Whether you have just welcomed your first child or if you have older kids who are already going to school, you might have finally decided that a move to the suburbs outside New York City is in order. Yes, you love New York City and all the awesome opportunities it offers, but it's also true that raising a family can be a much more convenient and pleasant process when away from the hustle and bustle of a big city.

If you are excited about finding your forever home out of town but don't want to move too far from the Big Apple, then look no further than NYC suburbs. In this article, we'll give you the lowdown on the five best suburbs of NYC for families that are only a short commute away from Grand Central, each offering something unique that is bound to suit whatever lifestyle you have. So whether you're worried about how to make friends as a mom or trying to figure out the New York cut off date for kindergarten, we've got you covered. Keep on reading about the best NYC suburbs for families, and get ready to settle down into your new suburban life!

1. Best for Top-Rated Schools: Westport

When thinking about where to live outside of NYC, you’ve probably come across Westport at least once. This Connecticut town is one of the best suburban areas near New York City, consistently ranking high among the most family-friendly places in the New York area.

Once upon a time, Westport used to be a highly coveted vacation destination for the Manhattan elite, who would spend their summers lounging by the beach, sailing, or practicing other sea-related activities. Now, though, this town is attracting an increasingly high number of young couples and families looking for a new place to call home.

Westport boasts some of the highest-rated schools in the area, which makes it a top choice for families who put their kids' education first. Alongside this, its vibrant and close-knit community make it one of the best New York City suburbs to settle down with a family.

2. Best for House Prices: Katonah

The smallest out of the suburbs listed in this article, Katonah has a population just shy of 1,900 people, which means it truly feels like a welcoming and familiar community. Schools are very good here, just like in Westport, but what really attracts families to move to Katonah is the great value that they get when buying a house.

Both Katonah and Westport are situated approximately one hour and a half from Grand Central, but Katonah offers families the possibility to buy a property at much more affordable prices, which is one of the reasons why most of its residents are homeowners.

A note about the New York cut off date for Kindergarten: In most of Westchester County, the cut off date for Kindergarten is December 31, meaning a four-year-old can start as long as they turn five by January 1 of that school year. As of 2023, the cut off date for Fairfield County is September 1, meaning children must turn five by September 1.

3. Best for a More Rural Feel: Bedford

If your main aim when moving out of town is to get that tranquil, rural feel that the city just won't ever give you, then consider the town of Bedford. Located in northern Westchester County and known for its winding roads and equestrian culture, this town has managed to keep that rustic, countryside vibe that you are looking for.

To top it all off, the quality of public schools is excellent, with the local community enjoying their historic village, local shops and the abundance of nature trails and parks, making it one of the best suburban areas near New York City.

4. Best for Young Couples and Families: Larchmont

Situated on the Sound Shore of Westchester County and only 40 minutes away from the Big Apple by public transport, Larchmont is the perfect place to settle down if you are a young couple or have younger kids. The population here, in fact, has a median age of just 37 years old, and the vast majority are married couples with small children, making it one of the best suburbs in New York for families.

Not ready to buy a house yet? No problem: many residents of Larchmont choose to rent a property due to the great value they get for their money as well as the abundance of space. If you move to Larchmont, you will also be able to enjoy many parks, ball fields, shops, restaurants, and cafes. What's not to love?

5. Best for Its Outdoor Spaces: Greenwich

How would you like to feel on vacation all-year-round? If you love the beach and the seaside lifestyle, then look no further than Greenwich. This Connecticut town — the state's closest to New York City — has long been a favorite of city people seeking to wind down for the weekend and is one of the best commuter towns to NYC for young families. 

In recent years, though, more and more families have chosen Greenwich as their new home, attracted by its summer-town feel, beautiful beaches, and many water-based activities. If you and your family are lovers of the sea, then Greenwich might be just perfect for you. And yes, you'll finally get to experience that relaxing, chilled out vacation vibe any time of the year.

6. Best for Its Family-Friendly Communities: Fairfield

Fairfield is renowned for its family-friendly communities, offering a perfect blend of suburban charm, excellent education, and abundant recreational opportunities, which make it one of the best New York City suburbs for families. The town boasts top-rated public schools, making it an attractive destination for families prioritizing quality education. Fairfield's neighborhoods are characterized by their safe, tree-lined streets, welcoming parks, and well-maintained playgrounds, providing ample space for children to play and families to gather. And if you're worried about making friends as a mom, Fairfield is the perfect place for that with plenty of opportunities to meet other families. The town’s extensive recreational programs, including youth sports leagues, art classes, and community events, foster a strong sense of community and engagement. Additionally, Fairfield's beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails, and proximity to cultural attractions in both Connecticut and nearby New York City make it a well-rounded and appealing place for families to live.

6. Best for Its Proximity to NYC: Hastings-on-Hudson

Hastings-on-Hudson stands out as the best NYC suburb for families due to its close proximity to Manhattan, making commuting convenient and efficient at 35 minutes. This charming village offers excellent public schools, ensuring high-quality education for children. Its vibrant community is family-friendly, with plenty of parks, recreational facilities, and cultural events. The scenic beauty of the Hudson River adds to the appeal, providing a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. With a strong sense of community and a welcoming environment, Hastings-on-Hudson is an ideal choice for families seeking the perfect balance between urban accessibility and suburban tranquility in the top NYC suburbs.

Ready to Settle Down in One of These Family-Friendly NYC Suburbs?

The NYC suburbs offer plenty of opportunities to raise a family in a more rural, relaxed setting, which is something that many families have come to value. Whether you are looking for outstanding schools, a wide range of green spaces, or just a simpler, more rustic lifestyle for you and your kids, then you'll be able to find just what suits you in any of these suburban areas near New York City.

The best part? Each of these towns is close enough to New York City, which means that you will still be able to commute to Grand Central easily and quickly, and to travel to the city for any exciting event or to visit friends and family.