Montauk, New York
Montauk is a small hamlet and census-designated place in East Hampton Town at the easternmost point of Long Island and New York State, known affectionately by locals as “The End”. With about 4,073 year-round residents as of 2023, its population swells significantly in summer with visitors seeking beaches, fishing, and natural beauty.
Community & Demographics
- Population: ~4,073 (2023), median age ~51.2 years.
- Ethnicity: Predominantly White (~89–91%), with small Hispanic, multiracial, and Black communities.
- Income: Median household income ~$129,375; per capita income ~$86,607; poverty rate ~5.9%.
Landscape & Recreation
- Montauk Point State Park: Home to the iconic Montauk Point Lighthouse – New York’s oldest lighthouse (built 1797–98), a National Historic Landmark offering sweeping views and maritime history.
- Hither Hills State Park: Encompasses 1,755 acres of dunes, freshwater lake, trails, beach access, fishing, and hiking.
- Camp Hero & Shadmoor Parks: Nature preserves offering dramatic coastal views, historic bunkers, birdwatching, hiking, and surf fishing.
Fishing, Luxury & Local Life
- Montauk is home to New York State’s largest commercial and recreational fishing fleet, arguably holding more saltwater fishing records than any other U.S. port.
- Although Montauk has embraced “barefoot luxury” – with hotels like the elegant Marram and shops like Cynthia Rowley – it retains a down-to-earth fishing village character, standing apart from more opulent Hamptons towns.
Landmarks & Cultural Institutions
- Montauk Manor: A Tudor Revival resort hotel built in 1926 by Carl Fisher, offering scenic views and opulent character—now operating as a condominium resort and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- The town also preserves pockets of its military history, with vintage Coastal Defense bunkers at Shadmoor and Camp Hero State Park.
Transportation & Lifestyle
- Most visitors arrive by car; commute time for workers living in Montauk averages ~26 minutes, often to jobs in the East End area.
- While service to Montauk Station on the LIRR Montauk Branch is limited, it still connects the town to New York City and seasonal visitors.
Hamlet Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | ~4,073; median age ~51 |
| Income | Median household ~$129K; per capita ~$86K; poverty ~5.9% |
| Ethnic Composition | ~89–91% White; small Hispanic, multiracial, Black communities |
| Landmarks | Montauk Lighthouse (1798), Montauk Manor |
| Parks & Nature | Montauk Point, Hither Hills, Camp Hero, Shadmoor |
| Industry | Top commercial/recreational fishing port |
| Culture | Relaxed, authentic, and resistant to over-gentrification |
| Transit | LIRR Montauk Branch (limited service), car travel |
| Lifestyle | Surf, hiking, boating, laid-back coastal escape |
Montauk blends rugged coastal scenery, deep-rooted fishing traditions, and a relaxed, community-driven lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn by the lighthouse at the edge of New York or the surf, restaurants, and local spirit – Montauk remains a timeless and refreshing escape.
