Historic community boasts commutability and local shopping
The rolling hills of Monroe, a small town in Orange County, New York, hold a tapestry of rich history. The town’s past dates back to the early 1700s, when the Southfields community in the Ramapo Valley was developed. George Washington and his Continental Army passed through the area in 1777 during the Revolutionary War, and Southfields was later renamed to honor another president, James Monroe, whose name continues as the moniker of the community. Long a rural area, Monroe was a center of horse racing and dairy farming — the town prides itself on being the founding location of Velveeta cheese and the locally known Liederkranz cheese. The town continued to evolve and the introduction of bus links to the New York City’s Port Authority Bus Terminal resulted in Monroe’s suburbanization in the 1970s and 1980s. Today, Monroe’s colonial-style homes, thriving local businesses and picturesque parks still celebrate the historic community’s storied past, drawing in those seeking to be close enough to New York City but not too close and who see their own future living in the suburban setting.
Aerial perspective of Monroe, NY.
An old fighter jet is on display at Crane Park in Monroe, NY.
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An architectural mix of homes, from historic to modern
Colonial-style homes recall Monroe’s 18th-century origins and midcentury bi-level and split-level homes remain from the town’s initial suburbanization. Recently built townhomes and ranch-style residences, along with grand Colonial Revival-styles in gated communities, express this town’s continued growth. “You have a nice mix of different housing,” says local Realtor Jennifer Loprieno of Rand Realty. “Homes built in the 80s and 90s are good quality material, you have colonial-styles with brick facades and older bi-level homes, and you have historic homes scattered about.” Monroe’s homes tend to sell for between $500,000 and $1 million, a range that reflects the diversity of Monroe’s housing stock and living experiences.
A stone colonial style house in Monroe, NY.
A condominium townhouse community in Monroe, NY.
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Woodbury Commons Outlet Mall attracts shoppers
While a small town, Monroe has a vibrant retail scene at its heart, from an iconic local movie theater to popular local restaurants. “There is a huge influx of city people who come for the shopping,” Loprieno says. “Because it’s so close to Woodbury Commons, which is a huge discount outlet, Monroe is the place to go for shopping.” The outlet mall features brand names such as Pandora, Nike and more. In Monroe, Captain’s Table offers seafood specialties and classic American dishes in a nautical atmosphere. Empire Diner invites customers to enjoy the old-school diner experience, showcasing fresh pies at the entrance and serving up hearty breakfasts and many other entrees inside its vintage interior. Grocery options include Stop & Shop and ShopRite of Monroe.
The Empire Diner in Monroe, NY.
ShopRite of Monroe is where most residents do their grocery shopping.
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Recreation and sports within Monroe's unique parks
Plenty of green spaces offer recreational opportunities. For athletic fields, locals head to the baseball diamonds at Mary Harriman Park or the football field and playground at Smith’s Clove Park. Crane Park is one of the most unique parks in Orange County. Founded in 1921, this park not only features picturesque floral displays, but also a decommissioned F-86 fighter jet that has been an object of visitors’ fascination since the 1960s. “There are also private tennis clubs and golf courses. Some are associated with the high-end developments that have their own clubs,” Loprieno says.
Locals head to the baseball diamonds at Mary Harriman Park for athletic fields
The walking paths at Crane Park in Monroe, NY.
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Highly ranked education options
The Monroe-Woodbury Central School District serves kids in the area. Earning an A-minus overall from Niche, the district is ranked the fifth-best public school district in Orange County. Students may attend Pine Tree Elementary School before advancing to Monroe-Woodbury Middle School, both of which receive B-plus scores. Monroe-Woodbury High School gets an A-minus and has historically ranked among the state’s top 150 public high schools. The high school also ranks highly for its athletics programs, which sits at the ninth-best spot in the state, according to Niche.
The exterior of Pine Tree Elementary in Monroe, NY.
Monroe-Woodbury High School in Central Valley has 2,353 students.
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Commuting to Manhattan by car or train
Monroe commuters may drive into New York City via the Palisades Interstate Parkway or catch the bus from neighboring Harriman; both options land travelers in the heart of Manhattan in approximately an hour. “More and more people are coming to Monroe because of the convenience to the city and shopping for commuters,” Loprieno says. “It’s an easy commute and that’s the biggest draw to the town.” The closest international airport is New York Stewart International Airport, 15 miles north.
Written By
Christina von Claparede-Crola
Photography Contributed By
James Leynse
Video By
Matthew Bloch
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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On average, homes in Monroe, NY sell after 69 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Monroe, NY over the last 12 months is $505,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
New updates just completed: Fresh paint throughout and new pavers enhance the home’s curb appeal. HVAC upgrade prior to sale: The seller will professionally install a cooling HVAC system before closing. Secluded Trout Brook Estate: Expansive 5,700+ Sq Ft, 6-Car Garage, Ready for Multi-Gen Living and Entertaining. Nestled on nearly six private acres in the exclusive Trout Brook Estates, this
Welcome to 205 High Street in the heart of Monroe, where timeless craftsmanship meets modern comfort in this truly one-of-a-kind Colonial located within the highly sought-after Monroe-Woodbury School District. Situated on a beautiful corner lot, this exceptional property offers a rare opportunity to purchase separately or together with the neighboring custom-built home at 23 Sweezy Place,
Charming 2-bedroom, 2-bath Cape Cod perfectly situated in a desirable village location, just a short stroll to shops, restaurants, scenic lakes, and a picturesque waterfall. This inviting home offers timeless character with hardwood floors throughout, central air and abundant storage. The welcoming sitting room features a beautiful stone fireplace, while the spacious eat-in kitchen provides
Welcome to this spacious raised ranch in the heart of Monroe, offering comfort, flexibility, and great outdoor living on a generous .72-acre lot.This well-maintained home features 3 bedrooms and 1.5 baths with approximately 1,748 sq ft of living space. The main level offers a bright and inviting layout with an eat-in kitchen complete with stainless steel appliances, a brick backsplash, double
Welcome to 27 Margaret’s Road, where privacy, outdoor living, and endless summer memories come together on just under one acre of beautifully maintained property in Monroe. Tucked away in a peaceful setting surrounded by mature trees and lush landscaping, this expanded home offers the rare combination of space, seclusion, and resort-style backyard living. Step outside and discover the true
Welcome to Mansion Ridge, one of Orange County's premier gated golf course communities, where scenic surroundings, exceptional amenities, and a convenient Hudson Valley location come together. Situated within the sought-after Mansion Ridge community, home to the renowned Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, this spacious 4-bedroom Colonial offers an ideal blend of comfort, functionality, and
Fully remodeled 3-bedroom bungalow located on a quiet cul-de-sac in Monroe, NY within the Monroe-Woodbury School District. This move-in ready home features a modern interior with new flooring, new windows, updated kitchen, renovated bathrooms, and quartz countertops. Spacious and bright layout with stylish finishes throughout. The property also offers a 2-car garage and a large driveway with
Welcome to 181 Penaluna Road, a stunning center hall Colonial nestled on 10 picturesque acres in the heart of the Town of Warwick, just over an hour from New York City. Surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, mature trees, and peaceful woodlands, this private retreat offers the perfect blend of country living and everyday convenience. Step inside to discover a bright and spacious interior
Impeccably maintained contemporary raised ranch in Lake Region Estates on prime corner lot, featuring an open floor plan ideal for everyday living and entertaining. Updated kitchen with center island, stainless steel appliances, and a bright garden window perfect for herbs and plants. Spacious living room offers a cathedral ceiling and oversized windows for abundant natural light. Dining area
This charming 2-bedroom ranch has been fully refreshed and is ready for your next chapter. Ideal as a peaceful starter home or a weekend getaway just 60 miles from NYC. Relax on your property and take in the fantastic mountain views that makes this neighborhood one of Orange County’s best-kept secrets. You’re a short drive from Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, local farm-to-table dining, and the
Multi-Use Investment Opportunity - Village of Monroe, NY Approx. 12,000 sq ft multi-use building situated on a private gated 2.9-acre property in the Village of Monroe. Built in 2020, the property offers modern construction and flexible layout suitable for a variety of permitted uses. Property currently being used as a private high school with dormitory and both residential units as residence.
Your dream home in the cozy Mountain Lodge is here! Come see this beautiful, well kept home in the well sought after Monroe, with Washingtonville schools! Brand new roof! outdoor decking is new, bathroom is new! Call today for a viewing.
Charming and full of historic character, this solidly built home offers timeless appeal with original details, high ceilings, and classic radiator heat. Natural sunlight fills the home throughout the day, streaming in through well-positioned windows and two skylights that brighten the dining area. The home's thoughtful design helps keep it comfortable year-round, staying surprisingly cool. Enjoy
Welcome to this charming 1940 brick home nestled among mature trees in the Mountain Lodge Park subdivision, located within the Washingtonville School District. This solid 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom residence blends classic construction with a peaceful, natural setting while remaining highly convenient to commuter routes like Interstate 87, Route 208, and Route 94. Situated just a short drive from
Move right into this beautifully updated 2-3 bedroom ranch, where quality improvements and care are evident throughout. The inviting kitchen is a standout feature, designed with functionality and style in mind, featuring maple cabinets, tiled backsplash and flooring, stunning kitchen island, stainless steel appliances, and pendant lighting. Complete with contemporary finishes the layout is
Our Monroe apartments offer a comfortable yet stylish lifestyle right in the heart of the community. With a wide range of amenities and an efficient room plan, each airy one-bedroom apartment provides the perfect solution for comfortable senior living.Known for its heritage as the birthplace of Velveeta and Liederkranz cheeses, Monroe is the host each year of a popular Cheese Festival
Welcome to Lamplight Village apartments! Surrounded by woods, Lamplight Village offers a family friendly environment that is still close to great local shopping and NYC. We have multiple floor plans from studios to three bedroom townhomes. All units include heat and hot water. Residents enjoy the many amenities including: dishwashers, convenient parking, private pool, playground and laundry
Harriman Woods, a hamlet oasis, hidden in it’s own park, yet around the corner from the conveniences of retail and commuter access. One hour away from New York City via the New York State Thruway or Palisades-State Parkway, with a commuter bus stop at your door or jump on the train at the nearby station. Minutes away from local Hudson Valley recreation such as fishing, skiing, biking, farm
The advertised rate of $16,103/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of January 11, 2027.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can
The advertised rate of $10,279/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of April 8, 2027.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Property Id: 2710180 Modern 2 bed 2 bath condo located in Harriman NY. Located in a convenient location ; the area is walkable. Close to restaurants, supermarkets, banks, stores, house of worship and stores. NYC bus stops outside the complex and the train to NYC is a five minute drive. The only move in fees are $250 move in fee, background check, first month’s rent and security deposit.
Beautifully renovated 4-bedroom home available for rent!? 4 Bedrooms? 2.5 Bathrooms? Recently Renovated? Parking for 5+ Cars? Water Included? Garbage Included?? $3,200 per MonthSpacious home in a great location, ready for immediate occupancy.
Welcome to 82 Walton Terrace, a beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 2-bath Colonial nestled in the sought-after Walton Lake community in Monroe. This spacious home offers approximately 2,200 square feet of comfortable living space on a private lot with seasonal lake views.Inside, you'll find a brand-new eat-in kitchen featuring granite countertops, modern cabinetry, and stainless steel appliances.
Property Id: 2613947 This 4-bedroom, 1-bathroom house combines classic comfort with modern updates. Gather around the inviting fireplace in the living room on cool evenings, or cook in the new upgraded kitchen designed for both style and function. Features: - 4 spacious bedrooms plenty of room for family or home office - 1 full bath conveniently located - New upgraded
Welcome home to effortless condo living in the heart of Harriman! This beautifully refreshed 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom unit shines with a stylishly updated kitchen, boasting brand new countertops and sleek, modern appliances ready for your culinary adventures. Beyond the front door, the community lifestyle awaits: enjoy sunny days by the pool (passes available), matches on the pickleball courts, or
Tucked away among the peaceful settings of Mountain Lodge Park in Monroe, NY is this charming cabin-style retreat that offers the perfect blend of rustic character and modern comfort. Featuring 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, a bonus room and a very cool loft. The 688 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space make this unique home on a quiet trail an ideal setting for those seeking privacy and
Come see this gorgeous, newly renovated 2 bedroom possible 3 B/R house. The home is located at the end of Point O Pine. Quiet, private location in a nice rural setting. VERY PRIVATE LOCATION with easy access. and a beautiful, spacious yard with a lot of parking space. Home renovations include a new bathroom with beautiful ceramic tiles around the bathtub, new flooring, new kitchen cabinets,
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