Moving to Long Island, NY

Quick insights

• Long Island offers a unique mix of quiet suburban living and access to vibrant urban areas, with communities like Garden City and Huntington offering family-friendly vibes.
• When buying a home on Long Island, consider the proximity to key amenities like the Long Island Rail Road for commuting to NYC, top-rated school districts and the availability of grocery stores and banks.
• Enjoy beaches like Jones Beach and Montauk, hiking trails at Caumsett State Park or leisure and outdoor activities in the North Fork.

Living on Long Island offers a blend of suburban charm, coastal beauty and vibrant community life. This trifecta might make Long Island an ideal destination for families and young professionals alike. Family-friendly neighborhoods like Syosset and Massapequa provide excellent schools and parks. Bustling hubs, such as Huntington and Rockville Centre, cater to young professionals with walkable downtowns, chic dining options and lively social scenes. With ample employment possibilities and a welcoming community, Long Island delivers convenience and opportunity for homebuyers.

Living in Long Island, NY

Beyond its neighborhoods, Long Island boasts stunning beaches, cultural attractions, outdoor recreation and shopping scenes. Here are some examples of what Long Island has to offer.

Diverse communities

Long Island is a dynamic mix of bustling suburbs, quiet coastal villages and rural small towns. For those seeking a fast-paced lifestyle, areas like Mineola and Rockville Centre offer walkable downtowns with vibrant dining and shopping scenes.

Families often gravitate toward suburban neighborhoods like Garden City and Syosset for their spacious homes and great schools. On the quieter side, Greenport and Shelter Island provide a more laid-back, small-town vibe with access to nature and waterfront activities.

Educational opportunities

Long Island’s education ranges from public school districts to a variety of private schools. The region also offers plenty of continuing education and career development opportunities through local institutions and training programs.

Cultural and recreational activities

Long Island can have various cultural and recreational offerings for residents and visitors at any given time:

• Museums: Explore the Long Island Museum of American Art, History & Carriages, Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, African American Museum of Nassau County and Cradle of Aviation Museum.
• Sports teams: Cheer on the New York Islanders (hockey) nearby or catch a Long Island Ducks baseball game.
• Annual events: Don’t miss the Bethpage Air Show, Oyster Bay Oyster Festival or the North Fork Foodie Tour.
• Landmarks: Visit iconic spots like the Montauk Point Lighthouse, Fire Island National Seashore and Jones Beach State Park.

Neighborhoods in Long Island

For families seeking a supportive community, Long Island offers neighborhoods with many schools, parks, and areas for recreational activities. Suburbs like Syosset, Massapequa and Sayville provide spacious homes, playgrounds and access to community programs. From summer concerts in the park to holiday parades, the family-oriented atmosphere is undeniable.

Young professionals will find vibrant pockets of activity in places like Huntington and Rockville Centre. These areas provide walkable downtowns, coffee shops, live music venues and trendy restaurants. Long Island’s proximity to New York City adds to its appeal, offering commuter options while maintaining a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle.

Pros and cons of living in Long Island

Life on Long Island offers a unique mix of coastal living, close-knit communities and easy access to metropolitan amenities. However, it also comes with its share of challenges that potential residents should weigh carefully.

Pros of living in Long Island

• Proximity to NYC: Residents of Long Island have convenient access to New York City’s job market, entertainment, cultural attractions, train lines and major highways.
• Job market: Long Island has a job market spanning industries like healthcare, technology, finance and education.
• Transportation options: With transportation networks, including the Long Island Rail Road and major highways, commuting in and around the area can be relatively straightforward.
• Natural beauty and beaches: Beaches like Jones Beach and Montauk, as well as parks, hiking trails and scenic waterfront views, make Long Island a sort of haven for nature lovers.
• Tight-knit communities: Many neighborhoods foster a family-friendly aura, with local events and activities promoting a sense of connection.
• Cultural attractions: A wealth of museums, theaters, historic sites and music venues adds to Long Island’s rich creative scene.
• Dining and shopping: From fresh seafood to gourmet cuisine, plus a variety of shopping options, there’s generally something for everyone.

Cons of living in Long Island

• Cost of living: Housing, property taxes and overall living expenses can make living in Long Island expensive for some.
• Traffic and long commutes: Congestion can be common, especially during rush hours. This may lead to long and sometimes frustrating commutes.
• Overcrowding: Beaches, parks and popular attractions can become overcrowded during peak vacation months.
• Weather risks: Long Island has been affected by natural events such as tropical cyclones, hurricanes and winter storms, which may cause disruptions and damage.

Transportation options on Long Island, NY

Long Island offers a variety of transportation options for residents and visitors to navigate the area and access neighboring cities, especially New York City.

• Driving and major highways: Long Island is connected by several highways, including I-495, which runs through the island from Queens to Riverhead. State routes 27 and 25 also serve as key east-west routes, providing access to beaches, towns and suburbs.
• Public transit: The Long Island Rail Road is the primary commuter rail system, offering frequent service to and from New York City with stops across the island.
• Major airports: Long Island is served by two major airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP). JFK is located in Queens, offering both domestic and international flights and is easily accessible from Long Island. ISP is located in Ronkonkoma, serving regional and domestic flights.
• Ferries: Long Island also has ferry services, including the famous Fire Island Ferries (serving Fire Island) and the Port Jefferson Ferry (connecting to Bridgeport, Connecticut).

What to know before moving to Long Island

When buying a home on Long Island, there are several important factors to keep in mind to ensure you make the best investment.

• Location and accessibility: Proximity to job centers, schools and public transportation can impact property values and your daily commute.
• Age and condition of property: Older homes may require updates or repairs, which could affect your budget and timeline.
• Proximity to essential services: Consider how close your potential home is to banks, grocery stores, healthcare facilities and work centers.
• Local market trends: Knowing whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market can help you negotiate the best price.
• Future developments: Be aware of planned changes to the area, such as new construction or infrastructure projects, which may influence property values.

Cost of living in Long Island, NY

Living on Long Island comes with a variety of costs that prospective residents and homebuyers may want to consider:

• Housing costs: Housing on Long Island can be expensive, with prices varying by neighborhood. Homebuyers should be prepared for significant costs, including maintenance and insurance.
• Taxes: Property taxes on Long Island are notably high compared to many other regions, often influenced by the area’s school districts and community services. According to Salary.com, the cost of living in Long Island is 77% higher than the national average.cost-of-living-in-long-island-city-ny-2024
• Utilities and essentials: Utilities like electricity and heating can add up, especially during the colder months. Groceries and healthcare costs are also on the higher end.
• Transportation expenses: Owning a car is common due to the suburban layout. Long Island drivers typically incur expenses like gas, tolls, parking and vehicle maintenance. Commuters using public transit (the LIRR or buses) face costs for tickets, monthly passes and occasional ride-sharing services for first/last-mile travel.

In summary

The combination of proximity to New York City, local amenities and the natural beauty of Long Island is a reason to consider a move to Long Island; however, it’s important to weigh the advantages, such as community and accessibility, against the living expenses to ensure moving aligns with your lifestyle and budget.

Working with a Home Lending Advisor can also help you navigate the financial aspects of buying a home, helping to ensure you find loan options that meet your needs. Staying informed about local market trends and community developments after your move will help you make the most of buying or living on Long Island.