Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fire Island Pines, NY
Thinking of moving to Fire Island Pines, NY? This unique beach community is home to about 300 seasonal residents (and a handful year-round), with a high median home price around $1.3 million and summer rentals topping $12,000/month for a 2-bedroom. Crime is extremely low, and the walkable lifestyle means your typical commute is a stroll to the ferry or beach. While schools and services are limited on-island, the area boasts scenic beaches, a vibrant social scene, and mild coastal weather—making it perfect for those seeking relaxation or a lively summer escape.
Demographics - Fire Island Pines, NY
Demographics - Fire Island Pines, NY
Fire Island Pines is a small, welcoming community with a peak summer population of about 300 and only a dozen year-round residents. The area skews older, with a median age of 54 and a predominantly White demographic, reflecting its appeal as a peaceful coastal getaway. The gender ratio is notably higher in males, and about 6% of residents speak a language other than English at home.
Population:
300 (seasonal peak), ~12 year-round
Density:
120 per sq mi (seasonal estimate)
Median Age:
54
Gender Ratio:
135 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6%

Ethnic Composition
White:
88%
Black:
2%
Asian:
3%
Others:
7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fire Island Pines, NY?
Living in Fire Island Pines comes with a high price tag, as the median home value stands at $1.3 million and seasonal summer rentals for a two-bedroom can reach $12,000 per month. The area’s cost of living index is 185, driven primarily by premium housing and transportation costs. Residents also face higher-than-average utilities and state taxes, making this community best suited for those seeking an upscale, seasonal lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$1,300,000
Gross Rent:
$12,000/month (seasonal, 2BR summer rental)
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$200
Auto Insurance:
$1,900
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$6,800
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$2,200
State Taxes:
Low:
4%
|
High:
10.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
185
Grocery:
126
Housing:
255
Utilities:
112
Transportation:
140
Health Care:
119
Miscellaneous:
116
Crime
Is Fire Island Pines, NY a safe place to live?
Fire Island Pines offers a remarkably safe environment, with a violent crime rate of just 60 per 100,000 and a property crime rate of 350 per 100,000 at peak season. The odds of experiencing violent crime are extremely low, at about 1 in 1,667, making this destination ideal for those valuing peace of mind. Property crime risks are also minimal, contributing to the area's relaxed atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
60
Property Crimes Per 100k:
350
Crime Index:
410
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,667 (seasonal)
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 286
Weather
What is the weather like in Fire Island Pines, NY year-round?
The Pines enjoys mild, coastal weather with warm summers averaging highs of 81°F and cool winters with lows around 28°F. Rainfall is moderate at 44 inches annually, and about 58% of days are sunny, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The pleasant climate enhances the area’s reputation as a sought-after beach community.

Winter
Min:
28°F
Max:
41°F

Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
81°F

Fall
Min:
51°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
Residents of Fire Island Pines and surrounding areas tend to have comfortable incomes, with a median household income near $98,000 and a low poverty rate of 7%. The community is highly educated, as 56% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and most people walk or take ferries rather than drive. The area’s relaxed pace and strong sense of community make it attractive for those seeking quality of life over urban hustle.
Median Income:
$65,000
Household Income:
$98,000
Family Income:
$112,000
Per Capita Income:
$68,000
Income Male:
$75,000
Income Female:
$61,000
Poverty Rate:
7%
Non English Speakers:
6%
Rent:
$12,000/month (peak, 2BR)
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0% (primarily walking/ferry)
Commute Time:
10 minutes (walking; ferry to mainland ~20 min)

Education
High School or Higher:
96%
Bachelors or More:
56%
Education
How are the schools in Fire Island Pines, NY?
Educational options on Fire Island are limited, with the Woodhull School in nearby Ocean Beach serving younger students in small class settings and no private schools on the island. For higher education, Stony Brook University, a major public institution with over 26,000 students, is located 32 miles away on the mainland. Families may need to consider off-island schooling for broader academic opportunities.

Public Schools
Name:
Woodhull School (K-6, Fire Island School District)
Street:
99 Randall Park, Ocean Beach, NY 11770
Phone:
631-583-5626
Students:
53
Student Teacher Ratio:
6:1

Colleges
Name:
Stony Brook University
City:
Stony Brook
State:
NY
Distance:
32 miles
Students:
26,000
Healthcare
Access to quality healthcare is readily available, with major hospitals such as Long Island Community Hospital and Stony Brook University Hospital located nearby on the mainland. The community enjoys a high rate of health insurance coverage at 94% and a strong physician presence, ensuring residents have essential medical services within reach. Emergency care and specialized treatments are accessible within a short ferry ride.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Long Island Community Hospital
Address:
101 Hospital Road, Patchogue, NY 11772
Phone:
(631) 654-7100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Stony Brook University Hospital
Address:
101 Nicolls Rd, Stony Brook, NY 11794
Phone:
(631) 444-4000
Type:
General & Trauma Center
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
94%
Health Care Index:
77
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fire Island Pines, NY?
Fire Island Pines features a high-end, largely owner-occupied housing market, with a median home price of $1.3 million and very limited rental inventory outside peak season. Home values have appreciated by nearly 4% over the past year, and new construction is rare, reflecting the area’s exclusive and established nature. The market is ideal for buyers seeking a luxurious second home or seasonal retreat.
Median Home Price:
$1,300,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$12,000/month (seasonal, summer)
Owner Occupied Rate:
97%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
25% (off-season)
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.8%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Residents and visitors rely on the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles for all licensing and registration needs, with the nearest office located in Commack, NY. Although most travel within the community is on foot or by ferry, DMV services are easily accessible for vehicle owners. For more information, the state DMV website and phone support are available.
State:
New York
Department:
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
250 Veteran's Memorial Hwy, Commack, NY 11725
Phone:
1-718-477-4820
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.