Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Rockaway Beach, NY
Thinking about moving to Rockaway Beach, NY? With a population of about 13,700, this vibrant seaside community offers a unique mix of city living and beachside relaxation. Housing costs are higher than the national average, with median home prices around $565,000 and typical rents at $2,150. Commute times average nearly 50 minutes, but you’ll enjoy plenty of sunny days and easy access to the ocean. While crime rates are moderate, the area features diverse schools, good public transit options, and a laid-back coastal lifestyle—making it a distinctive spot for those seeking city amenities with a beach vibe.
Demographics - Rockaway Beach, NY
Demographics - Rockaway Beach, NY
Rockaway Beach is home to about 13,700 residents, with a dense urban feel and a median age of 40.8 years. The community is notably diverse, with over a quarter of residents speaking languages other than English. Its population includes a mix of ethnic backgrounds, providing a vibrant, multicultural environment.
Population:
13,700
Density:
14,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.8
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
28.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
54.5%
Black:
19.4%
Asian:
2.5%
Others:
23.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Rockaway Beach, NY?
The cost of living in Rockaway Beach is significantly higher than the national average, reflected in a cost of living index of 152.7. Median home values are around $565,000, and typical rents for a two-bedroom apartment are about $2,150, making housing a key expense for newcomers. Utilities and transportation costs also trend above average, while state income taxes range from 4% to 8.82%.
Median House Value:
$565,000
Gross Rent:
$2,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$2,400
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,650
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$940
State Taxes:
Low:
4%
|
High:
8.82%
Cost Of Living Index:
152.7
Grocery:
138.0
Housing:
182.0
Utilities:
121.0
Transportation:
140.0
Health Care:
116.0
Miscellaneous:
112.0
Crime
Is Rockaway Beach, NY a safe place to live?
Rockaway Beach experiences moderate crime rates, with about 320 violent crimes and 1,480 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is roughly 1 in 313, while property crime risk stands at 1 in 68. Overall, the area offers a level of safety comparable to many urban neighborhoods in New York.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
320
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,480
Crime Index:
1,800
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 313
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 68
Weather
What is the weather like in Rockaway Beach, NY year-round?
Residents enjoy a mild coastal climate, with summer highs reaching 84°F and winter lows averaging 28°F. The area receives about 44.5 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunshine on 58% of days. This weather supports an active, outdoor lifestyle year-round.
Winter
Min:
28°F
Max:
41°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
67°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
50°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
Neighborhoods in Rockaway Beach are characterized by a median household income of $68,200 and a poverty rate of 17.3%. Public transportation is widely used, with 41% of residents commuting this way, although the average commute time is nearly 50 minutes. Educational attainment is solid, with over 85% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$38,500
Household Income:
$68,200
Family Income:
$74,500
Per Capita Income:
$31,800
Income Male:
$41,900
Income Female:
$34,200
Poverty Rate:
17.3%
Non English Speakers:
28.5%
Rent:
$2,150
Unemployment Rate:
7.0%
Public Transport Usage:
41.0%
Commute Time:
49.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
85.4%
Bachelors or More:
25.3%
Education
How are the schools in Rockaway Beach, NY?
Rockaway Beach offers a variety of educational options, including well-rated public and private schools with manageable student-teacher ratios. Local children have access to both elementary and middle schools, while nearby colleges like Kingsborough Community College and York College are within a short drive. This makes the area appealing for families seeking strong educational opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
PS/MS 114 Belle Harbor
Street:
400 Beach 135th St
Phone:
718-634-3382
Students:
730
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.3
Name:
PS 183 Dr. Richard R. Green
Street:
245 Beach 79th St
Phone:
718-634-9459
Students:
510
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Private Schools
Name:
St. Francis de Sales Catholic Academy
Street:
219 Beach 129th St
Phone:
718-634-2775
Students:
390
Colleges
Name:
Kingsborough Community College
City:
Brooklyn
State:
NY
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
15,200
Name:
York College, CUNY
City:
Jamaica
State:
NY
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
8,400
Healthcare
Healthcare in Rockaway Beach is accessible, with 90.1% of residents insured and 2.5 physicians per 1,000 people. St. John's Episcopal Hospital provides general and emergency care locally. The area’s healthcare index indicates services are reliable and convenient for families and individuals alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
St. John's Episcopal Hospital
Address:
327 Beach 19th St, Far Rockaway, NY 11691
Phone:
(718) 869-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.1%
Health Care Index:
69.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Rockaway Beach, NY?
Rockaway Beach's housing market features a median home price of $565,000, with owner-occupied housing making up about 29% of the market. Rental options are plentiful, with an average two-bedroom rent at $2,150 and a vacancy rate of 6.7%. Home values have appreciated by 6.2% over the past year, signaling a stable investment for buyers.
Median Home Price:
$565,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
28.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located on Rockaway Blvd in Jamaica, NY. Services can also be accessed online or by phone for added convenience. The DMV provides comprehensive support for all standard driving and vehicle needs.
State:
New York
Department:
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
168-35 Rockaway Blvd, Jamaica, NY 11434
Phone:
1-518-486-9786
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.