Everything you need to know about living in Scarsdale — from world-class schools and distinctive neighborhoods to real estate insights and commute options. Your comprehensive resource for making Scarsdale home.

Scarsdale by the Numbers

$2.1M Median Home Price

A+ School District

35 min To Grand Central

18,000 Population

99% Graduation Rate

#1 In Westchester

Why Scarsdale?

Located just 28 miles north of Manhattan in Westchester County, Scarsdale has long been considered one of the most desirable communities in the New York metropolitan area. This village of approximately 18,000 residents offers an exceptional combination that’s increasingly rare: world-class public schools, safe tree-lined streets, beautiful historic homes, and a convenient 35-minute train ride to Grand Central Terminal.

Founded in 1701 and incorporated as a village in 1915, Scarsdale developed primarily in the early 20th century as a planned suburban community. Today, the village maintains much of its original character while offering modern amenities and conveniences.

Who Lives in Scarsdale?

Scarsdale attracts accomplished families who prioritize education and quality of life. The community includes executives, professionals, entrepreneurs, and academics drawn by the schools, safety, and lifestyle. With over 74% married households and 59% with children under 18, Scarsdale is decidedly family-oriented.

• Highly educated: One of the most educated communities in America
• Professional workforce: Executives and professionals make up the majority
• Family-focused: Strong emphasis on children and education
• Community-minded: Active civic engagement and volunteerism

Scarsdale’s Distinctive Neighborhoods

Scarsdale is divided into several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character, elementary school, and appeal. Understanding these neighborhoods is essential to finding the right fit for your family.

Heathcote Scarsdale’s Most Prestigious Address The crown jewel of Scarsdale neighborhoods, Heathcote is among the wealthiest communities in America (top 0.6%) and ranked more family-friendly than 99.9% of NY neighborhoods. $3.2M Median10/10 Schools Explore Heathcote →	Fox Meadow Walkable Village Lifestyle Scarsdale’s most walkable neighborhood offers the rare ability to walk to train, village shops, schools, and library. Strong community bonds and charming character homes. $2.6M MedianWalk to Train Explore Fox Meadow →
Greenacres Classic Charm, Best Value Located in northern Scarsdale, Greenacres offers beautiful historic homes (1900s-1930s) at more accessible prices. The same excellent Scarsdale schools with better relative value. $2.3M MedianHistoric Homes Explore Greenacres →	Quaker Ridge Space & Country Club Living For families seeking larger lots and more privacy, Quaker Ridge delivers with scenic winding roads, abundant green space, and proximity to the prestigious Quaker Ridge Golf Club. $2.1M MedianLarger Lots Explore Quaker Ridge →

World-Class Schools

Education is the cornerstone of Scarsdale’s reputation. The Scarsdale Union Free School District is consistently ranked #1 in Westchester County and among the top districts in New York State and the nation. For many families, the schools alone justify the premium of Scarsdale real estate.

Elementary Schools by Neighborhood

School	Neighborhood	Rating	Key Features
Heathcote Elementary	Heathcote	10/10	11:1 ratio, historic campus
Fox Meadow Elementary	Fox Meadow	10/10	Walkable, strong community
Greenacres Elementary	Greenacres	10/10	92% proficiency, adjacent park
Quaker Ridge Elementary	Quaker Ridge	A+	Spacious campus setting
Edgewood Elementary	Edgewood	10/10	Diverse programs

Middle & High School

All Scarsdale students attend Scarsdale Middle School (grades 6-8) and Scarsdale High School (grades 9-12), both rated A+ by Niche. Scarsdale High School ranks among the top 50 high schools in New York State and is known for:

• Rigorous academics: 57% AP participation rate with strong exam scores
• College placement: Students regularly attend Ivy League and top-tier universities
• Extracurriculars: Comprehensive athletics, arts, clubs, and activities
• Small class sizes: Average of 11 students per classroom

Real Estate Market Overview

Scarsdale’s real estate market reflects its desirability. The village-wide median home price is approximately $2.1 million, though prices vary significantly by neighborhood. The market remains competitive with limited inventory and strong demand.

$2.1M Median Price

18 days Avg. Days on Market

$596/sf Price Per Sq Ft

2 offers Average Received

Price by Neighborhood

Neighborhood	Median Price	Character	Best For
Heathcote	$3.2M	Grand estates, largest lots	Luxury buyers, prestige
Fox Meadow	$2.6M	Charming, walkable	Village lifestyle seekers
Greenacres	$2.3M	Historic homes, value	Character home lovers
Quaker Ridge	$2.1M	Larger lots, scenic	Space-seeking families

Commute & Transportation

One of Scarsdale’s greatest advantages is its accessibility to New York City while maintaining a true suburban character. Most residents commute via Metro-North Railroad.

Metro-North Railroad Scarsdale station on the Harlem Line offers express service to Grand Central Terminal in approximately 35 minutes.	Hartsdale Station Greenacres residents are closer to Hartsdale station, also on the Harlem Line with similar service times.
By Car Easy access to I-87 (NY Thruway), Bronx River Parkway, and Hutchinson River Parkway.	Airports Westchester County Airport (15 min), LaGuardia (30-40 min), JFK (45-60 min).

Commute by Neighborhood

• Fox Meadow: Many residents can walk to Scarsdale station
• Heathcote: Central location, short drive to station
• Greenacres: Closer to Hartsdale station (often shorter walk)
• Quaker Ridge: ~3 miles to station, easy parking available

Lifestyle & Recreation

Scarsdale offers a rich lifestyle beyond the commute, with abundant parks, recreation, shopping, and dining options.

10 Neighborhood Parks Municipal pools, tennis courts, paddle tennis, and sports fields throughout the village.	Scarsdale Pool Complex Four swimming pools, basketball court, and family-friendly facilities (near Quaker Ridge).
Greenburgh Nature Center 33-acre nature preserve with programs for all ages.	Bronx River Pathway Scenic multi-use trail for walking, jogging, and biking.

Neighborhood Comparison

Use this comparison to help identify which Scarsdale neighborhood best fits your family’s priorities:

Factor	Heathcote	Fox Meadow	Greenacres	Quaker Ridge
Median Price	$3.2M	$2.6M	$2.3M	$2.1M
Lot Size	Largest	Medium	Medium	Large
Walkability	Good	Excellent	Good	Moderate
Train Access	Short drive	Walk	Walk (Hartsdale)	Drive (3 mi)
Character	Grand estates	Village charm	Historic homes	Scenic, private
Best For	Prestige seekers	Convenience lovers	Value seekers	Space seekers

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Scarsdale a good place to live?

Scarsdale is consistently ranked among the best places to live in America, particularly for families prioritizing education. It offers A+ schools, exceptional safety, beautiful homes, and convenient Manhattan access.

What is the average home price in Scarsdale?

The village-wide median home price is approximately $2.1 million, with prices ranging from about $1.7M in Greenacres to over $3.2M in Heathcote.

How are the schools in Scarsdale?

Scarsdale schools are among the best in the nation. The district is rated A+ with 99% math proficiency, 99% graduation rate, and small class sizes averaging 11 students.

How long is the commute from Scarsdale to NYC?

Metro-North trains from Scarsdale to Grand Central Terminal take approximately 35 minutes. Some neighborhoods are walking distance to the station.

Which Scarsdale neighborhood is best for families?

All Scarsdale neighborhoods are excellent for families. Heathcote offers prestige and space, Fox Meadow provides walkability, Greenacres offers value, and Quaker Ridge has larger lots. The best choice depends on your priorities.

Is Scarsdale safe?

Yes, Scarsdale has crime rates far below national averages and is considered one of the safest communities in Westchester County.

What are property taxes like in Scarsdale?

Property taxes in Scarsdale are high compared to national averages, reflecting the excellent schools and village services. Most residents feel the quality justifies the cost.