Commuting from Middletown, NY to NYC: Train, Bus and Driving Options

by Ammar Iqbal

By Ammar Iqbal | Real Estate Salesperson, eXp Realty

Middletown is one of the more affordable places to buy in Orange County, and many buyers ask the same question: how hard is the commute to New York City? The honest answer is that it is doable, but it takes planning. Here is a simple look at your options. For more on the city itself, see my Middletown, NY real estate guide.

Option 1: The Train

The Middletown–Town of Wallkill station is on Metro-North's Port Jervis Line, which is run by NJ Transit. Trains head south through New Jersey to Hoboken. From there, most riders take the PATH or a ferry into Manhattan, or change at Secaucus Junction for a train to Penn Station. Check the current schedule before you count on a specific train, since service is lighter than on lines closer to the city.

Option 2: The Commuter Bus

Commuter buses run from the Middletown area to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown. For many people who work near Times Square or the west side, the bus is the simplest choice because it drops you right in Manhattan. Travel time depends a lot on traffic at the Lincoln Tunnel, so morning and evening rush can add time.

A moving truck outside a home in the Hudson Valley

Option 3: Driving

Middletown sits where Route 17 (the future I-86) meets I-84. Most drivers take Route 17 east to the New York State Thruway at Harriman, then head south. Some prefer I-84 east to I-87 instead. The city is roughly 65 to 70 miles from Manhattan, and tolls and parking add up, so driving every day is usually the most expensive option.

Tips Before You Buy

Test the commute at rush hour. Try your actual route on a weekday morning before you make an offer.
Think about where in Middletown you live. A home near Route 17 or the train station can save real time each day. My post on the City of Middletown vs. Town of Wallkill explains why the address matters.
Consider a hybrid schedule. Many buyers who go into the city a few days a week find Middletown a good balance.
Compare nearby towns. If the commute is your top priority, read about commuting from Monroe and commuting from Goshen.

Historic storefronts in downtown Middletown, NY

Is the Trade-Off Worth It?

For many buyers, yes. Middletown offers more home for the money, plus shopping, healthcare and parks close by. If you are coming from the city, my guide on moving from NYC to Orange County covers what else to expect. When you are ready, browse Middletown homes for sale near the train, the bus or Route 17.

Homes and apartment buildings seen from above in Orange County, NY