Thinking about moving to the suburbs but don’t want to give up the convenience of working or socializing in New York City? You’re not alone. Many homebuyers are finding the perfect balance by relocating to Long Island towns with the shortest commute to NYC. These suburbs offer more space, top-rated schools, and a calmer lifestyle—without sacrificing access to Manhattan. If you’re weighing your suburban options, here are five standout Long Island towns where commuting is surprisingly quick and painless.
1. Great Neck: Elite Schools and Express Trains
Commute Time: As little as 25 minutes via the LIRR (www.mta.info)
School Ranking: A+ (Great Neck Public Schools, per Niche.com)
Walk Score: 82 (Very Walkable via Walkscore.com)
Pet-Friendliness: High; numerous pet parks and pet-friendly housing options
Why It’s Great:
- Located in Nassau County, Great Neck offers a strong public school system and a diverse, affluent community.
- Great Neck Station is served by the Port Washington Branch, offering express trains directly to Penn Station.
- The town also features charming downtown areas, scenic parks, and cultural hubs like the Gold Coast Arts Center.
Relocation Tips:
- Explore the different Great Neck villages to find your ideal neighborhood.
- Some co-ops near the station offer lower entry points into the housing market.
2. Forest Hills (Technically Queens, but Suburban Vibe)
Commute Time: 15–20 minutes via LIRR or subway (E, F lines via www.mta.info)
School Ranking: A (District 28, Forest Hills High School is highly rated)
Walk Score: 94 (Walker’s Paradise via Walkscore.com)
Pet-Friendliness: Very High; many parks, dog runs, and pet-welcoming apartments
Why It’s Great:
- Forest Hills offers tree-lined streets, Tudor-style homes, and a tight-knit community feel.
- It’s an LIRR stop and also served by multiple subway lines, giving commuters multiple fast options.
- Austin Street is a lively commercial strip filled with boutiques, cafes, and family-friendly restaurants.
Relocation Tips:
- Check out Forest Hills Gardens for its historic homes and peaceful surroundings.
- While technically within NYC limits, Forest Hills feels worlds away from Midtown Manhattan.
3. Rockville Centre: Small-Town Charm with City Access
Commute Time: 35 minutes via the Babylon Branch of LIRR
School Ranking: A+ (South Side High School is nationally ranked)
Walk Score: 79 (Very Walkable via Walkscore.com)
Pet-Friendliness: High; plenty of green space and pet-friendly rentals
Why It’s Great (niche.com)
- This family-friendly village in Nassau County is known for its walkability, vibrant downtown, and excellent schools.
- With frequent trains and express service, it’s ideal for those working in Manhattan.
- Parks, community events, and a welcoming atmosphere make Rockville Centre perfect for young families.
Relocation Tips:
- Proximity to the station increases home value and convenience.
- Look for homes near South Side High School, a top-ranked institution.
4. Garden City: Historic Elegance Meets Modern Living
Commute Time: 40 minutes via the Hempstead Branch
School Ranking: A+ (Garden City Union Free School District)
Walk Score: 70 (Somewhat Walkable via Walkscore.com)
Pet-Friendliness: Moderate to High; select co-ops and rentals allow pets, with some nearby parks
Why It’s Great:
- Beautiful colonial homes, manicured streets, and strong public schools define this upscale Nassau town.
- Multiple LIRR stations provide commuting flexibility.
- Roosevelt Field Mall and charming Franklin Avenue provide abundant shopping and dining options.
Relocation Tips:
- Garden City property is in high demand—get pre-approved and act quickly.
- Take note of zoning laws, especially if considering home expansions.
5. Hewlett: A Quiet Gem with Easy Access
Commute Time: 40–45 minutes via the Far Rockaway Branch
School Ranking: A (Hewlett-Woodmere School District)
Walk Score: 65 (Somewhat Walkable via Walkscore.com)
Pet-Friendliness: High; pet-friendly communities and access to parks
Why It’s Great (www.niche.com)
- Hewlett is part of the Five Towns and offers a peaceful atmosphere, excellent schools, and tight-knit community vibes.
- Trains to Penn Station are frequent and direct.
- The area features affordable homes compared to nearby towns with similar amenities.
Relocation Tips:
- Consider Hewlett Bay Park and Hewlett Harbor for upscale waterfront options.
- The school district is a big draw for families, so homes move fast.
Suburban Life vs. City Life: Is It Time to Make the Move?
Fire Island, NY – Photo by Julian Bracero on Unsplash
When comparing suburban life to city living, several benefits stand out:
- More Space: Whether it’s a backyard, a garage, or just more square footage, suburban homes offer more room to live and grow.
- Lower Cost Per Square Foot: While overall prices can be comparable, you’ll often get more home for your money in the suburbs.
- Schools & Safety: Suburbs like Garden City and Great Neck are known for their excellent public school systems and lower crime rates.
- Quality of Life: Less noise, more green space, and a stronger sense of community await.
Still close to the action, these Long Island towns with the shortest commute to NYC are ideal for city dwellers ready for suburban perks without the painful commute.
Final Thoughts: Ready to Make the Move?
These Long Island towns prove that moving to the suburbs doesn’t mean losing touch with NYC. With quick commute times, excellent amenities, and plenty of charm, they’re the perfect landing spot for your next chapter.
For more trending stories, please click here. If you’re also curious about options across the river, check out our guide to