There are countless ways to commute. Which works best for you?
When it comes to finding the right town in the NYC suburbs, commute time is often at the top of the list. After all, you want to enjoy suburban life without sacrificing precious hours sitting in traffic or juggling complicated train schedules. But what makes a “perfect” commute? That depends entirely on you—and that’s why at Suburban Jungle, we take a completely personalized approach to helping you find your ideal suburban town.
Your strategist will ask about every aspect of your commute on the initial call—because, for some clients, it’s not just about the length of time but the experience itself. Where is your office located? How many days a week do you go in? What’s your preferred mode of transportation: train, bus, ferry, or even driving? If you had to increase your in-office days in the future, how much commuting time would still be manageable for you? Would you rather have a shorter ride with a connection, or a longer, more streamlined one-seat option that lets you work or relax?
These nuances shape not only your day-to-day but also your suburban search. Every family has a unique set of priorities, and we ensure that every detail is accounted for—because if it’s important to you, it’s important to us. That’s why we’ve compiled a comprehensive collection of commute guides for New Jersey, Long Island, Connecticut, and Westchester, designed to give you insider insights into what each area offers. Let’s dive in and explore how each region stacks up for NYC commuters.
New Jersey: Diverse Options and Direct Connections
New Jersey offers an incredible range of commuting options, with something for everyone—whether you’re looking for a direct train ride to Penn Station, a scenic ferry commute, or even a luxury bus experience.
Towns like Summit, Maplewood, and Montclair are perennial favorites for families seeking seamless connections to Midtown Manhattan via NJ Transit’s Midtown Direct Line. These towns offer express trains that make the trip as efficient as possible—ideal for anyone working in Midtown or near Penn Station.
If your office is in Lower Manhattan, you might want to explore towns like Cranford or Westchester, where NJ Transit lines connect to Newark Penn Station, providing easy transfers to PATH trains that take you directly to the World Trade Center. This streamlined connection makes commuting downtown manageable and convenient.
For those who love a scenic start to the day, the NY Waterway Ferry offers services from towns like Weehawken and Edgewater, giving you stunning skyline views as you commute into the city. And for added luxury, services like Boxcar provide high-end bus options with reserved seating, Wi-Fi, and coffee, serving towns like Chatham and Westfield.
New Jersey’s vast commuting options means there’s a solution for every lifestyle—whether you prioritize speed, comfort, or flexibility.
Check out our commuter guide for New Jersey.
Long Island: Beaches, Space, and One-Seat Rides
Long Island commuters are lucky to have access to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), which connects suburban towns directly to Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal. Recent updates with the East Side Access project have made commuting to the East Side of Manhattan faster than ever—a game changer for those working near Grand Central.
Towns like Garden City and Rockville Centre are known for their quick, direct train lines into the city, often clocking in at under 40 minutes on express routes. And if you’re looking for a little more space without sacrificing convenience, towns further east, like Huntington, offer a slightly longer but still manageable commute, often with one-seat rides to Manhattan.
Beyond the train, Long Island’s highway system, including the Long Island Expressway and Northern State Parkway, offers a solid option for drivers—though traffic can be a factor during peak hours. Many towns also offer park-and-ride lots near LIRR stations, making it easy for commuters to combine driving with train travel.
For families considering Long Island, the commute isn’t the only draw—its proximity to beaches, parks, and great schools make it a top choice for those seeking a blend of suburban tranquility and easy access to NYC.
Check out our commuter guide for Long Island.
Connecticut: New England Charm Meets Metro-North Efficiency
Connecticut’s Metro-North Railroad provides some of the most efficient and scenic commuting options for suburban families, with direct access to Grand Central Terminal via the New Haven Line and its branches.
Towns like Greenwich, Darien, and Stamford are popular for quick commute times and luxurious suburban living. Greenwich, in particular, offers three train stations, including Cos Cob and Old Greenwich, making it easy to find a station that fits your needs. Express trains from these towns can get you into Grand Central in as little as 40 minutes, and Fairfield serves as a key hub for even more commuting flexibility.
For those further north, New Canaan and Ridgefield offer peaceful suburban vibes with train branches that connect seamlessly to the New Haven Line. And for drivers, Connecticut’s highway network, including I-95 and the Merritt Parkway, ensures reliable options for those who prefer to hit the road.
Connecticut’s suburban appeal goes beyond the commute. With its charming downtowns, excellent schools, and easy access to beaches and parks, it’s no wonder so many families choose this area for their next chapter.
Check out our commuter guide for Connecticut.
Westchester: Seamless Train Lines and Scenic River Views
Westchester County’s Metro-North Railroad is the backbone of commuting in this region, offering three primary lines: the Harlem, Hudson, and New Haven lines.
The Harlem Line serves towns like Scarsdale, Bronxville, and White Plains, all offering express trains that get you to Grand Central in under 40 minutes. White Plains is a particularly strong option for commuters who value flexibility, as it’s a major hub for express trains.
For those who appreciate a scenic start to their day, the Hudson Line runs along the river, serving towns like Tarrytown and Dobbs Ferry. These towns combine quick commutes with stunning views of the Hudson River—a perfect way to decompress after a day in the city.
The New Haven Line covers towns like New Rochelle and Larchmont, offering direct access to Grand Central and connections to Connecticut. And for those who prefer to drive, Westchester’s parkways, including the Saw Mill River Parkway and Hutchinson River Parkway, make commuting by car a breeze.
Westchester’s proximity to NYC, with its A+ schools and vibrant downtowns, makes it a top choice for families seeking the best of both worlds.
Check out our commuter guide for Westchester.
Choosing the Commute That Works for You
We get it—understand that commuting isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your perfect town depends on many factors—your work location, preferred mode of transportation, ideal commute time, and even what kind of experience you want during that commute.
Do you value speed and efficiency above all else? Or would you prefer a slightly longer ride with room to sit, relax, or catch up on emails? Are you drawn to a scenic ferry ride or a luxury bus experience? Every client’s needs differ, and we’re here to help you navigate those nuances.
No matter your priorities, our regional commute guides are packed with insider tips, detailed town insights, and all the information you need to make an informed decision. And with our personalized approach, you’ll have a dedicated strategist to guide you through the process, ensuring every detail is accounted for.
For more insights on commuting and more, visit SJ’s New York City suburbs section and the New York City blog page on our website.
Ready to start your suburban search? Schedule a free initial strategy call.
