Harrison, New York

Distance from Manhattan: 22 Miles

Harrison, NY is a large town in southern Westchester County with a mix of quiet residential neighborhoods, corporate campuses, and walkable areas. It includes the villages of Harrison and West Harrison, as well as parts of the prestigious hamlets of Purchase and Silver Lake. Harrison has a population of around 28,000 and offers a balance of suburban comfort, excellent schools, and proximity to Manhattan.

Why People Choose to Live in Harrison

Convenient Commute to NYC

Harrison has its own Metro-North station, and the train ride to Grand Central takes about 40 minutes. The town is also close to major roadways like I-287, the Hutchinson River Parkway, and I-95, making it easy to reach New York City, Stamford, or the airport.

Highly Rated Public and Private Schools

The Harrison Central School District is known for its rigorous academics, strong sports programs, and diverse extracurriculars. The town is also home to prestigious private schools like The Keio Academy, The Windward School, and Purchase College (part of the SUNY system).

Large Homes and Spacious Lots

Harrison is known for larger homes, often on sizable lots, especially in areas like Purchase. Many homes offer 4+ bedrooms, private yards, and a quiet, residential feel — ideal for families looking to spread out.

Corporate and Economic Hub

Major companies like MasterCard, PepsiCo, and Morgan Stanley have corporate offices in or near Harrison. This makes it a desirable location for executives and professionals working nearby.

Country Clubs and Recreation

Harrison has multiple golf courses and private country clubs, including Westchester Country Club, Old Oaks, and Willow Ridge. There’s also a strong parks and recreation department, with facilities for sports, swimming, and community programs.

Who Lives in Harrison?

Families

Harrison attracts families for the school district, safety, and space. Many homes are designed with family living in mind — multi-bedroom, single-family homes with yards and nearby parks.

Professionals & Executives

With nearby corporate offices and easy train access to NYC, Harrison is popular with professionals in finance, law, and business.

International Residents

Because of schools like Keio Academy and Purchase College, as well as international business presence, Harrison has a globally connected population.

Retirees & Second-Home Buyers

The town’s peaceful setting and larger homes appeal to downsizers and those looking for a second home in the suburbs.

What Harrison Has to Offer

Harrison Metro-North Station: Direct line to NYC.
Purchase College: Brings cultural events, arts, and a college-town vibe to the area.
Parks and Recreation: Includes Silver Lake Preserve, Brentwood Pool, and athletic fields.
Luxury Living: Large estates, gated communities, and access to country clubs.
Shopping & Dining: Local spots and nearby access to White Plains, Rye, and Scarsdale for upscale dining and retail.

Quick History of Harrison

Harrison was founded in 1696 when John Harrison, a Quaker from Long Island, purchased land from Native Americans.
It was officially incorporated as a town in 1788.
Over time, the area evolved from farmland to a residential suburb and business hub.
Purchase, a section of Harrison, was once farmland and estates and is now home to educational institutions and corporate campuses.

Quick Facts

Population: 28,000
Median Home Price: $1.3M (as of 2024)
School District: Harrison Central School District
Commute to NYC: 40 minutes via Metro-North
Known For: Large homes, strong schools, corporate centers, proximity to White Plains & NYC

In Summary

Harrison, NY offers a unique combination of suburban comfort, excellent education, and corporate convenience. With a direct train to NYC, a top-tier school district, and plenty of space to grow, it’s an ideal location for families, professionals, and those looking for a quieter lifestyle without losing access to the city. Whether you’re after a large home in Purchase, easy commutes, or a strong community feel, Harrison delivers.

Harrison, New York