Buying A Home in Whitestone New York

by ANN ACQUAVIVA

A Neighborhood That Feel Like Home

If you are house hunting in Queens and craving the best of both worlds - peaceful suburban charm with easy access to Manhattan - then Whitestone NY might be the place to call home. Situated in the Northeastern corner of Queens along the East River, Whitestone offers a lifestyle blending families as well as first time home buyers. We are also seeing many longtime New York City residents choosing to move here due to the quality of life and convenience.

Why People Choose To Live in Whitestone

It's difficult to explain until you've spent some time here. Some people say it's the wide tree lined streets while others say the convenient location however the over-arching reason people choose to live here is the sense of community. You will still see "block parties", kids riding bikes and neighbors chatting in front of their homes. It is the true essence of what we always imagined a neighborhood to be and one that may remind you of your childhood. Hard to find these days but you will find it in Whitestone.

Whitestone attracts buyers who want the benefits of a suburban life without leaving New York City. Many families move here from Manhattan and Brooklyn looking for more space without the hustle but aren't quite ready to make a move to Long Island. Long time homeowners and retirees choose to stay in Whitestone for it's walkability to supermarkets, convenience stores and excellent public transportation,. This is especially true for the aging population who don't or won't have to rely on owning a car or driving.

The Benefits of Living in Whitestone

Quiet Residential Streets: Whitestone has maintained a calm, almost village-like feel unlike most of Queens. Despite having more drivers on the road these days there's minimal through-traffic here compared to nearby neighborhoods.
Beautiful Waterfront Parks: "Francis Lewis Park" also referred to as "Whitestone Park" by longtime locals, offers a magestic view of the bridge and east River. Sunsets are simply beautiful here! On the other side of Whitestone (Beechhurst) along the water is "Little Bay Park" with views of the Throgs Neck Bridge and the bay. Both parks are great for walks, picnics, kids fun and offer a quiet refuge from a busy day.
Proximity to New York City: You can't beat the loacation. Less than 30 minutes to Midtown (by car- no traffic!) and easy access to most major highways. Both local and express buses serve Whitestone. Scheduled bus times can be found at https://www.mta.info/schedules/bus/queens
Schools & Houses of Worship: In District 25 you have access to award winning schools, both public and private. You also have access to some really great FREE early learning centers that start at age 3 and up. Every religious denomination has representation in Whitestone due to our diverse poulation. From Christian, to Greek, to Korean and everything in between. You will find a house of worship to fit your needs.

What Makes Whitestone Different from Surrounding Neighborhoods

Neighborhoods like Bayside, Flushing and College Point all offer their distinct feel and charm however Whitestone is a stand out in these ways:

Less Density: Whitestone has a lower population compared to Flushing and Bayside. Lower density.
Quieter: Whitestone has fewer commercial businesses, a high percentage of single-family homes and does not have a major thoroughfare ruuning through it like that of Northern or Bell Blvd. Cuts down traffic dramatically.
Stronger Suburban Feel: Whitestone leans toward a more suburban feel than Flushing or Bayside. This is especially true in Malba and Beechhurst where you will find larger lots, wider streets and a great deal more green space.
Curb Appeal: Talk about proud homwowners! Home pride is visible throughout the neighborhood. You'll see beautifully landscaped lawns, lush gardens and very well maintained homes which give Whitestone a neat and polished look.
Strong Civic Assocation: https://www.welovewhitestone.com/ is a strong local advocacy group that is extremely involved with both residents, business owners and local law inforcement. They have accomplished a great deal in keeping our community safe & beautiful.

How Does Whitestone Compare to Living in Nassau County

In comparing Whitestone to Long Island towns like Manhasset, Great Neck and other parts of Nassau County you'll find it's much more convenient here without sacrificing quality of life:

Closer to New York City: Commuting is a big factor when home buyers choose where they will live. A commute from Nassau County can easily stretch upwards of an hour. Whitestone is much more manageable for a daily commute and can cut that travel time in half. Less travel time equals less stress and more time to be with family and do other thing you love to do.
Big Savings on Taxes an Tolls: Property taxes are significantly higher in Nassau County. Can be doubled for the same size property in Whitestone which means more money in your pocket. With access to great public transportation you avoid bridge and tunnel tolls that a Nassau County driver would incur.
Housing Styles: Whitestone offers a wide range of styles and variations including Tudors, Cape Cods, Ranches, Traditional Colonial to waterfront Coops and condos. Many Nassau County homes tend to favor a more traditional style and do not offer the variety seen here. That is especially true of multi-family options (investment opportunity) that is almost non-existent in Nassau County.

What does it Cost to Buy a Home in Whitestone?

Here is a snapshot of current homes prices mid-year 2025:

Single-Family Homes: A single-family detached home in Whitestone can typically range from $850,000 to $1.5million depending on lot size, square footage, bedrooms & baths, location and condition. Living near the water will increase the value of the home substantially. You can get an idea of current homes for sale in Whitestone at https://www.sellwithacquaviva.com/area-properties to give you an idea of the current real estate market.
Luxury Properties: In the waterfront communities of Malba, Beechhurst and Robinwood, it is not uncommon to find custom-built waterfront estates in the $2M-$5M range. Many of these homes have huge lots, private docks, water and city views and luxury amenities. (think elevators!)
Co-op & Condo's: Starting in the mid $200,000's, depending on size, location and development. Clearview Gardens (garden type) and LeHavre on the Water (mid-rise building) are two of the largest Coop developments in Whitestone. Offering one to three bedroom units. You can check out current condo and coops here:

Whitestone offers very strong long-term resale value on homes especially when you compare it to other parts of Queens or even Long Island. Low inventory (availibilty of homes for sale) has placed an additional strain on buyers looking to purchase in this market. Long-time residents here are often choosing to remain in their homes with the high cost of living and homes prices. They are finding it cheaper to remain in their homes with a paid off mortgages and manageable property taxes, rather than relocating and paying top dollar for another property so we are not seeing the turnover rate in homes like we did in the past. Competition to buy a home in Whitestone can be fierce. Working with a real estate agent that knows Whitestone will give you an advantage.

Choices of Neighborhoods in Whitestone

Whitestone has several micro-neighborhoods within the neighborhood itself. Each one offers its own unique style, price point and access to amenities. Depending upon your budget and needs you will find something suitable for you.

Malba

Malba is known for its sprawling estates and quiet, private streets. It is an exclusive and luxurious waterfront community that feels very secluded. Many people live here looking for a private life but still having easy access to New York City. Boating is also part of the lifestyle here due to easy water access. Within the community is the private Malba Yacht Club which is small but exclusive and provides large boat slips to accomodate yachts and large boats although many water-front homes have their own private docks and boat slips. Some of the highest priced homes in Queens can be found here.

Beechhurst

Beechhurst, also located on the water, is on the opposite side of the Whitestone Bridge to Malba. The bridge is the dividing line between these neighborhoods. Beechhurst combines detached homes as well as luxury coop living (some high-rise). Many properties here offer bridge views (both Whitestone & Throgs Neck) as well as water views. Although pricey Beechhurst is more affordable than Malba (for the most part unless you directly on the waterfront) and offers home buyers a less expensive option while still having many of the same benefits as Malba. A small but sweet benefit of living here is the Whitestone Boosters Civc Association which is a members only beach club on the water at Powells Cove. https://www.boostersbeach.com/

Robinwood

Robinwood is a small historic neighborhood located on the Bay side of the East River along Utopia Pkwy and Cross Isalnd Pkwy. It borders Little Bay Park and has breathtaking views of the Throgs Neck Bridge and Little Bay (pocket of the East River). Robinwood is known for some of its magnificent Tudor style homes, some of which have received the Queensmark plaques by the Queens Historical Society thus leaving a piece of Queens heritage for generations to come. Nowadays, most people, unless you are a long time resident, aren't aware that this section of Beechhurst is called Robinwood as the history has faded over the years. Homes in Robinwood are expensive as many are custom built on large lots. Like Malba and the rest of Beechhurst, this area is a favorite of home buyers looking for more space, privacy and serenity. Great bridge and water views as well!

Is Buying a Home in Whitestone Right For You?

If you are looking for a place that offers the comforts of suburbia living but still has urban influences than buying a home in Whitestone may be what you have been searching for. The questions I hear most from home buyers today is "Should we buy in Whitestone or go out to Long Island"? This is a very personal decision however there are many benefits to living here most notably travel time (to NYC), lower property taxes, public transportation and diversity (of both food and culture). Whitestone has many benefits however what is truly offered here is a real community where you are not just "buying a home" but "building a life for the future".

Buying A Home in Whitestone New York

by ANN ACQUAVIVA

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