New York City offers unparalleled career opportunities, rich cultural experiences, and diverse entertainment options. However, the city’s exorbitant rent prices, competitive housing market, and cramped living spaces drive many to seek more affordable housing alternatives within convenient commuting distance.
If you want to relocate, here are some of the most affordable places to live within an hour of NYC.
1. Jersey City, New Jersey
First on our list of cheapest places to live near New York City is Jersey City, NJ. It is just a 30-minute commute to Manhattan via ferry and PATH train. The Cost of Living Index in New York City stands at 255, making it 115.5% more expensive than Jersey City.
In addition to its proximity to NYC, Jersey City is popular with college students and young professionals who work or go to university in the Big Apple. Most popular neighborhoods include Downtown Jersey City, a hub for local businesses and restaurants; Liberty Park, one of the safest areas in Jersey City; and Journal Square, with its affordable yet modern apartment complexes.
The median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Jersey City is around $3,575, significantly lower than the average of $4,295 in Manhattan, NY.
2. Hoboken, New Jersey
Just four miles from NYC is Hoboken, NJ, one of the best places to live if you’re escaping NYC’s high rent prices. The city boasts an impressive view of the Manhattan skyline and a lively bar scene that attracts young professionals and recent graduates.
If you want a quick trip to NYC, drive through the Holland Tunnel, take a 20-minute bus ride from the Hoboken Terminal to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York, or take the PATH train to Penn Station.
The overall median rent in the city stands at $3,526, but for that price, residents get a vibrant nightlife scene, plenty of green spaces, such as Pier A Park and Elysian Park, Farmer’s Markets, and more without the hustle and bustle of NYC.
3. New Rochelle, NY
New Rochelle, NY, is only a 40-minute commute to Grand Central Terminal on the Metro North train line. It’s an excellent alternative for those looking for a family-friendly and quieter environment.
The city has over 83,000 residents, and sought-after neighborhoods include Wykagyl Park, Forest Heights, Paine Heights, and Beechmont. Various new rental buildings and co-op housing options provide the community with diverse living choices.
The school district is highly rated for families, and you can explore kid-friendly attractions like The Rock Club, Museum of Arts & Culture, and Glen Island Park.
In addition to urban amenities, New Rochelle has over 170 acres of parkland and more than 10 beaches on Long Island Sound. Residents can enjoy recreational activities like parks, beaches, and hiking trails.
4. Yonkers, New York
Next on our list is Yonkers, NY, a city nestled along the Hudson River in Westchester County. Its proximity to the Bronx and Manhattan earned it the nickname “The Sixth Borough of New York.”
By car, Yonkers is roughly a 35-minute drive to NYC, while the train ride from the Amtrak-Metro North Station to Penn Station takes about 40 minutes.
Yonkers offers a variety of housing options, such as lofts, apartments, condos, single-family homes, and multi-family homes. The city is hailed for its greenery, waterfront views, and parks. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities, including hiking the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail and kayaking on the Hudson River.
On top of this, Yonkers was ranked No. 8 as the safest city in America in 2023.
5. Stamford, Connecticut
Often called the “Gateway to Connecticut,” Stamford is just an hour’s commute from NYC via the Metro North train or the Merritt Parkway. The city has a population of over 135,400 and is home to large corporations, including four Fortune 500 companies and nine Fortune 1000.
In addition, Stamford has a growing tech startup community, a robust healthcare system, excellent schools, low unemployment, and various housing options for all ages and income levels.
6. White Plains, NY
Up next on our list of most affordable places to live within an hour of NYC is White Plains. A quick 30-minute train ride on the Metro North will take you to Grand Central Terminal.
White Plains has become popular for young professionals and families due to its safe neighborhoods, proper school systems, restaurants, bars, and shopping centers.
On weekends or after work hours, residents enjoy shopping at the upscale Westchester Mall or dining at one of the many restaurants in Downtown White Plains. Outdoor recreation opportunities are also available at parks like Silver Lake Park and Cranberry Lake Preserve.
In addition, with its convenient location along major highways such as I-87 and I-287, commuting to other parts of New York or neighboring states is easy.
7. Montclair, NJ
Last on our list of the most affordable places to live within an hour of NYC is Montclair, dubbed the “Brooklyn of New Jersey.”
Montclair offers a convenient 45-minute commute to the city via the NJ Transit train or bus. Additionally, it has access to major highways like the Garden State Parkway and Route 3 for easy travel within and outside New Jersey.
If you’re interested in home ownership, Montclair offers a variety of housing options, from historic Victorian homes to newer luxury condos. Although the cost of living is relatively higher than other options, the investment is justified by an excellent public school system, safe neighborhoods, and vibrant local shopping amenities.
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Are you planning to relocate to any of these affordable places near NYC? Don’t let the thought of moving stress you out. Liberty Moving & Storage is here to help make your move hassle-free and efficient.
Our movers will handle all the heavy lifting, packing, and transportation for you. We also offer disposal services for unwanted items like furniture and appliances. Contact us at 1-800-640-4487 or fill out our form for a FREE quote.
