Wow, thanks so much for the quick responses! surprised no Cleveland suggestions
North Woodmere
Too far (approx 1.5 hour commute to battery park, plus must take into account need to have second car to drive to closest station etc) also, LIRR commute is pretty expensive.
Nothing in Passaic/Clifton?
somewhat far (approx 1.2 hour commute to battery park), though not as costly as N Woodmere. also didnt get a great vibe for modox peeps when i visited (more of a frummer/black hat feel it seemed).
Elizabeth/Hillside?
possibility, but is there a growing modox community?
Where are you dying?
I am not actually dying, just a lil sad that there arent better options in the tri-state area when i take a discerning gaze at the relevant communities.
I live in Willowbrook, Staten Island. I have a great commute to downtown (35/40 minutes on one express bus for $6.50 after metrocard bonuses), but modox community is dying and schools are weak (esp the lack of any high school options for girls on island).
How close to schools do you need to be?
What is considered "prices that are not astronomical"?
Lastly, does commute to downtown need to be specifically via mass transit over car or vice versa or doesnt matter?
I want a lot, but u would think an "in-town" area like NY would have a place with good schools in walking/short bus-ride distance, with 4br houses with basements (for guests) and backyards around $1m.
i would drive if it would save time but that seems unlikely. Was toying with living in 5 towns, getting an electric car and driving in the HOV lane on the LIE but not sure how fast that really is...