Moving from NYC to Greenwich CT: A Relocation Guide
Everything you need to know about relocating from New York City to Greenwich, Connecticut — commute times, schools, neighborhoods, taxes, and lifestyle changes.
Why Families Are Moving from NYC to Greenwich
Every year, hundreds of families make the move from New York City to Greenwich, Connecticut. The reasons are consistent: more space, excellent schools, lower taxes, and a quality of life that's hard to match — all while maintaining easy access to Manhattan.
As a real estate agent who has helped countless NYC families make this transition over the past 40+ years, I can tell you: the move is worth it, and it's smoother than you think when you have the right guidance.
The Commute: Closer Than You Think
One of the biggest concerns for NYC relocators is the commute. Here's the reality:
- Metro-North Railroad: Express trains from Greenwich to Grand Central Terminal take approximately 45–50 minutes. Old Greenwich and Riverside stations offer similar times.
- Frequency: Trains run every 15–30 minutes during peak commuting hours.
- Driving: 35–45 minutes to Midtown via I-95 in off-peak hours (longer during rush hour).
- Many Greenwich residents report that their door-to-door commute is comparable to what they experienced living in Brooklyn or the Upper West Side.
Schools: A Primary Driver
For most families, schools are the number-one reason for the move. Greenwich's public school system is among the best in the nation:
- Greenwich High School consistently ranks as a top public high school in Connecticut
- Elementary schools like Old Greenwich School, Riverside School, and North Street School are highly rated
- The district offers extensive AP courses, arts programs, and athletics
- Class sizes are manageable and resources are excellent
Many families find that Greenwich public schools offer an education comparable to NYC private schools — without the $40,000–$60,000 annual tuition.
Tax Advantages
Connecticut's tax structure offers meaningful savings for many NYC relocators:
- No city income tax: NYC residents pay a city income tax of 3–3.9% on top of state and federal taxes. Moving to Greenwich eliminates this entirely.
- Lower property taxes: Greenwich's mill rate (approximately 11.59) is among the lowest in Connecticut.
- Overall tax burden: For many high-income families, the net tax savings from leaving NYC can be significant, even accounting for Connecticut state income tax.
Consult your accountant for specifics, but the tax picture is almost always favorable.
Choosing Your Greenwich Neighborhood
Each Greenwich neighborhood offers a different lifestyle. Here's a quick guide for NYC relocators:
If you love the West Village or Brooklyn Heights:
Old Greenwich — Walkable village center, local shops and restaurants, beach access, strong community feel.
If you're coming from the Upper East Side:
Belle Haven or Mid-Country — Elegant estates, manicured properties, a more formal atmosphere similar to what you're used to.
If you're a Park Slope family:
Riverside — Family-first neighborhood, excellent elementary school, tree-lined streets, casual and welcoming.
If you want maximum space and privacy:
Back Country — Multi-acre estates, horse properties, complete privacy. Think of it as Greenwich's answer to the Hamptons, but year-round.
If you want an urban feel with suburban benefits:
Downtown Greenwich — Condos and townhouses on Greenwich Avenue, walking distance to shops, restaurants, and the train.
The Timeline: When to Start Looking
If you're planning a move for the next school year, here's a typical timeline:
- 6–9 months before: Begin working with a Greenwich real estate agent. Start exploring neighborhoods.
- 4–6 months before: Active home search. Tour properties, attend open houses.
- 3–4 months before: Make an offer, go under contract.
- 1–2 months before: Closing, moving logistics.
The Greenwich market is competitive, especially in the $1.5M–$4M range where most NYC relocators land. Starting early gives you the best selection.
What NYC Families Miss (and Don't Miss)
What you'll miss: Walking to restaurants at midnight, the energy of the city, cultural events on every corner.
What you won't miss: The noise, the cost, the cramped spaces, the school admissions stress.
What you'll gain: Space — both indoor and outdoor. A yard. A garage. Quiet mornings. Beach access. A community where people know your name.
How I Can Help
Relocating from NYC to Greenwich is a big decision, and having a local expert makes all the difference. I've been helping families navigate this transition for over 40 years. I know which neighborhoods match which lifestyles, which houses have good bones, and how to negotiate in Greenwich's competitive market.
Ready to explore? Let's talk.
Martha Z Jeffrey | Sotheby's International Realty | (203) 964-7800 | marthazjeffrey.com
About the Author
Martha Z Jeffrey is a licensed real estate agent with Sotheby's International Realty in Greenwich, CT. With 40+ years of experience, she specializes in luxury homes, waterfront properties, and NYC-to-CT relocations. Visit her website or call (203) 964-7800.