Why you'd want to live in Westchester County

Westchester County, located in the heart of the Hudson Valley and just north of New York City covers 500 square miles and has a population of just under a million. The county is a blend of bustling cities, quaint villages and picturesque towns as well as open spaces and a network of beautiful parks. Westchester is made up of 6 cities, 19 towns and 20 villages. Bordered by Long Island Sound to the east and the Hudson River to the west, Westchester residents can live close to work, whether their job is in Westchester itself, or in New York City just 35 minutes away by train. There are nearly 34,000 firms in Westchester County, with approximately 400,000 employees earning more than $1 billion in annual payroll. More than 10 percent of the nation’s patents originate from companies based in Westchester County. Central Westchester and White Plains is a balance of urban chic, suburban charm and rural beauty. The city of White Plains offers upscale shopping, world-class hotels award-winning restaurants, music, theater and a lively nightlife. To the north, residents can discover miles of trails for hiking, biking or cross-country skiing. The area features the pristine 4,315-acre Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, as well as numerous golf courses, horse farms, and quaint, historic towns like Katonah and Bedford. The County’s eastern edge follows the Long Island Sound shore and combines urban settings, marinas and beaches, with historic neighborhoods. Look for village-style charm in Rye, a thriving restaurant scene in New Rochelle, and beautiful water views from Glen Island Park, all easily accessible by car and train. Westchester County is also known for its many award-winning public and private secondary schools and universities. The county contains 40 public school districts, 118 private schools and 14 colleges and universities. According to rankings provided by the education website Niche, 28 of the top 100 school districts in New York State were located in Westchester County.