What to know when moving to Central Islip, NY
TL;DR: Central Islip at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 23% of residents are renters and the median household income is $110,365.
- The Major Draw:
- Access to 10 nearby postsecondary institutions, including Stony Brook University.
- The Reality Check:
- With a median gross rent of $2,094, housing costs may be high for some.
- Commute:
- Only 3% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median home value of $407,100 when considering purchases.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Central Islip is characterized by a diverse population of 38,443 residents, where 18.4% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The community has a relatively low poverty rate of 9.3%, which suggests a stable economic environment. However, with only 3% utilizing public transportation, it is essential for newcomers to consider car ownership as a viable option for commuting.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for affordable housing, as the median gross rent of $2,094 may be a stretch for some budgets.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $2,094, indicating higher rental costs in the area.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $407,100, which may require a significant budget for homebuyers.
- 18.4% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, contributing to a knowledgeable community.
- The poverty rate stands at 9.3%, reflecting economic stability.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In New York, the state annual violent crime rate is 454.9 per 100,000 residents, which is significantly higher than the national average of 325.3. Property crime in the state stands at 1,816.5 per 100,000, also above the national rate of 1,546.9.
- Violent crime: 454.9 per 100k vs. national 325.3, up 4.7% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,816.5 per 100k vs. national 1,546.9, up 4.6% since 2022.
- Burglary rate is 136.8 per 100k, down 16.7% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for New York).
Schools & Higher Ed
Central Islip has access to a total of 10 nearby postsecondary institutions, providing various educational opportunities for residents.
- Access Careers-Islandia
- Eastern Suffolk BOCES (multiple locations)
- Five Towns College
- Stony Brook University
- Suffolk County Community College
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
For outdoor enthusiasts, Central Islip offers several parks and recreational areas. Notable spots include:
- Belmont Lake State Park - 4.6 stars from 4,596 reviews
- Heckscher State Park - 4.6 stars from 3,604 reviews
- Blydenburgh County Park - 4.6 stars from 1,347 reviews
- Shorefront Park - 4.6 stars from 1,141 reviews
Source: Google Places API.