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Moving to Yonkers, NY: Things to Know Before You Move

February 11, 2025

Just north of New York City, Yonkers, NY, offers the perfect blend of urban convenience and suburban comfort. As the fourth-largest city in New York State, Yonkers boasts a rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and scenic views of the Hudson River. Whether you're drawn to its vibrant arts scene, excellent schools, or proximity to NYC, Yonkers is a dynamic place to call home. Here’s everything you need to know before making your move.

The Benefits of Living in Yonkers

Yonkers provides a unique mix of city energy and suburban charm, making it an attractive destination for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Here are some of the key benefits of living in Yonkers:

Prime Location & NYC Access: Yonkers is just a 30-minute train ride from Midtown Manhattan, making it ideal for commuters. With multiple Metro-North stations, access to major highways (I-87 and the Saw Mill River Parkway), and bus connections to the Bronx subway system, getting to and from NYC is a breeze.

Diverse Neighborhoods: From the waterfront luxury apartments of Downtown Yonkers to the tree-lined streets of Crestwood and Colonial Heights, Yonkers offers a variety of living environments. Whether you prefer an urban lifestyle or a quiet suburban feel, there’s a neighborhood to match your preferences.

Waterfront Living & Scenic Parks: The Yonkers Waterfront District has undergone significant revitalization, featuring trendy restaurants, boutique shops, and stunning views of the Hudson River. Additionally, Yonkers is home to Untermyer Gardens, Sprain Ridge Park, and Tibbetts Brook Park, offering ample outdoor recreation opportunities.

Strong Education System: Yonkers boasts a mix of top-rated public, private, and charter schools, making it a great place for families. Institutions like Yonkers High School and Saunders Trades and Technical High School are known for their academic excellence.

Growing Job Market: While many residents commute to NYC for work, Yonkers itself has a growing job market in healthcare, education, retail, and entertainment. Major employers include St. John’s Riverside Hospital, Empire City Casino, and the Yonkers Public School District.

The Cost of Living in Yonkers

Yonkers is more affordable than NYC but still has a higher cost of living compared to the national average. Here’s a breakdown:

Overall Cost Index: 135 (U.S. average = 100)

Housing Index: 170

Utilities Index: 120

Groceries Index: 115

While housing costs can be high, they remain lower than in Manhattan or Brooklyn, making Yonkers an attractive alternative for those seeking more space for their money.

Housing in Yonkers

Yonkers offers a diverse real estate market, from high-rise apartments on the waterfront to single-family homes in suburban areas.

Average Home Price: $600,000 (varies by neighborhood)

Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $2,000/month

Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,500–$3,000/month**

Many newcomers choose to rent first while exploring the city's neighborhoods before deciding to buy.

The Job Market in Yonkers

Yonkers has a robust local economy, with strong industries in:

Healthcare: St. John’s Riverside Hospital, Montefiore Medical Center

Education: Yonkers Public Schools, Sarah Lawrence College

Retail & Hospitality: Ridge Hill Shopping Center, Cross County Shopping Center

Entertainment: Empire City Casino (now operated by MGM Resorts)

Manufacturing & Distribution: A growing sector due to Yonkers' proximity to major transportation routes

Education and Schools in Yonkers

Yonkers offers a diverse range of educational opportunities, from public and private K-12 schools to higher education institutions.

Top Public Schools:

Yonkers High School (Nationally ranked, strong IB program)

Saunders Trades and Technical High School (Focus on vocational and technical education)

Private & Charter Schools:

Sacred Heart High School

Montessori School 27

Charter Schools like Yonkers Montessori Academy

Higher Education:

Sarah Lawrence College – A prestigious liberal arts college

Westchester Community College (Yonkers Extension)

Weather in Yonkers

Yonkers experiences all four seasons, making it an ideal location for those who appreciate seasonal changes.

Winter: Cold and snowy, with average highs in the 30s°F

Spring: Mild and pleasant, with temperatures in the 50s–60s°F

Summer: Warm and humid, with highs in the 80s°F

Fall: Crisp and colorful, with vibrant autumn foliage

Things to Do in Yonkers

Whether you enjoy outdoor activities, shopping, or cultural attractions, Yonkers has plenty to offer.

Must-Visit Landmarks & Attractions

Untermyer Gardens Conservancy – A stunning, historic garden with breathtaking views of the Hudson

Empire City Casino – A popular gaming and entertainment venue

Hudson River Museum – Featuring art, history exhibits, and a planetarium

Science Barge – A floating environmental education center on the Hudson

Neighborhood Highlights

Downtown Yonkers: Trendy restaurants, bars, and an exciting nightlife scene

Ludlow: A historic district with a mix of residential and commercial spaces

Crestwood: A quiet, family-friendly area with excellent schools and green spaces

Shopping & Dining

Ridge Hill Shopping Center – Outdoor shopping mall with major retailers and dining options

Cross County Shopping Center – One of the first suburban shopping centers in the U.S., still thriving today

Waterfront Dining – Enjoy restaurants like X2O Xaviars on the Hudson for fine dining with river views

Taxes in Yonkers

Taxes in Yonkers can be higher than other parts of New York, primarily due to property taxes and local surcharges.

New York State Income Tax: 4%–10.9% (depending on income)

Yonkers City Income Tax: Up to 16.75% of your state tax liability (applies only to Yonkers residents)

Sales Tax: 8.875%

Property Taxes: Higher than the national average, but vary by neighborhood

While taxes are an important factor to consider, they support Yonkers’ public services, schools, and infrastructure.

Ready to Move to Yonkers, NY?

If Yonkers’ scenic waterfront, convenient NYC access, and diverse neighborhoods sound like the perfect fit for you, let Colonial Moving & Storage make your relocation stress-free. Whether you're moving for work, family, or a fresh start, our expert team is here to help. Contact us today to start your move to Westchester County’s most dynamic city!