New York City is one of the most bustling cities in the country. Films, plays, hospitality, the financial district, restaurants, and great universities are just some of the resources for many jobs. Also, the city has a rich, historic culture along with world-famous museums. This makes the city a place that attracts people from all over the world.
But what about Long Island? Surprisingly, it isn’t just the Hamptons and a playground for the rich and famous. It offers a lot of great activities to see and do too. It has two airports, two Native American reservations, hiking trails, beaches, and some great restaurants.
Now here’s a twist! Amazingly enough, Long Island is home to an extensive wildlife refuge and an active buffalo farm. Yes, Long Island has its very own buffalo farm. No need to head out west to see these majestic animals. You have a great opportunity to have this experience while living on Long Island.
The North Quater Farm is just about an hour and a half drive from Manhattan located in the historic town of Riverhead. It’s a beautiful area of Long Island and if you’re patient enough the buffalos might stop to pose for a picture with you.
Long Island pretty much has it all. So, if your considering a move to Long Island below are some more things you should know.
The Neighborhoods
Long Island consists of two counties—Nassau and Suffolk—and many beautiful towns to consider residing in, including:
- Oyster Bay
- Huntington
- Kensington
- Syosset
- Jericho
- Brookeville
- University Gardens
- Great Neck Estates
- Stony Brook
- Garden City
New York City is close enough that you’ll be able to enjoy a variety of must-see NYC neighborhoods. If you’re committed to transitioning your life to Long Island, be sure to do your research for living requirements that best suit your needs. For example, if you are handicapped will you need to know how to get a handicapped parking permit or other important details.
Long Island Weather
Long Island has a unique climate that tends to have hot, humid summers with occasional thunderstorms; a mild spring and fall; and cold winters with plenty of snow. One thing to know before moving to Long Island is that if you reside near the Atlantic Ocean, such as on the South Shore, you’ll benefit in the summer months from cool ocean breezes.
Cost of Living
Manhattan isn’t the only city that comes with a hefty price tag: Long Island is also an expensive place to live, outpricing even New York City. Taxes are what make the cost of living so high—after that, there are the costs of housing, transportation, and health care which are all expensive as well. Food prices are also considerably higher than those in living in other areas. The average cost of groceries and dining out for a family of four is estimated at $875 a month. The only places that cost more than Long Island are San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Honolulu, and Washington, D.C.
So depending on your current job situation and budget, Long Island could be a wonderful place to reside. There’s so much to do, see, and experience. If you’re committed to living there, go for it. You’ll be surprised by how much this unique island off the coast of New York State has to offer.