Patchogue, New York

Patchogue
Patchogue seamlessly blends historic charm, artistic energy, waterfront recreation, and commuter convenience. Its downtown revival, performance venues, and cultural attractions make it a standout destination on the South Shore. File photo: Oleh Korotkov, licensed.

Patchogue is an incorporated village in the Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, situated on Long Island’s South Shore along the scenic Great South Bay. Covering ~2.5 square miles, it’s a maritime hub located about 60 miles from Manhattan and anchored by a lively, walkable downtown.

History & Revival

  • Origins & Incorporation: Founded in the 1700s and officially incorporated in 1893, the name “Patchogue” reflects the Algonquian term for “turning place” where two waterways split Wikipedia.
  • Economic Evolution: Transitioned from mills and factories in the early 20th century to a downtown revitalization since the early 2000s. This modern resurgence added ~6,000 direct and indirect jobs, drew new businesses, and secured ~$40 million for public investment.

Population & Demographics

  • 2020 population: 12,408 (2023 est ~12,368), with density ~5,490/sq mi.
  • Median age: ~37–38 years.
  • Ethnic diversity: 63% White, 23% Hispanic, 5% Asian, 4% Black, others.
  • Income: Median household income ~$104,423; per capita ~$58,600; poverty ~8%

Education

  • Served by the Patchogue‑Medford School District (approx. 7,500–10,000 students across 11 schools, K–12).
  • Village hosts a Carnegie Library branch and several preschools.

Downtown & Culture

Patchogue is known for its vibrant downtown district, hosting boutiques, bars, eateries, galleries, and the restored Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts (seats 1,200; originally built in 1923).
The village also features MoCA Long Island, a contemporary art museum that includes gallery space, a cinema, and loft apartments.

Parks, Waterfront & Ferry Access

  • Sandspit Park Beach & Marina: Features free parking for residents, a playground, fishing pier, beach access, and ferry terminal for Davis Park and Fire Island.
  • Shorefront Park & Band Shell: Hosts outdoor music events and Great South Bay Festival, adjacent to Rider Avenue Park’s sports fields and trails.

Economy & Lifestyle

  • A mix of creative-class revival blended with small-town charm – Patchogue transformed from a “sleepy village” to a “vibrant community” full of active nightlife and cultural energy.
  • Home to a variety of young professionals, families, and entrepreneurs – 76% in white‑collar roles.

Transportation & Access

  • LIRR Montauk Branch provides reliable commuter access to NYC and ferries.
  • A network of Suffolk County roads, with average commute ~27 minutes. On‑street and municipal downtown parking are managed via local guidelines.

Village Snapshot

FeatureDetails
Population~12,400; density ~5,490/sq mi
Median Age~37–38 years
Diversity63% White, 23% Hispanic, 5% Asian, 4% Black
IncomeHH: ~$104K; per capita: ~$59K; poverty ~8%
SchoolsPatchogue‑Medford SD: 7–11K students, 11 schools
CulturePatchogue Theatre, MoCA Long Island
Parks & WaterfrontSandspit Park Marina, Shorefront & Rider Ave Parks
TransitLIRR Montauk, local roads, ferry to Fire Island
DowntownRevitalized Main St: shops, dining, nightlife
EconomyCreative-class growth, small businesses reborn