Guide to buying a home in Long Island communities

By Newsday staffUpdated April 15, 2024 10:56 am

From North Shore to South Shore and western Nassau to the East End, Long Island has so many different communities with their own unique vibes and characteristics.

Looking for the perfect community to relocate to? Take a look at any of our community profiles below and find out if it's right for you.

Editor's note: Due to the dynamic and fast-paced nature of the current real estate market on Long Island, homes listed for sale in the profiles below may no longer be on the market.

Waterfront access, easy commutes to NYC draw buyers to Massapequa Park

"It's really about community," said a listing agent of what brings people to the area. "It's about walking into town with the stroller."

Newly approved developments, natural beauty are draws to Westhampton Beach

The most westerly Hamptons village is increasingly popular with NYC residents.

Young families drawn to Merrick by schools, access to amenities

Despite relatively high taxes, Merrick attracts homebuyers with convenient access to amenities and community activities.

Easy access to beaches, shops, draws buyers to Mount Sinai

"It's more laid back and relaxed, as opposed to the South Shore," said a civic association official of Cedar Beach, a big draw for residents.

Waterfront living, low taxes, eclectic neighborhoods draw buyers to Freeport

From early boaters and rumrunners to the Nautical Mile, Freeport has always had something to offer water lovers.

Kings Park aims to maintain peaceful feel with 2 master plans

"Most Kings Park residents who have grown up in Kings Park either stay there or find themselves moving back to the area," said a local listing agent.

UBS Arena's hometown draws homebuyers with walkable, diverse community

"I always call it 'The Gateway to Long Island,' " said a real estate broker and member of the Elmont Chamber of Commerce.

Affordable homes, upcoming developments draw buyers to Mastic

"We're going to now have different businesses, sit down restaurants" and more following a sewer district expansion, a town councilwoman said.

Easy access to waterfront, NYC draws homebuyers to East Rockaway

The community boasts a "harmonious blend of small-town charm and convenient access," the mayor said.

Rocky Point draws homebuyers with thriving business community, beaches

"Our businesses are the lifeblood of our community," said the president of the Rocky Point Civic Association.

Petite, private Cove Neck a 'hidden gem' with presidential ties

Home to Sagamore Hill, the 1.6-square-mile community is the least densely populated in Nassau County.

Smithtown maintains 'sleepy' charm amid downtown revamp

While generations may leave the community, they often return "because they feel like it's home," said a local listing agent.

Garden City South draws generations of homebuyers

"Children take over the house from the parents. So, everyone still knows everyone," said a listing agent and 45-year resident.

Tight-knit West Babylon draws renters, first-time homebuyers alike

Known for Belmont Lake State Park and community institutions, West Babylon is a hamlet where local traditions, sports and friendships rule.

Cedarhurst a cultural, commercial hub attracting visitors, homebuyers

"We like to say Cedarhurst is a great place to live, work and worship," the mayor said.

Port Jeff Station draws homebuyers with convenience, 'highly underrated' schools

"Port Jefferson Station is a hardworking, close-knit community" conveniently located close to shopping, a local official said.

Historic charm, restaurants, beaches draw homebuyers to Oyster Bay

"Oyster Bay is a great place to live, work and raise a family," said Vicki Walsh, a councilwoman and real estate agent.

'It's not cookie cutter': Buyers drawn to Copiague's history, home prices

"It's a great waterfront community" and residents like the school district, said a listing agent.