White Plains
History
White Plains, New York, is the county seat of Westchester County. Originally inhabited by the Weckquaeskeck indigenous tribe, it was settled by English Puritans in 1683 who named it after the area’s white balsam flowers or mists. It is nationally celebrated as the “Birthplace of New York State”.Pre-Revolution & The Birth of NY
- 1683: Puritan settlers from Connecticut purchased over 4,000 acres of land called Quarropas (meaning “white plains” or “white marshes”).
- 1757: White Plains was officially designated as the county seat of Westchester
- July 11, 1776: The Declaration of Independence was read aloud on the steps of the local courthouse. The members of the Fourth Provincial Congress met in White Plains to ratify the document, officially changing the colony of New York into the State of New York.
The American Revolution
- October 28, 1776: General George Washington’s retreating Patriot army faced British troops under General Sir William Howe at the Battle of White Plains.
- After taking heavy casualties and the loss of Battle Hill (then Chatterton Hill), Washington executed a strategic Today, you can visit the White Plains Historical Society at the Jacob Purdy House, which served as Washington’s headquarters during this period.
19th Century Incorporation & Growth
- 1788: Following the Revolution, the Town of White Plains was officially
- 1916: White Plains officially transitioned from a town to a bustling independent
Post-WWII & Modern Metropolis
- Post-WWII Retail Boom: After the Second World War, White Plains transformed its downtown into one of the first major suburban shopping districts in the United States, attracting massive New York retailers like Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and B. Altman.
- Civic Investment: The later part of the 20th century featured major redevelopment, turning the city into a prominent corporate, legal, and commercial hub while retaining its rich historical roots
Today
Living in White Plains, NY today offers the perfect blend of a bustling urban center and quiet, tree-lined suburbs. Just 25 miles from Midtown Manhattan, it is a highly desired Westchester hub known for its highly rated schools, excellent dining, and quick Metro-North commutes. Whether you are thinking of relocating, buying a home, or just exploring the area, life in White Plains features several distinct elements:- The Commute: The Metro-North express train from White Plains to Grand Central Terminal takes about 35–50 If driving, I-287 and the Bronx River Parkway provide access throughout Westchester and into the city, though rush-hour traffic can be heavy.
- Real Estate & Cost of Living: Living here costs less than living directly in NYC, but it still commands a premium over smaller neighboring Median home sale prices hover in the mid-$700,000s, while average monthly rents typically range from $2,800 to $3,350 depending on whether you are in a downtown luxury high-rise or a suburban neighborhood.
- Neighborhood Vibes: The city boasts over 35 distinct Downtown is walkable and packed with dining, nightlife, and shopping, while areas like Gedney Farms and North Broadway offer quiet, traditional suburban settings.
- Shopping & Dining: White Plains is a premier shopping destination for Westchester. You can explore high-end luxury at The Westchester or check out the broader retail and entertainment hubs at City Center.
- Parks & Recreation: The city features over 700 acres of parkland. Residents often spend time outdoors at Saxonwood Park (featuring hiking trails and golf) or the peaceful Silver Lake Preserve, in addition to utilizing the amenities at the White Plains Public Library.
Sorry we are experiencing system issues. Please try again.