Saint James

Discover Historic Charm and North Shore Beauty in Saint James, Long Island, NY

Nestled on Long Island's picturesque North Shore in the Town of Smithtown, Saint James offers a unique blend of historic charm, tranquil suburban living, and convenient access to both natural beauty and sophisticated amenities. Known for its rich heritage, excellent schools, and a welcoming community, Saint James is a truly desirable destination for those seeking an elevated and peaceful lifestyle.

A Storied Past and Enduring Appeal

Saint James boasts a fascinating history, with its name famously adopted in the 1850s to honor the Saint James Episcopal Church, a landmark founded in 1853. This historic church features stained-glass windows designed by notable figures like Stanford White and Louis Comfort Tiffany. The hamlet was also a popular vacation spot in the early 20th century, attracting glitterati of stage and screen, including the Barrymores, Buster Keaton, and Irving Berlin. The St. James General Store, believed to be the oldest continuously operating general store in the United States, stands as a testament to its enduring legacy. Today, Saint James maintains its refined character, with a population that appreciates its blend of historical significance and modern comfort. The median age in Saint James is 48.5, indicating a stable community with many long-term residents.

Elegant Homes and Scenic Landscapes

The residential landscape of Saint James is characterized by its attractive single-family homes, often set on generous lots amidst mature trees. You'll find a pleasing mix of architectural styles, including classic Colonials, charming Capes, and elegant Tudors, many of which are well-maintained and exude timeless appeal. The hamlet's verdant surroundings and quiet, winding roads contribute to its peaceful and picturesque setting. Properties here can range significantly, from comfortable family homes to expansive estates, some on multiple acres.

Real Estate in Saint James: A Competitive Seller's Market

The real estate market in Saint James is highly competitive and in strong demand. As of June 2025, the median sold price for homes in Saint James was approximately $986,500, with average home values around $703,417 (up 5.3% over the past year). Homes are selling quickly, typically within 23 days on the market (compared to 36 days last year), and the market is currently experiencing more buyers than available homes, indicating a robust seller's market. With over 80 homes currently for sale, ranging from mid-tier prices to multi-million dollar estates, Saint James offers a diverse selection for discerning buyers.

Amenities and Connectivity: A Balanced and Enriched Lifestyle

Saint James's North Shore location provides residents with excellent access to a wealth of amenities, natural beauty, and efficient transportation links.

Local Charm and Nearby Vibrancy: Saint James itself offers local conveniences and the historic charm of its downtown area, including the iconic St. James General Store. For more extensive shopping, dining, and entertainment, residents are just a short drive from the bustling Smith Haven Mall in nearby Lake Grove, offering over 140 stores and various dining options. The vibrant downtowns of Stony Brook Village (home to Stony Brook University and its arts and cultural offerings) and Port Jefferson (with its ferry to Connecticut and lively waterfront) are also easily accessible, offering unique boutiques, acclaimed restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Embrace the Outdoors: Saint James is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The hamlet is bordered by beautiful parks and preserves. Blydenburgh County Park offers dense woodlands, hiking trails, playgrounds, and a beautiful lake for fishing and boating. The St. James Preserve provides tranquil walking paths. Residents are also within easy reach of picturesque North Shore beaches like Short Beach in Nissequogue, and various golf courses. The Long Island Museum of American Art, History & Carriages in Stony Brook provides a cultural gem nearby.

Exceptional Education: Families are consistently drawn to Saint James for its highly-regarded public school system, the Smithtown Central School District. This 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 from elementary through high school.

Seamless Commuting: Saint James offers convenient access to major Long Island thoroughfares, including New York State Route 25A (North Country Road) and State Route 347. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station in Saint James provides train service to Manhattan, making city commutes feasible (though typically requiring a transfer at Ronkonkoma or Hicksville for direct service to Penn Station or Grand Central, with total travel times around 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours).

Saint James, Long Island, NY, truly offers an outstanding blend of historic charm, tranquil suburban comfort, top-tier schools, and abundant amenities. Its desirable homes, peaceful atmosphere, and convenient access to both natural beauty and sophisticated cultural centers make it a truly attractive and well-rounded place to call home.

HOA: Yes (While many traditional single-family homes in Saint James do not have a neighborhood-wide HOA, there are specific condominium, co-op, and gated 55+ communities, such as "Fairfield at Saint James," "Kensington Gardens," and "The Hamlet Estates at Saint James" that do have their own HOAs.)

55+ Community: Yes (Saint James is home to several specific 55+ communities, notably "Fairfield at Saint James" and "Kensington Gardens," offering active adult living options with various amenities.)