East Hampton, New York

East Hampton blends colonial heritage, artistic culture, pristine beaches, and refined sophistication—earning its place as one of the most storied and high-profile destinations along Long Island’s South Fork.
The iconic Main Beach pavilion in East Hampton, a defining feature of the town’s South Fork coastal charm. Set against a backdrop of classic Hamptons-style homes and framed by golden sand dunes and seagrass, the scene showcases the relaxed elegance that draws visitors from across the globe. As one of the most popular public beaches in the region, Main Beach represents East Hampton’s seamless blend of seaside recreation, small-town tradition, and refined summer living. File photo: James Kirkikis, licensed.

East Hampton sits at the eastern end of Long Island’s South Shore, with the Town of East Hampton covering about 70 square miles, stretching from Wainscott to Montauk Point. The town encompasses multiple villages and hamlets, including East Hampton Village, Amagansett, Wainscott, Springs, and Montauk .

Population & Community

  • Townwide population (2023): ~28,764 residents, median age ~45.8.
  • East Hampton Village: ~1,277 residents, median age approximately 58.
  • Diversity: Town demographic includes ~67% White, ~26% Hispanic, ~3% multiracial, ~2% Black, ~2% Asian. Village figures are similar.
  • Affluence: Median household income in town ~$128,938; village ~$114,375; per capita income ~$80,776.

Historical Legacy & Architecture

  • Established in 1648 by Puritan settlers, the town flourished as a farming and whaling community. It evolved into an artist colony and summer destination in the late 19th century.
  • Historic landmarks include Hook Windmill (built in 1806, now one of LI’s most complete mills), the Thomas Moran House (a preserved National Historic Landmark), and the Jones Road and Pantigo Road Historic Districts, known for colonial architecture and rural preservation.

Culture, Arts & Attractions

  • The village exudes refined artistic energy with galleries, boutiques, and the renowned Guild Hall cultural center on Main Street.
  • Attractions include the East Hampton History Museum, historic windmill tours, and curated programs celebrating local heritage and modern art.

Recreation & Landscape

  • Pristine Atlantic beaches, nature preserves, and scenic estates define its coastal allure. The town includes eight state parks, from Main Beach to Hither Hills in Montauk.
  • Extensively wooded residential areas and greenbelts help preserve rural charm even amid luxury development.

Economics & Lifestyle

  • With median home values around $1.07 million, the area combines long-standing local traditions with seasonal affluence.
  • The economy draws largely on upscale tourism, hospitality, arts, and architectural preservation.

Area Snapshot

FeatureDetails
Town Population~28,764 (2023); median age ~46
Village Residents~1,277; median age ~58
IncomeHH income ~$129K; per capita ~$81K
Housing ValueMedian home ~$1.07M
Cultural LandmarksThomas Moran House, Hook Windmill, historic districts
Art & CultureGuild Hall, galleries, waterfront dining
Recreation & NatureBeaches, parks, maritime preserves
CommunitiesVillage plus hamlets: Montauk, Springs, Amagansett
Seasonal CharacterLuxury vacation homes with strong year-round identity

East Hampton blends colonial heritage, artistic culture, pristine beaches, and refined sophistication – earning its place as one of the most storied and high-profile destinations along Long Island’s South Fork.