Farmingdale

Farmingdale encompasses a one-mile incorporated village as well as a larger unincorporated area in the Town of Oyster Bay. The population of the combined areas is approximately 50,000. The area offers both a small-town atmosphere as well as a lot of big-box shopping opportunities.

Republic Airport, Farmingdale State College and Adventureland are probably Farmingdale’s most well-known landmarks. In operation since 1969, Republic Airport provides regional and charter service, and employs 1,400 people. Farmingdale State has successfully transitioned from a two-year, primarily agricultural school to a four-year institution with over 7,000 students. Adventureland draws visitors from all over Nassau and Suffolk counties, who come for the rides and arcade games. Farmingdale has also become an excellent shopping destination in recent years, with an eclectic mix of independent shops in the village and well-known national retailers along Route 110. The area also has its own LIRR station. Travel time to Manhattan averages about fifty minutes. Several bus routes also pass through along the main roads.

Students in both the village and the unincorporated area attend the Farmingdale School District. There are four elementary schools, one middle school and one high school; the district also participates in Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK). This year, the district was cited by the state as needing improvement in English Language Arts at the elementary, middle and secondary levels. An evening high school program serves students over 17 who have dropped out but wish to return and complete a diploma.

Farmingdale offers activities beyond shopping. Bethpage State Park forms the area’s north border, with five world-class golf courses. The park has hosted the U.S. Open Golf Championships twice, in 2002 and 2009. Allen Park is a 15-acre space undergoing expansion. It currently has a children’s play area and playing fields; plans include adding additional sports facilities and a community center. Michel Park has a playground and baseball field. Though Farmingdale has no direct waterfront access, residents can use Tobay Beach, a town beach located adjacent to Jones Beach State Park, which is also nearby.

Like much of Long Island, Farmingdale grew rapidly in the years following World War II, though older homes are available. More inexpensive properties are available, but those homes are more likely to need work. Prices vary widely, with many options in the $300,000 to $400,000 range. Several co-op and condominium complexes are available as well.