Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Shelter Island Heights, NY
Considering a move to Shelter Island Heights, NY? This quiet, scenic community of about 1,400 residents boasts very low crime, a relaxed lifestyle, and beautiful coastal weather with 57% sunny days. While the median home price is high at $1,140,000 and rents average $2,200, the area features high educational attainment, a cozy small-town feel, and good access to healthcare. Commute times average 32 minutes, and the local school offers low student-teacher ratios—perfect for those seeking a peaceful, upscale environment.
Demographics - Shelter Island Heights, NY
Demographics - Shelter Island Heights, NY
Shelter Island Heights is a close-knit community of around 1,400 residents, with a median age nearing 60 and a population density that offers ample space. The town is predominantly White, with over 92% of residents, and about 8% speak a language other than English at home. The balanced gender ratio and mature age profile contribute to a quiet, established neighborhood feel.
Population:
1,400
Density:
320 per sq mi
Median Age:
59.2
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
92.1%
Black:
2.3%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
4.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Shelter Island Heights, NY?
Living in Shelter Island Heights comes with a higher-than-average cost of living, reflected in a median home value of $1,140,000 and a cost of living index of 173. Utilities, groceries, and transportation also trend above national averages, making this an upscale locale suited for those comfortable with premium expenses. State taxes range from 4% to 10.9%, and typical monthly housing costs are significantly higher for homeowners with mortgages.
Median House Value:
$1,140,000
Gross Rent:
$2,200
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$170
Auto Insurance:
$2,200
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,650
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,050
State Taxes:
Low:
4%
|
High:
10.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
173
Grocery:
135
Housing:
248
Utilities:
127
Transportation:
145
Health Care:
122
Miscellaneous:
115
Crime
Is Shelter Island Heights, NY a safe place to live?
Shelter Island Heights enjoys a very low crime rate, with just 38 violent crimes and 336 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. The chance of experiencing violent crime here is 1 in 2,630, making it a notably safe and peaceful place to live. Property crime risk is also low, contributing to the area’s secure, family-friendly atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
38
Property Crimes Per 100k:
336
Crime Index:
374
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 2,630
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 417
Weather
What is the weather like in Shelter Island Heights, NY year-round?
Residents experience a classic northeastern coastal climate, with mild summers averaging highs of 81°F and cool winters dipping to 26°F. The area receives about 46 inches of rainfall yearly and enjoys sunshine 57% of the time, making outdoor activities pleasant for much of the year. The four distinct seasons offer a variety of weather, from crisp autumns to comfortable springs.

Winter
Min:
26°F
Max:
38°F

Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
81°F

Fall
Min:
50°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
The community is relatively affluent, with household incomes averaging $107,000 and a low poverty rate of 6.8%. Most residents are highly educated, and unemployment is below the national average at 3.4%. The area is primarily residential, with long average commutes and minimal reliance on public transportation, reflecting its tranquil, suburban nature.
Median Income:
$49,000
Household Income:
$107,000
Family Income:
$121,000
Per Capita Income:
$55,800
Income Male:
$63,000
Income Female:
$45,000
Poverty Rate:
6.8%
Non English Speakers:
8.2%
Rent:
$2,200
Unemployment Rate:
3.4%
Public Transport Usage:
2.1%
Commute Time:
32.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
95.3%
Bachelors or More:
53.7%
Education
How are the schools in Shelter Island Heights, NY?
Shelter Island School serves local students with small class sizes and a low student-teacher ratio of 7.4, fostering personalized attention and a supportive learning environment. While there are no private schools, higher education is accessible, with Stony Brook University just 36 miles away. The high percentage of residents with college degrees underscores the community’s commitment to education.

Public Schools
Name:
Shelter Island School
Street:
33 N Ferry Rd
Phone:
631-749-0302
Students:
230
Student Teacher Ratio:
7.4

Colleges
Name:
Stony Brook University
City:
Stony Brook
State:
NY
Distance:
36 miles
Students:
26,782
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Shelter Island Heights is strong, with nearly 95% of residents insured and a local hospital offering emergency services nearby in Greenport. There are 2.4 physicians per 1,000 residents, supporting good access to medical care. The community’s healthcare index signals quality services for families and retirees alike.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Eastern Long Island Hospital
Address:
201 Manor Pl, Greenport, NY 11944
Phone:
(631) 477-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.7%
Health Care Index:
79
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Shelter Island Heights, NY?
The housing market in Shelter Island Heights is competitive, with a median home price of $1,140,000 and most homes owner-occupied. Rental options are limited, with average rents for a two-bedroom around $2,200 and a low vacancy rate. Home values have appreciated over 4% in the past year, reflecting steady demand in this desirable coastal town.
Median Home Price:
$1,140,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,200
Owner Occupied Rate:
82.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents are served by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in Port Jefferson Station. Standard DMV services, including licensing and vehicle registration, are readily accessible, and most information is available online via the state DMV website. This ensures convenient access for all transportation needs.
State:
New York
Department:
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1055 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776
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.