Medford, New York

A colonial house in Medford with American Flag buntings on the porch.
A classic colonial-style home in Medford, NY, decorated with American flag buntings on the porch. The white picket fence, manicured lawn, and tree-lined setting reflect the suburban charm and family-friendly character of the community. File photo: Gary C. Tognoni, licensed.

Medford, New York, is a centrally located hamlet in the Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County. Nestled between Farmingville to the north and Patchogue to the south, Medford offers residents suburban neighborhoods, convenient shopping, and easy access to Long Island’s major roadways. With the Long Island Expressway (I-495) running along its northern border and Sunrise Highway (Route 27) nearby, Medford is well-positioned for commuters traveling west toward New York City or east to the Hamptons. Its mix of residential communities, local businesses, and green spaces makes it a family-friendly hub in central Long Island.

History

Medford developed in the late 19th century when the Long Island Rail Road established a station there in 1843, spurring settlement and growth. For much of its early history, the area remained rural, with farms and pine barrens dominating the landscape. The post-World War II era brought rapid suburban expansion, as new housing developments attracted families moving eastward. Today, Medford continues to grow while maintaining its balance of residential comfort and commercial convenience.

Things to Do

  • Country Fair Entertainment Park – A popular attraction featuring mini golf, batting cages, go-karts, and family-friendly fun.
  • Boomers! Medford – An amusement and activity center offering rides, games, and entertainment for children and families.
  • Nearby Patchogue Village – A short drive south, Patchogue offers waterfront dining, shopping, and a vibrant arts scene.
  • Pine Barrens Trails – Medford is near parts of Long Island’s Pine Barrens, offering opportunities for hiking and nature walks.
  • Local Parks & Recreation – Community parks and athletic fields provide spaces for outdoor recreation and youth sports.

Education

Medford is served by the Patchogue-Medford School District, which covers a large portion of central Suffolk County. The district includes multiple elementary schools, a middle school, and Patchogue-Medford High School. It is known for its academic offerings as well as extracurricular programs in sports, music, and the arts.

Medford, NY Quick Facts

CategoryDetails
LocationCentral Suffolk County, Town of Brookhaven
Nearby CommunitiesFarmingville, Patchogue, Holtsville, Coram
Population (2020)~25,400 residents
Median Household Income~$102,000 (U.S. Census ACS 2023)
Median Age~38 years
School DistrictPatchogue-Medford Union Free School District
TransportationLong Island Expressway (I-495), Sunrise Hwy (27), Medford LIRR Station
Notable AmenitiesCountry Fair Entertainment Park, Boomers! Medford

Medford offers a well-rounded Long Island lifestyle with suburban neighborhoods, excellent school options, and family-friendly attractions. Its central location makes it a convenient base for commuters and travelers, while nearby entertainment parks and easy access to both natural preserves and bustling villages like Patchogue add to its appeal.