upfront, so you know what you’re paying for.
Who is Oz Moving For?
This company works well for NYC families relocating north, long-distance inbound movers, corporate relocations, and large-home moves requiring detailed coordination.
Moving Checklist for Westchester Relocations
Having a clear mindset makes your Westchester move easier to manage. Breaking tasks into weekly milestones helps you stay organized. Use this checklist to plan, coordinate logistics, and keep important details from slipping through the cracks.
8 Weeks Before
Start by booking your movers. Popular dates fill quickly, especially in summer. If you’re moving with kids, begin researching school districts and enrollment steps.
It’s also a good idea to request records early. That way, you won’t have to rush later. Create a simple checklist to track quotes, paperwork, and deadlines.
4 Weeks Before
This would be a good time to transfer utilities. Have your new place serviced before you arrive. Submit your change of address through the proper channels. Update your banks, insurance providers, and subscriptions.
Begin sorting through closets and storage areas so you’re not packing items you don’t need.
1 Week Before
Give your movers a quick call to confirm the arrival window and access instructions. Make sure the truck has a clear place to park.
Set aside an essentials box with what you’ll need that first night. Keep it in your car so you can grab it easily.
Moving Day Tips
On moving day, label rooms in your new home so boxes land in the right spot. Lay down floor protection if the weather is messy.
Do a final walk-through before the truck leaves. Take a moment to review the inventory before signing anything.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Westchester
How much does it cost to move to Westchester?
Local moves typically range from a few hundred dollars for small apartments to several thousand for larger homes, depending on size, distance, and services.
Is Westchester more affordable than NYC?
Housing often costs less per square foot than in Manhattan, but higher property taxes and car expenses can offset the savings.
What is the best town to move to in Westchester?
The best town depends on your budget, commute needs, school preferences, and whether you want a walkable downtown or a quieter residential setting.
How long does a Westchester move take?
Most local moves within Westchester or from NYC can be completed in one day, while larger homes may require additional time.
Do I need permits to move to Westchester?
Some towns and condo communities require parking permits or certificates of insurance, so it’s important to confirm local rules before moving day.
Final Thoughts: Is Westchester Right for You?
If you’re considering a move, Westchester gives you more space and a quieter pace while staying close to NYC. Many towns still offer practical commute times into Manhattan. This is ideal for those planning on keeping their jobs in the city.
However, you’ll need to plan for higher property taxes and possible car ownership. Those costs will directly hit your monthly budget. So take the time to compare neighborhoods and run the numbers carefully.
Planning a move to Westchester? Get a free quote from an experienced local moving team today.
