LaGrange

LaGrange is one of several towns bordering Poughkeepsie, and much like the others, it has a good-sized population relative to the rest of Dutchess County and is close to modern conveniences.

First, with regards to traffic: there is some. Those who plan to move to Dutchess County must know that this area has grown quite a bit over the years, and population continues to make sizable jumps from census to census (increased 6.2% in 2010). What were some quieter country roads around here back in the day, as they say, might not be any longer. Residential traffic has really picked up in some areas. In LaGrange, you're not likely to see Manhattan-like congestion or anything like that, so let's not blow it out of proportion, but you'll be far from the only car you see on the road. When it comes to public transportation, the Dutchess County Loop Bus does pass through here, but the nearest trains are in Poughkeepsie, which could take you about 15 minutes or more to reach, depending on where you are. You still need a car to get around.

When driving through, LaGrange seems to be part suburban and part rural. Generally speaking, the closer you get to the Poughkeepsie side, the more suburban it is, and the closer to the eastern (more unpopulated) side, the land really starts to open up and there's just less development. What locals consider to be LaGrange is a slightly bigger area than is seen on the map provided here, as it extends a little further west on Noxon Road and Route 55, where you'll see some more local businesses, including popular restaurants. I've been to more than a few and haven't had many disappointments.

There are no medical facilities here in LaGrange, but not being far from Poughkeepsie makes it less of an issue. Of course, you'll find some clinics and dentists in the general area. Furthermore, there are no malls here, but there are local shops and supermarkets; you'll also find a few strip malls around that should be able to take care of a lot of your needs. Also, there are gyms here, including Gold's Gym on Titusville Road and a relatively new Planet Fitness that just opened. Finally, the schools around here do tend to have a good reputation locally.

From experience, I know that there are at least a handful of larger, more expensive homes here with big lawns and pools, but by no means does that describe everyone's living arrangements. The communities seem to be on the more tight-knit side.

Finally, there are parks in the area. Three that come to mind as being in this general vicinity are James Baird State Park, Overlook Park and Stringham Park, all of which are worth a visit. It's not uncommon to hear of festivals at places like Stringham Park during the year.

There are some nice sights in LaGrange, and though it has more noticeable auto traffic coming through, it feels like a peaceful community. You may not have every modern convenience in the world right here with you, but you're close enough to them (in other towns) that it's not much of a bother.

LaGrange, which is also sometimes known as LaGrangeville, is a very nice, reasonably wealthy, and comfortable little town in Dutchess County. I wouldn't call it a 'rich' area, but the home prices tended to be a bit out of my price range. That said, you get a lot for what you pay.

First, the community is awesome. There are a lot of great people and community events in LaGrange. A local farmers market is certainly a highlight. I'm from the Midwest, and I've lived enough in big cities where I know there are farmers markets that run year long and don't have a single actual farmer in attendance. Not so in LaGrange. The people who grow the food you see are standing right there for you to ask questions. Want to know what pesticides are used? What seeds? They'll tell you. It's amazing to know exactly what you're putting into your body. I wouldn't have it any other way.

Another great part of the LaGrange community is the parks. There are quite a few in the area, and I've been to most of them. My favorite is Overlook Park because it's the only dog-friendly park around. The off-leash area is perfect for my two pooches, and the people/dogs are very nice and welcoming to new people. I love every chance I get to take my dogs there. Some of the other parks are very nice, and would be perfect for those with kids who don't want their dogs along. Stringham Park in particular is a lot of fun during the winter, as there's an ice rink, but you can have a great time during the summer too on the well-kept trails, basketball courts and soccer fields. LaGrange provides plenty of opportunities to have fun outside.

If you have kids, you'll be happy to know LaGrange has some good schools. I've heard especially good things about Arlington High School. The coaches for the various sports teams are said to be high quality, and the music program is excellent. If you have an active child, they'll have plenty to do in LaGrange.

For your own entertainment, there are some good restaurants/bars in LaGrange that should keep you from going stir crazy. States Grill is exceptional. You get a laid back, All-American atmosphere, with really good food (big portions too!) and drinks for a reasonable price. It's not the fanciest place in the world, but I don't go there for fancy. I go there for fun.

Otherwise, LaGrange is a safe, mostly quiet and enjoyable town. The only real downside is the price, as many of the homes were out of my price range. If you can afford it though, it's the place to be!