Gen X Couples Shift to Community Living in Sleepy Hollow Now

UPDATE: Two Gen X couples have made significant moves toward community-centric living in Sleepy Hollow, New York, as they transition into the next phase of their lives. The Falks and the Coopermans have officially begun their journey of “rightsizing,” seeking homes that prioritize accessibility and community engagement.

Both couples, in their mid-to-late 50s, were motivated by the recent departure of their children, leading them to explore vibrant, mixed-use developments. After lengthy discussions, they settled on the Edge-on-Hudson, a promising development designed to foster social interaction, just a stone’s throw from the Hudson River.

The Falks, who sold their 100-year-old home in Edgemont, NY, are trading suburban life for a more urban experience. They found common ground with the Coopermans, who are also selling their family home. Together, they aim to enjoy a lower-maintenance lifestyle while remaining close to the community.

The couples first connected during a golf outing in the spring of 2024, where they discovered they were both looking for accessible homes in a lively neighborhood. Their focus quickly shifted to the Edge-on-Hudson, which is still under construction but promises nearly 1,200 townhomes, condos, and apartments on a 70-acre site that once housed a GM assembly plant.

These homes, starting at $1.6 million, are designed to accommodate both aging parents and their own evolving lifestyles, which include hosting family gatherings. Both couples are now living in rental apartments at Edge-on-Hudson until their townhomes are completed.

“I just believe fully in community,” said Stephanie Falk. “Being stimulated and around like-minded people can be really beneficial as you grow older.” This sentiment resonates with many like them, as they navigate the housing market, looking for a balance between comfortable living space and community connection.

As construction progresses, the development will include amenities such as parks, grocery stores, and even a hotel, enhancing the community-oriented atmosphere. The women are not only excited about their new living arrangements but also about the possibility of reconnecting with old friends and making new ones.

“It’s kind of like going to college when you’re a freshman; everyone wants to meet people,” Judy Cooperman noted, reflecting on the welcoming environment they have already experienced.

With the community still in its infancy, both couples see their move as a proactive step toward a fulfilling lifestyle that allows them to engage with others, remain active, and enjoy their golden years. This shift marks a significant trend among Gen Xers and Boomers who are increasingly seeking vibrant, accessible communities rather than traditional retirement options.

As they settle into their new apartments and await their townhomes, the Falks and Coopermans exemplify a growing movement of homeowners looking to redefine what it means to “downsize” in today’s housing market. With excitement and anticipation, they are ready to embrace all that their new community has to offer.