Where to rent in Westchester?? Dobbs Ferry, Hastings on Hudson, Irvington? (Mamaroneck: apartments, day care)

[Ott401]

My husband and I are planning to move to Westchester with our two year old daugther. We'll be renting for the first year or so, and are looking for nice, recently reno'd or updated two - three bedroom apartments for under $2200.
We're looking for a 'walkable' village setting, lots of community, great schools, and a commute of up to an hour into the city. We'll also be needing full-time daycare for our little one, so finding a place with great options for that is a consideration as well.
Any suggestions of where we should consider?
Where, besides craigslist, would be the best place to look for apartments?
Thanks for your help!

[havoc315]

The areas you mentioned are definitely a good start. My main advice would be to look in areas near where you intend to eventually buy. That way, you can get familiarity with the area, and you won't need to change your daughter's daycare abruptly.

Some other areas that could fit your bill:
Pleasantville -- very walkable village with excellent schools. Several day care options in the vicinity.
Mount Kisco -- a large walkable village. Bit more diverse. Schools are good, but less prestigious than some surrounding areas. But it would put you in a good location to explore the surrounding more prestigious areas, such as Chappaqua, Armonk, Briarcliff, Katonah.
Croton -- A walkable village, very good schools. Bit further north, but express trains make for a 45 minute commute.
Mamaroneck/Larchmont -- Both have nice walkable downtowns, with Larchmont being a bit more upscale. Schools are very good, but some people are put off by the size and diversity of the high school.

I would suspect you can find decent 2+ bedroom apartments in your price range, in any of those areas.

[Ott401]

Thanks, Havoc - we will add those towns to our list!