Islip

Experience Classic Charm and Coastal Access in Islip, Long Island, NY

Islip, a historic and picturesque hamlet on Long Island's South Shore, embodies the quintessential suburban dream with its welcoming community, highly-rated schools, and direct access to the beautiful Great South Bay. It’s a place where tradition meets convenience, offering a relaxed lifestyle with all the amenities one could desire.

A Storied Past and Enduring Appeal

Islip's roots stretch back to the 17th century, named after the ancestral home of its original patentee, George Day, in England. Over the centuries, it evolved from an agricultural and fishing community into the charming residential area it is today. With a population of over 17,000 and a median age of 44, Islip boasts a diverse demographic, with a significant White (Non-Hispanic) population and growing Hispanic and Asian communities. This blend contributes to a vibrant cultural fabric and a strong sense of community, where residents take pride in their well-maintained homes and participate in local events.

Inviting Homes and Water-Proximate Living

The residential landscape of Islip is primarily composed of attractive single-family homes, reflecting its high homeownership rate of over 84%. You'll find a delightful array of architectural styles, including classic Capes, Colonials, and Ranches, many set on spacious, well-manicured lots. While not all homes offer direct waterfront access, the proximity to the Great South Bay is a defining characteristic, with many residents enjoying the bay breezes and easy access to boating and fishing. Some properties even offer glimpses of the water or access to charming canals.

Real Estate in Islip: A Competitive and Stable Market

The real estate market in Islip is active and desirable. As of June 2025, the median sold price for homes in Islip was approximately $599,000, which has shown a slight increase from the previous year. Homes typically sell after about 36 days on the market, indicating a generally competitive environment. Islip is currently a seller's market, meaning there are more buyers looking than homes available, which can lead to multiple offers and sales at or above asking price. The average home value in Islip is around $647,482, up 1.9% over the past year, reflecting a stable and appreciating market.

Amenities and Connectivity: Recreation, Culture, and Coastal Access

Islip's prime South Shore location provides residents with excellent access to a wealth of amenities, natural beauty, and efficient transportation links.

Vibrant Downtown and Local Delights: Islip boasts a charming downtown area with a variety of local shops, essential services, and diverse dining options. You'll find everything from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, catering to all tastes. The local businesses contribute to the hamlet's unique character and appeal.

Parks and Recreation Galore: Islip offers abundant opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. The Town of Islip Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs manages numerous facilities, including ballfields, picnic areas, playgrounds, and cultural programs. Nearby, Brookwood Hall Park (in East Islip) is a peaceful spot with walking paths, a playground, and an indoor recreation center. The Long Island Maritime Museum in West Sayville (a short drive away) is a fantastic place to explore the region's rich nautical heritage. For water lovers, the proximity to the Great South Bay means easy access to boating, fishing, and kayaking, with various marinas dotted along the waterfront.

Exceptional Education: Families are consistently drawn to Islip for its highly-regarded public school system, the Islip Union Free School District. This K-12 district serves over 2,700 students with a favorable student-teacher ratio of 10:1. The district is known for its strong academic programs, dedicated educators, and a wide range of extracurricular activities, providing a supportive and enriching environment for student development. Islip High School boasts high graduation rates and consistently sends students to top universities.

Seamless Commuting: Islip offers convenient connectivity for commuters. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) has a station directly in Islip, providing direct train service to Manhattan (Penn Station) in approximately 1 hour and 7 minutes, with services running once daily on weekdays. This direct line makes daily commutes and city excursions incredibly convenient. Major roadways such as Montauk Highway and Sunrise Highway are also easily accessible, facilitating travel across Long Island. Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) is also a relatively short drive away, offering a convenient option for air travel.

Islip, Long Island, NY, truly offers an outstanding blend of classic suburban comfort, a strong and engaged community, top-tier schools, and abundant recreational opportunities. Its desirable homes, charming downtown, and unparalleled access to both natural beauty and urban centers make it a truly attractive and well-rounded place to call home.

HOA: Yes (While the majority of traditional single-family homes in Islip do not have a neighborhood-wide HOA, there are specific condominium or 55+ developments within or bordering Islip that do have their own HOAs covering various amenities and maintenance.)

55+ Community: Yes (Islip and its immediate surrounding areas offer various 55+ communities and senior living options, catering to those seeking active adult lifestyles or more supportive living environments.)