i'm in the process of buying in monsey. the new chestnut ridge where theres 35 families is still affordable. that's scotland road, briar, etc. there there's all types, working, yeshivish etc. very nice neighborhood, gorgeous properties etc...it's just 10 minutes out.... "THE BIRDS/Chestnut ridge is not affordable 500,000+ (although you could get a dump for less that needs a lot of work). that's mostly very yeshivish but also has other types....
they're starting a new neighborhood another 10 minutes past scotland now where houses are in the low 3's....in NY right before NJ/Tice's. don't know who is goign to buy there since it's very new .
then there's other random places like Park Avenue/Regina which is on border of chestnut ridge.
You need a good agent to get to know who will help you determine where ppl like you live....if youre looking for something in Chestnut Ridge - old or new -- Tirza Beer of REalty TEams is the winner! No one sold as many as she. She is the one who built up that neighborhood with her vision.