Julie Knows: Crossing the Border: Why More New Yorkers Are Heading to Connecticut—And Finding So Much to Love

Leaving New York doesn’t mean giving up the lifestyle you’ve worked hard to build. In fact, for many, it marks the beginning of a more balanced, spacious, and fulfilling chapter. Increasingly, New Yorkers are making the move across the border into Connecticut—and discovering that it offers a rare combination of financial benefits, exceptional schools, efficient commutes, and a lifestyle that blends sophistication with a true sense of calm.

Here’s a closer look at why this shift is more than a trend—it’s a smart, strategic move.

Tax Advantages: A Meaningful Shift in Your Bottom Line

Let’s start with what many consider the most compelling reason: taxes. In New York City, residents face a significant financial burden—up to 10.9% in state income tax and an additional 3.876% in city tax, totaling over 14% for top earners.

By contrast, Connecticut’s state income tax caps at 6.99%, and the state imposes no local or city income taxes. That’s not just a difference—it’s a game-changer. For many families and individuals relocating from NYC to towns like Greenwich, the savings are substantial. In a world where high-net-worth individuals are increasingly mindful of how and where their money moves, this shift makes financial—and lifestyle—sense.

The Commute: City Access, Suburban Ease

A common misconception about leaving the city is that you’re sacrificing convenience. But Fairfield County, and Greenwich in particular, was practically designed for the modern commuter. With Metro-North’s New Haven Line, you can reach Grand Central Terminal in under an hour, often faster than commuting from within the five boroughs.

Take Greenwich:

• Express trains to Manhattan in under 50 minutes.
  
• Multiple stations—Cos Cob, Riverside, Old Greenwich, and downtown Greenwich—offer neighborhood-level access and flexibility.
  

In short, you can still be part of the city’s rhythm, without the congestion, sirens, or sidewalk gridlock.

Greenwich: One Town, Many Lifestyles

What truly sets Greenwich apart is its diversity—not just in people, but in its neighborhoods. Each of its four distinct hamlets offers its own lifestyle, aesthetic, and community feel (each has its own elementary schools, library, post office, and even train station!).

• Old Greenwich: A picturesque seaside village with a small-town feel, ideal for beach lovers and families seeking walkable charm. Home to the beloved Tod’s Point Beach, parks, playgrounds, and classic colonial homes.
  
• Riverside: Known for quiet, tree-lined streets, exceptional public schools, and a strong sense of community. A favorite for those prioritizing space and waterfront access.
  
• Cos Cob: Artistic and eclectic, with historic charm and a mix of architectural styles. Offers a vibrant yet laid-back environment with great train access and a growing foodie scene.
  
• Downtown Greenwich (Central Greenwich): For those not quite ready to say goodbye to the energy of the city. Walkable, sophisticated, and rich in culture with fine dining, upscale shopping on the Avenue, dockside restaurants, and the world-class Bruce Museum. It’s cosmopolitan living with a coastal twist.
  

Whether you’re looking for a pied-à-terre, a weekend escape, or your forever family home, Greenwich offers a version of luxury living that aligns with every stage of life (and price point).

Education: Top-Tier, Public and Private

For families making the move, Connecticut’s academic reputation is a major draw. Public school systems in Greenwich, Darien, Westport, and New Canaan are consistently ranked among the best in the state—and in the country.

In Greenwich, students benefit from:

• High-performing public schools with excellent college placement records.
  
• A broad range of extracurricular offerings and academic tracks.
  
• Access to top-tier private schools such as Brunswick, Greenwich Academy, Sacred Heart, Greenwich Country Day, Greens Farms Academy, and King School, all known for academic rigor, exceptional arts and athletics programs, and world-class college counseling.
  

For many, this move is not just about property—it’s about investing in their children’s future.

Quality of Life: Manhattan Proximity, New England Peace

There’s something to be said for waking up to birdsong instead of car horns. Life in Greenwich offers a serene contrast to the city, without sacrificing the excitement or convenience of urban living.

Imagine this:

• Weekend farmers’ markets.
  
• Coastal walks.
  
• Tree-lined streets.
  
• Seasonal festivals and community events.
  
• All while keeping Broadway, Wall Street, and world-class dining within reach.
  

Greenwich is the rare kind of place where you can slow down without stepping back.

Final Word: Julie Knows Where to Go

If you’re considering making the move from New York to Connecticut, particularly to Greenwich, let someone who has helped countless clients make that exact transition guide the way.

With over 25 years of local experience, deep ties to the community, and an eye for both luxury and lifestyle, Julie Grace Burke brings more than just market knowledge—she brings strategy, perspective, and results.

Whether you’re in search of tax relief, better schools, more space, or a new chapter altogether, Julie knows how to help you cross the border with confidence—and land exactly where you belong.