Southampton, New York

A stunning aerial view of Southampton, New York, showcasing the pristine shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean and the sprawling estates that line the South Fork. This iconic stretch of the Hamptons reflects the town's blend of coastal elegance, historic charm, and luxurious living—making it one of the most desirable destinations on Long Island.
A stunning aerial view of Southampton, New York, showcasing the pristine shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean and the sprawling estates that line the South Fork. This iconic stretch of the Hamptons reflects the town’s blend of coastal elegance, historic charm, and luxurious living—making it one of the most desirable destinations on Long Island. File photo: Jason Slesinski, licensed.

The Town of Southampton occupies the easternmost portion of Long Island’s South Fork in Suffolk County, encompassing seven incorporated villages (including Southampton Village, Sag Harbor, Westhampton Beach) and numerous hamlets like Hampton Bays, Water Mill, and Quiogue
Southampton Town. With about 69,036 year-round residents (2020 census), the population swells nearly threefold during summer as second-home owners and seasonal visitors arrive.

Community & Demographics

  • Townwide population: ~69,000; median age ~51 years.
  • Racial makeup: ~81–85% White non‑Hispanic, ~7–8% Black, ~3–4% Asian, ~6% multiracial; Hispanic residents comprise around 9–22% depending on village vs town data.
  • Village of Southampton (e.g. downtown core): median household income ~$177k, ~3.3% poverty rate.

Income & Housing

  • Town median household income: ~$113,655; per capita: ~$70,247.
  • Median home value in the town: around $970,900 – reflecting a luxury coastal market in many hamlets.
  • High rate of second-home ownership: over 13,000 seasonal properties accommodate ~45,000 annual visitors.

Recreation, Nature & Culture

  • Southampton is prized for its pristine Atlantic beaches, scenic trails, and elegant estates. It’s a magnet for boating, golf, hiking, and arts-focused activities.
  • Prominent cultural amenities include Stony Brook University’s Southampton campus, the Southampton History Museum (Rogers Mansion), and the historic Shinnecock Hills Golf Club – a U.S. Open host and one of America’s oldest clubs

Transportation & Connectivity

  • The town spans key routes: Sunrise Highway, Montauk Highway, and Old Country Road alongside several Montauk Branch LIRR stops serving villages like Southampton, Hampton Bays, and Water Mill.
  • While the summer surge taxes local roads, year-round commuting averages around 34 minutes, slightly above Suffolk averages

Economy & Lifestyle

  • Seasonal tourism and second-home owners are central to the economy, fueling luxury retail, hospitality, recreation, and culinary scenes in hamlets like Sag Harbor and Water Mill.
  • The year-round population (~46,000) supports schools, medical services (Southampton Hospital), and local businesses across the town

Southampton Snapshot

FeatureDetails
Year-Round Population~69,000; summer surge to ~190k+
Median Age~51 years
Income LevelsHH income ~$113k; Village ~$177k
Housing ValueMedian home ~$970k; seasonal residences high
DemographicsPredominantly White; ~8% Black, ~4% Asian, ~10% Hispanic
Seasonality~13,000 second homes; strong summer tourism
RecreationBeaches, golf, boating, hiking, heritage sites
Culture & EducationSouthampton Museum, Stony Brook campus, notable architecture
TransitMontauk Branch LIRR, major highways, moderate commute
EconomyDriven by tourism, luxury services, cultural amenities

Southampton is a prestigious and historic coastal community where rural charm, cultural sophistication, and seasonal vibrancy converge. It’s both an ideal home for year-round residents and a dynamic retreat for summer visitors.