Discover a Few of Westchester’s Unique Communities

During my career as a Westchester real estate agent, I’ve had the pleasure of selling and showing homes in some truly distinctive communities. Not every community in Westchester is defined by geography—many are built around lifestyle, history, or shared interests. Whatever your budget or passion, Westchester has a neighborhood that feels like home.

If you’re considering buying a home in Westchester, here are a few of the unique communities worth exploring:

Shore Acres – Sound Shore Living at a Value

Located within the Rye Neck School District, Shore Acres offers a beach-town vibe with property values that remain more approachable than neighboring Rye, Orienta, or Greenwich. This residential enclave of about 200 homes sits on a peninsula bordered by Guion and Otter Creeks, with leafy streets leading down to Mamaroneck Harbor.

At the heart of the neighborhood is the Shore Acres Point Club, which offers a clubhouse, pool, beach, and boating facilities. Some homes even come with deeded membership rights, valued around $30,000, with annual dues of about $1,700. Residents enjoy a true sense of community with events like Fourth of July celebrations, food truck Sundays, and potluck barbecues. From kayaks and paddleboards to sailboats and motorboats, life in Shore Acres revolves around the water.

Campwoods Grounds – Historic, Affordable, and Nature-Focused

For those drawn to nature but less interested in waterfront living, Campwoods Grounds in Ossining offers affordability and charm. Established in 1831 as a Swedish Methodist retreat, this 7-acre community of 45 cottages has evolved into a year-round neighborhood with deep historic roots.

The cottages—ranging from one-bedroom homes to eclectic bungalows—cannot be expanded beyond their original foundations, which preserves the intimate character of the community. Sales are rare. These cottages offer significantly lower property taxes thanks to the land co-op’s unique religious tax status.

Campwoods Grounds also serves as a cultural hub, hosting yoga classes, lectures, craft fairs, and musical performances at the historic Swedish Tabernacle. Buyers seeking affordable homes in Westchester with character and a strong sense of community will find this neighborhood compelling.

Usonia – A Frank Lloyd Wright Enclave

Tucked into the woods of Pleasantville within the Byram Hills School District, Usonia is one of Westchester’s most architecturally significant communities. Conceived in the early 20th century, Usonia reflects Frank Lloyd Wright’s vision for affordable, inspirational housing designed to flow with the natural landscape.

The 100-acre neighborhood features circular street patterns that preserve trees and topography, with homes built in Wright’s organic modern style. Wright personally designed three of the houses and approved plans for 45 others.

Today, Usonia remains a sought-after neighborhood for design enthusiasts and those who value its tranquil, wooded setting. 

Westchester’s Equestrian Lifestyle

Beyond defined neighborhoods, Westchester offers a vibrant equestrian community—a lifestyle that attracts buyers seeking space, privacy, and pastoral beauty. With more than 3,500 horses across the county, equestrian living is especially prominent in Bedford, Lewisboro, and North Salem.

The Bedford Riding Lanes Association preserves a historic trail system, allowing members to ride directly from their stables into preserved landscapes. Membership isn’t limited to horse owners; local residents also enjoy community events, from trail hikes to cocktail parties—even the famed Kentucky Derby party once hosted by Martha Stewart.

Equestrian properties vary widely, from smaller farms around $3 million to grand country estates priced upwards of $100 million. For buyers dreaming of space for horses—or simply scenic acreage—Northern Westchester offers unmatched opportunities.

Explore Your Options with a Local Expert

Buying a home in Westchester means choosing not just a property, but a community and lifestyle that fits your needs. From waterfront enclaves like Shore Acres to historic Campwoods Grounds, architectural gems in Usonia, and expansive equestrian estates, and more! Westchester offers something for every buyer.

If you’re considering making a move, I’d be delighted to guide you through these unique communities and help you find the perfect home. Contact me at [email protected].