White Plains transformed from a low-rise downtown into Westchester's business and retail hub through redevelopment from the late 20th century onward. The city now combines office towers, shopping, and rising residential high-rises near the Metro-North station. Many historic corporate relocations and proposed landmark projects shaped the city, but the current status of specific firms and developments requires verification.

Overview

White Plains is the county seat of Westchester County, New York, and one of the region's prominent "edge cities" - a downtown-focused commercial and residential center outside New York City. The city combines a compact central business district, frequent commuter rail service to Manhattan, and a mix of office towers, retail, and residential buildings.

A short history of redevelopment

From the late 1960s and into the 1970s and 1980s, White Plains undertook large-scale downtown renewal that shifted the city's center toward office and mixed-use development. The city attracted corporate offices and regional headquarters during that period, which helped transform its economy and skyline. Several redevelopment projects replaced older low-rise blocks with office buildings, hotels, and apartment towers.

Office, retail and residential growth

White Plains emerged as a leading office and retail center in Westchester County. Downtown supports a concentration of legal, financial, and professional services firms, and the Westchester county courthouse anchors civic activity.

Since the early 2000s, downtown and nearby neighborhoods have seen a steady rise in high-rise residential construction, bringing more condominium and rental inventory. These projects have attracted commuters and workers who value walkable access to transit and downtown amenities.

The city is served by the White Plains Metro-North station, with frequent service to Grand Central Terminal, which supports commuting and makes downtown attractive to residents who work in the city and in Manhattan.

Corporate presence and notable projects

A number of national and multinational companies established offices in White Plains during the postwar decades; some later consolidated or relocated as corporate structures changed. Specific corporate moves and the histories of named firms in downtown White Plains should be verified for current status. 1

Large private and public redevelopment efforts - including hotels, condominium complexes, and mixed-use buildings - have driven interest in local real estate. Some projects proposed in earlier decades were revised or never completed; current and completed developments should be confirmed through municipal planning records or recent news. 2

Real estate and community character

White Plains presents a mix of housing: from high-rise condominiums and rentals near the core to single-family neighborhoods farther out. The city's downtown amenities - restaurants, shops, cultural venues, and transit - have supported sustained demand for centrally located homes. The 2020 U.S. Census recorded a population of 59,559, reflecting the city's role as a regional hub.

As with many suburban downtowns, local property values respond to regional job trends, transit access, and new development. Prospective buyers and renters should review up-to-date listings and local market reports for current pricing trends.

Where to verify current details

For recent information on specific corporate offices, the status of named developments (for example, Renaissance Square or proposals linked to brand-name hotels), and the location or redevelopment of malls such as the Galleria, consult the City of White Plains planning department, Westchester County records, and local business reporting. 3
  1. Confirm the timeline and specific dates for downtown demolition, courthouse construction, and the major urban renewal phases in White Plains.
  2. Verify which corporations (General Foods, Hitachi, IBM, Stouffer's, Pepsi, Snapple, Van Munching Inc.) established offices or headquarters in White Plains and their current status.
  3. Confirm the status and details of named development projects such as Renaissance Square and any Ritz-Carlton proposals, including room and condominium counts if claimed.
  4. Verify the history and current status of retail centers referenced as the Galleria and other malls in downtown White Plains.

FAQs about White Plains Homes

Is White Plains part of New York City?
No. White Plains is an independent city in Westchester County, roughly 25 miles north of Midtown Manhattan. It is connected to Manhattan by frequent Metro-North commuter rail service.
How many people live in White Plains?
According to the 2020 U.S. Census, White Plains had a population of 59,559.
Are there high-rise homes and condos in White Plains?
Yes. Since the early 2000s, downtown and adjacent areas have seen increased construction of condominium towers and rental buildings, adding to the city's housing mix.
Is downtown White Plains a good place to find jobs and services?
Yes. Downtown concentrates professional services, legal offices, retail, restaurants, and county government functions, making it a regional employment and service center for Westchester.
Where can I confirm the status of specific redevelopment projects?
Verify project status with the City of White Plains planning department, Westchester County records, and recent local news reporting. Some earlier proposals were revised or never completed, so municipal records provide the most reliable updates.

News about White Plains Homes

Affordable condos in downtown White Plains open lottery. How to apply - Lohud [Visit Site | Read More]

A New Affordable Homeownership Lottery Launches in White Plains - Westchester Magazine [Visit Site | Read More]

Developer seeks changes in White Plains project to make more units workforce housing - Westfair Communications [Visit Site | Read More]

Over 100 Affordable Homes Up For Grabs In White Plains Housing Lottery - AOL.com [Visit Site | Read More]

Rendering Reveals The Sheffield At 90-114 Westmoreland Avenue in White Plains, Westchester County - New York YIMBY [Visit Site | Read More]