A Nanny Match Blog

Moving from the bustling streets of New York City to the serene suburbs is a significant change that many families consider for a variety of reasons – more space, a quieter environment, better schools, and a slower pace of life. However, such a transition can also be a bit overwhelming. 

To help make your move as smooth as possible, we've compiled a list of essential tips for families making the leap from NYC to the suburbs.

1. Research the Suburbs:

Before you start packing, it's crucial to research the suburbs you're considering. Each suburb has its own unique characteristics, amenities, school districts, and community vibes. Research factors such as crime rates, commute times, school ratings, and recreational opportunities to ensure you find the right fit for your family's needs and preferences.

You can learn more about the area by partnering with a local, reputable realtor such as Tara Harrington, who proudly serves families in the Bergen County area. 

We asked Tara how she suggests families get familiar with the suburban areas they’re considering to move to. Here’s what she had to say:

“Coming from Hoboken with my husband originally, we loved the convenience of restaurants and our commute to work, however when we had baby number 2, we needed more space, better schools, and a yard for the kids. We researched the areas by understanding the community vibe, schools, and location to the train for commuting purposes. The other concern I hear about is childcare. Lots of families need options for daycare, babysitting and nanny recommendations. With that being said, every family is different. Most clients do their research by asking neighbors and people in the community they are acquainted with.”

2. Plan Your Budget:

Living in the suburbs can bring different financial considerations compared to city life. While housing might be more affordable, there may be other expenses like lawn maintenance, property taxes, and homeowner association fees. Make sure to factor these into your budgeting process to ensure a smooth financial transition.

If you’re considering finding a full-time nanny in the suburbs, such as the Westchester or Greenwich areas, it’s important to understand the current market prices for their services. Working with a reputable nanny agency, such as A Nanny Match, can ensure you’re finding quality, reliable childcare in the suburbs, and can help ease the stress of the process of searching for a nanny in a new area.

3. Visit the Area:

Before committing to a move, spend time in the suburbs you're considering. Explore the neighborhoods, visit local stores, parks, and community centers, and even strike up conversations with locals to get a feel for the area's culture. This will help you gauge whether the suburb aligns with your family's lifestyle.

4. Plan for Commuting:

If your job remains in the city, you'll need to plan for your daily commute. Research transportation options to understand the logistics of getting to and from work. Commuting time can significantly impact your daily routine, so it's wise to factor this into your decision-making process.

This will also be a factor to consider when searching for childcare. By figuring out what your typical commute time will be, you can then determine what hours and what days of the week you may need to hire a nanny for. In our experience, many families in the Westchester, Bergen County, or Greenwich areas tend to hire a full-time nanny to take care of their children while they are at work and to ensure their children are always in safe hands, even if their commute runs long.

Scheduling around work schedules is one of the many reasons why hiring a nanny may align better with your family’s needs rather than sending your children to daycare.

5. Consider Schooling Options:

One of the primary reasons families move to the suburbs is for better schooling opportunities. Research the school districts in the areas you're interested in and consider visiting schools to meet teachers and administrators. A good school can greatly impact your children's education and overall experience in the new community.

A great way to get familiar with the school community is to join local facebook groups specific for your area (There are so many Facebook groups out there for parents in the suburbs, including Westchester NY Parents, Greenwich Working Moms, Westchester Nannies & Parents, and more!) and ask other parents how they feel about the administration and school district. This helps you get an idea of what you can expect when enrolling your children in school.

6. Build Connections:

In the suburbs, community integration is paramount. Participate in local events, clubs, and gatherings to connect with neighbors and foster relationships. Building a social network is essential for a seamless transition.

Additionally, it's worth considering engaging with local parents and nannies to further acclimate to your new surroundings. 

By visiting nearby parks, you can interact with other families and caregivers, exchanging insights about childcare and gaining a deeper understanding of the available options. Connecting with nannies in your area could potentially lead to valuable recommendations, providing insights into the preferences and expectations of caregivers in the community. This proactive approach not only aids in finding the right childcare solution but also contributes to an enhanced sense of belonging and integration within your new suburban neighborhood.

Tara Harrington also points out that this is one of the many reasons why it is crucial for families to work with a reputable real estate agent in the area:

“I always tell my clients to make sure you have an experienced licensed realtor like myself, who understands the area and that will discuss all the primary concerns you may have about moving to the suburbs. This is why I always ask my clients to make a list of their wants/needs to help narrow things down within their search.”

7. Be Patient with Adjustments:

Moving to the suburbs is a significant change, and adjustments take time. Don't expect everything to fall into place immediately. Be patient with the process, and allow your family to adapt at its own pace. You can make this transition easier in a number of ways, including by joining a local club or organization, finding new local spots to try, and taking the time to adapt to the idea of leaving the city.

8. Create a Routine:

Establishing a routine will help your family settle into the new environment more easily. From grocery shopping to leisure activities, having a predictable schedule can add a sense of stability during a time of change. Additionally, enlisting the support of a nanny can play a pivotal role in enhancing this stability as your family transitions to suburban life.

Moving from NYC to the suburbs signifies a transformative journey filled with new opportunities. As you embrace this change, remember that establishing a stable routine, supported by a nanny, can greatly ease your family's adjustment. By engaging with local events, clubs, and fellow parents, you'll find yourself woven into the vibrant fabric of your suburban community.

If you're in search of reliable nannies, especially in the Westchester, Bergen County, and Greenwich areas, our team is here to help.

Reach out to us for expert guidance in finding the perfect caregiver who not only understands your family's needs but also shares your enthusiasm for embarking on this new chapter. Your suburban adventure awaits – and we're here to make it even more enriching and fulfilling.

Learn more about how we can help you find a Full Time, Part Time, or weekend nanny in New York City, Westchester, Bergen County, Greenwich or other major cities across the U.S. today by filling out our family inquiry form here.