Pelham, New York

Pelham, NY: A Small Village with a Strong Community and Big City Access

Pelham is a small but highly desirable town in southern Westchester County, located just north of the Bronx. It’s made up of two villages — Pelham and Pelham Manor — and is known for its tight-knit community, strong schools, and convenient location. With a population of around 13,000, Pelham offers suburban living with quick access to New York City.

Why People Choose to Live in Pelham, NY

1. Fast Commute to NYC

Pelham is one of the closest Westchester communities to Manhattan. The Metro-North station in downtown Pelham gets commuters to Grand Central in just 28–30 minutes. It’s a top choice for professionals who work in the city but want to live in a quieter, more residential area.

2. Small-Town Feel with City Perks

Despite being close to NYC, Pelham feels like a small town. It has a walkable downtown, local shops and restaurants, and a real sense of community. Residents often describe it as a place where “everyone knows everyone.”

3. Highly Rated Schools

Pelham is served by the Pelham Union Free School District, which includes one high school, one middle school, and four elementary schools. The district is well-ranked for academics, arts, and athletics, making it a major draw for families.

4. Historic Homes and Tree-Lined Streets

Pelham has a large number of pre-war homes, including Colonials, Tudors, and Victorians, many of which have been well preserved. The tree-lined streets and historic charm give the town a classic suburban look.

5. Active Community Life

From youth sports to volunteer groups and seasonal events, Pelham residents are highly involved in community activities. The town hosts block parties, parades, concerts in the park, and more throughout the year.

Who Lives in Pelham?

Families

Pelham is popular with young families looking for excellent schools, a safe environment, and a family-oriented lifestyle.

NYC Professionals

A large percentage of Pelham residents commute to Manhattan or other parts of the metro area. The fast train access is a big benefit.

Empty Nesters and Retirees

Some long-time residents stay in Pelham after retirement because of the walkability, social life, and access to services.

Transplants from NYC

Many people moving out of New York City choose Pelham because it offers space, schools, and community — without feeling too far from the city.

What Pelham Has to Offer

• Downtown Pelham: Features locally-owned restaurants, shops, bakeries, and the Pelham Picture House, a restored 1920s movie theater offering films and cultural events.
• Pelham Art Center: Offers classes, exhibits, and workshops for all ages.
• Shore Park & Prospect Hill Park: Local parks with playgrounds, open green spaces, and sports facilities.
• Pelham Country Club: A private club with golf, tennis, and social events.
• Schools: Pelham Memorial High School is highly rated and offers strong AP programs and extracurriculars.

Quick History of Pelham

• Founded in 1654, Pelham is one of the oldest settlements in Westchester.
• It was named after Pelham Manor, the estate of Englishman Thomas Pell.
• The town developed into a commuter suburb in the early 1900s, especially after the opening of the New Haven rail line.
• Pelham has retained much of its historic charm and remains one of the smallest towns in Westchester by land area.

Quick Facts

• Population: 13,000
• Median Home Price: $1.1M (as of 2024)
• School District: Pelham Union Free School District
• Commute to NYC: 28–30 minutes via Metro-North
• Known For: Strong community, great schools, quick commute, historic homes

In Summary

Pelham, NY is a compact, well-connected community with a strong identity and quality of life. It’s a popular choice for families, city professionals, and anyone looking for a suburban neighborhood that still feels vibrant and connected. With top schools, historic homes, and one of the best commutes in Westchester, Pelham continues to attract people who want the best of both city and suburban living.

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