New York's affluent are increasingly looking north to the Hudson Valley as a preferred escape, challenging the long-held dominance of the Hamptons. The shift is fueled by a desire for a more serene and authentic experience, away from the perceived overcrowding and commercialization that have transformed the Hamptons.
For some, like commodities executive Nick Ewing, the pandemic era brought an unwelcome change to the Hamptons. What was once a seasonal retreat became a year-round residence for many, including celebrities, leading to increased traffic and crowded establishments. Ewing, who purchased a home in East Hampton in 2013, found the all-season reality, coupled with a shift in the local atmosphere—including what he described as "Kardashian-esque parties"—unappealing. He sold his Hamptons property in late 2021 and soon after purchased a home in Dutchess County, in the Hudson Valley.
"The only thing we miss about the Hamptons is the beach, but I don’t even really think about it. There is just so much more to love about being up here," Ewing stated.
This trend is reflected in the influx of upscale developments in the Hudson Valley. The members' club Soho House chose Rhinebeck for its second Farmhouse resort, a concept that originated in the UK. Luxury hotel brand One & Only is also set to debut in Hyde Park, offering residences on-site. Estelle Manor, another British members' club, is rumored to be establishing a presence in the area as well.
Towns like Rhinebeck and Hudson are becoming increasingly popular, attracting not only those seeking refuge from the Hamptons but also New Yorkers who never favored the East End's scene. The region boasts wineries, organic farm stands, and a vibrant performing arts community, drawing people away from the traditional East End lifestyle.
Despite the growing allure of the Hudson Valley, the Hamptons maintains its status as a symbol of lavish summer escapes, offering designer boutiques and dog-friendly beaches. This summer saw the reimagined Hedges Inn open in East Hampton, and LDV's Barlume Beach debut in Montauk, aiming to maintain the area's exclusive appeal.
However, some maintain that the Hamptons still holds the edge. Social chronicler Carson Griffith argues that the Hamptons surpasses the Hudson Valley in scale, institutional prestige, and historical significance, citing the enduring popularity of spots like Babe's diner in Sag Harbor. "The scene there is already self-sorting. Upstate still feels like a landgrab," she noted.
The property market in the Hamptons remains exceptionally buoyant, with crypto money further inflating prices. Real estate agents anticipate more transactions this summer than during the pandemic's peak, with East Hampton village being the most sought-after location. Even properties in Westhampton Beach, farther east, are experiencing rapid price increases.
Conversely, the Hudson Valley offers a different value proposition. Brokers highlight the appeal of larger land parcels and a wider variety of home styles, often at a lower price point than comparable Hamptons properties. Peter Ilani, a broker who moved to the area from Long Island two decades ago, points to the significant difference in commute times and a perceived lower risk of environmental damage from hurricanes compared to coastal properties.
"I talk to them: Do you like sitting in traffic for 3-4 hours? If you do, let’s go for the Hamptons," Ilani said.
Brendan Saunders, a tech executive, echoed the sentiment, having purchased a five-bedroom home in Amenia for $500,000. He found that his housing dollar stretched considerably further in the Hudson Valley than it would have in the Hamptons, where similar properties were priced at triple that amount. Saunders also noted a shift in the Hamptons' community dynamic, with fewer long-term residents and more absentee owners.
While the Hamptons is known for its social scene, which includes numerous galas and parties, and is boosted by reality television shows like Bravo's "Summer House," the Hudson Valley is cultivating its own distinct appeal. Some argue that the Hudson Valley offers a more authentic sense of community and a more curated natural environment, a stark contrast to what they perceive as the highly curated Hamptons landscape.
Both regions share a rich agricultural heritage, though this is evolving. In the Hamptons, farms have increasingly been converted to accommodate new residents, while in the Hudson Valley, farmers are pivoting towards grains and corn for the distilling industry. A peculiar shared concern for both areas is the prevalence of ticks and Lyme disease, a problem that some believe could ultimately determine which region claims ultimate victory in the eyes of New York's elite.