Looking for the best places to live on Long Island? Whether you’re searching for an affordable home for your family, great job opportunities, or a nice place to retire, these are some of the top places to live on Long Island!
Commack
- Population: 38,358
- Home Price: $933,098 median purchase price; $2,847 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 78% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 2.6%
- Perfect For: Students, singles, young professionals, families, retirees
Commack is a family-friendly area with historic charm, plenty of green space, and affordable living on Long Island. Centrally located in the western part of Suffolk County, with I-495 running along its southern border, Commack offers easy access to NYC and the rest of Long Island by car. The Commack Union Free School District is a highly-rated option for families, with great schools like Indian Hollow Primary School, North Ridge Primary School, and Commack High School—while recent high school graduates and other singles and young professionals can enroll at Suffolk County Community College. And with a fun array of shopping, attractions, dining options, and fun local events, Commack is one of the best places to live on Long Island for any age!
Things to Do in Commack
Hike the nature trails, splash in the water park, or play at the horseshoe pits, see saws, and sand pits at Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve. Sign the kids up for a camp or get a summer membership to enjoy the Play Area, Laser Tag, and Go Karts at Xplore Commack. Learn about 145 years of telephone technology with interactive exhibits and artifacts at the Long Island Telephone Museum. Schedule a round of 18 holes, swim in the pool, or play racquet sports on the courts at The Hamlet Golf & Country Club. Order authentic kosher deli sandwiches like Corned Beef or Pastrami, Brisket of Beef, or Hard Salami at Pastrami N Friends. Try wood-fired pizzas like the Drunken Burrata or pastas like the Stuffed Cacio e Pepe Gnocchi and Tagliatelle Bolognese at Commack Italian restaurant Prato 850. Take hand-crafted pizzas like the Sicilian, Buffalo Chicken, or Grandma Vodka to-go at Mario’s Pizzeria of Commack. Or stop in for tapas like Almejas en Salsa and Boquerones followed by Paella at Sangria 71.
Great Neck
- Population: 10,428
- Home Price: $1,540,177 median purchase price; $2,635 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 81% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 2.9%
- Perfect For: Singles, young professionals, families, retirees
Known collectively as the “Old Village” among locals, Great Neck encompasses nine villages in the northwest corner of Long Island that create a peninsular region of the same name. This Long Island region has a strong sense of community, with fun events like the Steppingstone Park Summer Concert Series and Great Neck Park District Farmers Market. It’s also a particularly great place for families to live, thanks to the excellence of Great Neck Public Schools. Great Neck is well-connected, with an hour commute to New York City via the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and a two-hour drive to the Hamptons—but it also has fun things to do close to home within the village of Great Neck Plaza, the area’s main hub and commercial district.
Things to Do in Great Neck
Attend an outdoor movie showing with the family in summer or go ice skating at Andrew Stergiopoulos Ice Rink during the winter in Great Neck’s Park District. Sign the kids up for Line Dance Classes or Board & Card Game Club at the Great Neck Library. Visit Kings Point to see historic artifacts and artwork that illustrate America’s maritime services at the American Merchant Marine Museum. Experience the thrill of a challenging ropes course at the Alley Pond Park Adventure Course. Fill up on Chinese dishes like Wonton Soup, Chicken Kew, or Crispy Duck at Cho-Sen Village. Enjoy a Bistro Beef Burger, Chicken Franchaise, or a Pastrami Panini at Bistro Burger. Taste Persian dishes like Cormesh Sabzi, Beef Kobideh, and Barg from Shiraz. Or treat yourself to desserts like an Apple Pie, Lemon Tart, or a Chocolate Danish at Sweet Temptations Desserts.
Huntington
- Population: 19,888
- Home Price: $1,167,234 median purchase price; $2,979 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 79% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.8%
- Perfect For: Families, retirees
If you’re moving to Long Island in search of small-town living, Huntington may be the perfect place for you! Situated along Northport Bay on the northern Long Island coast, Huntington is one of the best places to live for anyone who loves being outside or enjoying recreational activities like fishing or sailing on the water! People of all ages call Huntington home—partially because it offers a variety of employment opportunities in the technology, insurance, education, and manufacturing industries. But that’s not all the town has to offer! Huntington residents occupy themselves with museums, parks, and an entertainment scene bursting with hip bars, pubs, and fun nightlife events.
Things to Do in Huntington
Spend a day fishing, kayaking, or swimming at Gold Star Battalion Beach. Tour the permanent collection or see special exhibits like Eclipse of the Sun and the Long Island Biennial at The Heckscher Museum of Art. Learn more about Long Island’s history with the whaling industry at The Whaling Museum. Tee off at the scenic 18-hole golf course at Huntington Country Club. Enjoy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes, a Country Breakfast Skillet, or Loaded Breakfast Burrito at Hatch. Order a Dan Smash, Clinton Chicken, or The Vauxhall Cheesesteak at Vauxhall. Fill up on a Rib Eye Sandwich with Bubbly Parmesan, Mighty Fine Quiche with Salad, or a BBEC at Mighty Fine Cafe, an all-day cafe in Long Island. Or sip on drinks like the Passion Fruit Martini, The Ultimate Double Rye, or Blackberry Coconut Mojito at IMC Restaurant & Bar.
Manhasset
- Population: 7,999
- Home Price: $2,011,088 median purchase price; $2,822 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 83% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 1.6%
- Perfect For: Singles, young professionals, families, retirees
A Long Island hamlet near Queens, Manhasset offers excellent amenities, including bike-friendly paths, golf courses, parks like the Manhasset Valley Park, and access to beaches. Most notable of these amenities is the Americana Manhasset—or Miracle Mile—an upscale shopping center with over 60 shops and restaurants located along Northern Blvd. Manhasset is also home to the acclaimed North Shore University Hospital, which is part of Northwell Health, one of the state’s largest healthcare providers and employers. In addition, residents can get to know their neighbors at fun community events like the yearly MGM Harvest Festival.
Things to Do in Manhasset
Swim in the outdoor pool, fly a kite, or go fishing at Whitney Pond Park. Hike through the nature trails near Downtown Manhasset, and tour the Science Museum of Long Island in Leeds Pond Preserve. Go bowling, play golf, or practice your tennis skills at North Hills Country Club. Grab tickets to see a film or live show at the Manhasset Cinema. Start off your day with a Breakfast Bun, Avocado Toast, or Waffle Your Way at Buttercooky Bakery & Cafe. Feast on dishes like Shrimp W/ Lobster Sauce, Sesame Chicken, or Steamed Vegetable Dim Sum at Pearl East. Order the Bluepoint Oysters followed up with Burrata Flatbread or an Angie Burger at Angie’s. Or fill up on Italian favorites like Pasta Carbonara, Pasta Alfredo, or Bolognese at Antonino’s Italian Restaurant.
Massapequa
- Population: 22,302
- Home Price: $986,885 median purchase price; $3,623 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 78% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 4.7%
- Perfect For: Singles, young professionals, families, retirees
Bordered by two nature preserves, Massapequa’s convenient South Shore coastal location offers fantastic access to water recreation like boating in Great South Bay or fishing at Massapequa Cove. This Long Island hamlet is home to many bike-friendly trails, community parks like John Burns Park and Field of Dreams Park, and streets lined with large trees and Cape Cod-style houses. Massapequa is especially attractive for families, thanks to the highly-rated schools and sports programs within the Massapequa School District. Residents of all ages can also enjoy community events spotlighting local vendors, like the Massapequa Street Fair.
Things to Do in Massapequa
Embark on a scenic hike or go on a bike ride on the Nassau-Suffolk Greenbelt Trail. Spend an evening catching fish, going for a jog, or checking out the wildlife at the Massapequa Preserve. Attend an intermediate art workshop or browse fiction and nonfiction books at Massapequa Public Library. Learn more about the ecology of Long Island and check out animal exhibits at Tackapausha Museum & Preserve. Stop by to order a Santa Fe Burger, Philly Cheese Steak, or Turkey BLT Wrap at the Massapequa Diner. Indulge in Shrimp Parmigiana, Chicken Rollatini, or a Buffalo Chicken Pizza at Carmela’s. Try the Pizza Burger, California Reuben, or Frankfurter at Krisch’s. Or feast on seafood dishes like Blue Point Oysters, Seafood Chowder, or Fried Calamari at Smuggler Jack’s.
Merrick
- Population: 21,169
- Home Price: $1,032,170 median purchase price; $2,991 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 78% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 1.4%
- Perfect For: Singles, young professionals, families, retirees
The Long Island hamlet of Merrick offers a suburban feel and low crime rates, making it a perfect place to live on Long Island—especially for young families. Growing households can send their children to quality schools within the Merrick Union Free School District or to private schools like Progressive School of Long Island and Grace Christian Academy. But this Long Island city isn’t just good for families—it’s also a great spot for young professionals seeking job opportunities in the healthcare, education, and finance industries. There are even fun local events like the Merrick Spring Fest, which brings the community together with a carnival, live music, and local vendors!
Things to Do in Merrick
Go kayaking, jog the trails, or birdwatch at the Norman J. Levy Park & Preserve. Let your pup play at the dog park or ice skate with the family at Newbridge Road Park. Sign up for an improv workshop or enroll the kids in a theatre class at the Merrick Theatre & Center for the Arts. Attend book club, storytime, or yoga, or simply check out your next favorite read at the Merrick Library. Get brick oven pizzas like the Hot Honey, Fra Diavolo, or Al Insalata at La Piazza. Enjoy dinner with a view and order the Coconut Shrimp, Poke Bowl, or Seafood Risotto at SALT. Savor dishes like the Ramen Stir Fry, Mac Burger, or Thai Chili Shrimp Tacos at Street to Table. Or treat yourself to a night out with the Cavatelli, Puttanesca, or Lobster Ravioli at La Strada.
Plainview
- Population: 26,865
- Home Price: $1,080,452 median purchase price; $2,941 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 78% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 1.8%
- Perfect For: Singles, young professionals, families, retirees
Low crime rates, friendly neighbors, lush parks, and highly-rated schools within the Plainview-Old Bethpage Central School District await you in Plainview! A small Oyster Bay hamlet located near Central Long Island, Plainview shares its school system and library with neighboring town Old Bethpage, along with the prominent 209-acre historical museum, Old Bethpage Village Restoration. This Long Island area also has a strong labor market, thanks to top employers like Veeco, iMobile, and WE Transport.
Things to Do in Plainview
Let the kids play on the playground, take a swim in the pool, or play a game of softball at Plainview Old Bethpage Park. Spend an afternoon rock climbing, or join Competitive Team Climbing Programs at Island Rock. Immerse yourself in 19th-century Long Island life or attend events like The Annual Long Island Fair at the Old Bethpage Village Restoration. Attend a group fitness class like kickboxing or pilates at Mid-Island Y JCC. Start your day right with a Breakfast Bowl, Brioche French Toast, or Biscuit Benedict at The Shed Restaurant. Dig into Steamed Shrimp Dumplings, Sweet & Sour Pork, or Egg Drop Soup at Hunan Cottage. Try Penne Siciliana, Zucchini Medalions, or Homemade Meatballs w/ Ricotta at La Famiglia. Or fill up on dishes like Taco Pizza, a Panini Caprese, or Eggplant & Ricotta Pizza at Mario’s Ristorante & Pizza.
Smithtown
- Population: 27,027
- Home Price: $1,003,966 median purchase price; $2,240 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 78% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 1.9%
- Perfect For: Singles, young professionals, families, retirees
Smithtown is one of the best places to live on Long Island, centrally located on the North Shore and bordering Smithtown Bay. This safe Long Island community boasts strong public schools like Smithtown Elementary School in the Smithtown Central School District. It’s also the ideal spot for those seeking a quieter lifestyle, with outdoor recreation opportunities in large parks like Caleb Smith State Park Preserve and Blydenburgh County Park. Plus, with easy access to the rest of Long Island and New York City from the Smithtown stop on LIRR’s Port Jefferson line, residents can plan day trips all over the Island!
Things to Do in Smithtown
Learn about wildlife rehabilitation, attend events for kids or adults, and see a variety of local plant and animal species at Sweetbriar Nature Center. Camp, swim, and play in the sand at Short Beach. Schedule a visit to the private tasting room, or taste the newest releases from the wine cellars on the outdoor patio at Whisper Vineyards. Book a tee time or sign up for lessons at Smithtown Landing Golf Course. Try Cuban food in Long Island like the Cuban Sandwich, Ropa Vieja, or Havana Bolognese at Coco Bistro Kitchen & Lounge. Order the Land & Sea, Lobster Roll, or Chicken Francaise at the Garden Grill. Visit for an all-you-can-eat Rodrizio Dinner of Frango De Churrasco, Febras De Porco, and Costela De Vaca at Luso Restaurant. Or feast on sushi rolls like the Long Island Roll, Mango Roll, or Tsukiyo Roll at Tsukiyo Zushi Sushi Restaurant.
Stony Brook
- Population: 12,162
- Home Price: $850,415 median purchase price; $3,330 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 81% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 2.0%
- Perfect For: Students, singles, young professionals, families, retirees
Originally a tourist town about halfway between the Hamptons and New York City, Stony Brook is now one of the best places to live on Long Island—especially for those wanting a tight-knit, suburban community near great schools like the Stony Brook School. Though the town is a bit quieter than other areas of Long Island, there’s plenty going on in Stony Brook! Stony Brook Village is home to a variety of unique shops and restaurants, a marina for residents to enjoy, and several beaches nearby around Smithtown Bay—on top of the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame! Not to mention, the area features Stony Brook University, which offers a liberal arts education and employment opportunities with Stony Brook Medicine.
Things to Do in Stony Brook
Dip your toes in the water or play beach volleyball at Long Island Sound beaches like West Meadow Beach and Stony Brook Beach. Attend jazz performances from groups like the Sheryl Bailey Trio or the Jazz Loft Trio at The Jazz Loft. Stop to see exhibitions like Long Island in the ’70s or Enduring Heart: Native American Long Island at The Long Island Museum. See the works of local artist Joe Reboli and other contemporary artists, or attend Third Fridays at The Reboli Center for Art and History. Enjoy Indian cuisine with dishes like Lamb Curry, Goat Kadai, or Shrimp Vindaloo at The Curry Club. Order Pho Bo Vien, Pho Ga, or Pho Nam from Sup Vietnamese Pho & Grill of Stony Brook. Try a Mushroom & Onion Burger, Eggplant Rollatini, or Triple Decker Club at the Country House Restaurant. Or sample a Blanc de Noir Rose or Harmonious Red Blend with a Gourmet Cheese Plate or Tuscan Grilled Chicken Wrap at Harmony Vineyards.
Syosset
- Population: 19,723
- Home Price: $1,188,764 median purchase price; $4,164 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 79% of New York cities
- Unemployment Rate: 2.5%
- Perfect For: Families, retirees
Syosset is a great option for those who want Long Island living in a more residential area while still having access to plenty of amenities—including light rail transportation and a public library. Located in the town of Oyster Bay and surrounded by the villages of Oyster Bay Cove, Laurel Hollow, Woodbury, and Muttontown, Syosset offers tons of things to do within the hamlet’s many parks, restaurants, shops, and bars. It also provides quick access to beaches like Cold Spring Beach in Cold Spring Harbor State Park and Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park & Beach, both less than 15 minutes away. This Long Island community is popular among families looking for great schools within the Syosset Central School District or private schools like St. Edward the Confessor School, while students seeking higher education can find it at the New York College of Health Professions, SUNY Old Westbury, and Farmingdale State College.
Things to Do in Syosset
Go horseback riding or mountain biking on the trails at the 270-acre Stillwell Woods Preserve. Challenge yourself to a game of golf at the Town of Oyster Bay Golf Course. Attend an acting class or see performances of shows like Hair and American Idiot at the Cultural Arts Playhouse. Spend a fun night bowling with family or friends on a cosmic bowling night at AMF Syosset Lanes. Indulge in Greek dishes like Lamb Kebob, Moussaka, or Greek Keftedes at It’s Greek to Me. Schedule a reservation for a fine dining, dress-code-required date night featuring entrees like the Tomahawk Pork Chop, Orecchiette Barese, or Shrimp Scampi at Volpe. Share specialty pizzas like the Balsamic Chicken, Angry Grandma, or Rigatoni Vodka at Phil’s Pizzeria & Restaurant. Or relax with meals like the Grass-Fed Beef Burger, Berkshire Pork Chop, or Rigatoni at Rustic Root.
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The Extra Space Storage team is committed to helping people find the perfect place to call home no matter what stage of life they’re at. Our “Best Places to Live” picks are designed to make moving easier by providing accurate and comprehensive information on various metro areas across the country. We consider factors like cost of living, job opportunities, local attractions, education, and more to help those looking to move make an informed decision. Discover more about our methodology today.
City and neighborhood statistics from AreaVibes
