OP here- Thanks everyone! I'm checking maps etc now to see what is feasible. This has been a great help.

Chappaqua schools are great. Steer clear of Mount Kisco schools.

Could rent this for $4500 per month. Great option for 1 year while you get to know the area. Plus, no taxes! http://www.realestate.com/NY/Mount-Kisco/50388748-Mount-Kisco-NY-10549-3201087-home-for-sale.aspx

5 Bedroom Colonial in Mt. Kisco! New Kitchen w/stainless and granite. 3 Baths have been completely updated. Gleaming refinished hardwood floors throughout. Brand new stone patio, front walkway and front porch. Newly painted inside and out. New furnace! Truly Move In Condition! Walk to train, shops and restaurants. Only 53 minutes to Grand Central on Metro North. Chappaqua Schools.

Bedford/Katonah are great areas. I would not recommend going any further north than the goldens bridge train station.

Bedford is on the MetroNorth line--(Katona is actually a hamlet of Bedford.) Commute to the city is about 1 hour--many people commute from this community. Many good real estate options. http://bedfordny.info/html/home.html

OP, obviously along the MetroNorth line will be more expensive than not along it and closer to a station more expensive than further from it. Also the further out on the line you go, the less expensive the housing, so weigh those factors. What is more important to you? For some people it's commuting time. They would rather be closer in, but not care if they are right on the line. Other people would rather be right near the station but don't care if it's much further down the line so they're on the train for an extra 30 min. each way. Also do a search on line for houses and see what you like and then MapQuest them to stations, nearby amenities, schools, etc. that might help make your decision. Good luck finding your new home!!

Also consider Pleasantville, NY - but I suspect home prices will be higher than Katonah.