Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Southold, NY
Thinking of moving to Southold, NY? With a population of just over 22,000, this charming coastal town offers a relaxed, rural lifestyle with low crime rates (48 violent crimes per 100K) and a higher median home price of $700,000. Residents enjoy mild summers, strong public schools, and a short average commute of 27 minutes. While the cost of living is above national averages, Southold’s scenic beauty, tight-knit community, and excellent healthcare access make it an appealing choice for families and retirees alike.
Demographics - Southold, NY
Demographics - Southold, NY
Southold is a close-knit community of around 22,000 residents, characterized by a predominantly White population and a notably high median age of nearly 55, reflecting its popularity among retirees. The area has a moderate population density and about 15% of residents speak a language other than English, adding some cultural diversity. The gender ratio is fairly balanced, with slightly more females than males.
Population:
22,367
Density:
340 per sq mi
Median Age:
54.7
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
15.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
86.2%
Black:
2.4%
Asian:
1.4%
Others:
10.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Southold, NY?
Living in Southold comes with a higher-than-average cost of living, highlighted by a median home value of $700,000 and a monthly rent around $2,000. Utilities and transportation expenses are also above national averages, and state taxes range from 4% to 10.9%. Despite the premium, residents benefit from quality amenities and the area’s desirable coastal lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$700,000
Gross Rent:
$2,000
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$170
Auto Insurance:
$2,100
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,050
State Taxes:
Low:
4%
|
High:
10.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
145.0
Grocery:
128.0
Housing:
185.0
Utilities:
120.0
Transportation:
130.0
Health Care:
115.0
Miscellaneous:
112.0
Crime
Is Southold, NY a safe place to live?
Southold is considered a very safe place to live, with only 48 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and low property crime rates. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is about 1 in 2,100, which is significantly lower than national averages. This makes the town especially appealing for families and those seeking peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
48
Property Crimes Per 100k:
362
Crime Index:
410
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 2,100
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 275
Weather
What is the weather like in Southold, NY year-round?
Southold enjoys mild summers with highs in the low 80s and cool winters averaging in the upper 30s, providing a comfortable climate year-round. The town receives about 46 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunshine 57% of the year. Seasonal changes are distinct, making it ideal for those who appreciate varied weather.

Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
39°F

Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
63°F

Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
82°F

Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
Residents in Southold benefit from a strong sense of community, with a median household income of nearly $95,000 and a low poverty rate of 6.8%. Most adults are well-educated, with over 93% holding at least a high school diploma, and unemployment remains low at 3.7%. Average commutes are manageable at just over 27 minutes, contributing to a balanced lifestyle.
Median Income:
$47,000
Household Income:
$94,700
Family Income:
$110,000
Per Capita Income:
$53,100
Income Male:
$56,500
Income Female:
$44,000
Poverty Rate:
6.8%
Non English Speakers:
15.5%
Rent:
$2,000
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
2.8%
Commute Time:
27.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.6%
Bachelors or More:
40.1%
Education
How are the schools in Southold, NY?
Southold offers quality educational options, including well-regarded public schools with low student-teacher ratios and access to private and regional colleges like Stony Brook University. The community values education, with a high percentage of adults holding post-secondary degrees. Families will find supportive learning environments and diverse academic opportunities.

Public Schools
Name:
Southold Junior-Senior High School
Street:
420 Oaklawn Ave
Phone:
631-765-5081
Students:
470
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.8
Name:
Southold Elementary School
Street:
420 Oaklawn Ave
Phone:
631-765-5208
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.7

Private Schools
Name:
Our Lady of Mercy Regional School
Street:
2551 Montauk Hwy, Bridgehampton, NY 11932
Phone:
631-537-5520
Students:
120

Colleges
Name:
Stony Brook University
City:
Stony Brook
State:
NY
Distance:
41 miles
Students:
26,800
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Southold is excellent, with a major hospital nearby and a high rate of health insurance coverage at over 95%. There are about 2.4 physicians per 1,000 residents, ensuring quality medical care is readily available. The local healthcare index indicates favorable conditions for residents’ well-being.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Stony Brook 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:
95.1%
Health Care Index:
77.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Southold, NY?
Southold’s housing market is robust, with a median home price of $700,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of over 77%. Home values have appreciated by 6.2% in the past year, while rental vacancies are low at 4.7%, reflecting strong demand. The area is popular among both buyers and renters seeking a stable, attractive community.
Median Home Price:
$700,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,000
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Southold residents are served by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in Medford. Services such as licensing, vehicle registration, and renewals can be accessed both in-person and online through the DMV’s official website. This ensures convenient access to all essential motor vehicle services.
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.