Suggested location for first house hack within 1 hr of Manhattan?

[Will Shaker]

I’m looking for suggested locations to purchase my first multi family property about 60 minutes from Manhattan (train or drive). My goal is to get experience as an owner-occupant under my belt while keeping my day job…and a tenant helps pay off the mortgage. I intend to buy a duplex or triplex by Q4 2022 priced around 700K. 

Currently exploring B or C class neighborhoods in southern CT, northeast NJ, and parts of Westchester county.

Feel free to DM. Happy to explain my situation in better detail and hear about your own REI journey over the phone.

Be safe and happy holidays!