Relocating
Moving from New York City to Rockland or Westchester
Leaving the city brings a lot of new questions: which train, which town, how property taxes work, and whether you'll need a second car. I'll help you sort through them.
Free relocation checklist
A step-by-step list for moving from an apartment in the city to a home up here, from lease timing to setting up utilities.
Commuting into the city
From Westchester
Metro-North's Hudson, Harlem and New Haven lines run to Grand Central Terminal.
From Rockland by train
The Pascack Valley Line stops in Pearl River, Nanuet and Spring Valley, with a transfer at Secaucus Junction for Penn Station.
From Rockland by bus
Commuter buses run to the George Washington Bridge and Port Authority, and Hudson Link connects to Metro-North in Tarrytown.
Schedules change. Check Metro-North, NJ Transit, Coach USA and Hudson Link for current times.
What's different about buying here
- Most homes here are bought by contract, with your own attorney reviewing it, instead of through a co-op board package.
- Inspections cover more ground: roof, septic or sewer, well water in some areas, oil tanks and radon.
- Yearly costs include property taxes, heating, homeowners insurance, and upkeep you used to leave to the super.
- School district lines don't always match town names. Check the district for each address.
Start with the town guides for New City, Pearl River and Nanuet, or the Westchester overview.
Questions people ask
What's the difference between commuting from Rockland and from Westchester?
Westchester has Metro-North's Hudson, Harlem and New Haven lines straight into Grand Central. Rockland is served by the Pascack Valley Line through New Jersey, commuter buses to the George Washington Bridge and Port Authority, and Hudson Link buses across the river to Metro-North in Tarrytown.
Will I need a car?
Most people who move to Rockland or Westchester end up with at least one car, even if they commute by train. It depends on the town and how close you are to a station.
How are property taxes handled?
Property taxes here are made up of county, town and school taxes, and they vary a lot from one address to the next. Check the actual tax bill for any home you consider.
Can you help me look while I still live in the city?
Yes. We can start with video calls and virtual tours, then plan a day or two of showings when you're ready to come up.
Planning a move out of the city?
Call or text me and tell me where you work and what you need. I'll suggest a few towns to start with.