NYC SPECIFIC: Might be working in Larchmont, NY, but would like to live in the city (all bouroughs acceptable). Where should I live?

I’d like to live somewhere safe, affordable, and train accessible that is equidistant to a potential workplace in Larchmont, and also (somewhat) close my friends who live in Manhattan and Brooklyn. I should note that I do not want to live in Larchmont…I know it’s nice, but I need to be closer to the city.

Basically I’m trying to keep commuting times to work under 45 minutes while remaining as close as I possibly can to Manhattan (also 45 minutes away, tops). I know the Bronx has a few nice neighborhoods but I’m not sure which ones they are…

Any suggestions? Sorry if it sounds so specific.