9 Cities Near New York City to Buy or Rent in this Year

New York City, NY, “The Big Apple,” “The City that Never Sleeps,” or whatever you’d like to call it, is one of the most iconic cities in the US. A cultural, financial, and media capital that significantly influences commerce, entertainment, research, technology, education, politics, tourism, art, fashion, and sports, New York City is unparalleled.

Perhaps you’re contemplating living in New York City but not sure if you want to be one of 8 million residents. Fortunately, New York City has many neighboring cities that may be the perfect place for you to live in.

We’ve rounded up a list of 9 cities near New York City for you to check out before committing to buying a home or signing a lease. Arranged from closest to farthest, these cities are all within 50 miles of New York City.

#1: Jersey City, NJ

Miles from New York City: 4
Population: 263,000
Median home sale price: $605,000
Average 1-bed rent: $4,105
Walk Score: 87
Bike Score: 70
Transit Score: 64

Jersey City is the second-most populous city in New Jersey, after Newark. Located on the Hudson Waterfront, Jersey City is home to several cultural institutions, including the Liberty Science Center, the MoRA, and Loew’s Jersey Theatre.

From nature parks to stellar restaurants and the arts and culture scene, there’s plenty to do in this city. Some of the best things to do in Jersey City are visiting one of the city’s popular museums, such as the Ellis Island Immigration Museum on nearby Ellis Island or Skyscraper! at Liberty Science Center. Catch a show at one of the city’s performing arts venues, such as White Eagle Hall or Moore’s Lounge. Spend some time outdoors in one of Jersey City’s parks or green spaces, such as Hamilton Park, Van Vorst Park, or Lincoln Park. Enjoy a meal at one of the city’s many delicious restaurants, such as Liberty House Restaurant, Laico’s Restaurant & Cocktail, and Karina Restaurant.

Homes for sale in Jersey City, NJ
Apartments for rent in Jersey City, NJ

#2: Hoboken, NJ

Miles from New York City: 5
Population: 53,500
Median home sale price: $855,000
Average 1-bed rent: $3,599
Walk Score: 97
Bike Score: 74
Transit Score: 78

Hoboken is a small city in northeastern New Jersey. It is located on the Hudson River across Manhattan and is recognized as the birthplace of baseball and Frank Sinatra.

If you move to Hoboken, you’ll have no shortage of activities to keep you busy. The Hoboken Historical Museum is a great way to spend an afternoon, or you can opt for a walk or bike ride along the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway. Hoboken is also full of delicious restaurants, so be sure to try some popular places like La Isla Restaurant and Zack’s Oak Bar & Restaurant.

Homes for sale in Hoboken, NJ
Apartments for rent in Hoboken, NJ

#3: Union City, NJ

Miles from New York City: 7
Population: 68,000
Median home sale price: $1,309,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,950
Walk Score: 94
Bike Score: 80
Transit Score: 54

Union City is another one of the great cities near New York City that you may want to consider moving to. Union City is a vibrant city with a lot to offer its residents, such as restaurants, shops, and parks.

There are plenty of things to do in Union City, like enjoying the outdoors at Washington Park or taking your furry friend to the park’s dog run. You can also stop by one of the amazing restaurants, cafes, or bakeries throughout the city.

Homes for sale in Union City, NJ
Apartments for rent in Union City, NJ

#4: Newark, NJ

Miles from New York City: 11
Population: 282,000
Median home sale price: $410,000
Average 1-bed rent: $2,585
Walk Score: 76
Bike Score: 65
Transit Score: 51

Newark is the second-largest city in the New York metropolitan area, with a population of over 282,000. Newark is a major transportation hub, with Newark Liberty International Airport, Port Newark-Elizabeth, and Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor running through the city.

There are many things to do in Newark that don’t require a trip to New York City. There are a variety of museums, such as the Newark Museum of Art and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. There are also a number of parks, such as Branch Brook Park and Military Park. Delicias de Minas Restaurant, Kings Restaurant, and Sol-Mar Restaurant are some of the numerous restaurants to check out if you live in Newark.

Homes for sale in Newark, NJ
Apartments for rent in Newark, NJ

#5: Elizabeth, NJ

Miles from New York City: 15
Population: 128,500
Median home sale price: $470,000
Average 1-bed rent: $1,879
Walk Score: 80
Bike Score: 47
Transit Score: 54

Just south of Newark is Elizabeth, another great city near New York City to consider moving to. The city is home to several historical sites, including Boxwood Hall State Historic Site and Elizabeth Station.

There is a lot about Elizabeth that makes it a great place to live and explore in your free time. Make sure to take a walk along the Elizabeth River Trail or enjoy the bay views at Marciante-Jackson-Millet Park. You’ll find many great restaurants and cuisines from Columbian to Italian, Costa Rican, Portuguese, and beyond.

Homes for sale in Elizabeth, NJ
Apartments for rent in Elizabeth, NJ

#6: Yonkers, NY

Miles from New York City: 21
Population: 200,000
Median home sale price: $512,500
Average 1-bed rent: $2,245
Walk Score: 69
Bike Score: 53
Transit Score: 37

Yonkers is located north of New York City on the western bank of the Hudson River. The city is home to a few important landmarks, including the Yonkers Raceway, the Hudson River Museum, and the Untermyer Park and Gardens.

There are a number of things to do in Yonkers, such as visiting museums, checking out LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester, and eating at one of many great local restaurants. There are also many parks and recreational areas in the city, like the Yonkers Waterfront Park or playing golf at Yonkers Public Golf Course.

Homes for sale in Yonkers, NY
Apartments for rent in Yonkers, NY

#7: New Rochelle, NY

Miles from New York City: 25
Population: 79,500
Median home sale price: $841,000
Average 1-bed rent: $2,745
Walk Score: 64
Bike Score: 42
Transit Score: 47

New Rochelle is a city located in southern Westchester County on the banks of Hempstead Bay. There are a variety of things to do in New Rochelle. There are a number of parks and recreation areas in the town, including Five Islands Park, Glen Island Park, and Hudson Park & Beach. The town also has some historical sites, including the Thomas Paine Cottage Museum.

Homes for sale in New Rochelle, NY
Apartments for rent in New Rochelle, NY

#8: White Plains, NY

Miles from New York City: 35
Population: 58,000
Median home sale price: $569,150
Average 1-bed rent: $3,009
Walk Score: 63
Bike Score: 50
Transit Score: 39

White Plains is another one of the great cities near New York City you may want to consider moving to this year. The Percy Grainger House and Washington’s Headquarters, are just a few of the historical sites worth visiting. The White Plains Performing Arts Center and Play Group Theatre are great places to catch a show.

And for those who enjoy being outdoors, there are plenty of parks to choose from, including Turnure Park, the Battle of White Plains Park, and Delfino Park. There are also a variety of restaurants that will satisfy any craving, such as Francesco’s Restaurant, Gianfranco Pizzeria & Restaurant, and Cabin Restaurant.

Homes for sale in White Plains, NY
Apartments for rent in White Plains, NY

#9: Stamford, CT

Miles from New York City: 40
Population: 130,000
Median home sale price: $588,950
Average 1-bed rent: $2,670
Walk Score: 55
Bike Score: 46
Transit Score: 46

Stamford is a city in Connecticut that is about an hour outside of New York City. Stamford is home to some Fortune 500 companies as well as a vibrant arts and culture scene.

There are plenty of things to do in Stamford. For starters, you can explore the Stamford Museum & Nature Center, visit the Stamford Museum, or take a walk through the Stamford Historic District. If you’re looking for something a little more active, you can go hiking or biking at the Stamford Bluffs Preserve or take a swim at Cove Island Park. For a taste of the local culture, be sure to check out the Stamford Center for the Arts or the Stamford Symphony Orchestra. And, of course, no experience in Stamford would be complete without indulging in some of the city’s famous New England clam chowder.

Homes for sale in Stamford, CT
Apartments for rent in Stamford, CT

Methodology:

All cities must have a population of more than 50,000 and be less than 50 miles away from New York City. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during August 2022. Average rental data from Rent.com during August 2022. Walk Score, Bike Score, and Transit Score from Walkscore.com during August 2022. Population data sourced from United States Census Bureau.