Suffolk County, New York

Suffolk County
Suffolk County is a place where natural beauty, coastal living, and community charm converge. Whether you’re drawn by the beaches, the vineyards, or the historic lighthouses, Suffolk offers something for everyone—making it one of Long Island’s most desirable places to live, work, and visit. File photo: Cavan-Images, licensed.

Suffolk County is the easternmost county in New York State, encompassing the eastern two-thirds of Long Island. It is the largest of Long Island’s four counties and the second-largest of New York’s 62 counties, stretching approximately 86 miles in length and 26 miles at its widest point. With a population of over 1.5 million residents, Suffolk County offers a blend of suburban communities, rural landscapes, and coastal towns, making it a unique and diverse region.

White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) walking across a residential lawn in Stony Brook Village, Suffolk County. White-tailed deer are commonly spotted in suburban environments throughout Long Island, especially in the fall and winter months when they may wander into neighborhoods in search of food.
White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) walking across a residential lawn in Stony Brook Village, Suffolk County. White-tailed deer are commonly spotted in suburban environments throughout Long Island, especially in the fall and winter months when they may wander into neighborhoods in search of food. File photo: Popova Valeriya, licensed.

History

Established in 1683, Suffolk County was named after the county of Suffolk in England, reflecting the origins of its early settlers. During the American Revolutionary War, the county was occupied by British forces from 1776 until 1783. Over the centuries, Suffolk has evolved from a primarily agrarian society to a dynamic region known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and economic growth.

The historic North End Cemetery in East Hampton, NY, with the iconic Old Hook Mill, a well-preserved 19th-century windmill, in the background. The cemetery, dating back to colonial times, contains the graves of early settlers and veterans, reflecting the rich heritage and enduring legacy of the East Hampton community. The scene highlights the town’s blend of agricultural history and memorial tradition, preserved in this unique setting.
The historic North End Cemetery in East Hampton, NY, with the iconic Old Hook Mill, a well-preserved 19th-century windmill, in the background. The cemetery, dating back to colonial times, contains the graves of early settlers and veterans, reflecting the rich heritage and enduring legacy of the East Hampton community. The scene highlights the town’s blend of agricultural history and memorial tradition, preserved in this unique setting. File photo: Jaclyn Vernace, licensed.

Geography

Suffolk County occupies the eastern portion of Long Island, bordered by Nassau County to the west, Long Island Sound to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the south, and Block Island Sound to the east. The county features a diverse landscape of coastal lowlands, barrier islands, and inland forests. Notable geographical features include the Peconic Bay, Gardiners Bay, and the twin forks of the island, the North Fork and the South Fork, each offering distinct environments and communities.

An aerial view of Gardiners Bay and its harbor area, located on the eastern end of Long Island, New York. The photo highlights the waterfront, docks, and marina infrastructure, with a town clustered around the shoreline and extending inland. Gardiners Bay is known for its scenic beauty, maritime activity, and its role as a gateway to the East End of Long Island, including popular destinations like Greenport, Shelter Island, and Montauk.
An aerial view of Gardiners Bay and its harbor area, located on the eastern end of Long Island, New York. The photo highlights the waterfront, docks, and marina infrastructure, with a town clustered around the shoreline and extending inland. Gardiners Bay is known for its scenic beauty, maritime activity, and its role as a gateway to the East End of Long Island, including popular destinations like Greenport, Shelter Island, and Montauk. File photo: Ray Larsen, licensed.

Demographics

The estimated 2025 population of Suffolk County, New York is approximately 1,542,820 residents, making it the fourth most populated county in the state. Multiple projections and analysis agree that population growth in Suffolk County has leveled off, with only slight increases over recent years. Suffolk County is notable for its diverse population and significant median income, which is around $128,329 in 2025. It continues to rank as one of the most populous counties in New York, just behind Queens, New York (Manhattan), and Kings (Brooklyn).

Suffolk County’s population is projected to see modest growth beyond 2025, with the total population expected to stabilize around 1.54 to 1.55 million by 2045. Traffic in Suffolk County is characterized by heavy congestion on main highways and long commute times, with growing traffic challenges expected in the coming decades.
Suffolk County’s population is projected to see modest growth beyond 2025, with the total population expected to stabilize around 1.54 to 1.55 million by 2045. Traffic in Suffolk County is characterized by heavy congestion on main highways and long commute times, with growing traffic challenges expected in the coming decades. File photo: Patrick Hatt, licensed.

Economy

Suffolk County boasts a robust economy with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately $131.77 billion in 2023. The median household income stands at $128,329, reflecting a strong economic base supported by sectors such as healthcare, education, technology, and tourism. The county’s economic development initiatives focus on sustainable growth, infrastructure improvements, and fostering innovation.

The Deer Park Long Island Railroad station parking lot, showcasing an array of car shelters with solar panels installed on their rooftops. Surrounding the parking lot, a mix of suburban commercial buildings and residential neighborhoods stretches into the distance, while a wooded greenbelt frames the lower portion of the image.
The Deer Park Long Island Railroad station parking lot, showcasing an array of car shelters with solar panels installed on their rooftops. Surrounding the parking lot, a mix of suburban commercial buildings and residential neighborhoods stretches into the distance, while a wooded greenbelt frames the lower portion of the image. File photo: Audley C Bullock, licensed.

Transportation

Suffolk County offers a comprehensive transportation network to support its residents and visitors:

  • Public Transit: Suffolk County Transit operates 25 fixed bus routes and 2 On-Demand zones, providing affordable and accessible transportation options throughout the county.
  • Air Travel: Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP), located in Ronkonkoma, serves as a regional hub with plans for significant upgrades to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic growth.
  • Rail Services: The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers commuter rail services connecting Suffolk County to New York City and other parts of Long Island.
A Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) double-decker commuter train at a Jamaica station platform. As of mid-2025, the LIRR carries between 295,000 and 298,000 commuters on the busiest weekdays. On average, weekday ridership frequently surpasses 295,000 passengers per day, with numbers rising even higher during peak periods and major events.
A Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) double-decker commuter train at a Jamaica station platform. As of mid-2025, the LIRR carries between 295,000 and 298,000 commuters on the busiest weekdays. On average, weekday ridership frequently surpasses 295,000 passengers per day, with numbers rising even higher during peak periods and major events. File photo: The Global Guy, licensed.

Education

Suffolk County is home to a range of educational institutions, including public school districts and higher education facilities:

  • Public Schools: The county encompasses numerous school districts, with a total student population of approximately 264,322 and a student-teacher ratio of 13.7.
  • Higher Education: Institutions such as Stony Brook University, Suffolk County Community College, and Touro University provide diverse academic programs and contribute to the county’s educational excellence.
The Student Activities Center (SAC) at Stony Brook University in Stony Brook, NY, with a visible banner for the Stony Brook Seawolves, the university’s athletic teams. Stony Brook University is recognized as a top-ranked academic institution located on Long Island, New York, known for its research programs, diverse student life, and competitive athletics.
The Student Activities Center (SAC) at Stony Brook University in Stony Brook, NY, with a visible banner for the Stony Brook Seawolves, the university’s athletic teams. Stony Brook University is recognized as a top-ranked academic institution located on Long Island, New York, known for its research programs, diverse student life, and competitive athletics. File photo: Steve Cukrov, licensed.

Government

Suffolk County operates under a county executive-legislature system. The legislative body consists of 18 members who oversee various aspects of county governance, including budgeting, public policy, and community services.

The District Attorney is not naming the defendant to protect the identity of the child victim.  
Th Suffolk County Court House located in Riverhead, NY. The building is a prominent judicial site on Long Island and serves as the central courthouse for Suffolk County, hosting a variety of courts including county, supreme, family, and civil courts. File photo: Ray Larsen, licensed.

Attractions

Suffolk County offers a wealth of attractions that cater to diverse interests:

  • Montauk Point Lighthouse: The oldest lighthouse in New York State, offering panoramic views and historical exhibits.
  • Fire Island National Seashore: A protected area featuring pristine beaches, maritime forests, and unique wildlife.
  • Long Island Aquarium: Located in Riverhead, this facility showcases marine life exhibits and interactive experiences.
  • North Fork Wine Country: Renowned for its vineyards and wineries, offering tastings and scenic tours.
  • The Hamptons: A collection of upscale seaside communities known for their beaches, cultural events, and historic sites.

Overall, Suffolk County stands as a dynamic region that blends historical significance, economic vitality, and natural beauty. Its diverse communities, educational institutions, and recreational opportunities make it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike. Whether exploring its coastal towns, engaging in cultural activities, or enjoying its scenic landscapes, Suffolk County offers a rich and fulfilling experience.