19 Cities Near New York, NY [2024]

Are you looking for the best cities near New York in which to live? We’ve got 19 of them with all the info you want to know, from commute times to rent prices.

We’ve included something for everyone, including smaller urban cities and more tranquil rural spots to which to escape from the bustle of the city. Some cities are a win for daily commuting with cheaper rents, while others are more appropriate for periodically driving into the city for a Broadway show or an occasional meeting.

One of the major perks of choosing to live in a city outside New York City is having access to the metropolitan area without being centrally located in the middle of Manhattan. Here’s a look at a roundup of cities to explore and everything you need to make the best choice on where to move next.

All of the rental data included here comes from our internal database of rent estimates, which is available for download. Transit scores come from walkscore.com and census information comes directly from the U.S. Census website.

1. Jersey City, New Jersey

• Distance from Manhattan: 3.7 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 10 minutes
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 37 minutes via bus No. 119
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 18 minutes via World Financial Center – Paulus Hook (this route includes ferry)
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,419
• Population: 286,670
• Median household income: $81,390
• Walk score: 87
• Transit score: 70
• Bike score: 64

Located just across the Hudson River, Jersey City has grown from a gritty city to a desirable Manhattan alternative. It’s also an ideal option if you’re looking for a city in New Jersey close to NYC. When it’s not rush hour, you can drive into Manhattan in no time, but when traffic is dense, you can always opt for public transportation. It’s also an easy bike ride without battling the spiral of urban traffic.

Jersey City is also the second-largest city in New Jersey by population, offering its own diverse food scene, nightlife, and parks. You can also build your career right in Jersey City in its financial district.

2. Fort Lee, New Jersey

• Distance from Manhattan: 12.5 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 29 minutes via I-95 S.
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 43 minutes via bus No. 158
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 1 hour and 39 minutes via Second Avenue
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,961
• Population: 39,688
• Median household income: $92,456
• Walk score: 77
• Transit score: 54
• Bike score: 49

Fort Lee is like living in New York City without actually setting foot in Manhattan. It's situated opposite Manhattan, just over the George Washington Bridge, which offers majestic views and a quaint town. It's a draw for singles looking for more affordable rents and maintaining costs while building Manhattan careers, but its high-quality schools also make it a tranquil place in which to raise kids.

If you’re interested in spending time outdoors, Fort Lee boasts hiking trails and parks. Despite the ample nature around, locals live in townhouses, high-rise apartments, and single-family homes. Depending on where you live, you can walk to bars and nightlife to make the most of this little city.

3. Hoboken, New Jersey

• Distance from Manhattan: 4.2 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 13 minutes via Holland Tunnel
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 23 minutes via bus No. 126
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 30 minutes via Hudson River Waterfront Walkway (this route includes ferry)
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $4,301
• Population: 57,703
• Median household income: $160,890
• Walk score: 97
• Transit score: 74
• Bike score: 78

Hoboken sits along the Hudson River waterfront and provides a quaint backdrop with quick access to Manhattan. This little town is only about one square mile, so you won't need a car to get to the train to New York City.

But you don't need to leave Hoboken to have some fun. Despite its small size, it has its own vibrant nightlife, including restaurants and bars, art and entertainment, and parks. There are also diverse job opportunities and a relatively low crime rate in Hoboken, making it one of the safer places to live near Manhattan.

4. Elizabeth, New Jersey

• Distance from Manhattan: 15 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 22 minutes via US-1 N./US-9 N.
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 31 minutes via NEC Line
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 1 hour 46 minutes via Avenue A (this route includes ferry)
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,740
• Population: 134,283
• Median household income: $54,415
• Walk score: 80
• Transit score: 47
• Bike score: 54

Elizabeth is the fourth-largest city in New Jersey by population, giving you a significant reprieve from the bustle without having to give up the urban amenities you enjoy. The area is a commuter's haven but also has its own growing job market. Quick access to public transportation makes it easy to work and play on either side of its namesake river.

When you live in Elizabeth, you're never far from a restaurant, bar, coffee shop, or park. If you want to get into New York City, you’re only 30 minutes away by train.

5. Yonkers, New York

• Distance from Manhattan: 19.8 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 34 minutes via I-87 S. and FDR Drive
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 32 minutes via Harlem Line
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 1 hour and 39 minutes via Empire State Trail
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,792
• Population: 208,121
• Median household income: $72,403
• Walk score: 69
• Transit score: 53
• Bike score: 37

Yonkers is a culturally diverse, family-friendly city that's just a few miles north of Manhattan. As one of the best suburbs of New York, Yonkers gives residents the choice to live near the urban center or a quieter residential street. Wherever you live, you’ll maintain access to great restaurants, cafes, and sweets shops.

Yonkers is also one of the ​​largest cities in New York state but still offers picturesque green spaces and cultural opportunities. It's also a great place for pet lovers looking for dog parks, pet stores, and small businesses catering to furry friends. When you’re ready to head to downtown Manhattan, you're about a half-hour away by train.

6. Williamsburg, New York

• Distance from Manhattan: 3.5 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 13 minutes via Brooklyn Bridge
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 12 minutes via bus No. B39
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 23 minutes via Williamsburg Bridge Bicycle Path
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $5,660
• Population: 159,580
• Median household income: $107,630
• Walk score: 96
• Transit score: 97
• Bike score: 88

The hip neighborhood of Williamsburg is one of the best places to live in New York. It’s an artsy place with fashion, music, art, food, and nightlife. Known internationally as “Little Berlin,” it is a draw for artists and musicians looking to express their creativity and embrace a more independent vibe. Williamsburg is also home to one of the largest Orthodox Jewish communities in the United States.

7. Maplewood, New Jersey

• Distance from Manhattan: 20 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 29 minutes via I-78 E.
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 51 minutes via MNE Line
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 1 hour 49 minutes via Clinton Avenue (this route includes ferry)
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: N/A
• Population: 25,220
• Median household income: $156,477
• Walk score: 87
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 52

Maplewood, New Jersey, is one of the best NYC commuter towns for its direct commute to New York City, but it’s also known for its diversity and safety. Maplewood is a family-friendly area with well-regarded schools and plenty of green and recreational spaces, including the 25-acre Memorial Park.

Despite the tranquility, Maplewood is still bustling with shops, including restaurants and a movie theater. It's also known for its progressive ideas and attitudes. If you are a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, a supportive community of businesses will help you feel right at home.

Cities Near New York City With Higher Commute Times

Now that you’ve got a run-down on cities near NY, here’s a roundup of locations with higher commute times. They could be great for those who work remotely.

1. Upper Montclair, New Jersey

• Distance from Manhattan: 20.1 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 31 minutes via NJ-3 E.
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 1 hour and 19 minutes via bus No. 195
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 2 hours and 7 minutes via Passaic Avenue (this route includes ferry)
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $3,410
• Population: 39,821
• Median household income: $149,982
• Walk score: 73
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 52

Upper Montclair, New Jersey, is considered one of the best suburbs in New Jersey for its distinct districts, outdoor recreation, urban amenities, and magnet school system. It's teeming with culture and nightlife, and its downtown has plenty of art, dining, and shopping options. The cost of living is higher than in other areas of New Jersey, but it is a great pick when you want to live in a city with proximity to Manhattan.

College students who attend Montclair State University also make their home in Upper Montclair. Beyond hanging out at the pubs and on campus, students can get in some free recreation on a nearby hike at Mills Reservation trails.

2. White Plains, New York

• Distance from Manhattan: 29.8 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 44 minutes via I-87 S.
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 40 minutes via Harlem Line
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 2 hours and 46 minutes via Empire State Trail
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,155
• Population: 59,316
• Median household income: $104,849
• Walk score: 63
• Transit score: 50
• Bike score: 39

White Plains, New York, is known as one of the best places to live in New York state for its robust public transportation, access to New York City, and variety of amenities. The community of ambitious White Plains professionals have opportunities in healthcare, social work, science, and educational services, or else they can make the 40-minute commute to Grand Central Station for Manhattan salaries.

Despite its more suburban feel, White Plains still has a growing downtown that hosts year-round events and festivals. After work, you can stay in White Plains to frequent its bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks.

3. New Rochelle, New York

• Distance from Manhattan: 23.3 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 32 minutes via I-95 S. and FDR Drive
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 42 minutes via New Haven Line
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 2 hours and 13 minutes via Empire State Trail
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,123
• Population: 82,288
• Median household income: $87,159
• Walk score: 64
• Transit score: 42
• Bike score: 47

New Rochelle, New York, is known as one of the best cities near New York City for its stunning views of the Long Island Sound and waterfront estates. You'll find a mix of high-rise apartments, condos, and multifamily complexes attracting renters looking for the best of what small-city living has to offer.

​​New Rochelle has its own Walk of Fame, honoring notable residents from local history, including sports figures. Residents also have their pick of art galleries, cinemas, restaurants, and coffee shops to enjoy. Although you should always exercise caution when out and about at night, New Rochelle is considered safe compared to other similarly sized cities.

4. Ossining, New York

• Distance from downtown Manhattan: 40.3 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 49 minutes via Spain Brook Parkway S. and I-87 S.
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 53 minutes via Hudson Line
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 3 hours and 26 minutes via S. County Trailway
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $3,580
• Population: 26,633
• Median household income: $85,538
• Walk score: 63
• Transit score: 35
• Bike score: 34

Ossining, New York, sits north of New York City and boasts natural scenery and outdoor activities, including hiking and kayaking. You can live near Main Street to make the most of Ossining’s restaurants, parks, and bars.

Renters who enjoy the outdoors can canoe from the Ossining Boat and Canoe Club or make the most of the many parks in the area. Construction, manufacturing, and engineering comprise the largest industries in Ossining. Otherwise, New York City is less than an hour away by train.

5. Stamford, Connecticut

• Distance from Manhattan: 40.7 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 48 minutes via I-95 S.
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 57 minutes via New Haven Line
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 4 hours and 11 minutes via Empire State Trail
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,434
• Population: 136,188
• Median household income: $99,791
• Walk score: 55
• Transit score: 46
• Bike score: 46

Stamford, Connecticut, is known for its robust job market and career opportunities at Fortune 500 companies. As one of the safest cities in the U.S., it's also an attractive option to families looking for good schools and recreational opportunities. Residents get a mix of vibrant nightlife and beaches in the same city.

Attractions around Stamford include the 100-acre Bartlett Arboretum and Gardens and Orchestra Lumos concerts. New York City is never too far away by various modes of public transportation.

6. Port Washington, New York

• Distance from Manhattan: 24.2 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 37 minutes via I-495 W.
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 47 minutes via Port Washington Branch Line
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 2 hours and 22 minutes via New York 25 Service/Queens Boulevard
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $3,350
• Population: 16,753
• Median household income: $156,214
• Walk score: 66
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 43

Port Washington, New York, is one of the best suburbs of New York City that is situated on the North Shore of Long Island, also known as the Gold Coast. Port Washington also has some cultural and literary history — it’s the real-life counterpart of East Egg in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby.”

​A scenic harbor walk, restaurants, shopping, and public parks make Port Washington a desirable option for renters looking to live outside of New York City without giving up all the amenities they want. Port Washington’s quaint downtown offers a handful of nightlife options but without the big-city vibe.

7. Larchmont, New York

• Distance from Manhattan: 25.7 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 36 minutes via I-95 S. and FDR Drive
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 45 minutes via New Haven Line
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 2 hours and 23 minutes via Empire State Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $4,000
• Population: 6,488
• Median household income: $214,186
• Walk score: 92
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 50

Situated on the northern shores of the Long Island Sound, Larchmont, New York, is a walkable, family-friendly city where biking and spending time outdoors are common. You'll find a mix of greenspace and beach life with a yacht club. You're not far from Grand Central Station, but Larchmont has its own strong economy with an emphasis on healthcare and social services.

The cost of living and median household income are higher in Larchmont than in other areas of the tri-state area. If you fall into the higher-income category, you have options to go boating, browse boutiques and galleries, and commute into Manhattan for more cultural opportunities.

8. Cold Spring, New York

• Distance from Manhattan: 61.9 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 1 hour and 11 minutes via Palisades Interstate Parkway S.
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 1 hour and 25 minutes via Hudson Line
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 6 hours and 7 minutes via S. County Trailway
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: N/A
• Population: 1,915
• Median household income: $117,292
• Walk score: 79
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 50

As one of the best towns in New York, Cold Spring offers views of the Hudson River and abundant outdoor activities. Residents hike, bike, kayak, and fish or head into the downtown area to shop the boutiques and antique stores. Locals enjoy a walkable downtown and streets lined with well-preserved 19th-century buildings.

Commuting into New York City is doable and takes less than an hour and a half via public transportation. If you decide to grow a career closer to home in Cold Springs, the major industries include retail, technical services, and education.

9. Kingston, New York

• Distance from Manhattan: 99.7 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 1 hour and 42 minutes via I-87 S.
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 3 hours and 3 minutes via bus Line KPL-SB and Hudson Line
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 11 hours and 14 minutes via Empire State Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,930
• Population: 23,916
• Median household income: 58,840
• Walk score: 54
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 50

Kingston, New York, includes distinct historic districts, many of which are registered on the National Register of Historic Places, and its downtown area is along the Hudson River waterfront.

It’s a bit of a hike from Kingston into New York City, but it is a doable day trip or commute for infrequent meetings. Locals who wish to work closer to home have their choice of working in growing trade, transportation, utilities, and education industries.

10. Lambertville, New Jersey

• Distance from Manhattan: 81 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 1 hour and 12 minutes via US-202 N. and I-78 E.
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: N/A
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 6 hours and 40 minutes via Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail (this route includes ferry)
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,700
• Population: 4,116
• Median household income: $94,522
• Walk score: 91
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 82

Lambertville, New Jersey, boasts a quiet atmosphere on the banks of the Delaware River, which separates New Jersey from Pennsylvania. Despite all the peace and quiet, there's still plenty to do, including dining at one of the eclectic restaurants, attending the annual arts festival, taking a walking tour of historic architecture, and visiting one of the local museums. Take a stroll over the footbridge to cross the Delaware into New Hope, Pennsylvania.

It's easy to hop over to nearby river towns Stockton and Frenchtown to expand your local reach. If you’re not going to work in New York City, you can work in industries including retail, consulting, and masonry.

11. Princeton, New Jersey

• Distance from Manhattan: 51 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 1 hour and 2 minutes via I-95 N.
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 1 hour and 56 minutes via bus No. 606 and PRIN and NEC lines
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 4 hours and 57 minutes via Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail (this route includes ferry)
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $4,110
• Population: 30,377
• Median household income: $165,149
• Walk score: 77
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 88

Princeton, New Jersey, is an attractive option for young professionals and college students attending the namesake university. The downtown is lively with bars, restaurants, and museums, and you don’t need to leave the town to enjoy shopping, theater, dining, and shopping. For culture lovers, the award-winning McCarter Theatre Center is known as one of the best regional theaters in the country.

If you want to work and play in Princeton, the Ivy League university is a major employer. Or choose from the pharmaceutical manufacturing and banking industries (among others) to grow your career.

12. Ridgefield, Connecticut

• Distance from Manhattan: 61.9 miles
• Commute time to Manhattan via car: 1 hour and 13 minutes via I-684 S.
• Commute time to Manhattan via public transport: 1 hour and 50 minutes via Danbury and New Haven lines
• Commute time to Manhattan via bike: 5 hours and 19 minutes via S. County Trailway
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $3,750
• Population: 11,392
• Median household income: $93,045
• Walk score: 79
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 40

Ridgefield, Connecticut, is one of the best cities in Connecticut close to NYC. The city is known for its high quality of life and low crime rate — and it’s less than an hour’s commute to New York City. You're not far from the big city’s cultural opportunities, but Ridgefield also has its own scene, including festivals, a contemporary art museum, a cinema, an orchestra, and a dance conservatory.

With a charming New England vibe, Ridgefield is popular among multiple demographics, including young professionals and families looking for the best of everything. However, you'll pay more to live in a safe, culturally diverse little city.

Make Your Move: Start Apartment Hunting With Apartment List

You can enjoy the best of New York without living in the heart of Manhattan. Whether you want to live in a thriving little city with its own downtown or a quiet rural town, you can find it within a reasonable commuting distance. Pick the best cities near New York for your wish list of criteria — including budget, amenities, and commute time — to find a good work-life balance.

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