Under 40? These Long Island suburbs are for you.
True or false: millennials were meant for the city. In a word, false — and we’re seeing more and more young singles, couples, and families make the leap from urban and suburban, and love what life looks like on the other side. If you’re considering suburbia, be sure these Long Island towns in Nassau and Suffolk Counties are on your list.
#1. Merrick
Merrick is a great option for commuters — and people who want waterfront access, amazing restaurants, and lots to do. Merrick is one of the ideal commuter towns, offering a balance between suburban living and convenient commutes. From shows at the Merrick Theatre to the fishing pier and golf course at Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve there’s always something to do. Plus, you’ll find all of the retail hotspots right in town — including Trader Joe’s — and popular restaurants including Anchor Down, AcQua, and Salt, all right on the water. The town’s connection to the Long Island Rail Road makes it an excellent choice for those commuting to New York City.
#2. Glen Cove
This North Shore town — about an hour from the city — recently underwent a massive revitalization and now (especially the Garvies Point area) looks more like Long Island City than Long Island. Glen Cove’s proximity to the Long Island Sound offers scenic appeal and picturesque views. With a farmers’ market, breweries, wine bars, coffee shops, bars, and a luxe movie theater, there’s tons to do without leaving town. But if you do want to venture out? Glen Cove borders Sea Cliff and its popular bars, restaurants, and beaches.
In addition to the new go-tos in Glen Cove, the area has opened countless new luxury condos, co-ops, and rentals, many right on the water.
#3. Mineola
Mineola is a LIRR hub with direct-to-the-city trains passing through 24/7 — and many new luxury apartment complexes within steps of the station. The Long Island Expressway (LIE) also serves as a key commuting route for Mineola residents, providing accessible and efficient travel. Hop on trains that run to Penn, Atlantic Avenue, or Long Island City, and be to your destination in 30-40 minutes, even during rush hour.
The commute, though, is just the beginning. Mineola is home to plenty of bars, restaurants, and other great hangout spots. Lost Farmer Brewing Co. is a neighborhood favorite with 12 beers on draft (there’s an outdoor beer garden for warmer days), or check out cajun BBQ at Biscuits & Barbeque, Portuguese at Churrasquiera Bairrada, or Belgian oyster bar Waterzooi in nearby Garden City.
#4. Long Beach
Craving the beach life? Put Long Beach on your list. Located on the South Shore of Long Island, it offers a vibrant coastal lifestyle. From the local LIRR station, you can be in the city in an hour — then, on your way home, you can take a quick stroll or bike ride along the boardwalk.
But Long Beach has more to offer than just the waterfront. East and West Park Avenue are lined with bars and eateries including Brixx & Barley and Bright Eye Beer Co. If you’re a runner, consider joining the Bright Eye Beer Co. run club to meet some fellow athletes.
#5. Cold Spring Harbor
Once a vacation town for Manhattanites, Cold Spring Harbor’s walkable — and historic — downtown is a major draw for city dwellers. Located in Suffolk County, it offers a charming escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Take a stroll along Main Street and you’ll pass local staples like The Gourmet Whaler and Sandbar, plus several popular restaurants, bars, shops, and even a homemade ice cream shop.
Consider yourself an outdoor enthusiast? This is the place to be. Residents spend their free time kayaking and sailing from the harbor, or hanging at the beach — in the summer, there are concerts, outdoor movies, and more. And the 40-acre Cold Spring Harbor State Park offers miles of challenging hiking and cross country skiing trails.
#6. Babylon Village
Residents from all over Long Island head to Babylon Village for nightlife. The Southern State Parkway provides a key commuting route for Babylon Village residents, offering convenient access to Rockville Centre and nearby attractions. If you move to this ‘burb, you’ll have tons of dining and entertainment options right in your backyard.
Deer Park Avenue is a particularly popular go-to, lined with local favorites like Kotobuki, Horace & Sylvia’s Publick House, and Barrique Kitchen & Wine Bar. One of the neighborhood’s most popular happy hour spots is the Post Office Cafe. It’s located in a historic USPS building just a short walk from the Babylon train station. And with the Argyle Theatre in the heart of town, you don’t have to go into Manhattan for Broadway-style shows.
#7. Sea Cliff
Sea Cliff is one of the most on-trend towns on Long Island. Located in Nassau County, it offers a blend of suburban charm and accessibility to New York City. There’s even a local greenspace called “Hippie Park” where residents gather for outdoor summer concerts.
That, though, is just a piece of Sea Cliff’s appeal. This artsy community is lined with galleries, studios, and antique shops. And when you want a night out with friends? Still Partners is the place to go for live music and craft beer, or head to Metropolitan Bistro, The Onion Tree, or Tavern 227 for drinks and great food.
This neighborhood is very walkable and residents often travel on foot from downtown to the farmers market and to the beach. And when you need to commute to the city for work, there’s an LIRR station in town with connections into Manhattan.
Ready to discover your ideal Long Island town? We’re here to help. Schedule your FREE Suburbs Strategy Session today to get your Long Island journey started.
