Greenwich has long been a favorite with families in search of both excellent public schools and prominent private universities because of its reputation as one of the greatest locations to live in Connecticut and one of the richest regions on the East Coast. The low property taxes, close proximity to New York City, and plenty of excellent restaurants and retail establishments are other major selling points. Greenwich also has three marinas and a number of boat and yacht clubs, making it the ideal place for watersports enthusiasts.

The sole drawback is the intense competition in the town's housing market. "Greenwich is seeing a 'low inventory' market and ample buyers...Properties 'priced to market' continue to attract several offers, and many are selling at or over the initial listing price," said David Wilk, a broker with William Raveis Real Estate. He advised homebuyers to go into the search with an offer in mind with the knowledge that "they more than likely would be competing with other serious and qualified purchasers in the same price range."

Many people who now reside in New York City will tell you that despite the high expense of living there, they would never consider moving. People from all walks of life, from cultural vultures to media executives to real estate brokers, flock to the city because it consistently ranks among New York's greatest locations to live and retire. In addition to its closeness to beautiful beaches, mountain resorts, and lakes, New York City is home to some of the world's top museums, restaurants, hotels, dordle and parks. In every way, the city is complete.

"Buyers are and have been looking further afield with the abundance of hybrid work. That has driven a trend toward Brooklyn that was in place pre-COVID, but has continued at an accelerated pace," explained Ari Harkov of Brown Harris Stevens. "Downtown Manhattan remains hot — Chelsea, the Village, Tribeca, etc.," he continued.

Roby Thompson, a broker with Long Foster, said that since the District of Columbia is "the anchor of our government," it has one of the most stable and financially secure economies in the United States.

All of the city's museums that get government funding are completely free to visit, making it one of the best museum destinations in the country. D.C. is a stunning piece of architecture that sits on the banks of the Potomac River and offers inhabitants access to parks like Rock Creek Park. Over the weekend, Washingtonians go to Virginia's wineries, the mountains of Shenandoah National Park, and the sandy shores of the Delmarva Peninsula.

Some of my favorite D.C. areas include Cleveland Park, Capitol Hill, Logan Circle, Dupont Circle, and the upper Northwest part of the city," Thompson said. "I'm seeing a strong focus on buyers wanting accessibility to Metro stations, as well as access to restaurants, shops, and things to do that are walkable from home," said one real estate agent. If you're not into the hustle and bustle of a major city, but still want easy access to D.C. by car or subway, consider historic Alexandria.