Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Shelter Island, NY
Thinking about relocating to Shelter Island, NY? With a small population of around 2,400, this charming island community offers tranquility, beautiful weather with 57% sunny days, and a high median home price near $1.07 million. Residents enjoy a low violent crime rate (70 per 100K), excellent educational attainment, and a relaxed, scenic lifestyle. While housing costs are high, the area boasts a short average commute, quality local schools, and close-knit community living—perfect for those seeking peace, safety, and natural beauty.
Demographics - Shelter Island, NY
Demographics - Shelter Island, NY
Shelter Island is a close-knit community of about 2,400 residents, with a median age of 56.5, reflecting its appeal to those seeking a quieter, mature environment. The population is predominantly White, and the area maintains a balanced gender ratio and a small percentage of non-English speakers, creating a welcoming yet tranquil atmosphere.
Population:
2,400
Density:
210 per sq mi
Median Age:
56.5
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
92.0%
Black:
2.5%
Asian:
1.5%
Others:
4.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Shelter Island, NY?
Living costs in Shelter Island are notably high, with a median house value around $1,065,000 and a cost of living index significantly above the national average. While everyday expenses such as groceries and utilities are also elevated, residents enjoy the benefits of a scenic, exclusive community.
Median House Value:
$1,065,000
Gross Rent:
$2,200
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$180
Auto Insurance:
$1,950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$980
State Taxes:
Low:
4.0%
|
High:
10.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
178.5
Grocery:
133.0
Housing:
245.0
Utilities:
121.0
Transportation:
135.5
Health Care:
118.0
Miscellaneous:
112.0
Crime
Is Shelter Island, NY a safe place to live?
Shelter Island offers a very safe environment, with violent crime rates as low as 70 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime risk well below most urban areas. The chance of experiencing violent crime is about 1 in 1,430, contributing to the town’s reputation for peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
70
Property Crimes Per 100k:
510
Crime Index:
580
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,430
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 470
Weather
What is the weather like in Shelter Island, NY year-round?
The island experiences comfortable seasonal changes, with mild summers peaking at 81°F and winters averaging lows of 26°F. About 57% of days are sunny and the area receives just over 45 inches of rainfall annually, making it ideal for those who enjoy a temperate coastal climate.

Winter
Min:
26°F
Max:
39°F

Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
63°F

Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
81°F

Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
Shelter Island residents benefit from a strong sense of community and solid financial footing, with a median household income of about $98,200 and a low poverty rate of 6.7%. The area is highly educated, with over 94% of adults holding a high school diploma or higher, and most people enjoy short commutes and a predominantly owner-occupied housing market.
Median Income:
$45,000
Household Income:
$98,200
Family Income:
$107,000
Per Capita Income:
$52,500
Income Male:
$58,000
Income Female:
$45,000
Poverty Rate:
6.7%
Non English Speakers:
8.5%
Rent:
$2,200
Unemployment Rate:
3.9%
Public Transport Usage:
1.8%
Commute Time:
29.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
94.5%
Bachelors or More:
44.0%
Education
How are the schools in Shelter Island, NY?
The island offers excellent educational opportunities, with a well-regarded public school featuring a low student-teacher ratio of 6.9. While there are no private schools, higher education options are accessible nearby, including Stony Brook University and Suffolk County Community College within a short drive.

Public Schools
Name:
Shelter Island School
Street:
33 N Ferry Rd
Phone:
631-749-0302
Students:
210
Student Teacher Ratio:
6.9

Colleges
Name:
Stony Brook University
City:
Stony Brook
State:
NY
Distance:
34 miles
Students:
26,700
Name:
Suffolk County Community College - Eastern Campus
City:
Riverhead
State:
NY
Distance:
21 miles
Students:
4,800
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals nearby and a high health insurance coverage rate of 95.2%. There are about 2.7 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring prompt medical attention in both routine and emergency situations.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Eastern Long Island Hospital
Address:
201 Manor Pl, Greenport, NY 11944
Phone:
(631) 477-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Stony Brook Southampton Hospital
Address:
240 Meeting House Ln, Southampton, NY 11968
Phone:
(631) 726-8200
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
95.2%
Health Care Index:
77.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Shelter Island, NY?
Shelter Island’s housing market is characterized by high property values, with the median home price at $1,065,000 and homeownership rates close to 80%. The area sees steady appreciation and low foreclosure rates, reflecting its desirability and the stable investment potential of local real estate.
Median Home Price:
$1,065,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,200
Owner Occupied Rate:
79.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Shelter Island residents rely on the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest full-service office located in Medford. All standard DMV services are available, and additional information can be found through the state DMV website.
State:
New York
Department:
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2799 Route 112, Medford, NY 11763
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.