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Lloyd Harbor, a small and affluent community, is located on a peninsula in the Long Island Sound. With a population of 3,700 spread across ten square miles, this incorporated village is one of Long Islands most sparsely populated. The village is part of the larger Town of Huntington.

Unsurprisingly, Lloyd Harbor lacks strip malls; it has no real retail at all for that matter. Residents must travel south to Huntington for shopping. Zoning laws are very strict; residential lot size has a minimum of two acres.

A large portion of Lloyd Harbor is occupied by Caumsett State Park, which has water on two of its four sides. The 1,500 acre property, located on the grounds of the estate of Marshall Field III, offers hiking, biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. Target Rock National Wildlife Area, an 80-acre property, is great for hiking and observing nature. Mill Cove Waterfowl Sanctuary and Fiske Bird Sanctuary attract birdwatchers from around the area. There are two beaches: one run by the Town of Huntington, and one for Lloyd Harbor residents only.

The Cold Spring Harbor Central School District includes Lloyd Harbor within its boundaries. The district is small, with approximately 2,150 students. There is one K-1 primary school, and two elementary schools for grades two through six. One of the two elementary schools is located in Lloyd Harbor. The district has been ranked more than once in the top 100 school districts nationally. In 2007, U.S. News and World Report ranked Cold Spring Harbor High School at #52. Typically, ninety-five percent of graduates continue their education at four-year colleges. Eighty-four percent take Advanced Placement courses.

Prices begin close to a million dollars, with single-family homes being the only option. Colonials and farm ranches are popular styles. In recent years, rebuilding homes has been a popular choice, giving Lloyd Harbor a good amount of fairly new inventory.

Centerport, a small, oddly-shaped hamlet in the Town of Huntington, seems broken into three parts. Its most prominent area is a peninsula on jutting into the Long Island Sound. It is split in half by Centerport Harbor; the western part of the community appears the most heavily populated. Its southern section borders the hamlet of Greenlawn. Centerport is small, with 5,500 residents. Summer vacationers once inhabited the area, but today the majority of people reside there year-round.

Residents who commute by train have two options. Huntington’s LIRR station is about ten to fifteen minutes for most residents. Greenlawn’s LIRR station is closer, but service is less frequent and riders almost always have to transfer at Huntington, Hicksville or Jamaica. Major roads and highways are a good distance away, giving the area a sense of solitude.

There is no main downtown area, no strip malls, no grocery stores, which has allowed Centerport to retain the atmosphere of rest and relaxation it earned in its resort days. Boating and fishing remain important leisure time activities. The Centerport Yacht Club, founded in 1947, organizes regattas and events. Two of the Town of Huntington’s eight beaches sit along the Sound: Centerport Beach Park and the smaller Fleets Cove Beach. Mill Pond Dam Bridge is a popular fishing location.

Cultural opportunities are easy to find. The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum occupies 43 acres on the water, and organizes tours and workshops for adults and kids. It also has a planetarium, which is popular with school groups. The Suydam Homestead, overseen by the Greenlawn-Centerport Historical Association, hails back to the 1700s, and has been restored to include a gallery of historic artifacts.

Students who live in Centerport attend school in the Harborfields Central School District. The district also serves students from Greenlawn, Huntington and Northport. Washington Drive School, the district’s only K-2 school, is located in Centerport; the intermediate school, middle school and high school are all located in Greenlawn. The student population is 3,700. Scores on standardized state exams, administered to students in grades 3 through 8, are solid, as are Regents exam scores, taken by high school and some middle school students.

Centerport’s small size means a relatively small housing stock. The area was once primarily middle-class, but in recent years the area has grown in affluence. Compared to nearby waterfront towns like Laurel Harbor and Lloyd Neck, Centerport is still considered affordable, with current prices beginning in the mid-$300,000 range. Ages of homes vary, with older homes which were probably former summer homes, as well as newer construction. The most selection will be found among homes priced over $1 million, but there are lots of possibilities in the $500,000-$700,000 range.

Islip Terrace, the smallest of “the Islips” is a small hamlet sandwiched between the Southern State Parkway and Sunrise Highway in western Suffolk County. The hamlet is small, occupying 1.4 square miles. Initially called Germantown, the name was changed after World War I due to anti-German sentiment. Islip Terrace is heavily residential, full of well-maintained modest homes. Its population is 5,600.

The hamlet is ideally located near several parks, giving residents access to many activities and facilities. Beaver Dam Park has a playground, baseball field and basketball court. Bohemia Equestrian Center is a county facility with trails and three rings; permits are required. Heckscher State Park, not to be confused with Huntington’s Heckscher Park, features 1,600 acres on the Great South Bay. The Long Island Greenbelt Trail begins here, and ends on the North Shore at Sunken Meadow State Park. It also includes picnic and camping areas. Bayard Cutting Arboretum, located on the grounds of a 19th century estate, is a passive recreation park which offers educational programs. It also includes a farm. Connetquot River State Park Preserve offers hiking and fishing. An ocean beach is the main attraction at Robert Moses State Park, twenty minutes away.

Islip Terrace does not have its own school district. Students who reside in the hamlet attend school in the East Islip School District, which serves five thousand students. Connetquot Elementary and Ruth C. Kinney Elementary, both K-5, are located in Islip Terrace, as are East Islip Middle School and East Islip High School. Scores on state standardized exams have been strong across elementary and middle school. At the high school level, Regents passing rates are high.
The Islip Arts Council serves the greater Islip area. It includes a museum and a school offering art, music and theater classes to adults and children. It also organizes concerts and programs for the community.

With the exception of a few businesses along Carleton Avenue, Islip Terrace does not have much commercial activity. However, obtaining necessities is not difficult. Numerous shopping options can be found along Montauk Highway in neighboring East Islip. Gardiner Manor, a short trip away in Bay Shore, is anchored by Target and King Kullen, along with several other retailers. Mall shopping can also be found at Bay Shore’s South Shore Mall.

Homes in Islip Terrace are well-priced for people with smaller budgets or those seeking to downsize. The majority of inventory is priced below $350,000 and includes mainly capes, ranches and splits. A handful of homes were constructed during the 1920s and 1930s, but as with much of Long Island, building took off during the 1950s. A small selection of larger homes, priced between $350,000 and $500,000, are available. Providence on the Park is the only condo complex, and is restricted to those age 55 and older.

Sandwiched between Huntington and East Northport, Greenlawn, NY is home to 13,500 residents. Once called Old Field, the hamlet once had a flourishing pickle industry, which came to an abrupt end when blight destroyed the cucumber crops. Today, Greenlawn is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools and walkable downtown.

The Long Island Expressway sits to the south of the hamlet, which is part of the Town of Huntington. The LIE is the closest major highway. Residents who commute by train can board at the LIRR’s Greenlawn station. Parking is a mix of unrestricted spots and Town of Huntington Resident Only, with a permit. Travel time ranged between an hour and fifteen minutes to an hour and twenty-five minutes, partly because commuters must transfer at Huntington, Hicksville or Jamaica.

Greenlawn offers its residents a great variety of things to do. Broadway, lined with shops and restaurants, is a popular destination. The Robert M. Kubecka Memorial Organic Garden gives residents a chance to cultivate small gardens in a community setting. There are 8 Town of Huntington beaches, as well as a skate park. Each year Greenlawn honors its history by holding its Pickle Festival at the John Gardiner Farm, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. Greenlawn Plaza includes a grocery store as well as an assortment of chain stores. The Harborfields Library is also a great asset. Located in a former school, it has an art gallery and community center, along with an 8,000 square foot Children’s Room.

The Harborfields Central School District serves students from Greenlawn, as well as Centerport, Huntington and Northport. The student population of 3,700 is spread among one primary school, located in Centerport, as well as an intermediate school, middle school and high school, all located in Greenlawn. Scores on standardized state exams, administered to students in grades 3 through 8, are solid, as are Regents exam scores, taken by high school and some middle school students.

Homes are well-priced, though not as affordable as some neighboring areas. Buyers with budgets under $500,000 will find a lot of possibilities. At the high end, prices come close to $800,000, though inventory is smaller at this end. There are no co-ops or condos.

Dix Hills is unique by shopping-crazed Long Island standards. The hamlet of 26,000 has strict zoning regulations, which attempts to keep a tight rein on development. With the exception of a few gardening centers, retail shopping is nearly non-existent. Residents must travel beyond the confines of the sixteen-square mile area to purchase groceries and other necessities. There is no local LIRR service either; commuters must travel to Wyandanch orHuntington Station to catch the train.

Open spaces and parks are easy to find. The Town of Huntington, which includes Dix Hills, oversees recreational activities and supervises several parks, including a golf course at the public Crab Meadow Golf Course, and Gold Star Battalion Beach, on Huntington Bay. Dix Hills Park also has a golf course, along with an indoor ice rink, outdoor pools and a playground. The area’s Little League uses the ten fields at Otsego Park, which also has a roller hockey rink and playground. Strathmore Park, largely undeveloped, features hiking trails. A portion of the 813 acre Oak Bush Plains at Edgewood, a preserve occupying the grounds of a former psychiatric hospital, is located in Dix Hills.

Students residing in the northeastern section of Dix Hills attend school in the Commack School District, whose high school was rated #1 in Suffolk County this year by U.S. News and World Report. Rolling Hills Primary School serves the students in Dix Hills, who move on to intermediate, middle and high school in Commack. Commack participates in the International Baccalaureate program, a challenging multi-disciplinary college preparatory program. Scores on standardized state tests are high across grades and subjects. The remaining students attend the Half Hollow Hills Central School District, which draws students from Dix Hills, Melville, Deer Park and Wheatley Heights. It includes 10,000 students in seven elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools. High passing rates on state exams at the elementary and middle school level, as well as high Regents passing rates draw homebuyers to the area. At the high school level, students can choose from twenty-six Advanced Placement courses. Collaborations with local colleges allow students to begin earning college credit. A planetarium at Half Hollow Hills West High School draws visiting students from the district’s elementary and middle schools.

A minimal number of smaller, inexpensive homes on small lots are available, but most homes are higher priced and sit on an acre of land. Those less expensive homes are priced beginning in the low $300,000 range. Buyers whose budgets are around and above the $500,000 range will have more options; current prices top out around $2.5 million. Many homes were constructed during the 1960s and 1970s; some are even newer. The relatively young age of homes means there are more contemporary styled houses than in neighboring areas.

Huntington, NY, often referred to as Huntington Village to distinguish it from other area municipalities, is actually not an incorporated village but a hamlet in the Town of Huntington. It does have a quaint, walkable downtown area with over 300 businesses. The village is the epicenter of the community, drawing both residents and visitors who come to enjoy the shops, bars and restaurants. Huntington has a vibrant nightlife as well.

The Long Island Rail Road offers direct service to and from the city. The commute takes about an hour and ten minutes. Parking options include metered spots and lots for resident with Town of Huntington permits. Huntington Area Rapid Transit has routes to the village and Walt Whitman Mall, in nearby South Huntington.

The area is a great place for recreation and cultural arts. Heckscher Park, not to be confused with Heckscher State Park on the South Shore, landed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985. The park is home to the Heckscher Museum of Art, which includes 2,000 works in its collection, and the Chapin Rainbow Theater. Each summer, the Huntington Summer Arts Festival comes to Heckscher Park. Organized by the Huntington Arts Council, the festival lasts eight weeks and includes concerts and performances. The Town of Huntington also oversees Crab Meadow Golf Club, a public course for residents and non-residents, and Gold Star Battalion Beach. The beach, located on Huntington Bay, allows swimming and picnicking.

The Huntington School District educates over four thousand students. Schools include four K-3 primary schools, two 4-6 intermediate schools, one middle school and one high school. Approximately one-fifth of the student population lives in poverty; there are also a large number of English Language Learners (ELLs). Recently the New York State Education Department placed Huntington on its list of districts needing improvement in the area of English Language Arts at all grade levels. On the state exams administered to students in third through eighth grade, between six and ten percent of students did not meet standards. The high school offers sixteen Advanced Placement courses. Forty clubs and a variety of athletic teams are available.

A wide range of prices characterizes Huntington’s housing stock. Homes closer to the downtown area tend to be pricier. The inventory includes colonials, cottages, splits and ranches. Prices begin in the mid-$200,000 range. House-hunters looking at homes priced between $400,000 and $700,000 will find the most options, with prices topping out just above $1 million. Those seeking condos or co-ops will find a very small supply of available homes, priced between $250,000 and $600,000.

Melville, New York, population 15,000, is a hamlet in Suffolk County. A hamlet in the Town of Huntington, it is located along the Nassau/Suffolk border. The exact origin of the hamlet’s name is unclear. Speculation often brings up Herman Melville, author of Moby Dick, as being the inspiration for the name. However, unlike his contemporary, poet Walt Whitman, Melville has no connection to the area.

Parkland is abundant. Arboretum Park has a playground, as well as tennis, basketball and handball courts. In 2010, a memorial garden dedicated to Anne Frank opened. West Hills County Park offers hiking and bridle paths, and a playground. A trail named for Walt Whitman leads hikers to Jayne’s Hill, Long Island’s highest peak.

Route 110, also known as Walt Whitman Road in Melville, is home to Kohls, Marshalls and several other chain retailers. Further up Route 110, in South Huntington, is Walt Whitman Mall, which is anchored by Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy’s, and Lord & Taylor. Several large companies occupy office space in Melville, including Estee Lauder, Sbarro and Nikon.

The Half Hollow Hills Central School District draws students from Melville and its surrounding areas, including Dix Hills, Deer Park and Wheatley Heights. The district includes 10,000 students in seven elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools. West Hills Middle School is in Melville; the remaining schools are in Dix Hills. Half Hollow Hills is a sought-after district, with high passing rates on state exams at the elementary and middle school level. Regents passing rates are also very high, with passing rates over ninety percent in all subjects. Twenty-six Advanced Placement courses are available, and collaborations with local colleges allow students to begin earning college credit. Half Hollow Hills West High School’s most unique feature is a planetarium, which is visited frequently by students from the elementary and middle schools.

A third of Melville’s housing stock was constructed after 1990. There is a good amount of inventory currently priced between $350,000 and $500,000. Prices at the higher end go as high as $2 million.

Bay Shore is one of Long Island’s older towns. It occupies twelve square miles along the Great South Bay, with a population of 24,000. Earlier in its history, the town had a vibrant commercial area along Main Street. The arrival of the South Shore Mall in the early 1960s drew shoppers away, sending the village into a slow downward spiral. The decline continued into the 1980s, when efforts began to revitalize the area. Today, many improvements have been made. New housing, parks, shops and cultural organizations have revived the area. The Bay Shore Chamber of Commerce provides support for local businesses.

Bay Shore’s location on the water provides the area with scenic beauty and excellent recreational opportunities. Its Marina Park, which offers sweeping views of the Great South Bay, has a new spray park for kids, along with a pool, restaurant and playground. Bay Shore is the westernmost point for ferry access to the Fire Island National Seashore, which draws visitors from all over the region. The Great South Bay YMCA counts fitness, aquatics, sports, and teen programs among its many offerings.

The school district is ethnically diverse, with a poverty rate of 30%. The district, which has three K-2 schools, two 3-5 schools, one middle school and one high school, offers Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) and full-day kindergarten. Student performance is generally strong on state exams. Two Regents courses are offered at the middle school level, allowing qualified students to begin working towards high school diplomas. Students can choose from a wide range of after-school sports and clubs. The high school participates in the International Baccalaureate program, a rigorous, well-regarded college preparatory program. Twenty-three Advanced Placement courses are taught, so students can begin earning college credits.

Arts and culture are also important to the community. The Bay Shore-Brightwaters Public Library, operating for about a hundred years, organizes film series, exhibits, and children’s programs. The Boulton Performing Arts Centers is a popular venue for concerts, with many well-known folk and alternative musicians on the roster. The renovated Dr. George S. King Park features a band shell, where concerts are held during the warmer months. Sagtikos Manor, built in 1697, hosted George Washington during his tour of Long Island, and is one of the area’s most treasured landmarks.

Bay Shore offers great affordability, with a large range of prices. At the low end, mobile homes and small capes and ranches help homebuyers with smaller budgets get a foothold into the town. Currently there is a lot of inventory under $200,000. At the high end, waterfront homes and luxury condos dominate, with numerous options in between.

Wheatley Heights, a hamlet in the Town of Babylon, is largely residential with 5,000 residents. Until recently a part of neighboring Wyandanch, Wheatley Heights is diverse and middle-class. The hamlet shares a zip code with Wyandanch. Concerned Taxpayers of Wheatley Heights/Dix Hills, a community group, is striving to get the hamlet its own zip code, which would help give it an independent identity. The organization also sponsors beautification projects and neighborhood watches.

Shopping opportunities are minimal in Wheatley Heights, with only a few stores within the hamlet’s borders. However, neighboring towns offer innumerable choices. Residents can use two libraries, in Dix Hills and Melville. The Usdan Center for the Creative and Performing Arts provides summer programs in art, music, theater and dance. Long Island Rail Road service is available in Wyandanch; travel time to the city is about an hour.

The Town of Babylon provides a wide variety of recreational programs and events for residents of Wheatley Heights. All the town’s opportunities are published in an annual recreation guide. Three town beaches, Overlook, Cedar Beach and Gilgo Beach, are located to the south. Griem Park has a gazebo, tennis and handball courts, and a playground. Concerts and an annual family day are held at the park.

Students who live in Wheatley Heights attend school in the Half Hollow Hills Central School District, which also includes students from Melville, Dix Hills and Deer Park. The district’s seven elementary schools, one of two middle schools, and two high schools are located in Dix Hills. West Hills Middle School, located in Melville, is the exception. With just over 10,000 students, Half Hollow Hills is well-regarded. At the elementary and middle school level, passing rates on state exams were very high, with only one to three percent of students failing to meet standards. Regents passing rates are also very high, with passing rates over ninety percent in all subjects. Twenty-six Advanced Placement courses are available, and collaborations with local colleges allow students to begin earning college credit. A wide variety of foreign language courses are available through independent study.

Single-family homes are the primary type of housing. Current prices begin around $200,000 and range through $400,000. Capes, ranches and splits dominate the inventory. The majority of homes were constructed during the 1960s and 1970s, when the post-war building boom extended across Nassau and into Suffolk. Co-ops and rentals are available in limited numbers.

West Islip is an unincorporated area whose borders spill into two larger Suffolk County Towns: Islip and Babylon. The area, where the Secatogue Indians once roamed, was sparsely populated and largely undeveloped until the demand for housing swept through Nassau County and into Suffolk. West Islip grew exponentially between the 1950s and 1970s to its current population of 30,000.

Sunrise Highway and Montauk Highway pass through West Islip. Most of its shopping opportunities are located here and along Union Boulevard. A short ride in either direction brings shoppers to two large malls, Sunrise Mall in Massapequa and South Shore Mall in Bay Shore. Both malls are anchored by major department stores and include many additional smaller retailers. The hamlet has an excellent library, with a large collection of items for lending. The West Islip Symphony, which puts on major concerts throughout the year, provides a great cultural opportunity for residents.

The hamlet’s location near the water makes boating and beach-going popular recreational activities. West Islip Beach, on Great South Bay, provides one option. The Robert Moses Causeway passes through West Islip, providing easy access to Robert Moses State Park, an ocean beach, and Captree State Park, which is popular with fisherman. Swimmers who prefer pools will enjoy Casamento Park, a 14 acre space which also has tennis, handball and basketball courts. Playgrounds can be found at Carnation Park, Keith Lane Park and Parkway Lawns. A community center provides a location for senior activities and town events.

The West Islip School District educates 5,600 students. There are four elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school. The school district is generally well-regarded, with strong student performance on state exams. Graduation rates at the high school are around 98%. Students who are interested in Advanced Placement courses have a large variety to choose from. West Islip’s varsity lacrosse team has won the New York State Championships during four out of the last seven years. Parents who are interested in parochial school may be interested in St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School, which has an excellent reputation, and draws students from all over the area.

House-hunters will find a wide range of prices. The most expensive homes tend to be located on or near the water, while more affordable homes can be found inland. Splits, ranches, capes and colonials comprise the bulk of West Islip’s inventory. In relative terms, the majority of homes are relatively new, constructed during the 1960s and 1970s.

West Babylon, a hamlet in the larger Town of Babylon, is the largest of the three areas bearing the Babylon name. It is sandwiched between Lindenhurst and Babylon Village. With eight square miles and 43,000 residents, it is the largest and most populous of its neighbors.

Several major roads cut through West Babylon. Sunrise Highway and Montauk Highway run parallel to each other, providing easy access to shopping centers and neighboring towns. The Southern State Parkway has three exits in West Babylon. Train commuters have multiple station options, though none of them are in West Babylon. Permits are required to park at Lindenhurst, though non-residents are eligible for them. Parking at the Babylon station, a few minutes west, is limited to village residents, but a private lot is available. Residents in the northern part of the hamlet may find their closest station option is Pinelawn, where parking is free.

Necessities can be easily obtained from West Babylon’s many stores, which include Kmart, Big Lots and Marshalls. Montauk Highway is the area’s primary retail corridor, though Little East Neck Road is home to the Babylon Galleria Shopping Center.

There are many recreational opportunities in West Babylon. Bergen Point Golf Club, located along the shore in the southernmost part of the hamlet, is an 18-hole public golf course run by the county. There are several parks and playgrounds, many with basketball courts and baseball fields, scattered across the town. Anthony Sanchez Memorial Park also features a pool.

The West Babylon School District serves 4,600 public school students, which has five elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. Seventeen percent of the student population lives in poverty. The most recent available graduation statistics show 86% of students continuing their educations at two-year or four-year colleges. Some of West Babylon’s students attend either the Babylon Schools or the Wyandanch Schools. Babylon’s district gets very good results, with good passing rates on state standardized exams. Wyandanch’s district struggles with a very high poverty rate and abysmal passing rates on state exams across grade levels.

Single family homes dominate, and offer great affordability. Currently about half the homes on the market are priced below $300,000, giving several possibilities to buyers with smaller budgets. Nearly all the homes were constructed during the 1950s and 1960s. A few complexes with co-ops and condos provide buyers with additional options.

North Babylon, an unincorporated hamlet within the Town of Babylon, sits north of the Village of Babylon and west of the unincorporated hamlet of West Babylon. Its population is approximately 18,000. Founded in 1803, the area was first called South Deer Park.

The area’s location along Sunrise Highway, with the Southern State Parkway forming its northern border, makes it convenient for car travel. Though there is no direct LIRR service, residents have two nearby alternatives, both which make the trip to Penn Station in about an hour. To the south, Babylon has privately operated parking lots for non-village residents. Wyandanch, slightly north and west, has lots maintained by the Town of Babylon, though permits are not required.

Recreation is overseen by the Town of Babylon, which publishes an annual guide with details on its many programs and events. Phelps Lane Memorial Park is a town facility with a pool, basketball and tennis courts, baseball fields and a playground. New York State’s Parks Department runs Belmont Lake State Park, where visitors can boat, fish, picnic, ride horses, and hike. Three residents-only beaches, Gilgo, Overlook and Cedar, are all nearby, as well as Robert Moses State Park, a larger public beach.

Residents can meet most of their shopping needs locally, mainly along Sunrise Highway and Deer Park Avenue. Several strip malls and shopping centers offer casual dining, grocery and drug stores, as well as some locally-based independent shops. To the north, Tanger Outlets at the Arches offers a mix of discount and designer retailers.

Approximately 5,000 students attend the North Babylon School District, which is comprised of five elementary schools, Robert Moses Middle School and North Babylon High School. Scores on state exams at the five elementary schools are solid overall, with the majority of students meeting standards. At the middle school level, between four and six percent of students failed to meet standards. Two Regents classes, in Living Environment and Integrated Algebra, allow qualified middle school students to get an early start on high school diplomas. The high school takes a comprehensive approach to educating its students, which extends beyond academics to include citizenship, communications, wellness, and technological literacy. Students can earn college credits at a reduced rate through collaboration with SUNY Farmingdale, and Advanced Placement courses are also available.

Homes in North Babylon are affordable, with a handful of smaller homes currently available for under $200,000. Virtually none of the current inventory for sale was built before 1940; the bulk of homes were constructed during the 1960s and 1970s. The majority of homes on the market now are priced between $300,000 and $400,000, with only a few homes above that range. Many co-ops are available, with the most affordable ones located in the Fairfield Gardens complex, though other options in this category are available.

East Farmingdale is an unincorporated hamlet in the Town of Babylon. Most residents don’t distinguish between Farmingdale and East Farmingdale; both areas share a post office. The greater Farmingdale area also straddles Nassau and Suffolk counties, with the incorporated village in Nassau and the unincorporated area of East Farmingdale in Suffolk. The population of East Farmingdale is 6,500, though 50,000 people reside in the greater Farmingdale area.

East Farmingdale is home to Farmingdale State College and Republic Airport. Along with St. Charles Cemetery, the three landmarks occupy one-third of the hamlet’s 5.4 square miles. Broad Hollow Road, also known as Route 110, serves as one of Long Island’s largest commercial corridors. Furniture outlets are especially well-represented, though many other big-box stores, including Target and Wal-Mart, are located on 110. Adventureland, a small amusement park and another local landmark, is located on 110 across from Farmingdale State.

Two school districts serve East Farmingdale. Students who reside in the northern part of the hamlet attend the Half Hollow Hills School District, which has a student enrollment of approximately 10,000. There are seven elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools. Beginning in fifth grade, students may choose to participate in the district’s well-regarded theater program. Both high schools have excellent science research programs, with regular participation in the Intel and Siemans-Westinghouse competitions.

Students who reside south Conklin Street attend the Farmingdale School District, which has four elementary schools, one middle school and one high school; the district offers Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) for eligible four-year-olds. This year, the state cited Farmingdale as needing improvement in English Language Arts at all levels. An alternative high school program is available.

Residing in the Town of Babylon gives residents access to a large variety of recreation programs and activities, which are outlined in an annual recreation guide. Three town beaches, Gilgo Beach, Oak Beach and Overlook Beach, are a short ride away.

Much of East Farmingdale’s land is not residential, limiting housing options. Homes in the Half Hollow Hills School District tend to be more expensive than the Farmingdale School District. A good amount of inventory is available in the $300,000 to $400,000 range; less expensive homes tend to be smaller and in need of work. Homes in the Half Hollow Hills district hover around the $500,000 range, with very limited inventory.

Deer Park, an unincorporated hamlet in the Town of Babylon, has evolved from an agricultural community to one of Long Island’s shopping havens. Founded in 1853 by Charles Wilson, a prosperous farmer, the area was once known as New York State’s “Fruit Basket” for the volume and variety of fruit it produced. Deer Park remained largely agricultural until the late 1940s, when the substantial increase in demand for affordable housing transformed the area into one of Long Island’s many suburban towns.

Today, Deer Park is home to 28,000 residents, and the area receives a daily influx of visitors who come to take advantage of Deer Park’s many shopping opportunities. In 2008, Tanger at the Arches, a large complex with over 100 discount and designer shops, opened after years of controversy and anticipation. However, the Arches generates tax revenue, and TangerKids Grants has recently provided two of Deer Park’s elementary schools with money for instructional technology. In addition to Tanger, the area features several big-box retails and restaurants.

Shopping isn’t all Deer Park has to offer. Several parks, mostly overseen by the Town of Babylon, give residents a range of recreational choices. The Town publishes an annual guide, which describes the many programs, activities and facilities available to residents. Though Deer Park is land-locked, Cedar Beach, Gilgo Beach and Overlook Beach are a short ride away. Several parks, including Pine Acres, Birchwood and Geiger Memorial, which is partially located in Wyandanch feature playing fields for baseball, basketball and tennis courts, and playgrounds. Buttitta Memorial Pool offers swimming, and includes a roller rink, playground and food concession. Oak Bush Plains at Edgewood, an 813-acre preserve, was created on the grounds of a former psychiatric hospital. Its most unique amenity is a model airplane flying field.

Deer Park’s school district has approximately 4,300 students and three K-2 primary schools, one 3-5 intermediate school, one middle school and one high school. The district is ethnically diverse, with a 13% poverty rate. At the elementary level, scores on state reading and math exams are close to the state median, with the vast majority of students meeting standards. At the high school level, passing rates on Regents exams are also strong. Sixteen Advanced Placement courses are available, which allow students to begin earning college credit.

Housing choices include splits, ranches and capes. Deer Park is very affordable, with the vast majority of homes priced below $350,000 and almost nothing above $550,000. Quail Run is the only condominium complex, with current prices ranging between $220,000 and $350,000.

Babylon is the name given to one of Suffolk County’s ten townships, as well as the name of a village within the township. The village, incorporated in 1893, was once a popular summer vacation area for affluent families. Numerous resort hotels provided vacationers with access to beaches and barrier islands; some wealthier guests built waterfront homes. Today, the village is home to 12,000 residents, who enjoy its many canals, proximity to the beach, and quaint shopping and dining district. Babylon has its own stop on the Long Island Rail Road. Travel time to Manhattan is just over an hour, making Babylon a practical choice for rail commuters.

Babylon’s business district attracts residents and visitors, who enjoy the well-kept walkable area with over thirty restaurants and lots of unique shops. Chains are nearly non-existent. The village has largely succeeded in keeping them out, and preserving the village’s charm. The Babylon Beautification Society organizes an annual County Fair each September, which includes crafts for sale, children’s activities, food and live entertainment. The group raises funds year-round to fund the fair and pay for additional beautification projects around the village.

The village’s waterfront location makes water sports and activities a recreational focus. Each year, an updated Recreation Guide is published for all Babylon Town residents, with information about programs, events and facilities. Two beaches, Cedar Beach and Gilgo Beach, are located in Babylon. In addition to their beaches, both parks also feature marinas, picnic areas and playgrounds. Argyle Park, located near the village center, has a 25-acre fishing pond. A residents-only pool offers a change of pace from the beach. Belmont Lake State Park, officially located in North Babylon, spills partially across the village’s border. This park includes bridle and hiking trails, fishing, boat rentals and picnic areas.

The Babylon School District is small by Long Island standards, with 2,000 students in three schools. Babylon Elementary houses kindergarten through second grade, Babylon Memorial has third through sixth grades, and all the secondary students attend Babylon Junior-Senior High School. The two elementary schools share a campus. Though ten percent of third graders recently failed to meet standards on state exams, scores in other grades were stronger. At the high school level, Regents passing rates are very strong. Ninety-four percent of students from the Class of 2011 continued their education at two- or four-year colleges.

Home prices in Babylon vary widely. Many of the village’s home back up onto canals, with docks for boats. Waterfront properties have become so desirable that it’s not uncommon for a buyer to purchase a small home in good condition, tear it down, and rebuild a bigger home. The village’s less expensive homes range between $200,000 and $400,000, but are very limited in numbers. Homebuyers who have budgets above $400,000 will have the most choice. Though two-family homes are very limited, co-ops and condos are plentiful. It is not unusual

Copiague, an unincorporated area in the Town of Babylon, is a 2.4 square mile hamlet on the South Shore. Its name is derived from a Native American word meaning “place of shelter.” In the early 1900s, large numbers of Italian immigrants settled in Copiague, and today it still holds appeal for recent arrivals. Today, an influx of Hispanic and Eastern European immigrants has added to the cultural diversity of the area, which also includes African Americans. Twenty-three thousand people reside in Copiague.

Several main roads, including Sunrise Highway and Merrick Road, pass through Copiague. Target, Home Depot and Stop and Shop are a few of the area’s major retailers. Nearby, Sunrise Mall and South Shore Mall both offer a wide variety of retail choices.

Many leisure time and recreation options are available. The Copiague Chamber of Commerce promotes and supports local businesses, and organizes an annual Family Festival, which occurs each fall. The Family Festival is held at Tanner Park, a waterfront facility with playing fields, a marina, a playground and a senior center. The Festival includes carnival rides, live entertainment and food vendors. The Town of Babylon publishes an official Recreation Guide, which contains information on programs, camps and local facilities, which include three beaches, Gilgo Beach, Cedar Beach and Overlook Beach. Events organized by the town include the Halloween Haunted House and the Holiday Tree Lighting. Camping enthusiasts will be interested in the campsites at the Cedar Beach Marina.

The Copiague School District educates 4,600 public school students in three elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. Kindergarten is a full day. Many parents in Copiague choose to send their children to area private and parochial schools. Though the schools have areas needing improvement, and contend with a 46% poverty rate, the dropout rate is less than one percent. The district has been cited by the state as needing improvement in English Language Arts. On recent exams, only half the middle school students met standards as measured by state exams. At the high school level, Regents results are satisfactory but could be better. The library is excellent, offering programs for children and adults, with a large collection of materials to borrow.

Copiague offers house-hunters affordability, with a lot of single-family homes below $200,000. Though many of those homes are smaller and need repair, they offer house-hunters with smaller budgets an opportunity to own. Buyers with budgets in the $300,000-$400,000 range will find they are able to get more for their money than they would in other towns, though school quality may be a concern. Co-ops and condos range between $200,000 and $500,000. Multi-family homes are an option, though in limited in number.

Lindenhurst is an incorporated village within the Town of Babylon, Suffolk County. Its population of 27,000 makes it the fourth most populated village in New York State. Founded in 1873, it was initially called Breslau by a group of German settlers. In 1891, it was renamed Lindenhurst, after the linden trees planted by those settlers. Today, it is an affordable, attractive suburb whose residents enjoy the community’s proximity to the shore.

The Long Island Rail Road makes the 40-mile trip to Manhattan in about an hour. Parking options include metered spots, resident and non-resident permit parking and a limited number of free spaces. Several main roads pass through and near Lindenhurst. Sunrise Highway and Montauk Highway are east-west thoroughfares, lined with businesses and restaurants. Wellwood Avenue cuts a north-south path through the village, and also provides residents with numerous shopping and dining options, as do East and West Hoffman Avenue.

The village operates the Lindenhurst Community Center, which serves as the home base for several organizations. A variety of groups exist, including the village’s auxiliary police force, Disabled American Veterans, the Rainbow Senior Citizens Center, and Little League and Youth Football. A summer concert series is held annually at Village Square Park. Fireman’s Park has a recently renovated playground. Venetian Shores Park, operated by the Town of Babylon, is for residents only and offers a small beach and spray park.

The Lindenhurst School District serves 7,000 public school students. Students begin at one of six elementary schools, and then continue to Lindenhurst Middle School and Lindenhurst High School. Students fared well overall on New York State exams, with results varying based on grade. Between one and five percent of students in grades 3 through 8 failed to meet standards. At the high school level, passing rates on Regents exams were excellent. In all subjects, over 90% of students passed, and passing rates were close to 100% on several tests. The high school’s newspaper has received several awards, and students can choose from a range of Advanced Placement exams, which can help students begin earning college credit.

Shopping is plentiful and residents can address most of their retail needs locally. The village is conveniently located between two large shopping malls. Sunrise Mall in Massapequa and South Shore Mall in Bay Shore both feature a mix of large department stores and smaller specialty and chain retailers.

Lindenhurst has a good selection of affordable homes, including waterfront properties. The inventory consists primarily of capes and ranches. Though the majority of houses were constructed during the post-war building boom of the 1950s, some older homes are available. Currently, about twenty multi-family homes are on the market. Co-ops and condos are limited, with one complex, Narragansett Villas, offering units for sale.

Hempstead is the name given to both the Nassau County township, population 759,000 and one of its incorporated villages. The Town’s administrative offices are located in the village of Hempstead, which has a population of 55,000. Incorporated in 1853, Hempstead is New York’s oldest and most populous village. While its population is predominantly African-American, Hispanics comprise a large part as well.

The village of Hempstead has experienced challenges in recent years. Improving public safety and dealing with crime are ongoing concerns, as is the local economy . During the 1960s, Hempstead was a popular shopping destination, home to Abraham & Strauss, Time Square Store and other popular shops. The growth and popularity of Roosevelt Field and Green Acres drew shoppers away from Hempstead. The eventual closure of Hempstead’s big stores contributed to the blight which the village is still trying to rectify. However, an ambitious plan to develop new housing and retail in a pedestrian-oriented setting has met with great enthusiasm. Redevelopment is focused on the village’s central business district, and community input is sought through a website, RenewHempstead.com.

Hempstead Town’s offices, including the Town Clerk and Town Hall, are located in the village, along with Nassau County’s District Court. The African-American Museum, located on North Franklin Street, celebrates the contributions of African Americans through exhibits and educational programs, with a focus on Long Island. There are six parks; Kennedy Park has three pools and a gym and weight room. As part of the Town of Hempstead, residents can participate in programs and use its many parks, which include Lido Beach, Point Lookout Beach, and Lido West Beach.

Hempstead’s school district contends with a 62% poverty rate and a high number of students learning English. At the middle school level, one-fourth of students are not meeting standards. Though it was recently cited by the state as needing to improve both its high school graduation rate and English Language Arts instruction, the district has made small inroads to improvement. During the last school year, more graduating seniors earned Regents diplomas, and scores rose on both Integrated Algebra and U.S. History and Government Regents exams. Several Advanced Placement courses are available, which allow students to begin earning college credit. Instruction will also be improved through new Common Core curriculum standards, which are being implemented statewide with the goal of improving student outcomes.

Homebuyers will find bargains, but may have to weigh issues of resale, as well as costs of private schools, which many residents choose. Renters outnumber homeowners, an unusual trend for Nassau County. Hempstead has been hit hard by the subprime loan crisis, with a larger percentage of foreclosures when compared to surrounding areas. However, there are many beautiful and well-maintained Tudors and colonials, priced lower than they would be in other towns. Many legal multi-family homes are available, at a wide range of prices. Several co-op complexes offer another well-priced alternative for homebuyers.

Plainview is a larger sister hamlet to Old Bethpage. The area, which is bordered by several major parkways and the Suffolk County border, was part of the Bethpage Purchase. This 1687 transaction also includes modern-day Old Bethpage, Plainedge, Bethpage, and Farmingdale. For years, farmers cultivated cucumbers and potatoes, until blight, coupled with the post-war demand for suburban housing, resulted in farmers selling their lands to developers. Today, the hamlet is home to 26,000 residents.

The hamlet’s location provides commuters and drivers with many points into and out of town. The Northern State Parkway and Long Island Expressway have multiple exits in Plainview. The Seaford-Oyster Bay Expressway, another major artery, provides access to points north and south. Commuters who use the LIRR need to access the train from Syosset, Hicksville or Bethpage as Plainview does not have its own stop. Town of Oyster Bay permits are generally required to park at the stations.

Its inclusion in the Town of Oyster Bay gives residents access to many parks and recreational programs. The Town oversees the Plainview-Old Bethpage Community Park, a 19-acre space with play and picnic areas, a swimming pool and a kiddie pool. Residents can also enjoy two town beaches, Theodore Roosevelt to the north on Oyster Bay Harbor and Tobay Beach, an ocean beach in Massapequa. Mid-Island Y Jewish Community Center, which is affiliated with the United Way, serves Nassau and Western Suffolk and offers a range of youth and senior programs. The relatively unknown Manetto Hills Park, located on the grounds of an old estate, is an undeveloped parcel popular with hikers.

Plainview and Old Bethpage share many services, including the Plainview-Old Bethpage School District. The district educates 5,200 students from the two communities. All kindergarten students begin together at the Plainview-Old Bethpage Kindergarten Center, and then continue to one of four elementary schools. Three of the four elementary schools are located in Plainview, as are both middle schools and Plainview-Old Bethpage John F. Kennedy High School. The high school has a top-notch science research program, and very high Regents passing rates. The community also shares the Plainview-Old Bethpage Library, a modern facility which offers community and cultural programs.

Several shopping centers help residents meet most of their shopping needs. Morton Village, Manetto Hill Plaza and Woodbury Plaza feature lots of variety, including well known chains like the Gap and Bed, Bath and Beyond. Fairway and Trader Joes, two specialty grocery stores, draw shoppers from neighboring towns. Plainview is also conveniently located between two shopping malls, Broadway Mall in Hicksville and Walt Whitman Mall in Huntington.

Home prices vary greatly and have dropped significantly since the recession. Current prices begin around $300,000, though those houses tend to be smaller and may need work. A small number of homes predate the post-war building boom. However, most of Plainview’s capes, splits and ranches were built during the 1950s and 1960s. The most expensive single-family homes are priced above $1 million. Homebuyers interested in co-ops and condominiums will find several options and price points, currently between $300,000 and $1 million.

At the beginning of last century, Long Beach was a popular resort and vacation area for middle-class and upper-class city residents who were drawn to its many waterfront resort hotels. The city, one of two in Nassau, is located on a barrier island on the Atlantic Ocean. Gradually, air travel allowed people to travel to more distant destinations. The decline in summer visitors, coupled with local government corruption, led Long Beach into decline, which lasted until the 1970s. During the 1980s and 1990s, inventors who saw the city’s potential poured money into the city, spurring a revitalization which has lead to today’s vibrant city of 35,000 residents.

Long Beach can be reached by car from the Loop Parkway, which ends at the eastern end of the barrier island, or Long Beach Boulevard, which brings drivers into the heart of the city. Park Avenue is the city’s major road, where many unique shops and eateries are located. Dining options include Thai, sushi, Italian, pizzerias and kosher delis. Long Beach’s many bars are popular with locals and visitors.

Organized recreation is overseen by the city. The city’s main attraction is its beach and two-mile boardwalk, which is very clean and well-maintained. Resident families can purchase a season pass for $60, while non-residents will pay $120, and visitors can purchase day passes. Races, regattas and surfing competitions are organized by the recreation department, which also runs a recreation center with a pool and fitness equipment. Programs for children and seniors are also available.

Students from Long Beach attend the Long Beach City School District. With a student population of 4,000, the district operates a pre-kindergarten center, four elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. A Head Start program runs year-round. Though the district contends with a 15% poverty rate, it still earns high passing rates on standardized exams. Kindergarten is a full day, and foreign language instruction begins at the elementary level. Students at Long Beach High School can select from among 50 Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate and college-level courses. The International Baccalaureate program is a rigorous college preparatory program available at only a few Long Island high schools. Forty-five varsity team sports are available.

Unlike almost every other town and hamlet in Nassau, Long Beach’s housing inventory includes more condos and co-ops than houses. Homebuyers with a range of budgets will find plenty of options for all three. Small bungalows, many dating back to the 1920s, are among the less expensive single-family homes, and buyers looking to spend less than $400,000 will find many possibilities.

Glen Head, a hamlet in the Town of Oyster Bay, is home to 5,000 residents. It regularly lands on lists of America’s most expensive zip codes.

While Glen Head is relatively small and quiet, lacking the busy strip malls and large chains typical for Long Island, residents don’t have to go far to meet shopping needs. Two of Nassau County’s major roads, Northern Boulevard and Glen Cove Road, pass near or through Glen Head, where stores, eateries and other services are conveniently located. Wheatley Plaza, a popular northern Nassau shopping destination, has several stores, including a large Pathmark grocery store.

Two private country clubs provide residents with golfing opportunities and more. The Glen Head Country Club has a golf course and driving range. The North Shore Country Club, also private, has an 18 hole course, tennis courts and a pool. Its inclusion within the Town of Oyster Bay gives residents access to a large assortment of recreational programs and parks. Beach lovers have a few options. To the north, Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park, on Oyster Bay Harbor, allows swimming, and offers picnic, sports and play areas. Nearby Glenwood Landing is the home of Harry Tappen Beach, located on Hempstead Harbor. In addition to its beach, amenities include a marina, a playground, pool and picnic areas. Residents interested in an ocean beach can visit Tobay Beach in Massapequa.

Students who reside in Glen Head attend school in the well-regarded North Shore School District, which also covers Sea Cliff, Glenwood Landing and part of Greenvale. The student population is approximately 3,000. Glen Head Elementary serves the students in the town through sixth grade, and students can stay local as both North Shore Middle School and North Shore High School are in Glen Head. In 2008, North Shore High School was ranked 263rd nationally by Newsweek magazine.

Despite Glen Head’s reputation as a high-priced hamlet, homebuyers will find some inventory of small capes and ranches priced under $500,000. The majority of homes are colonials, built during the 1950s and 1960s. One co-op development, The Knolls, ranges in price between $479,000 and $799,000.

Great Neck is the name given to an incorporated village as well as a small collection of villages and unincorporated areas located on a North Shore peninsula. Approximately 10,000 people reside in the village, with an additional 30,000 in the greater Great Neck area. Author F. Scott Fitzgerald called Great Neck home between 1922 and 1924. The fictional West Egg, the setting for his most famous novel, The Great Gatsby, was based on Great Neck.

The village left another small footprint in history. From 1947 to 1952, Great Neck served as the temporary home for the newly-formed United Nations, while its permanent headquarters underwent construction in Manhattan. In 1943, the United States Merchant Marine Academy was founded on the Chrysler estate in Kings Point, an incorporated village on the Great Neck Peninsula.

Parks and recreational activities in the greater area are overseen by a special parks district. The Parkwood Sports Complex includes tennis courts, a pool and an ice skating rink. Steppingstone Park, located on the waterfront, has a marina, a theater, a playground and a wading pool. Kings Point Park, also located along the water, offers five miles of walking trails across 175 acres, with facilities for picnicking. The Village Green is the home of the village’s Veterans’ Memorial, with a formal rose garden, gazebo, bandstand and playground. Great Neck House serves as the district’s cultural hub, providing a site for performances, concerts, art classes, exhibits and movies.

Great Neck’s public school district, highly regarded by the community, consists of ten schools and 6,500 students hailing from the entire Great Neck area. Schools include the Parkville Pre-K Center, four elementary schools, North and South Middle Schools, North and South High Schools, and Village School, an alternative program. Passing rates on state standardized exams are very high, with the vast majority of students meeting standards. Both high schools offer numerous Advanced Placement exams. Both Great Neck North and Great Neck South have been recognized in Newsweek’s annual America’s Best High Schools issue. In 2006 North was ranked 23rd; in 2011 South was ranked 49th.

Single-family homes dominate. A very limited number of homes are available under $500,000, for those who wish to gain a toehold in the area. In recent years, ripping down older homes in favor of new construction, an activity not all residents favor. Most of the housing stock dates back to the 1920s and 1930s, adding to the area’s charm. Condominiums and co-ops are available. Prices for co-ops are reasonable, beginning under $100,000 for studios. In luxury complexes, prices go close to $1 million.

Franklin Square, located near the Nassau-Queens border, is a well-kept hamlet with excellent schools and a great location. Hempstead Turnpike, one of the county’s major east-west arteries, provides Franklin Square with one of its major commercial corridors. The town’s name is surrounded by mystery. Though Franklin Square has an active historical society, no one has been able to establish its origin.

Additional commercial areas are seated along Franklin Avenue, New Hyde Park Road and Dogwood Avenue. Roosevelt Field, one of Long Island’s largest malls, is fifteen minutes away and surrounded by other big-box and chain stores. Franklin Square’s Chamber of Commerce supports local businesses, organizing expos and other events. Buses run frequently along main roads, but there is no direct Long Island Rail Road service. Stewart Manor and Nassau Boulevard, the nearest stations, reserve parking for Garden City residents only, posing a challenge to rail commuters from Franklin Square.

Two school districts serve the majority of students who live in Franklin Square. Elementary students, through sixth grade, attend the Franklin Square School District. The district consists of three schools, and approximately 2,000 students. Results on standardized tests are excellent, with only 1 to 2 percent of students failing the exams. Franklin Square is also served by one of Nassau’s three central high school districts, Sewanhaka.

The Sewanhaka Central High School District’s five schools serve area students in seventh through twelfth grade. H. Frank Carey High School, named for a former Board of Education president, is located in Franklin Square. In 2000, the school was named as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. It’s known for its strong academic programs and championship sports teams. Approximately one-third of students take Advanced Placement courses for college credit. Valley Stream North High School, part of the Valley Stream Central High School District, is located in the south part of Franklin Square. Valley Stream North has good Regents results, though Carey fares slightly better.

The Town of Hempstead oversees parks and recreation for the town. Rath Park, exclusively for residents of Franklin Square’s Special Park District, has an outdoor pool, playing fields, a tennis court, and playground. Echo Park, located in neighboring West Hempstead, has an indoor pool for all Hempstead Town residents. Several town beaches and Jones Beach State Park are a short ride away.

Home prices have decreased in recent years, following an overall trend and making Franklin Square more affordable than it was during the height of the market. A good amount of inventory can be found starting at the high $200,000 range, with a lot of options under $400,000. More expensive homes can be found for residents who may wish to trade up while remaining in the school district. Like much of southern Nassau, Franklin Square underwent a building boom during the late 1940s and 1950s, to meet postwar demand. Most of the homes were built during that period, though a handful of older and newer homes can be found.

Many of Long Island’s best-known modern landmarks call Uniondale home. The unincorporated Town of Hempstead hamlet, population 25,000, was initially called Turtle Hook. Today, the hamlet sees visitors from all over the region who come to enjoy Uniondale’s many amenities.

Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum provides the New York Islanders with a home base. It can seat up to 18,000 spectators, depending on the event. It has also hosted live wrestling. Concerts and children’s performances are regular offerings. Mitchel Field Athletic Complex is another of Uniondale’s main attractions. The 49-acre park hosts collegiate and high school track events and competitions. In 1998 it hosted the Goodwill Games, which brought 1,500 athletes from around the world. Soccer, lacrosse and football games are also held. Hofstra University, Long Island’s largest private college, is also partially located in Uniondale. Nassau Community College, a two-year public school, is adjacent to the Coliseum.

Nearby Garden City offers great cultural opportunities for families. The Cradle of Aviation museum features exhibits chronicling Long Island’s role in the world of flight, located near the site of Charles Lindbergh’s historic transatlantic flight from New York to Paris. The Long Island Children’s Museum has interactive exhibits and programs for parents and kids.

Residents can enjoy several smaller neighborhood parks and easy access to shopping. Cedar Street Park, Uniondale Avenue Park and Smith Street Park offer assorted opportunities for recreation, including playgrounds, playing fields and basketball courts. One of Long Island’s first Wal-Mart stores is located in Uniondale. Roosevelt Field Mall and Westbury’s plethora of big-box and chain stores are located just to the north, offering a wide variety of retail options. Movie theaters and restaurants are also plentiful.

The Uniondale School District educates approximately 6,300 students. It is comprised of five elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school. In grades 3 through 8, between 7 and 9 percent did not meet standards on state exams. The district contends with a 34% poverty rate, and was newly identified by the state as needing to improve scores in English Language Arts. However, the district has a detailed improvement plan on its website, and parent comments on school review sites show a largely favorable attitude towards the schools and the steps they are making to raise student performance.

Homes in Uniondale are very affordable. Current prices for single-family homes range between $150,000 and $450,000. Some of the less expensive homes are older cottages and bungalows, while the homes at the upper end of the price range are newer. Like much of Nassau County, the majority of Uniondale’s housing inventory dates from the 1950s. However, older and newer homes are available. House hunters seeking multi-family homes and condominiums will find availability in limited numbers.

Manhasset, a North Shore hamlet in the Town of North Hempstead, includes additional incorporated areas and villages. The greater area is an affluent suburb, known for excellent schools, luxury shopping and lovely homes. Commuters appreciate the thirty-minute commute to Manhattan, but the Long Island Expressway is nearby and easily accessible for drivers. Northern Boulevard is the main east-west road, and features shops, eateries and professional services.
The Miracle Mile, arguably Long Island’s most well-known non-shopping mall retail area, lines Northern Boulevard. It includes Lord & Taylor and the Americana at Manhasset, an upscale open-air shopping center. The Americana includes three restaurants and several well-known luxury and higher-end brands. Fendi, Chanel, Giorgio Armani, J. Crew and Banana Republic represent a sampling of the retailers. Plandome Road features a more typical mix of Main Street-style shopping. A local Chamber of Commerce provides promotions and support for its local businesses.
Residents enjoy a wide range of recreational options, which include golf and yacht clubs. Its location on Manhasset Bay makes sailing a popular choice. The southern part of the area is home to three country clubs, Deepdale Golf Club, Fresh Meadows Country Club, and North Hills Country Club. The Town of North Hempstead oversees some of the parks. Its parks, including Manhasset Valley, Whitney Pond and Plandome Park, are peaceful and picturesque and feature assorted amenities including walking trails, playgrounds and tennis courts. The Long Island Science Museum also makes its home in Manhasset, where it is a popular destination for school groups and families.
Though many children attend private and parochial schools, Manhasset’s public schools have a well-earned reputation for excellence. The Manhasset School District serves 3,000 students at two elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. Unsurprisingly, results on standardized state exams are excellent. Recent results show 100% pass rates for seventh and eighth graders on the state math and ELA exams. Manhasset High School, which has excellent academic and athletic programs, was ranked #87 nationally by Newsweek magazine in 2010.
Much of Manhasset’s housing stock dates back to the 1930s. It escaped the rapid development of middle-class housing which took over Nassau County during the 1950s. Before gaining fame for developing and building Levittown, William Levitt honed his craft building homes in Manhasset, which were larger and more unique than the modest models he later created. Single family homes begin in the mid-$500k range, but inventory at that price point is very limited. Very few homes are available under $750k. The majority of homes are priced above $1 million. Condos and co-ops are available and vary widely in price, with affordable and more expensive luxury options.

Woodbury, a “sister hamlet” to Syosset, occupies five square miles in northeastern Nassau. Like Syosset, it is an affluent community. It is part of the Town of Oyster Bay and home to 8,900 residents. Unsurprisingly, Woodbury is easily confused with the Orange County home of Woodbury Commons outlets.

Jericho Turnpike, one of Nassau County’s major roads, cuts across the middle of Woodbury. Lined with shops, restaurants and other services, the turnpike is heavily traveled. The Northern State Parkway forms the southern border, and the Seaford-Oyster Bay Expressway borders the hamlet to the west. Easy accessibility to major highways and the railroad add to the area’s appeal. Two LIRR station options exist, in Syosset and over the Suffolk border in Cold Spring Harbor. However, parking at Cold Spring Harbor is reserved for residents only, limiting use to commuters who are dropped off.

The Town of Oyster Bay runs parks and recreational programs. Syosset-Woodbury Community Park’s 46 acres offers a pool, along with a playground and numerous other amenities. Woodbury is also home to significant undeveloped green spaces. Stillwell Woods is a 270 acre park and preserve with nature trails and indigenous plants. Trail View State Park is a unique space, a 400 acre linear park stretching over 7 miles through Woodbury to Cold Spring Harbor. Public beaches, overseen by the Town, are located at Tobay Beach in Massapequa and Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park in Oyster Bay.

Woodbury is served by the Syosset School District, which has a student population of 7,000 students from the two hamlets. The district has seven elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school. Walt Whitman Elementary School is the lone school located in Woodbury. Its excellent outcomes have earned the district awards and national recognition. Passing rates on standardized state exams are exceptionally high across subjects and grades. Newsweek magazine ranked Syosset High School at #143 nationally on its list of America’s best high schools. Numerous foreign language courses are available, including Spanish, Arabic, Russian, Japanese, Latin and Chinese. One hundred percent passing rates on Regents exams are not uncommon. Students seeking college credits can earn them through Advanced Placement exams and collaborations with area colleges.

Woodbury’s least expensive homes are pricier than Syosset’s. Current prices begin around $500,000, compared to about $375,000 in Syosset. Princes range as high as $2,000,000 for single family homes. Condominium and co-ops are available, priced currently between $400,000 and $1.1 million. The vast majority of homes were constructed during the 1950s and 1960s, with many homes build as recently as the late nineties.

Syosset, meaning “place in the pines,” evolved from hunting grounds for the Matinecock Indians to farmland settled by Quaker and Dutch farmers. Today, it is a busy hamlet in the Town of Oyster Bay, and home to 19,000 residents. Though it is well located, with highways to the south and east, Syosset remained a farming community until post-war demand brought developers to town. Syosset has its own LIRR station, where permits are required for parking. Travel time to Penn Station averages fifty minutes.

The recession shuttered many of Syosset’s small businesses, and the downtown area along Jackson Avenue and Cold Spring Road has been a topic of debate within the community. Shopping centers offer many choices, and residents can meet most of their needs within the town’s borders. Walt Whitman Mall, just across the nearby Suffolk County border, is anchored by Bloomingdales, Lord & Taylor, Saks Fifth Avenue and Macy’s. The Syosset Chamber of Commerce supports local merchants and organizes community events, including Street Night, Movie Night and the Holiday Lights Spectacular. Jericho Turnpike, one of Nassau’s major roads, is home to Home Depot and other big-box stores.

While Syosset lacks a waterfront location, it has plenty of green space in the form of parks, and residents can take advantage of Town of Oyster Bay beaches in Oyster Bay and Massapequa. A pool is available at the Syosset-Woodbury Community Park, which has a playground and many other amenities on its 46 acres. Residents seeking a quieter recreational experience will enjoy Stillwell Woods, a 270 preserve with nature trails and a large assortment of indigenous plants. The Town of Oyster Bay operates a public 18-hole golf course, while Woodside Acres Country Club in neighboring Muttontown offers a more upscale option.

Homebuyers with families gravitate to Syosset for the schools. Approximately seven thousand students attend the public school district, which has seven elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school. The district has earned awards and national recognition for its excellent outcomes. Passing rates on standardized state exams are exceptionally high across subjects and grades. Newsweek magazine ranked Syosset High School at #143 nationally on its list of America’s best high schools. Numerous foreign language courses are available, including Spanish, Arabic, Russian, Japanese, Latin and Chinese. One hundred percent passing rates on Regents exams are not uncommon. Students seeking college credits can earn them through Advanced Placement exams and collaborations with area colleges.

Like most of the North Shore, Syosset is expensive. Though prices begin in the high $300,000 range, which is manageable for many, housing dollars don’t go as far here as they would in other nearby communities. However, the quality of the school district often impacts the prices. Most of the housing stock was built during the 1950s, and consists of splits, capes and ranches. A limited number of co-ops and condos are available.

Elmont
One hundred two countries are represented in the Town of Hempstead hamlet of Elmont, population 33,000. Its diversity, large selection of well-kept homes, and proximity to the city have made it a desirable place to live in recent years.

Belmont Park is the hamlet’s most well-known landmark. Located in Elmont’s northwest corner, the raceway was built in 1905, and modeled after European race tracks. Belmont is recognized nationally at the home of the Belmont Stakes, the third leg of the Triple Crown, horseracing’s most coveted prize. The park brings substantial traffic to Elmont, especially on weekends and during important races.

Leisure time activities are abundant. The Elmont Memorial Library is a modern 62,500 square foot facility with performing arts space used by the Broad Hollow Theater Company, a local organization which puts on performances for adults and children. Hempstead Turnpike, which is the hamlet’s major road, features ample shopping opportunities. Roosevelt Field and the greater Westbury area, which offer shoppers more possibilities than anywhere else in Nassau, are about fifteen minutes away. The Elmont Coalition for Sustainable Development, a community group representing a cross-section of area organizations, is actively focused on involving residents in the process of community planning as Elmont looks to the future.

Residents can also choose among several parks. Averill Boulevard Park and Pool has a swimming pool and spray pool, as well as a playground, playing fields, picnic areas and a jogging trail. Dutch Broadway Park and Elmont Road Park offer similar amenities, including playing fields and playgrounds. Though Elmont is located north and west of Nassau’s South Shore beaches, Jones Beach State Park and the Town of Hempstead’s beaches are easily accessible by way of the Southern State and Meadowbrook Parkways.

Elmont is one of only a handful of towns served by separate elementary and high school districts, Elmont and the Sewanhaka Central High School District. The Elmont School District serves 4,000 students in kindergarten through sixth grade. There are six elementary schools. The state education department recently placed Elmont on the list of schools needing improvement in English Language Arts at the elementary and middle school levels. Only half of the seventh and eighth graders scored at or above grade level in ELA on recent state exams. Results at Elmont Memorial High School, which educates 2,000 students, are better. The high school has been recognized by the College Board for having large numbers of African-American students taking and passing Advanced Placement exams. Overall, graduation rates are high, with the vast majority of students heading to two-year or four-year colleges.

A big part of Elmont’s appeal is its affordability. Prices vary widely, allowing residents to start in one of its many small capes, and trade up while remaining in the area. Many legal two-family homes are available, and often buyers live in one and rent out the other. Ages of homes vary as well, with inventory from the 1920s and 1930s readily available. Like most of Nassau, Elmont grew rapidly after World War II, leading to a great deal of home construction during the 1950s and into the 1960s. A new senior complex, Foster Meadow Golden Age, opened last year with 30 co-op units priced at $150,000.

Glen Cove, population 27,000, holds the distinction of being one of Nassau County’s two cities. Once a haven for some of the country’s wealthiest citizens, today it’s known for its ethnic and economic diversity.

The city is fairly self-contained, due to its location on the North Shore and lack of easy highway access. Most residents find they can meet their basic shopping needs locally, along Forest Avenue, Glen Avenue and School Street. The Long Island Expressway is about five miles to the south, though traffic on its approaching roads can become heavy. The area is served by three Long Island Rail Road stations, at Sea Cliff, Glen Avenue and Glen Cove. Riders from all three stations must usually transfer at Mineola or Jamaica, and travel time averages about an hour. An express bus runs between Glen Cove and Manhattan; local bus service is also available.

Three residents-only beaches, Pryibil, Crescent and Morgan Park, provide residents with access to the Sound. Several other parks throughout the city allow residents to partake in active recreation. Stanco Park is an extensive complex with tennis and basketball courts, a playground, a dining and concession area and an 18-hole golf course. Old Tappan Park is a two-acre space with tennis courts and a playground. Three yacht clubs, Glen Cove, Hempstead Harbor and Sea Cliff, offer a variety of sailing-related activities and events. Another popular attraction is Garvies Point Museum and Preserve, a 62-acre space with trails and a museum devoted to archaeology and geology. Summer camps and swimming lessons are offered by the city’s recreation department.

The Glen Cove City School District educates 3,000 public school students. The city’s diversity is reflected in the schools. Approximately a quarter of the school district population lives in poverty. Students begin their educations at one of the district’s two pre-K-grade 2 schools, and then continue to one of two schools for students in third through fifth grade. There is one middle school and one high school. Glen Cove High School has an excellent music programs. Its Select Chorale is one of Long Island’s best, and has performed at Lincoln Center, the United Nations and Carnegie Hall. Glen Cove is surrounded by several of Long Island’s top school districts. Its results may pale in comparison, though performance on state exams is solid. However, the district also contends with greater numbers of students learning English and has more students in poverty. Several private and religious school options are available in the city and its surrounding areas, an option chosen mostly by wealthier families.

Most of Glen Cove’s housing inventory consists of single-family homes. First-time buyers with smaller budgets will find they have many options, including co-ops and condos. Homes are available for less than $200,000 with a lot of options in the $200,000 to $350,000 range; many of those homes are smaller and may need work. Buyers with budgets closer to the one million-dollar range will also have a great deal of choice. Unlike most of the North Shore, the city has a good selection of multi-family homes. Currently, prices range between $300,000 and $800,000.

East Massapequa is a hamlet in the Town of Oyster Bay, and part of the greater area known as “The Massapequas.” Its population is approximately 20,000. It shares a zip code, library and fire district with Massapequa.

The Southern State Parkway forms the community’s northern border. Sunrise Highway and Merrick Road run parallel to the parkway, offering easy access to neighboring town, along with numerous shopping and dining option. Two LIRR stations provide service to Manhattan. Residents in the easternmost part of East Massapequa will find they are closer to the Amityville station, though permits through the Village of Amityville are required. Town of Oyster Bay permits are required to park at Massapequa.

Westfield Sunrise, formerly the Sunrise Mall, is located in East Massapequa, and draws shoppers from all over the surrounding areas. Shopping is abundant in the Massapequas, and situated primarily along Sunrise Highway. The area is also home to numerous restaurants, both franchise and independently owned.

East Massapequa has excellent recreational activities, within the hamlet and in surrounding areas. The Town of Oyster Bay operates facilities and programs for residents. Tobay Beach, located on the Massapequa shore, offers a smaller, cozier alternative to Jones Beach. Burns Park offers the only public boat launch, along with 52 acres with athletic facilities and a play area for children. Marjorie Post Park is a 42-acre facility with a playground, tennis, handball and basketball courts and a skating rink. East Massapequa is also home to the Peninsula Golf Club, a public 9-hole course.

Students in East Massapequa are split among three area school districts: Farmingdale, Massapequa and Amityville. Farmingdale serves a small number of students in the northernmost part of the hamlet, with four elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. This year, the district was cited by the state as needing improvement in English Language Arts at all levels. The Massapequa School District is one of Nassau’s largest. The district’s size has led to some unique organizational strategies for its 8,000 students. Students remain in elementary school through sixth grade, then move on to Berner Middle School. Massapequa High School has two campuses, a ninth grade building and a 10-12 building. Academic performance is strong across the district, and 94% of graduating seniors continue to two- or four-year colleges. Students who live east of Carmans Road attend the Amityville Public Schools, which have approximately 3,000 students, three elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. Though academic performance pales in comparison to the other two districts, scores have been improving across the district. The high school has strong athletic programs, and offers college credit through Advanced Placement courses and collaboration with Syracuse University.

Most residents don’t specifically seek out East Massapequa, as real estate offices don’t distinguish between there and Massapequa. Generally, there is always a large amount of inventory in the entire greater Massapequa area, with a wide range of prices. Since 2008, home prices have dropped significantly, though taxes remain high. The least expensive homes are generally found in the Amityville school district, though prices there vary widely as well.

Port Washington is an unincorporated area in the Town of North Hempstead. It is located on Cow Neck Peninsula, along with several other small hamlets and villages, which comprise the greater Port Washington area, population 16,000.

Northern Boulevard is closest main road, though it does not go into Port Washington. The entire peninsula is a good distance from the Northern State and LIE, two of Nassau's major highways. Geography has made the area a bit isolated and difficult to reach. However, train commuters have the advantage of being the first stop on the Long Island Railroad, which means riders never have to worry about not getting a seat.

Large grocery stores are available, and there is a nice mix of shops and eateries along Main Street. The Americana Mall, on Northern Boulevard in Manhasset, provides a large variety of upscale retailers. Other leisure time plans may include a visit to the Port Washington Library, which was established in 1892 in the home of a local resident. Landmark on Main Street draws visitors from all over the region to take in performances by well-known folk, rock, and Broadway performers. The hall, constructed in 1908, operated until 1985, then reopened in 1995.

Boating plays a large role in Port Washington’s recreational activities. Many parks fall under the auspices of the Town of North Hempstead. Town Dock Park offers fishing, with spots for boat moorings. Harbor Links, a public golf course, has an 18-hole course and a driving range. Sunset Park, with a band shell named for famed composer and area resident John Phillip Sousa, holds summer concerts. Parents with young children will enjoy the playground facilities at Blumenfeld Family Park. The North Hempstead Country Club, founded in 1916, offers golf, tennis, and children’s programs, and has a pool and two restaurants. Sands Point Preserve, located in an adjacent village, is a 216-acre site featuring historic Hempstead House. The Port Washington Tennis Academy teaches students from age 4 to age 18, and runs adult programs too. There is also a yacht club and skating center.

The public schools are often cited as one of the best things about the area. The district has approximately five thousand students, who attend five elementary schools, one middle school, Carrie Palmer Weber, and Paul D. Schreiber High School. At the elementary level, only one to five percent of students fail to meet state standards on standardized exams. In 2011, the New York State Education Department designated Weber Middle School as a “School-to-Watch.” This honor is bestowed upon schools which have demonstrated excellence, and signifies that the school can be looked to as a model. Paul D. Schreiber High School has received local and national recognition for its student outcomes. It offers over two dozen Advanced Placement courses.

Despite Long Island’s vast amount of coastline, houseboats are difficult to find. However, Port Washington often has a few on the market, priced below $150,000. Housing budgets do not go as far here as they would on the South Shore, but unlike some North Shore towns where all the home prices are astronomical, Port Washington has some affordable inventory. Current prices begin in the mid-$300,000 range. Home ages vary as well; buyers who are interested in older homes will find more than in many Nassau towns, mostly from the 1920s. Many co-ops and condos are available, with a very wide price range, beginning around $200,000 and exceeding $1 million.

House-hunters who wish to reside in Plainedge, a community of 8,800 people in the Town of Oyster Bay, may find themselves challenged in their searching, because there is no town or village with that name. It does not have its own post office. Technically, it is a census-designated place, consisting largely of parts of Massapequa, North Massapequa and Bethpage, with smaller part of Seaford and Farmingdale. The community, which occupies about a square mile and a half, was once called Turkeyville. Before the post-war building boom of the 1950s, it was largely open fields, where raising poultry was a profitable industry.

The Seaford-Oyster Bay Expressway, one of Nassau County’s larger highways, cuts through the area, providing access to the Northern and Southern States, and the LIE. Hempstead Turnpike serves as the primary commercial center, with numerous shops and dining establishments, along with St. Joseph Hospital. Bus routes run on other routes besides the Turnpike, including Hicksville Road and Boundary Avenue. Depending on where in the community commuters live, the Long Island Rail Road can be accessed at Bethpage, Farmingdale or Seaford.

Plainedge does not have any major parks within its borders, but it still enjoys close proximity to pools, parks and beaches. Allen Park, in Farmingdale, is currently being expanded from its 15-acre area, which includes a play area and sports fields. To the south, Massapequa State Preserve offers 423 acres of mostly undeveloped land. Its wetlands provide a habitat for a large variety of wildlife. Bethpage State Park receives recognition for its world-class golf courses, which have twice hosted U.S. Open Golf Championships. Bethpage Community Park and Marjorie Post Park, in Massapequa, have pools. The Town of Oyster Bay operates Tobay Beach, a small ocean beach for residents only.

Shopping options in the area are mainly located along the Turnpike and Hicksville Road. Westfield Sunrise, formerly the Sunrise Mall, provides a large shopping-mall experience, featuring many well-known large and small stores.

The Plainedge School District educates approximately 3,500 students in three K-5 elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. The district is generally regarded as strong, with test scores at all levels to prove it. Plainedge High School boasts an award-winning robotics team, and a strong athletics program. Its varsity baseball team won the County and Long Island championships this year; its varsity softball team won the County championship. College credits can be earned though a dozen Advanced Placement courses, as well as collaborations with area colleges.

Nearly all of Plainedge’s housing inventory was constructed during the 1950s and 1960s. Prices vary widely. The community is affordable, with many single-family options in the $300,000 to $400,000 range. One condominium community, Bethpage Landing, was built in 2011, with prices in the low $300,00s. The majority of homes are in Bethpage, Massapequa and North Massapequa, with a few homes located in Farmingdale and Seaford.

Old Bethpage is a hamlet in the Town of Oyster Bay. Initially called Bethpage, it added “Old” to its name when the neighboring hamlet of Central Park, tired of sharing a name with the Manhattan landmark, co-opted the name Bethpage. Old Bethpage wanted to remain autonomous and distinctive, and modified its name. Today, the hamlet is home to 5,500 people.

Despite its name connection with Bethpage, Old Bethpage shares a library, school district and municipal services with its sister hamlet Plainview. The Plainview-Old Bethpage Central School District educates 5,200 students from the two communities. All kindergarten students begin together at the kindergarten center, and then continue to one of four elementary schools. Both Plainview-Old Bethpage Middle School and Mattlin Middle School are located in Plainview. Plainview-Old Bethpage John F. Kennedy High School has a top-notch science research program, and very high Regents passing rates.

The hamlet is well-located, with easy access to surrounding towns. Old Country Road, one of Nassau’s major thoroughfares, forms the northern border. Its eastern edge is the border of Suffolk County. The Seaford-Oyster Bay Expressway has an exit which takes drivers directly into Old Bethpage. The closest LIRR station for most residents is Farmingdale, which issues permits to non-residents and also has metered parking. Bethpage’s LIRR station is also conveniently located, where parking is reserved for Town of Oyster Bay residents with permits.

Old Bethpage itself has minimal commercial activity with the exception of Old Country Road. Manetto Hill Road in Plainview has addition shopping, including the first suburban location of the popular grocery store Fairway. Broadway Mall, located in nearby Hicksville, is anchored by Target, Macy’s and Ikea, with a movie theater and over 100 stores.

Approximately two of the hamlet’s 4.1 square miles are taken by Bethpage State Park, which has five world-class golf courses. The park has hosted the U.S. Open Golf Championships twice, in 2002 and 2009. Play and picnic areas and tennis courts are also available. Battle Row County Park and Campground is a 44-acre space with 64 campsites, playing fields and bathroom and shower facilities. Plainview-Old Bethpage Community Park offers play and picnic areas, a pool and lighted tennis courts. The Town of Oyster Bay also operates two beaches, the South Shore’s Tobay Beach, and Theodore Roosevelt Park and Beach on the Long Island Sound.

Old Bethpage Village Restoration, one of Long Island's most well-known historic sites, has 209 acres with 51 historic buildings and 7 reconstructed buildings. Civil War re-enactments are held on a regular basis. The park is a popular field trip destination for Long Island schools.

Despite its name, Old Bethpage’s housing stock is thoroughly modern. The vast majority of the homes were constructed during the postwar boom of the 1950s and 1960s. Split levels and ranches dominate, currently ranging in price from around $400,000 to $700,000. Like nearly all of Nassau County, property taxes are high. There are no co-ops or condominiums.

Roslyn Heights, part of the area known as “The Roslyns” is an unincorporated hamlet just south of the village of Roslyn. The hamlet, part of the Town of North Hempstead, has a population of 6,500. Occupying a 1.5 square mile space, Roslyn Heights is seahorse-shaped and bordered by a long stretch of the Northern State Parkway.

The Long Island Expressway also cuts a path through Roslyn Heights, making the area conveniently located for commuting and travel. The LIRR’s Roslyn station is actually located in Roslyn Heights, where permits are not required. Travel time is approximately fifty minutes, which includes a transfer at Jamaica. Albertson’s LIRR station is located within Roslyn Heights’ borders, which also has unrestricted parking. However, passengers who want to avoid the need to transfer must travel further south to Mineola, which has more frequent service but limited parking.

Shopping and dining options are plentiful within Roslyn Heights and beyond. Neighboring Roslyn has a quaint downtown area with unique shops and eateries. The Americana at Manhasset has a large selection of luxury retailers. To the south, Roosevelt Field Mall is the centerpiece of a large commercial area which includes several shopping centers along Old Country Road and Glen Cove Road.

Roslyn Heights is part of the Roslyn School District. Its 4,000 students also hail from Roslyn Harbor and Greenvale. The schools have an excellent reputation and are a major draw for young families looking to settle in the area. One of the district’s three elementary schools, Heights School, and the middle school and high school are located in Roslyn Heights. Roslyn High School offers twenty Advanced Placement courses, and more than fifty clubs and extracurricular activities. Some parts of Roslyn Heights are zoned for Mineola’s schools, which are solid but not stellar, or East Williston, which includes the well-regarded Wheatley School.

The Town of North Hempstead operates area parks and recreation programs. Clark Botanic Garden, located near Roslyn Heights’ border with Albertson, features about 5,000 species of plants, along with ponds and streams. The Town operates a beach in Port Washington during the summer; those seeking an ocean experience can travel down the Meadowbrook Parkway to Jones Beach State Park. Christopher Morley Park, a county facility in Roslyn, has 98 acres which includes a 9-hole golf course, athletic facilities, a playground, an outdoor ice rink and a pool. Gerry Pond, in the village of Roslyn, is quiet and pretty, with a large pond and gazebo.

Most of the housing inventory in Roslyn Heights is priced near or above a million dollars, but less expensive homes can be found in small numbers, beginning around $400,000. While those home prices will be out of reach for many, they are relatively less expensive than other North Shore towns. The more affordable homes are mixed between the Roslyn School District and the Mineola School District. These homes tend to be split between the Roslyn schools and the East Williston schools. Co-ops and condos are widely available at a wide range of price points. Roslyn Gardens, a co-op complex with one- and two-bedroom units, are currently priced between $100,000 and $300,000. The more upscale Summit at High Point is a condominium community, where prices begin around $650,000.

Roslyn is a small historic village on Long Island’s North Shore. It is located within the Town of North Hempstead, with a population of 2,770. The village, which occupies a little more than half a square mile, is not easily accessible by major roads or parkways, which have helped it retain its old-world charm.

The village has many leisure time options. During the summer, the Town of North Hempstead operates a beach in Port Washington, and Jones Beach State Park is a short car ride away. To the west, Christopher Morley Park has 98 acres which includes a 9-hole golf course, athletic facilities, a playground, an outdoor ice rink and a pool. Gerry Pond Park sits within the village’s borders and is one of the first sites visitors see when they arrive from the south. The park, which also has a gazebo, is a popular site for wedding photos. Donald Street Park has a splash park and tennis and handball courts.
Bryant Library, named in honor of poet and journalist William Cullen Bryant, is Nassau County’s oldest library. Bryant’s daughter Julia deeded the property and land on her father’s behalf after his death, and the building originally included lodgings for the librarian. Bryant’s home, Cedarmere, is located in Roslyn Harbor, though only the grounds are currently open to the public. Roslyn Harbor is also home to the Nassau County Museum of Art, located on the ground of the former Frick family estate.

Many people who settle in Roslyn cite the schools as a major draw. With 4,000 students from Roslyn and surrounding areas, including Roslyn Harbor and Greenvale, the district has a well-known reputation for excellence. The district has three elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. In 1999, the Wall Street Journal ranked Roslyn as one of the country’s top ten high schools. Students can choose from as many as fifty clubs and extracurricular activities, and choose from among twenty Advanced Placement courses, which can be taken for college credit.

Unsurprisingly, Roslyn has no chain stores. The village’s dedication to preserving its history leaves no room for run-of-the-mill retailers. However, it’s not devoid of shopping or dining. Boutiques, restaurants and other independent businesses are popular with residents and visitors. Two historical districts have been recognized by the National Register of Historic Places. The Main Street Historic District is comprised primarily of houses, and the Roslyn Village Historic District includes commercial properties along Old Northern Boulevard. The village’s clock town, built in 1895, is probably its most famous landmark.

Many of Roslyn’s housing stock is from the mid-1800s. When compared to other Long Island homes, Roslyn’s tend to be smaller, and on smaller lots, and buyers pay for the historic value. The more expensive homes, at or over the million-dollar mark, are generally larger and newer, though there are often a few larger historic properties on the market. Some co-ops and condominiums are available.

Valley Stream is an incorporated village in southwestern Nassau County. It also includes unincorporated areas outside the village, also referred to as Valley Stream. Approximately 38,000 people reside in the village, which occupies 3.5 square miles. Incorporated in 1925, the area began as a vacation community, but evolved into a year-round residence when many visitors decided to settle in the area full-time. Over the years, the area has become more ethnically diverse.

Sunrise Highway is the primary road across the town, which is located south of the Southern State Parkway. Valley Stream’s location near the Queens border gives it easy access to the borough’s parkways, the Belt and the Cross Island. Bus routes travel along Sunrise, West Merrick Road, and North and South Central Avenue. Long Island Railroad service is available at two locations: within the village at Valley Stream and Gibson, located in the unincorporated area. Travel time to Manhattan is just under forty minutes. On the other side of the county border, Rosedale provides another station option.

The Green Acres Mall, which is the country’s 26th largest, is located in South Valley Stream, and is a shopping destination for western Nassau and Queens. Sears, Macy’s, Kohl’s and JC Penney anchor the mall. Other local and national retailers are located along the area’s major roads.

Recreational opportunities are plentiful. Valley Stream State Park, the town’s largest, has picnic and playground areas, as well as kid-friendly nature trails and an exercise course with 15 fitness stations. Within the village boundaries, Hendrickson Park also has a playground, mini-golf course, bike and walking paths and a pool. Village Green Park has a band shell, and holds summer concerts. The village oversees numerous programs for residents. Camp Barrett, for students in kindergarten through sixth grade, is a popular program which organizes field trips during the summer.

Three elementary school districts and one central high school district serve the village and the surrounding unincorporated areas. All four districts are ethnically diverse. Valley Stream 13 has 4 schools, with a total of 2,200 students. Six percent of the students live in poverty. Results on standardized tests are very good. Valley Stream 24 is smaller, with 1,100 students, but has a poverty rate of almost double that of District 13. Scores in District 24 are slightly lower than District 13’s. District 30, with 1,400 students, has a 19% poverty rate. The majority of students at all three elementary schools met standards on state exams. The Valley Stream Central High School District has almost 5,000 students. Valley Stream North and Valley Stream South serve students in grades seven through twelve, while Memorial Junior High School has grades 7 through 9. Students later move on to Valley Stream Central High School to finish grades ten through twelve.

Valley Stream is very affordable. Current prices begin around $200,000, and range up to $800,000. Between the incorporated village and the surrounding parts of Valley Stream, there is a great deal of inventory. Most of the homes were constructed during the 1940s and 1950s, though older homes can be found. A small number of older homes date back to the turn of last century. Coops and condos are well-priced, with one bedrooms available for under $100,000.

Jericho, an unincorporated hamlet in the Town of Oyster Bay, began as a Quaker settlement in the 1600s. Named in 1692 for the Middle Eastern town near the Jordan River, its 14,000 residents reside with a 4.1 square mile area. It has a long history as a farming community, but today it’s a heavily residential area known for its outstanding school district.

With the Northern State Parkway and the Long Island Expressway crossing the town, it’s well-located for commuting and travel. LIRR access can be found in Hicksville, which has one of the system’s busiest stations with trains running frequently. Town of Oyster Bay permits are required to park at the station, which Jericho residents are eligible for. To the north, Syosset’s LIRR station offers another option, though service is less frequent.

Broadway, also known as Route 107, and Jericho Turnpike are the town’s two other main roads which provide access to neighboring towns and beyond. Residents can take care of shopping for most necessities locally, though Broadway Mall is located in Hicksville, which is anchored by Target and Ikea.

Two well-known Long Island landmarks are located in Jericho. The Westbury Music Fair, now known as the NYCB Theater at Westbury, began operations in the mid-1950s. It evolved from its early days as a small tent venue to its current theater-in-the-round with seating for 3,000. The Milleridge Inn is a well-known restaurant and catering establishment which began as a two-room house with a central fireplace in 1672. Today it has a restaurant and several private rooms for small functions, along with a cottage and carriage house often used for weddings. A small village features a bakery, a florist and other shops.

Jericho’s schools are often cited as the town’s best asset. The district, which educates approximately 3,000 students in three elementary schools, one middle school and one high school, has received accolades for its strong performance. In 2010, Newsweek magazine ranked Jericho High School #2 in New York and #32 nationally. The high school has a 99% graduation rate, and is one of the few schools to offer a Regents exam in Latin. Several Advanced Placement courses are available, and students can also earn college credit through St. John’s University.

The town lacks significant parkland, but open spaces aren’t too far away. Cantiague Park, a country-run facility, is located along Jericho’s south border. The park features golfing and other sports facilities, and has a large aquatic center. To the east, Syosset-Woodbury Community Park has play and picnic areas, sports facilities, and a pool. Residents can also utilize two Town of Oyster Bay beaches, Theodore Roosevelt Park and Beach, located on the Sound, and Tobay Beach, an oceanfront town park.

House-hunters will find that their money does not go as far in Jericho as it would in other parts of Nassau. The quality of the school district drives up prices, which currently begin at around $400,000. Condos and co-ops, which are usually less expensive than single-family homes, currently begin around $500,000. Despite its long history, most of the housing stock consists of ranches and splits from the 1950s and 1960s.

Greenvale, a small hamlet with 1,100 residents, is located in the Town of North Hempstead, Nassau County. Though it’s primarily more middle-class than its neighboring towns, it’s still considered part of Long Island’s “Gold Coast” area. The hamlet is very small, occupying less than half a square mile, and has no school district, churches or synagogues.

Northern Boulevard and Glen Cove Road, two of the county’s major roads, intersect in Greenvale. Several bus routes use these roads, providing residents with easy access to public transportation. Residents will find ample shopping along these two roads as well, including Wheatley Plaza, a popular shopping destination for northern Nassau. Wheatley Hills has numerous stores and boutiques and a large Pathmark grocery store. It offers a personal shopping service as well.

Two excellent school districts serve the hamlet. Students in the eastern part of Greenvale attend the North Shore School District’s schools, while students in the western part attend Roslyn’s public schools. The North Shore district educates approximately 3,000 students who also hail from Glenwood Landing, Glen Head, and Sea Cliff. The district has been recognized locally and nationally for its outstanding results, with North Shore High School being ranked 263 in the nation by Newsweek magazine in 2008. Roslyn’s district is slightly larger, with 3,500 students. Harbor Hill School, located on Glen Cove Road in Greenvale, educates students through grade six and has very high passing rates on state standardized exams. Two institutes of higher education, New York Institute of Technology and Long Island University’s C.W. Post campus, are located adjacent to Greenvale’s borders.

Greenvale is home to Roslyn Cemetery, which is the final resting place for Frances Hodgson Burnett, author of The Secret Garden, and the writers Christopher Morley and William Cullen Bryant. The Roslyn East Toll Gate is also located within the cemetery’s borders, a remainder from the days when tolls were collected along North Hempstead Turnpike, which is now called Northern Boulevard. The roadway was moved many years ago, putting the toll house within the cemetery’s borders. The toll house, built in 1864, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.

The very small size of Greenvale means the housing inventory is also small and limited to single-family homes. At present, home prices begin in the mid-$300k range, making the area relatively affordable by Long Island standards.

Sea Cliff is a densely populated, artsy village occupying one square mile along Hempstead Harbor. Part of the Town of Oyster Bay, it has a population of 5,000. Unlike much of Nassau County, the majority of the village’s housing stock predates World War II. Many buildings are listed on local, state and national historic registries.

Recreational choices include numerous public parks and playgrounds within Sea Cliff, as well as several private clubs. Part of the North Shore Country Club is located along the southern border of the village, with an 18-hole golf course. To the west, the Glen Head Country Club is open 365 days a year for golf. Sailors can join the Sea Cliff Yacht Club, which holds regattas and offers a children’s program. Harry Tappen Beach, also located in nearby Glenwood Landing, offers a long stretch of waterfront access along with a pool and playground.

Sea Cliff is one of the towns located within the well-regarded North Shore Central School District, which educated approximately 3,000 students. Students also hail from Glenwood Landing, Glen Head, and Old Brookville. In 2008, North Shore High School was ranked 263rd nationally by Newsweek magazine. The district also has a middle school and three elementary schools, including one in Sea Cliff. Recent third grade scores show 10% of the students at Sea Cliff Elementary failing to meet standards, though all remaining grades fared better.

Geography has made Sea Cliff somewhat isolated from much of Nassau’s hustle and bustle, as well as its big-box shopping. However, the village has a nice selection of independent shops along Glen Cove Avenue and Sea Cliff Avenue. Route 107 provides access to Northern Boulevard and the area’s major parkways. Sea Cliff has a station on the Long Island Railroad, located just outside the village’s border.

House-hunters seeking older homes with period details will appreciate what Sea Cliff has to offer. It’s one of the few Long Island towns with a good selection of Victorians, in addition to colonials, capes and Tudors. Most prices begin in the ballpark of $400,000, but there are a handful of lower-priced options. No condominiums or co-ops are available.

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.

Bayville is a small incorporated village on Long Island’s North Shore. It’s almost entirely surrounded by water. Initially a summer community, it was also home to people who worked on the large estates in adjacent towns. Today, it has a more down-to-earth vibe than its exceptionally wealthy neighbors.

Its location means most of its recreational opportunities are beach-based. Three beaches, Mill Neck Creek, West Harbor Beach and Sound Side Beach, are for Bayville residents only. Mill Neck Preserve, located near the town’s western border, is undeveloped, with marshlands and waterways.

Bayville Avenue is the main road through the village. Many of the town’s stores, restaurants and professional services are located along this stretch. The village has an active Chamber of Commerce, which works to support and promote local businesses. The Bayville Free Library, located across from Village Woods Park, has a variety of materials for borrowing. Nassau’s major roads and highways are a good distance away, making the area a bit isolated, but necessary amenities are conveniently located. There is no direct LIRR service, so residents must travel to Locust Valley to board the train; travelers on this line must change trains at Jamaica.

The Locust Valley Central School District educates 2,300 students from Bayville and its surrounding areas. The district has received national and local recognition for its excellence. In 2012, Newsweek magazine identified Locust Valley High School as #2 on Long Island, #6 in New York, and #55 nationally. U.S. News and World Report and the Washington Post ranked the school similarly. In addition to its Advanced Placement courses, students can participate in the International Baccalaureate program, an academically rigorous college preparatory program. Students at the elementary and middle school level also have high passing levels on state standardized exams. Bayville has its own elementary school in the district, but students must travel to nearby Locust Valley for middle school and high school.

Bayville’s zoning does not allow condominiums, but homes are well-priced. Currently, prices begin at around $300,000, making the area affordable, especially for a coveted waterfront town. However, prices range well beyond $1 million dollars. There is a good amount of inventory in between, allowing residents the option of trading up.

East Norwich is a small hamlet within the Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County. Geographically, it is sandwiched between Syosset and the hamlet of Oyster Bay. It occupies approximately one square mile, with 2,700 residents.

Despite its small size, East Norwich is well-located, with good access to nearby shopping and other amenities. Northern Boulevard, one of the county’s major roads, provides a route to points east and west. Oyster Bay Road is the hamlet’s other main road, taking traffic to the hamlet of Oyster Bay, which offers additional shopping and dining. Most of East Norwich’s shopping, dining and professional services are located along these two roads. There is no direct Long Island Railroad service, but there are stations nearby in Oyster Bay and Syosset, where express trains travel frequently to and from the city.

East Norwich has minimal recreational areas, with the exception of the private Pine Hollow Club, which opened in 1955 and uses a former Vanderbilt mansion for its facility. To the north, Theodore Roosevelt Park, a Town of Oyster Bay property, offers a beach, picnic and play areas, and areas for sports. Planting Fields Arboretum, also located in nearby Oyster Bay, is a state historic park on the grounds of Coe Hall, a 67-room estate with a large formal garden.

The Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District has three schools: Theodore Roosevelt for kindergarten through second grade, the James H. Vernon School for grades 3 through 6 and Oyster Bay High School for students in grades 7 through 12. The district has strong passing rates on state exams at all three levels: elementary, middle and high school. Several Advanced Placement courses are offered to qualified high school students.

Real estate in East Norwich is expensive, with current prices beginning around half a million dollars. However, the North Shore in general tends to be more expensive than the South Shore. The small size of the area limits the amount of inventory for sale at any given time. Taxes, though high, are relatively less than other Nassau County towns.

Hewlett Harbor is an incorporated village within the Town of Hempstead. It occupies less than one square mile on Hewlett Bay in southwestern Nassau County with a population of approximately 1,300. The village is located in the Five Towns area, an informal grouping of towns.

Hewlett High School, which serves students living in “The Hewletts” and Woodmere, is located in adjacent Hewlett Bay Park. The Stella K. Abraham High School for Girls, a private yeshiva, is located in the community as well. Many of students throughout the Five Towns attend yeshivas. The Hewlett-Woodmere district has a student population of 3,400. The district, with one early childhood center, two elementary schools, a middle school and a high school, performs solidly on state exams. Depending on subject and grade, between 2% and 6% fail to meet standards at the elementary and middle school level. Performance at the high school level is very strong, with passing rates above 90% on all Regents exams. College credits can be earned through Syracuse University and Long Island University.

Most of the area’s shopping is located along Peninsula Boulevard and Broadway. Well-known chains, like Loehmann’s and CVS, are present, as well as smaller, independently owned shops. A number of store owners close early on Friday and remain closed on Saturday in observation of the Sabbath.

Its inclusion in the Town of Hempstead gives Hewlett Harbor residents access to over 90 parks, including nearby beaches. Grant Park, in the eastern part of the nearby hamlet of Hewlett, is a county-run park on 35 acres. It includes new fields for baseball and softball, tennis and basketball courts, and a playground. Fishing is allowed in the park’s pond. The Seawane Club, a private golf and country club, is located in Hewlett Harbor with an 18-hole golf course, 8 tennis courts and a pool. Atlantic Beach is also nearby, with its collection of private beach clubs.

Like its neighbor Hewlett Bay Park, Hewlett Harbor is small and exclusive, with high prices even by Nassau County standards. The community consists entirely of single-family homes, with no co-ops or condominiums.

Hewlett Bay Park is not a park, rather, it is an affluent incorporated village with slightly over 400 residents. Located on a canal leading to Hewlett Bay, it is located in the Five Towns area of southwestern Nassau. Recent data identified it as one of the highest-income places in the United States.

The village is almost entirely residential, but located convenient to shopping in the adjacent unincorporated area of Hewlett, along Peninsula Boulevard and Broadway. There is a mix of chain retailers and independently owned shops. A number of store owners close early on Friday and remain closed on Saturday in observation of the Sabbath. Residents who need to travel to Manhattan can catch the train at the Hewlett LIRR station. Parking at the station is free and travel time is roughly a half hour.

Hewlett High School, which serves students living in the Hewletts and Woodmere, is located in Hewlett Bay Park. The Stella K. Abraham High School for Girls, a private yeshiva, is located in the community as well. Many of students throughout the Five Towns attend yeshivas. The Hewlett-Woodmere district has a student population of 3,400. The district, with one early childhood center, two elementary schools, a middle school and a high school, performs solidly on state exams. Depending on subject and grade, between 2% and 6% fail to meet standards at the elementary and middle school level. Performance at the high school level is very strong, with passing rates above 90% on all Regents exams. College credits can be earned through Syracuse University and Long Island University.

Hewlett Bay Park is part of the Town of Hempstead, which gives residents access to a large range of public parks and recreational programs, including local town beaches. The Seawane Club, a private golf and country club, is located in nearby Hewlett Harbor with an 18-hole golf course, 8 tennis courts and a pool. Atlantic Beach is also nearby, with its collection of private beach clubs.

Current homes on the market range in price from just under a million to four million. Taxes are high. Many of the homes come with excellent water views.

Hewlett is a hamlet in the Town of Hempstead, located in southwestern Nassau County. Its name comes from an early family who settled in the area in the mid-1600s. Approximately 7,000 people reside here.

Despite its official designation as a hamlet and not a town, Hewlett is one of the “Five Towns,” an informal organization of hamlets and villages. Inwood, Cedarhurst, Lawrence and Woodmere are the other four parts major of the area. There are addition areas within “The Hewletts”- Hewlett Bay Park, which is not a park, Hewlett Manor and Hewlett Neck.

The hamlet, or town as it’s more commonly called, is oddly shaped and not convenient to any highways. Hewlett has its own LIRR station, but some residents may find it more convenient to commute from Gibson or Lynbrook.

Hewlett, like most of the Five Towns, has a high Jewish population, and many of the students attend yeshivas. Public school students attend the Hewlett-Woodmere public schools, which has a student population of 3,400. The district, with one early childhood center, two elementary schools, a middle school and a high school, performs solidly on state exams. Depending on subject and grade, between 2% and 6% fail to meet standards at the elementary and middle school level. Performance at the high school level is very strong, with passing rates above 90% on all Regents exams. Some parts of Hewlett are part of Lynbrook’s school district, which is also well-regarded.

Most of the area’s shopping is located along Peninsula Boulevard and Broadway. Well-known chains, like Loehmann’s and CVS, are present, as well as smaller, independently owned shops. A number of store owners close early on Friday and remain closed on Saturday in observation of the Sabbath.

Its inclusion in the Town of Hempstead gives residents access to over 90 parks, including nearby beaches. Grant Park, in the eastern part of Hewlett, is a county-run park on 35 acres. It includes new fields for baseball and softball, tennis and basketball courts, and a playground. Fishing is allowed in the park’s pond.

Homes can be found at many prices, with limited inventory in the low-$300,000 range. Like nearly all of Nassau County, property taxes are very high. There are a handful of condominium and co-op options available.

Atlantic Beach is a small, affluent village in the town of Hempstead, located on the western end of Long Beach Island, a barrier island off the south shore of Nassau County. Its population is approximately 2,000 year-round residents; during the summer the population grows as visitors flock to its many private beach clubs. Atlantic Beach has been featured prominently in several movies and television shows.

In addition to its member-only beach clubs, which range in price, the Town of Hempstead operates parks in Atlantic Beach. Veterans Memorial Park has a pool and playground, as well as a basketball court. Scott Drive Park also has a playground and basketball court. Atlantic Beach Estates is for residents of the village only, and is located on the water.

A bridge connects Atlantic Beach to Long Island via the Nassau Expressway, which briefly separates Queens and Nassau. Train commuters must travel to either Long Beach or Inwood to catch the LIRR. A bus route is located along Park Street. There are some businesses and retail in the village, but nearby Long Beach offers additional shopping and dining options.

Atlantic Beach does not have its own school district. Students travel off the island to attend school in the Lawrence School District, which is located in southwestern Nassau. Lawrence has three elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. There are 3,000 students; 23% of the student population lives in poverty. The district was recently identified by the state education department as being in need of improvement in English Language Arts across grade levels. At the high school level, Regents scores were adequate.

The majority of Atlantic Beach’s housing consists of single-family house. Current prices begin in the mid-$300,000 range and go beyond $1 million. There are two condominium options in Atlantic Beach. Pebble Cove is a luxury complex, where prices hover around a million dollars, while the Oceanview condos are more moderately priced.

Massapequa is a four-square mile unincorporated area in the Town of Oyster Bay. Technically a hamlet, its 22,000 residents usually refer to it as a town. Sunrise Highway, one of Long Island’s busiest roads, cuts across the middle of Massapequa. However, its residential areas reflect none of the busyness found on the town’s multiple major roads. Homebuyers gravitate to Massapequa for its quiet, residential streets, solid school district and access to parks and recreation. The Long Island Railroad offers an approximately 50-minute commute to Penn Station.
Shopping is plentiful. Westfield Sunrise, formerly known as the Sunrise Mall, is anchored by Sears, Macys’, Wal-Mart and JC Penney, and has over a hundred additional stores and eateries. Additional shopping and dining opportunities are located along Sunrise Highway and Merrick Road. Massapequa is a major shopping destination for southeastern Nassau and southwestern Suffolk residents.

The Massapequa School District is well-regarded, as well as one of the largest in Nassau County with 8,000 students. Overall, student performance on state exams is excellent. Three of the district’s six elementary schools are in Massapequa, and the other three are in the Village of Massapequa Park. Students remain in the elementary schools until the completion of sixth grade; Berner Middle School houses seventh and eighth graders. The district created a unique solution to working with its high school-aged population by creating a campus for ninth graders only. The Ames Campus of Massapequa High School is intended to provide freshman with an easier transition to high school. Approximately 300 students take Advanced Placement exams, and 94% of graduating seniors go on to two-year or four-year colleges.

Residents can take advantage of several parks and recreational activities. The Massapequa State Preserve sits between Massapequa and Massapequa Park, with 423 acres of mostly undeveloped land. Its wetlands provide a habitat for a large variety of wildlife. The Town of Oyster Bay operates parks within and beyond Massapequa, including Tobay Beach, which is for residents only and offers a smaller alternative to Jones Beach. Burns Park offers the only public boat launch, along with 52 acres with athletic facilities and a play area for children. Marjorie Post Park is a 42-acre facility with a playground, tennis, handball and basketball courts and a skating rink. Oyster Bay Town also organizes recreational activities for residents throughout the year, including baseball, softball, hockey, and races.

Homes can be found at all prices, from $200,000 to $2,000,000. The 2008 financial crisis and its impact on the housing market brought down prices significantly in Massapequa. Though the less expensive homes tend to be smaller or in need of work, there is a large amount of inventory. The larger, pricier homes tend to be located south of Merrick Road, along the canals or on the bay. There is one condominium complex, Seasons, with limited availability. Though it is located in Massapequa, it is located in the neighboring Amityville School District.

Massapequa Park is an incorporated village in the Town of Oyster Bay. Located on Nassau County’s South Shore, its schools, parks, and community atmosphere have made it a highly desirable place for young families to put down roots. It occupies 2.2 square miles, some of it waterfront, and is home to 17,000 residents.

Students attend the Massapequa Public Schools, which is one of Nassau County’s largest with 8,000 students who also hail from the unincorporated area of Massapequa. Three of the district’s six elementary schools are in Massapequa Park. Over the years the growing population has led to changes in the district’s organization to better educate the students. A former middle school is now an elementary school, and the district developed another innovative idea for its high school students. Ninth graders are housed separately at Massapequa High School’s Ames campus. The goal of the arrangement is to help ease students into the transition from middle school to high school. Ninety-four percent of recent Massapequa High School graduates continued their education at two-year or four-year colleges. A small percentage of students in the north part of the village attend school in the Farmingdale district, which is generally well-regarded.

Parkland is abundant in Massapequa Park. Tobay Beach, which is east of Jones Beach State Park, is a residents-only beach. Burns Park, which is also run by the Town of Oyster Bay, has 52 acres on the water, with athletic facilities, trails and a boat launch. Massapequa Preserve is long, narrow 423-acre parcel of mostly undeveloped land separating Massapequa and Massapequa Park. Its wetlands provide a habitat for a large variety of wildlife. The village oversees additional parks and playgrounds.

Westfield Sunrise, formerly known as the Sunrise Mall, has been a popular shopping destination for people from all over the south shore since it opened in the 1970s. Today, it’s anchored by Wal-Mart, Macys’, and JC Penney and Sears and has over 100 other stores and eateries. Sunrise Highway, the main road through Massapequa Park, is lined with shopping centers and restaurants, as is Merrick Road. Smaller, locally-based shops, restaurants and bars are located along Front Street and Park Boulevard, contributing to the small-town feel that gets lost on the village’s major roads.

Several bus routes pass through the village, and train commuters can catch the LIRR at the Massapequa Park station. Travel time is just under an hour. Parking requires a resident permit.

Home prices have come down substantially from 2008, making the area more accessible to buyers. Current prices start in the mid-$200,000s and up, with several homes in the $300,000 range. Prices range up to $1,000,000 for homes located in the waterfront neighborhood of Bar Harbour, where many homes have views of the Great South Bay. Property taxes are typical for Long Island.

Alberston is a small hamlet with 5,200 residents in the Town of North Hempstead, occupying less than one square mile. Its small size and relative isolation, by Long Island standards, means many people have never heard of it. The town’s name comes from Townsend Albert, who settled in the area and started a farm and a grist mill.

The hamlet is primarily residential. Willis Avenue, which leads drivers to the Northern State Parkway, is the main commercial area with shops, eateries, banks and other services. To the north and the south, there are ample shopping opportunities, most notably the Roosevelt Field Mall. Albertson has its own LIRR station, which makes the trip to Penn Station in about fifty minutes. Permits are not required to park at the station.

Three school districts serve Albertson, with the majority split of students between Herricks and Mineola. A small number of students attend school in the East Williston district. Meadow Drive, which is part of the Mineola district, is located in Albertson. Herricks and East Williston are both very highly regarded, with excellent results on state exams and graduation rates.

Caemmerer Park is one of two parks. It has tennis and basketball courts, and a playground. Clark Botanic Garden is a park located on the grounds of Grenville Clark, an attorney and advisor to President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The garden features about 5,000 species of plants, along with ponds and streams.

Home prices begin in the mid-$300,000 range. The small size of Albertson means inventory is limited. Many people who settle there are initially looking to be in one of the three school districts. Many of the homes, when constructed, were small. However, many of the homes have been expanded, and knocking down homes and rebuilding from scratch became a popular choice in recent years. Willis Terrace is a condo complex for seniors over 62, and there are usually a few units on the market.

Old Westbury, incorporated in 1924, is a wealthy village on Long Island’s North Shore. Its 8.6 square miles falls within the boundaries of both the Town of Oyster Bay and the Town of North Hempstead. Home to 4,500 people, the village is almost entirely residential. Unlike most of Long Island, Old Westbury’s homes are on large plots of land, giving the village an almost countrified feel.

Business Week and Forbes have both cited Old Westbury among the country’s wealthiest suburbs. Many famous families built their estates here, among them the Vanderbilts, the Phippses, the Whitneys and the Du Ponts. Today, some of those formerly private homes have been converted for other purposes. Old Westbury Gardens, once the estate of John Schaffer Phipps, is open to the public and features award-winning gardens. Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney’s former estate has been subdivided and shared among the New York Institute of Technology and the Old Westbury Country Club.

The village has no commercial areas. However, the Americana at Manhasset is a short drive away, with a large selection of luxury retailers. To the south, Westbury and Garden City both feature ample shopping opportunities.

Most of the village’s recreational activities will be found at private clubs. Old Westbury Golf and Country Club, opened in 1962, features multiple golf courses. The Glen Oaks Club has two 18-hole courses. The village has thirty miles of horse trails. The Meadowbrook Polo Club, opened in 1881, is the oldest polo club in the country.

Several colleges occupy land which were once part of estates, include the aforementioned NY Tech. SUNY Old Westbury is a public liberal arts college located at the former estate of philanthropist F. Ambrose Clark. Three public school districts also serve the village: Jericho, East Williston and Westbury. In general, Jericho and East Williston are well-regarded districts with excellent test scores and graduation rates. Westbury, which is significantly less affluent, performs adequately but pales when compared to the other two districts. There are two nearby private school options: Holy Child Academy, a Catholic K-8 school, and the Westbury Friends School, a K-5 school whose approach is based on Quaker values.

Real estate in Old Westbury is very expensive, with its cheapest homes costing close to a million dollars. Property taxes are also very high. There are no co-ops or condos, and though there is open space that could be developed, residents work very hard to have a voice in what is done with the land. In recent years, some new residential areas have been constructed, but they fall in the price range of the rest of the village.

Williston Park is a small incorporated village in the Town of North Hempstead. Founded in 1926, its name is in honor of Samuel Willis, a late 17th century settler. Developer William Chatlos envisioned a planned community, twenty years before Levittown, and on a much smaller scale. Chatlos oversaw the construction of 1,000 Dutch colonials, built at the rate of one per day.

Hillside Avenue and Willis Avenue are the main roads and provide most of the village’s commercial activity, with approximately 300 stores, eateries and professional offices. Most residents likely find it easy to obtain necessities. The village has odd, irregular borders with the exception of its eastern border with East Williston, which falls along the rail road tracks. The LIRR station provides travel to Manhattan in about 45 minutes. Williston Park sits on the west side of the tracks, with permit parking for residents and non-residents. East Williston is on the other side, with a lot for residents with permits. Buses travel regularly along Hillside and Willis Avenues.

Despite its name, parkland is minimal in Williston Park. Kelleher Park hosts the village’s Little League games, and a sliver of Albertson’s Caemmerer Park stretches across its border. Caemmerer Park has a playground and restroom facilities. Clark Botanical Gardens, twelve acres of gardens, trees, ponds and streams, is also located in Albertson. The Town of North Hempstead owns and operates Harbor Links, a residents-only public golf course with 18 holes, a driving range and miniature golf course, located in Port Washington.

The village does not have its own school district. Mineola takes the students who live east of Willis Avenue, and the students who reside west of Willis attend the Herricks School District. Each district has one elementary school in Williston Park: Center Street is one of Herrick’s three elementary schools, and Cross Street is in the Mineola district. Academically, Herricks is more highly regarded, but Mineola is also considered a solid district.

At the moment, home prices begin in the mid-$300s, a bit higher than some surrounding areas. Home buyers interested in older homes will find a good amount of inventory from the 1920s. Many homes were added during the late 1940s and early 1950s to accommodate returning war veterans and their families, but there are some newer homes as well. Condominiums are available, but in short supply.

Mineola is an incorporated village in the Town of North Hempstead, home to 19,000 residents. It’s also Nassau County’s seat, home to several administrative and government offices and agencies. The county seat designation was granted to Mineola in 1898, and the village was incorporated in 1906. The name “Mineola” is derived from a Native American word for “pleasant place.”

Jericho Turnpike is Mineola’s main east-west road, and Old Country Road forms its southern border with Garden City. Despite the presence of these two heavily traveled roads, a quieter village feel exists along Mineola Boulevard and its other secondary roads. Its residential streets are quiet and lined with well-kept homes. Public transportation is abundant, with multiple bus routes and the LIRR station in Mineola. Approximately 10,000 passengers a day board the train at this station to make the approximately 40-minute ride to Manhattan. The Meadowbrook and Northern State Parkways are well-located for car commuters.

There is a lot to do in and around Mineola. The recreation department operates a community pool with free resident shuttle service. Memorial Park features a gazebo and memorials to area war veterans, residents lost on September 11 and victims of the December 1993 LIRR shooting. Wilson Park has a lighted roller rink, playing fields and recreation equipment. Jones Beach State Park is a short ride down the Meadowbrook Parkway. Its inclusion in the Town of North Hempstead allows residents to take advantage of parks and cultural activities beyond Mineola.

Shoppers have plenty of options as well. Roosevelt Field Mall and additional shopping in neighboring Westbury provide enough variety for recreational shoppers. Numerous restaurants line the main streets. Portuguese cuisine is popular, owning to the village’s large number of residents from Portugal.

The Mineola School District, whose borders overlap slightly into neighboring towns, educates 2,500 students. There are three elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. The high school graduation rate is 97.8%. Both the middle school and high school offer a large selection of extracurricular clubs and sports teams.

Single-family homes comprise the bulk of Mineola’s real estate inventory. Many of the houses were built during the 1920s and 1930s, but like much of Nassau County, it was impacted by the post-war building boom of the 1950s. Prices vary widely, but have come down significantly in recent years. Co-ops and condominiums are plentiful and popular with first-time buyers, who often remain in Mineola and later upgrade to houses.

Island Park is part of the geographic region of Long Island, but it isn’t on Long Island. A hamlet in the Town of Hempstead, it’s on a small island located between Oceanside and Long Beach. Its 4,600 residents reside within a 1.5 square mile space.

During the Revolutionary War, the island was strategically important, and it was the site of several attacks and at least one big battle. After the war, the island remained mostly undeveloped, populated by pigs that were brought to the island to graze, leading to the name “Hog Island.” By 1900 Island Park had become a popular resort area for people from nearby New York City. Small bungalows popped up all over the island, and later winterized and expanded as summer residents became year-rounders.

Its small size means there is little shopping, though it is fairly easy to obtain necessities. Nearby, Long Beach offers nightlife, shopping and dining, with a beach primarily for residents. However, three Town of Hempstead beaches, Point Lookout, Lido Beach, Lido West and Sands, are a short drive away. Oceanside also offers shopping and recreation. Though Island Park isn’t convenient to major parkways, it does have its own LIRR station. Travel time to Manhattan is about 50 minutes.

Students in Island Park deal with a unique situation when they finish middle school. The Island Park School District, which includes the adjacent hamlets of Harbor Isle and Barnum Island, has no high school. Students have two options: nearby Long Beach High School, or West Hempstead High School, which is about a half hour away and relatively similar with regard to academic offerings and graduation rates, though West Hempstead is smaller. The district’s K-8 population is about 700. Scores on state assessments are adequate, with 2-5% of students failing to meet standards, depending on subject and grade. Approximately one-fifth of elementary and middle school level students live in poverty.

Unsurprisingly, flooding causes issues. However, its proximity to the water also makes it a desirable place to live, with a good selection of affordable homes. Prices vary widely, from small bungalows and ranches to larger, newer homes on waterfront property.