Bay Shore, New York

Bay Shore
This image was taken from in between the Robert Moses Causeway Bridge, spanning the Great South Bay. Bay Shore is a culturally rich and diverse South Shore community defined by maritime heritage, suburban energy, and strong local identity. It offers a vibrant downtown, historic charm, easy transit, and waterfront living – plus ready access to Fire Island beaches. File photo: Christopher Mander, licensed.

Bay Shore is a bustling hamlet and census-designated place in the Town of Islip, located on Long Island’s picturesque South Shore, hugging the Great South Bay about 35 miles from Manhattan. It thrives as a maritime gateway and vibrant suburban community.

Population & Demographics

  • 2023 population: ~31,275—up ~2.4% since 2022.
  • Median age: ~36 years.
  • Diverse community: 35% non-Hispanic White; 16% Other Hispanic; 12% Black; 10% Asian.
  • Foreign-born: ~32% of residents are immigrants.

Income, Housing & Economy

  • Median household income: $101,695 in 2023 (slight decline from 2022).
  • Per-capita income: ~$56,800.
  • Median home value: ~$467,800; homeownership rate ~62%.
  • Poverty rate: ~8%.

Bay Shore blends working-class character with rising suburban affluence.

Education

  • Served by the Bay Shore Union Free School District (PK–12; ~5,788 students; ratio 10.6:1).
  • Bay Shore High School is an IB-authorized secondary offering AP and diploma programs.

Transit & Connectivity

  • LIRR station: on the Montauk Branch; connects commuters to NYC and Fire Island ferries.
  • Roads & parking: Local and Suffolk County transit, with moderate commute (~27.5 mins, primarily driving).

Historic Sites & Attractions

  • Sagtikos Manor: 1697 colonial estate in West Bay Shore; once Washington’s visit site and a Revolutionary HQ.
  • Bay Shore Marina: Major boating hub with scenic boardwalk parks.
  • Walking-friendly downtown is dotted with Victorian, Tudor, and Colonial homes.

Culture, Food & Leisure

  • Vibrant culinary scene centered on waterfront eateries and neighborhood cafés – great starting point before Fire Island ferries.
  • Great South Bay Brewery (est. 2009) has won national awards and is a local favorite.
  • New Seafood Trail launched in 2025 highlights Bay Shore’s role in local aquaculture dining.

Parks & Recreation

  • Waterfront parks create scenic boardwalk and boating access.
  • Close access to Fire Island beaches via ferry.
  • Community events and social life are boosted by maritime heritage and brewery tours.

Hamlet Snapshot

FeatureDetails
Population~31,275; median age ~36
Diversity35% White NH, 39% Hispanic, 12% Black, 10% Asian
Median Income$101,695; per capita ~$56,800
HousingMedian home ~$468K; 62% homeownership
SchoolsPK–12 IB district, ~5,800 students
TransitLIRR, local buses; 27.5 min avg commute
Historic SitesSagtikos Manor (1697), Bay Shore Marina
HighlightsBrewery, seafood trail, bayfront dining
RecreationFerry to Fire Island, waterfront parks