Part of living in New York City is thinking about moving out of New York City. Each month, we’ll round up the best listings within commuting-ish distance, places where entire houses go for the cost of a “junior one-bedroom” (or less), but you’ll have to fix your own toilet.
This month, we’re doing winter retreats: fireplaces, hot tubs, woodsy splendor. Also, an unintentional theme is two-hour drives to Manhattan.
A House With a Stone Patio in Woodstock
$656,000: Two-bedroom, two-bath
This one-story home was part of the Byrdcliffe Arts Colony and is situated in its own patch of woods with mountain views. It has a stone patio to kick back on and a stone fireplace inside for warming up afterward. There’s even a separate studio space that has its own screened-in porch and wood stove, ideal for a guest bedroom. If you’re wondering about the shelves of CDs, property records show that the house is owned by singer-songwriters Jules Shear and Pal Shazar.
How do I get back to the city?
It’s a two-and-a-half-hour drive.
So what do I do if I live there?
Go see shows at the Byrdcliffe Arts Guild. Write your first record.
A Teensy Log Cabin in Phoenicia
$359,000: One-bedroom, one-bath
A rustic cabin nestled in the mountains that recently upgraded all the essentials — new electric, plumbing, and well. There’s an enclosed porch, a stone fireplace, and a kitchen with a mint-green fridge. If you’re ever feeling too cramped, there’s a wood-burning hot tub out back that is perfect for the winter months. But honestly, the smallness is charming. At this price, you’d be lucky if you got a studio back in Brooklyn.
How do I get back to the city?
It’s a two-and-a-half-hour drive.
So what do I do if I live there?
Go to the Phoenicia Diner and hike the Catskills.
A Post-and-Beam Cabin in Bearsville
$499,999: One-bedroom, one-bath
This house somehow combines an open, light-filled space with extreme womb vibes. The centerpiece is a floor-to-ceiling bluestone fireplace that’s surrounded by huge windows, skylights, and wooden beams. The ceilings are lofted, and we love the tiling in the kitchen, which comes with stainless-steel appliances.
How do I get back to the city?
It’s a two-and-a-half-hour drive.
So what do I do if I live there?
Go hike Overlook Mountain, which is less than a five-minute drive away.
A Cozy Ski House in Jewett
$599,000: Four-bedroom, two-bath
This 1800s farmhouse is just minutes from Hunter, so it’s ideal for skiers. It’s been tastefully “hand-restored” by the owners — there’s an incredible modern wood-burning fireplace in the living room, a blue claw-foot tub in the bathroom, and big windows with views of the Catskills. It’s much nicer than similarly priced homes in the neighborhood — plus, it includes rare bonuses like an EV charger in the driveway and built-in ski racks in the mudroom. Bring your Cybertruck, why don’t you!
How do I get back to the city?
It’s just under a three-hour drive.
So what do I do if I live there?
Go skiing, of course!