Is Scarsdale, New York, overrated?
Scarsdale has grown in prominence and is often referenced in pop culture, literature, and media as a symbol of suburban affluence and prestige.
Scarsdale is often heralded for its affluence, top-tier schools, and proximity to New York City. While many laud its manicured landscapes and upscale real estate, there’s a contingent of individuals who believe it’s overrated, especially given the high cost of living and potential for exclusivity. Like many high-profile suburbs, perceptions of Scarsdale can be heavily influenced by personal experiences, values, and priorities. Some see it as a pinnacle of suburban living, while others feel that its reputation overshadows other equally desirable communities. While I will share my personal feelings and opinions, it’s clear that Scarsdale elicits strong reactions, both positive and negative, from those familiar with the area.
If you have never heard about Scarsdale, here is Wikipedia’s description:
Scarsdale is a town and village in Westchester County, New York, United States. The Town of Scarsdale is coextensive with the Village of Scarsdale, but the community has opted to operate solely with a village government, one of several villages in the state that have a similar governmental situation. As of the 2020 census, Scarsdale’s population was 18,253. — Wikipedia
Scarsdale is divided into five neighborhoods: Greenacres, Fox Meadow, Heathcote, Quaker Ridge, and Edgewood; each has a public Elementary School. They also have one middle school and one high school. The Scarsdale Public School system is highly esteemed and often ranks among the top school districts in the country in terms of academic excellence.
10583, a zip code that makes many people have a jaw-dropping moment
One of the most known zip codes in America is 90210, thanks to the TV drama “Beverly Hills 90210”, but the zip code 10583 is listed as one of the richest zip codes in New York. Scarsdale, New York, was the richest town on the East Coast and the second-richest in the US for the second year in a row, according to Bloomberg’s 2020 “Richest Places” annual index.
The community is known for its luxurious homes, upscale amenities, and a high standard of living.
These statistics have made Scarsdale an inspirational neighborhood for well-off young couples who live in New York and want to raise their children in a more familiar environment. In Scarsdale, you can find some of the finest restaurants in New York, Boutiques, Shops, Jewelers, Golf Clubs, etc. Located about 25 miles north of Manhattan, Scarsdale offers a convenient commute to New York City, making it an attractive location for professionals working in the city but looking for a suburban environment for their families. The Metro North commuter train has express runs every 30 min during peak hours to and from Grand Central. The emphasis on education attracts many families to the area.
Scarsdale has a rich history, with origins tracing back to colonial times. The village itself was incorporated in the early 20th century. The low crime rate, coupled with a close-knit community vibe, enhances its desirability as a residential location.
Curiosities
- Name: Caleb Heathcote named the area Scarsdale after his ancestral home in Derbyshire, England. The English name means “dale of scars or rocks”; the terrain is, in fact, full of rocks, and because of that geography, many areas in Scarsdale don’t have natural gas. It is mandatory to have Gas Tanks or Oil Tanks for heating.
- Scarsdale Diet: In the 1970s, the “Scarsdale Diet” gained worldwide fame. It was a popular weight loss regimen created by a cardiologist from Scarsdale, Dr. Herman Tarnower.
- Fox Meadow Tennis Club: The club is believed to be the birthplace of platform tennis (Paddle), a popular racquet sport played on an elevated, cage-like court. The first court was built in 1928.
- Notable Residents: Over the years, Scarsdale has been home to several notable individuals from various fields, such as Linda McCartney, wife of Paul McCartney of The Beatles; Susan Lucci, the Emmy-winning actress known for her long-term role in “All My Children”; and Loretta Swit, best known for her role in the TV series “M*A*S*H.”
So, why do I think it is overrated?
In Westchester County, the average property tax is 1.62%. According to the site tax-rates.org, the County is ranked 5th of the 3143 counties for property taxes as a percentage of median income. But, if you want to live in Scarsdale, you must pay the price. According to the Treasurer of the Village of Scarsdale, the village has a property tax rate of 3.45% per $1,000 of assessed value. The median home value there is $1.1 million. As one of the most sought-after communities in the New York metropolitan area, there’s a consistent demand for properties in Scarsdale. This demand elevates property values, which impacts the amount homeowners pay in property taxes.
I think the most crucial reason for such an elevated property tax rate is its desirability and limited Commercial Base; the Village has to fulfill its budgetary needs. Some communities offset residential property taxes by having a robust commercial tax base. If a significant portion of a town’s area is residential, the property tax burden may be higher for homeowners since there’s less commercial property to share in the tax responsibilities.
It’s also worth noting that New York State, particularly the areas surrounding New York City, generally has high property taxes compared to many other regions in the U.S. However, many residents feel that the amenities, services, and overall quality of life in places like Scarsdale justify the higher tax bills.
If you’re looking for alternatives to Scarsdale, presumably due to its high property tax rate or for other reasons, there are several other desirable suburbs and communities in the New York metropolitan area (and beyond) that offer excellent schools, amenities, and a high quality of life.
Here are some alternatives to consider:
- Larchmont, NY: Located on the Long Island Sound, Larchmont offers a beautiful coastal setting, a strong sense of community, and excellent schools. The Average property tax is 2.0%,
- Rye, NY: Another coastal community, Rye has a picturesque downtown, a rich history, and a highly-regarded school district. The average property tax is 2.0%,
- Bronxville, NY: With its walkable village center and prestigious Lawrence Hospital, Bronxville is another affluent suburb with top-tier schools. The average property tax is 3.75%.
- Chappaqua, NY: Home to the Clintons, this town offers a rural feel while still being close to NYC. Its school system is also highly esteemed. The average property tax is 1.4%.
- Pelham, NY: A diverse and tight-knit community, Pelham offers a small-town feel with great schools and is only half an hour away from Manhattan. The average property tax is 2.0%
- Armonk, NY: A charming hamlet in Westchester County’s North Castle, New York, seamlessly melds small-town allure with modern sophistication. Located about 35 miles from Manhattan, its quaint downtown features boutique shops and gourmet eateries, all set against a backdrop of rolling hills and serene woodlands. Renowned for the academic prowess of the Byram Hills Central School District. The average property tax is 2.0%
- Greenwich, CT: Just over the state line, Greenwich offers a mix of coastal charm, upscale shopping, and high-quality education. Greenwich has an effective average tax rate of 0.819%.
- Westport, CT: Located further up the coast in Connecticut, Westport is known for its artistic community, beautiful beaches, and top-rated schools. The average property tax is 1.96%
Each of these communities has its own unique charm and advantages. When considering an alternative to Scarsdale, it’s essential to prioritize what’s most important to you, whether it’s proximity to NYC, school quality, community vibe, or other factors, like cost of living.
Thank you for reading.
