Long Island isn’t just NYC’s backyard—trust me, this place is way cooler than people think. After exploring both shores, I found my perfect mix: gorgeous beaches, wine country, and super easy city access whenever I need my Manhattan fix. From sunset sails to weekend wine tastings, there’s always something going on here.
Looking for the best places in Long Island to call home? After spending real time in towns like Port Jefferson (hello, New England ferry adventures!) and Garden City (where the downtown looks like it’s straight out of a movie), I totally get the appeal. Whether you want beachfront living or quick city access, these 12 Long Island spots could be your perfect match.
Top Places to Live in Long Island in 2025
Looking for the best places to live in Long Island in 2025? Enjoy the suburban charm and top schools in Stony Brook, known for its prestigious university and scenic parks. Experience the convenience of Plainview, offering a perfect blend of community and city access. Settle in Massapequa, with its beautiful waterfronts and family-friendly vibe. Or choose Commack, a great spot for shopping, dining, and excellent schools. Whether you’re looking for education, lifestyle, or accessibility, these are some of the top places to live in Long Island.
- Best for academic vibrancy: Stony Brook
- Best for family-friendly suburban living: Plainview
- Best for educational excellence: Massapequa
- Best for a close-knit community: Smithtown
- Best for sports lovers: Commack
- Best for seaside charm: Greenport
- Best for community spirit: Northport
- Best for community-centered lifestyle: Bellmore
- Best for upscale living: Manhasset
- Best for vibrant nightlife: Huntington
- Best for cultural richness: Great Neck
- Best for serene beaches: Merrick
1. Stony Brook
Starting off the list is Stony Brook, where coastal charm meets academic energy. Located on Long Island’s North Shore, this village is home to Stony Brook University, creating a lively yet peaceful atmosphere that blends history, nature, and intellectual vibrancy.
Life here moves at a comfortable and refreshing pace. The Avalon Park & Preserve offers scenic trails and serene landscapes, while the Long Island Museum showcases the area’s rich past and culture. The waterfront area near Stony Brook Harbor is perfect for a relaxing weekend stroll.
Housing options range from charming colonial-style homes to modern apartments, catering to students, families, and professionals alike. With highly rated schools, a strong sense of community, and a picturesque setting, Stony Brook is a dream for those who love culture, education, and nature in perfect balance.
2. Plainview
A quiet suburb with a touch of luxury, Plainview is one of Long Island’s best-kept secrets. With top-rated schools, low crime rates, and excellent amenities, it’s a top pick for families and professionals looking for a well-rounded community.
Plainview’s location is ideal—close to the Long Island Expressway, making commutes a breeze. The area boasts beautiful parks like Bethpage State Park, where residents enjoy hiking, golf, and family picnics. The local dining scene is thriving, offering everything from cozy cafés to upscale restaurants. The food? Incredibly delicious!
Despite its affluence, Plainview maintains a friendly, tight-knit atmosphere. The streets are well-maintained, and local businesses thrive, adding to its small-town charm. If you’re looking for a place that combines suburban peace with urban convenience, Plainview is a perfect choice for high-quality living just outside the city.
3. Massapequa
A vibrant coastal suburb with top-rated schools and endless outdoor activities, Massapequa is a favorite for families looking for both convenience and community. This South Shore gem blends education, nature, and small-town charm, making it one of the most desirable places to call home.
Massapequa’s outdoor scene is a major highlight. The stunning Massapequa Preserve offers miles of trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas, while nearby Tobay Beach provides easy access to the ocean and stunning sunset views. Families also love John J. Burns Park, which features sports fields, playgrounds, and waterfront walking paths. Its schools rank among Long Island’s best, making it a top choice for those prioritizing education.
With plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, Massapequa offers the perfect balance of suburban comfort and coastal adventure. Whether you’re exploring nature or enjoying a night out, this community has something for everyone.
4. Smithtown
A mix of small-town charm and modern conveniences, Smithtown is where community spirit thrives. Located about 50 miles from NYC, it’s the perfect blend of suburban peace, comfort, and accessibility.
Main Street is full of local shops, cafés, and restaurants, giving the town a welcoming, hometown feel. The local schools are highly rated, and crime rates are among the lowest in Suffolk County, making it ideal for families and those looking to settle down. If you love the outdoors, Caleb Smith State Park offers hiking trails, fishing, and stunning nature views.
Smithtown is also known for its craft beer scene, with spots like Tap & Barrel serving up local favorites. Whether you’re exploring historical landmarks, scenic parks, or bustling community events, Smithtown has a strong sense of identity and warmth—a place where neighbors feel like family.
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5. Commack
If you love sports, community events, and a lively atmosphere, Commack is the place to be. Once home to the historic Long Island Arena, this suburb still carries a strong athletic and community-driven spirit.
Commack’s parks and recreation facilities are top-tier, with places like Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve offering trails, playgrounds, and outdoor concerts. The area is also a shopping hub, featuring Commack Corners and Jericho Turnpike, where you’ll find boutiques, big-name stores, and great dining options.
Beyond sports and shopping, Commack has a diverse and engaged community, with events year-round that bring people together. It’s the kind of place where neighbors support local businesses, kids play in the parks, and weekends are filled with both relaxation and excitement. If you’re looking for a town with energy, convenience, and strong community ties, Commack won’t disappoint.
- Read Next: Places to Live in New York
6. Greenport
A true coastal gem, Greenport offers the perfect mix of seaside charm, history, and culture. Located on the North Fork, it’s one of Long Island’s most scenic and unique towns.
This former whaling village is now a vibrant seaside retreat, with historic shipyards, charming marinas, and waterfront restaurants. The Greenport Carousel, a local icon, adds to the town’s nostalgic feel. Residents love strolling down Main Street, filled with boutiques, cafés, and art galleries showcasing the town’s creative energy.
Greenport is also home to a thriving wine scene, with some of Long Island’s best vineyards just minutes away. Whether you’re setting sail, sipping wine at Kontokosta Winery, or enjoying fresh seafood at Claudio’s, life here feels like a never-ending vacation. For those craving coastal beauty, small-town charm, and a relaxed pace of life, Greenport is an absolute dream.
7. Northport
A quaint waterfront village with a strong artistic soul, Northport is one of Long Island’s most charming places to live. With its historic harbor, vibrant arts scene, and walkable downtown, it’s perfect for those who appreciate coastal beauty and community spirit.
Northport’s Main Street is a postcard-worthy destination, lined with boutiques, cafés, and art galleries. Residents love catching shows at the John W. Engeman Theater, while the Northport Farmers’ Market keeps weekends lively. The town’s harborfront park is ideal for scenic walks, and the marina is a dream for boaters.
The tight-knit community, top-rated schools, and local events like Cow Harbor Day make Northport feel welcoming and unique. If you’re searching for a place that blends small-town charm, coastal serenity, and a thriving arts scene, Northport is a gem worth considering.
8. Bellmore
Bellmore is where suburban comfort meets strong community vibes. Located in Nassau County, it’s known for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and vibrant local scene.
This town thrives on its tight-knit community spirit. Events like the Bellmore Street Festival and outdoor concerts at the Bandshell at the Village Green bring people together, creating a lively yet welcoming environment. The Bellmore LIRR station makes commuting to NYC effortless, adding to its convenience and accessibility.
Food lovers appreciate Bellmore’s diverse dining options, from classic delis to trendy bistros. Meanwhile, parks, marinas, and waterfront views make it a great place to relax and unwind. With its great schools, walkable neighborhoods, and endless community activities, Bellmore is an ideal spot for those who want a balance of suburban tranquility and an active social scene.
9. Manhasset
For those seeking luxury, convenience, and top-tier amenities, Manhasset is a standout. Located on Long Island’s North Shore, this upscale hamlet is one of the most desirable places to live, known for prestigious schools, high-end shopping, and a peaceful yet refined atmosphere.
Manhasset’s biggest draw is the Americana Manhasset, a luxury shopping district featuring brands like Gucci, Prada, and Chanel. But beyond its upscale reputation, the community is warm and welcoming, with highly rated schools and picturesque parks like Manhasset Valley Park.
Despite its suburban feel, Manhasset offers quick access to NYC via the LIRR, making it perfect for professionals who want a quiet retreat with easy city access. Whether you’re drawn to its elegant homes, strong community feel, or premier shopping and dining, Manhasset offers a refined yet livable lifestyle.
10. Huntington
A vibrant mix of nightlife, arts, and suburban charm, Huntington is one of Long Island’s most dynamic towns. Located in Suffolk County, it’s a hub for culture, entertainment, and coastal living.
The Huntington Village district is the heart of the action, packed with restaurants, bars, and live music venues. The famous Paramount Theater hosts world-class performances, and art lovers enjoy galleries and cultural festivals year-round. For a quieter escape, Heckscher Park offers scenic trails, a museum, and summer concerts.
Huntington is also known for top-rated schools, beautiful beaches, and a thriving local economy. Whether you’re grabbing a bite at a waterfront seafood restaurant, exploring Cold Spring Harbor, or enjoying a lively night out, Huntington delivers. For those who want a mix of excitement and small-town warmth, this town offers the best of both worlds.
11. Great Neck
With its rich history, diverse community, and excellent amenities, Great Neck stands out as one of Long Island’s most culturally vibrant places to live. Located on the North Shore, it offers a unique blend of suburban comfort and city convenience.
Great Neck is known for its top-rated schools, world-class dining, and scenic parks. The Great Neck Plaza is a hotspot for boutiques, cafés, and cultural events, while Steppingstone Park provides stunning waterfront views and outdoor concerts. The LIRR station makes commuting to Manhattan effortless, a major perk for professionals.
This town also has a rich arts scene, with venues like the Gold Coast Arts Center showcasing film, theater, and music. If you’re looking for a diverse, sophisticated, and well-connected community, Great Neck offers an elevated yet welcoming way of life.
12. Merrick
Rounding out our list is Merrick, a town that blends coastal charm with suburban convenience. Located in Nassau County, it offers serene beaches, excellent schools, and a strong community feel.
Merrick’s waterfront lifestyle is a major draw, with beautiful marinas, parks, and beaches like Cedar Creek Park and Merrick Bay. Residents love boating, fishing, and scenic walks, making it perfect for those who enjoy outdoor living. At the same time, the town has a thriving local dining scene, with everything from classic diners to upscale eateries.
With a convenient LIRR station, Merrick provides easy access to NYC while maintaining its peaceful suburban vibe. Whether you’re looking for great schools, waterfront views, or a friendly atmosphere, Merrick offers a relaxed yet engaging lifestyle—a perfect way to enjoy Long Island’s best coastal living.
