Massapequa, New York

Massapequa
The All-American Hamburger Drive-In – more than just a burger joint – it’s a beloved local landmark and a nostalgic staple of the Massapequa community. Known for its classic 1950s-style counter service, affordable prices, and no-frills menu, it’s been serving up burgers, fries, and milkshakes to generations of Long Islanders. For many residents, a stop at All-American is a hometown tradition that never gets old. File photo: Jon Bilous, licensed.

Massapequa is a hamlet and census-designated place in the Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, located along the South Shore of Long Island, about 35 miles east of Manhattan. The CDP covers roughly 4 sq mi, including about 0.4 sq mi of water, and had a population of 21,355 as of the 2020 census

Community & Demographics

  • Population (2020): 21,355; density around 6,000 squar miles.
  • Age & makeup: Suburban, family-oriented, with a mix of long-term and new residents.
  • Housing: Median listing home price in the area is about $805,000, and waterfront properties often exceed $799K

Education

  • Massapequa Union Free School District consists of 9 schools (K–12) with ~6,481 students, a 10:1 student-teacher ratio, and a 96% graduation rate – placing it among the top 5% in NY.
  • Schools like Berner Middle and East Lake/Birch Lane/Lockhart Elementary are highly rated, all with A/A– Niche grades

Parks & Recreation

  • The area includes family-friendly waterfront parks, playgrounds, and trails connecting to larger green spaces like Bethpage State Park.
  • Proximity to South Oyster Bay supports boating, fishing, and seasonal leisure activities. Waterfront homes with docks illustrate this coastal lifestyle.

Transportation & Commute

  • Commuter-friendly: No LIRR station directly in Massapequa, but residents rely on nearby Massapequa Park and Seaford stations.
  • Road access: Efficient commute to NYC via Sunrise Highway and Southern State Parkway; average time ~30–40 minutes.

Local Economy & Lifestyle

  • A stable, upper-middle-class suburb with quality schools, low turnover, and neighborhood charm.
  • Local businesses include shops, restaurants, and the iconic All-American Hamburger drive-in, enhancing the small-town vibe

History & Identity

  • Shares origins with Massapequa Park Village – established post‑19th century and rooted in Native American heritage.
  • The distinction between the village and hamlet is civic – but residents jointly use the same ZIP code, schools, and services

Hamlet Snapshot

FeatureDetails
Population21,355 (2020); ~6,000/sq mi density
Homes & ValueMedian listing ~$805K; waterfront homes ~$799K+
Schools9 schools; ~6,481 students; 10:1 ratio; 96% grad
Notable SchoolsBerner MS, East Lake EL, Birch Lane EL (A– ratings)
Parks & WaterfrontBay access, trails, playgrounds, boating
CommuteNear LIRR stations; ~30–40 min to NYC
Community VibeFamily-friendly, stable, well-kept suburban
HeritageShared with Massapequa Park; civic distinction

Massapequa delivers the suburban ideal – strong schools, a close-knit community, waterfront recreation, and a convenient commute – all within a scenic South Shore setting.