What do I need to know about moving from Long Island to Westchester?

**Q: What do I need to know about moving from Long Island to Westchester?**

A: Relocating from Long Island to Westchester means trading coastal suburban living for a more Hudson Valley-inspired lifestyle with excellent schools, quick New York City access, and distinct differences in housing styles and property taxes. Here’s what to expect and how Eric Berman with Compass Real Estate can guide you.

Cost of Living & Lifestyle Comparison

While both Long Island and Westchester are considered higher-cost regions in New York, the breakdown of expenses differs. Long Island’s property taxes are typically higher in most areas, while Westchester offers slightly more favorable rates in certain towns. Housing prices can be comparable, but Westchester often features larger lot sizes and more historic homes. Lifestyle-wise, Long Island emphasizes coastal living with beaches, boating, and suburban sprawl, while Westchester leans toward a Hudson Valley feel with rolling hills, river towns, and walkable downtowns like White Plains and Tarrytown.

Employment & Opportunities

Both Long Island and Westchester offer proximity to New York City, making commuting feasible. Westchester benefits from strong job markets in finance, healthcare, and education, with many major companies having offices along the I-287 corridor. Long Island employment leans heavily on healthcare systems, education, and aerospace industries. Westchester residents often enjoy shorter train rides into Manhattan compared to those commuting from eastern Long Island.

Education & Schools

Westchester’s school districts, such as Scarsdale, Bronxville, and Chappaqua, consistently rank among the top in the state, rivaling Long Island’s highly regarded districts like Jericho, Great Neck, and Roslyn. Both regions emphasize rigorous academics, extracurriculars, and community engagement. Families relocating should compare district rankings, extracurricular opportunities, and tax impacts on school funding.

Real Estate Practices: What’s Different?

In Westchester, buyers encounter a mix of colonials, Tudors, and historic properties, whereas Long Island’s market has more ranches, capes, and split-level homes. While both use MLS systems, contracts and closing costs can vary slightly by county. Eric Berman with Compass Real Estate provides guidance on navigating these nuances and ensuring a smooth transaction.

Logistics of the Move

Moving from Long Island to Westchester involves a geographic shift of about 60–90 miles depending on the towns. Plan for bridge or tunnel crossings, and consider moving companies experienced in cross-regional relocations. Traffic patterns differ — while Long Island’s congestion is concentrated on the LIE and Southern State Parkway, Westchester has bottlenecks around the Cross County Parkway and Tappan Zee Bridge (Mario M. Cuomo Bridge).

Community & Quality of Life

Westchester offers charming river towns like Hastings-on-Hudson, Dobbs Ferry, and Irvington, each with strong community character. Long Island’s appeal often comes from its beaches, golf courses, and coastal communities. Westchester residents enjoy quick access to hiking trails, parks like Kensico Dam Plaza, and cultural hubs such as the Jacob Burns Film Center. Both areas are family-friendly but differ in leisure and recreation options.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

1. Research school districts carefully, as they heavily influence home values.
2. Factor in property taxes and compare town by town.
3. Test out commutes to NYC at rush hour before committing to a location.
4. Consider lifestyle differences: coastal vs. Hudson Valley suburban.
5. Work with Eric Berman with Compass Real Estate for guidance on pricing, neighborhoods, and relocation resources.

Ready to Make the Move?

Relocating from Long Island to Westchester can be a rewarding step that balances suburban charm with proximity to New York City. For expert guidance, personalized advice, and trusted referrals, reach out to Eric Berman with Compass Real Estate. Eric ensures that your transition is smooth, informed, and tailored to your family’s needs.