If you're thinking of buying in Wantagh

But to Wantagh residents, community spirit, fine school districts and easy access to major highways matter most. "Wantagh is very active," says resident Tony Smith, broker of S.A.S. Real Estate.

However, the No. 1 draw, local agents say, are the schools. Although the community is served by several districts, most students attend Wantagh, where all five schools have been designated a U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon School of Excellence.

Wantagh also boasts historic landmarks, parks, a preserve, boating, fishing, houses of worship and civic organizations. Shops, services and eateries can be found along thoroughfares such as Wantagh and Jerusalem avenues and Merrick Road.

Neighborhoods include Wantagh Woods, Forest Lake, Brookside Estates, Holiday Park, Sunrise Park, Polo and Mandalay. While each development may be dominated by a specific architectural style, prices run the gamut.

"This marketplace is strong," says Laura Dupkin Memisha, a resident and an associate broker of Realty Advisors. The area attracts a lot of young people, Smith adds.

Town: Hempstead

Area: 3.8 square miles

ZIP code: 11793

Population: 18,871 (not including North Wantagh)

Median age: 41.4 (not including North Wantagh)

Median household income: $106,661 (not including North Wantagh)

Median home value: $385,000*

Monthly ticket: $254

School districts: Wantagh, Levittown, North Bellmore and Seaford