EXPLORE WHITE PLAINS

Home to almost one million people, White Plains is an electrifying city located just north of New York City. It is the commercial hub of Westchester and home to some of the finest shops and restaurants. White Plains is a great mix of an urban city and charming suburbia with many beautiful neighborhoods making this a very desirable place to live.

History of White Plains

White Plains has long served as a commercial and governmental hub in Westchester County. Its history dates back to the colonial era, when it played a role in the American Revolution and early regional governance. Over time, White Plains evolved into a central business district, benefiting from its strategic location and transportation access.

Throughout the 20th century, White Plains experienced significant growth, transforming into a modern city with a skyline, corporate offices, and a thriving downtown. This evolution established White Plains as the economic and cultural center of Westchester County, a role it continues to hold today.

Local Culture & Community Character

White Plains is known for its energetic, fast-paced, and diverse community character. The city attracts professionals, commuters, and long-time residents who value convenience, accessibility, and an urban lifestyle outside of Manhattan. Its population reflects a wide range of backgrounds, contributing to a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere.

Cultural offerings, dining options, and entertainment venues play a major role in daily life. White Plains balances its role as a business hub with residential neighborhoods that provide quieter living options, creating a city that appeals to a broad range of lifestyles.

Living in White Plains

Living in White Plains offers an urban-suburban hybrid lifestyle with walkability, amenities, and strong transit access. Residents enjoy proximity to shopping, dining, nightlife, healthcare facilities, and cultural attractions, all within a centrally located city environment.

White Plains appeals to buyers seeking convenience and connectivity, particularly those relocating from New York City who want a more accessible commute while maintaining a city feel. Residential options range from downtown living to established neighborhood settings.

Local Area & Community Layout

White Plains is organized around a vibrant downtown core supported by surrounding residential neighborhoods. Downtown White Plains features office towers, retail centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it one of the most active commercial districts in Westchester County.

Outside the downtown area, residential neighborhoods offer a more traditional suburban layout with tree-lined streets and community amenities. This layout allows residents to choose between a more urban or residential experience while remaining within the same city.

Things to Do & Local Attractions

White Plains offers a wide range of cultural, recreational, and entertainment attractions. The Westchester serves as a major retail destination, featuring luxury shopping and dining options. Nearby, City Center White Plains offers restaurants, cinemas, and event spaces that anchor downtown activity.

Outdoor recreation is available at Saxon Woods Park, which includes walking trails, a golf course, and open green space. Cultural attractions such as White Plains Performing Arts Center provide live performances and community programming throughout the year.

Together, these attractions reinforce White Plains’ identity as a cultural, commercial, and lifestyle destination within Westchester County.

White Plains Real Estate Overview

The White Plains real estate market offers one of the most diverse housing selections in Westchester County. Buyers can find condominiums, cooperative apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes, as well as luxury high-rise residences in the downtown area.

Pricing varies significantly based on location, housing type, and proximity to downtown or transit. White Plains remains a popular choice for buyers seeking value, convenience, and long-term demand driven by its role as a regional employment and transportation hub.

Commuting & Accessibility

White Plains is one of the most commuter-friendly cities in Westchester County. The White Plains train station provides Metro-North service on the Harlem Line, offering direct access to Grand Central Terminal. This makes the city a top choice for professionals commuting to Manhattan.

In addition to rail access, White Plains offers immediate access to major highways, including regional routes that support travel throughout Westchester County, Connecticut, and New York City. This connectivity enhances flexibility for both daily commuting and regional travel.

What to Consider When Buying a Home in White Plains

Buyers considering White Plains should evaluate factors such as housing type, location within the city, and proximity to downtown amenities or transit. Downtown residences may offer walkability and convenience, while residential neighborhoods provide quieter surroundings and different housing styles.

Understanding building amenities, HOA structures, and neighborhood differences is especially important in a market with varied housing options. Working with a local real estate professional can help buyers navigate pricing trends, inventory levels, and long-term value considerations.

White Plains FAQs

Q: Where is White Plains located?
A: White Plains is a city in central Westchester County, New York, located approximately 25 miles north of Manhattan and serving as the county’s primary commercial and business hub.

Q: What types of homes are available in White Plains?
A: Homes in White Plains include condominiums, cooperative apartments, townhomes, single-family homes, and luxury high-rise residences, offering options for a wide range of lifestyles and budgets.

Q: How is the commute from White Plains to New York City?
A: White Plains offers Metro-North train service on the Harlem Line with direct access to Grand Central Terminal, making it a convenient choice for commuters traveling to New York City.

Q: What is the lifestyle like in White Plains?
A: The lifestyle in White Plains is urban and fast-paced, with access to shopping, dining, entertainment, cultural venues, and transit, balanced by residential neighborhoods offering quieter living options.

Q: Is White Plains a good place to buy a home?
A: White Plains is considered a desirable place to buy a home due to its transit access, housing diversity, strong employment base, and continued demand as Westchester County’s central business district.