Sitting right on the Nassau County border with Queens, Valley Stream puts Long Island living within easy reach of New York City without the noise or pace of urban life. The village’s namesake stream winds through several well-kept public parks, giving the area a surprisingly natural feel for a place so close to JFK Airport and the Manhattan skyline. Green Acres Mall and the shops and eateries along Rockaway Avenue keep daily errands and casual outings close to home.
Renters here have solid options, from garden-style apartment communities and two-family flats to townhomes with private outdoor space. The Long Island Rail Road connects Valley Stream to Penn Station in roughly 30 minutes, making it a practical base for anyone working in the city. Three LIRR stations serve the village, which is a notable convenience for a community spanning just four square miles.