Merrick, New York
Merrick, New York, is a vibrant South Shore community in the Town of Hempstead, Nassau County. Blending suburban comfort with coastal charm, Merrick offers residents the best of Long Island living – beautiful neighborhoods, top-rated schools, lively downtown shops, and quick access to beaches, parks, and marinas.
Located along the South Shore’s nautical corridor, Merrick’s lifestyle revolves around the water. From scenic canals and the Norman J. Levy Park Preserve to its bustling commuter train station, Merrick balances small-town warmth with metropolitan convenience.
Location & Community
Merrick lies about 30 miles east of Manhattan and just west of Wantagh. It’s bordered by Bellmore to the east, Freeport to the west, and North Merrick to the north. The community is divided into Merrick and North Merrick, both of which share the same ZIP code and school district.
- County: Nassau
- Town: Hempstead
- ZIP Code: 11566
- Area Code: 516
- Coordinates: 40.662° N, 73.553° W
- Nearby Communities: Bellmore, Freeport, Wantagh, North Merrick, Roosevelt
History & Heritage
The name Merrick originates from the Meroke tribe, members of the Algonquin-speaking peoples who first inhabited the area. European settlers arrived in the mid-1600s, and by the 19th century, Merrick had evolved from a farming and fishing community into a growing suburban hub.
The Long Island Rail Road’s Merrick Station, established in the 1860s, played a pivotal role in shaping the community’s development, turning it into a commuter suburb by the early 1900s. Over time, Merrick grew into one of Nassau County’s most desirable residential destinations—known for its civic pride, waterfront homes, and vibrant downtown district.
Lifestyle & Recreation
Merrick’s South Shore setting makes it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families who appreciate an active, coastal lifestyle. Enjoy many peaceful walking trails and panoramic coastal views.
- Norman J. Levy Park & Preserve: A 52-acre eco-park with walking trails, fishing piers, kayak access, and scenic views of the bay and New York City skyline.
- Merrick Road Park & Golf Course: A local favorite offering miniature golf, ball fields, and waterfront picnic areas.
- Merrick Civic Association & Street Fairs: Foster community engagement and local pride through seasonal events.
- Nearby Beaches: Jones Beach State Park and Tobay Beach are just a short drive away.
Housing & Real Estate
Merrick’s real estate market features a mix of classic colonials, capes, split-levels, and expanded ranches, with many homes located on or near canals leading to the South Shore bays.
The community’s convenient location, school reputation, and water access have made property values resilient and competitive. Median home prices typically range between $700,000 and $1 million, with luxury waterfront homes often exceeding that range.
Schools & Education
Merrick is served by the North Merrick and Merrick Union Free School Districts, which feed into the Calhoun, Kennedy, and Mepham high schools within the Bellmore–Merrick Central High School District.
These schools consistently rank among Long Island’s best, offering strong academic programs, performing arts, and athletics. Nearby institutions such as Nassau Community College and Hofstra University are just minutes away.
Getting There & Around
Merrick is ideally located for commuters and travelers alike:
- By Rail: The Merrick LIRR Station provides direct service to Penn Station and Grand Central Madison.
- By Car: Easy access via the Southern State Parkway, Meadowbrook Parkway, and Merrick Road.
- By Boat: Many homes feature private docks leading into Merrick Bay and the Atlantic.
- By Air: JFK Airport is about 25 minutes away.
Why Visit or Move Here
Merrick offers the quintessential Long Island experience: a welcoming suburban community with a coastal heartbeat. Residents enjoy top schools, family-friendly events, and quick access to both city and sea. Whether taking an evening walk by the marina, attending a street fair downtown, or catching a morning train to Manhattan, Merrick perfectly blends small-town life with big opportunities.
Key Facts and Details
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Hamlet Name | Merrick |
| County | Nassau County, NY |
| ZIP Code | 11566 |
| Population | ≈ 20,000 residents |
| School District | Merrick UFSD / Bellmore–Merrick CHSD |
| Median Home Value | $750,000 – $1,000,000 |
| Main Attractions | Norman J. Levy Park · Merrick Road Park |
| Character | Waterfront · Family-Oriented · Commuter-Friendly |
Merrick, New York, captures the spirit of Long Island’s South Shore – vibrant, scenic, and family-centered. From its canals and parks to its downtown charm and easy city access, Merrick continues to attract those who seek the perfect balance between coastal relaxation and suburban convenience. For visitors and residents alike, it’s a community that truly feels like home.
