Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Bay Shore, NY
Considering a move to West Bay Shore, NY? This peaceful Long Island community of 4,625 residents features a high owner-occupied home rate and a median home value around $540,000, with average rents at $2,200. Residents enjoy a low violent crime rate (83 per 100K), reputable schools, and easy access to healthcare. With a typical commute of 34 minutes, a strong local income, and plenty of sunny days, West Bay Shore offers a comfortable, family-friendly lifestyle close to Long Island’s beaches and amenities.
Demographics - West Bay Shore, NY
Demographics - West Bay Shore, NY
West Bay Shore is a close-knit community of about 4,625 residents with a median age of 44, reflecting a mature and family-oriented population. The area is predominantly White (84%), with a balanced gender ratio and a moderate proportion (13.5%) of non-English speakers. Its suburban density and diverse backgrounds create a welcoming environment for newcomers.
Population:
4,625
Density:
2,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
13.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
84.3%
Black:
3.2%
Asian:
2.8%
Others:
9.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in West Bay Shore, NY?
Living in West Bay Shore means higher-than-average costs, with a median home price of $540,000 and typical rents around $2,200 per month. The cost of living index is 136, indicating that expenses for housing, groceries, and utilities are notably above the national average. State taxes range from 4% to 10.9%, and monthly homeowner costs with a mortgage average $2,850.
Median House Value:
$540,000
Gross Rent:
$2,200
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$170
Auto Insurance:
$2,100
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$910
State Taxes:
Low:
4%
|
High:
10.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
136
Grocery:
126
Housing:
160
Utilities:
120
Transportation:
128
Health Care:
115
Miscellaneous:
112
Crime
Is West Bay Shore, NY a safe place to live?
West Bay Shore is considered a safe community, with a violent crime rate of just 83 per 100,000 residents and a low chance of experiencing violent incidents. Property crime rates are modest, with a 1 in 89 chance, contributing to the area's reputation as a secure place to live. Most residents feel comfortable and at ease in their neighborhood.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
83
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,123
Crime Index:
1,206
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,204
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 89
Weather
What is the weather like in West Bay Shore, NY year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons with warm summers (up to 83°F), chilly winters (down to 25°F), and pleasant spring and fall temperatures. The area receives about 46 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine on 56% of days, offering a balanced climate ideal for outdoor activities. Seasonal changes bring vibrant scenery and opportunities for year-round recreation.

Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
38°F

Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Households in West Bay Shore tend to be well-off, with a median family income of $139,000 and a low poverty rate of 3.8%. Nearly 94% of adults have at least a high school diploma, and over 41% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The community experiences low unemployment and maintains an average commute of just over 34 minutes, with some residents using public transportation.
Median Income:
$52,000
Household Income:
$126,700
Family Income:
$139,000
Per Capita Income:
$48,100
Income Male:
$60,800
Income Female:
$48,800
Poverty Rate:
3.8%
Non English Speakers:
13.5%
Rent:
$2,200
Unemployment Rate:
3.9%
Public Transport Usage:
6.1%
Commute Time:
34.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.6%
Bachelors or More:
41.2%
Education
How are the schools in West Bay Shore, NY?
Families in West Bay Shore benefit from well-rated public schools, such as Bay Shore Senior High School and several elementary options, with favorable student-teacher ratios around 13:1. Private and parochial choices, along with nearby colleges like Suffolk County Community College and Adelphi University, provide diverse educational pathways. The community values academic achievement, reflected in high graduation and degree attainment rates.

Public Schools
Name:
Bay Shore Senior High School
Street:
155 Third Ave
Phone:
631-968-1157
Students:
2,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Name:
Fifth Avenue Elementary School
Street:
217 Fifth Ave
Phone:
631-968-1215
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.9

Private Schools
Name:
St. Patrick School
Street:
284 East Main St
Phone:
631-665-0569
Students:
325

Colleges
Name:
Suffolk County Community College
City:
Brentwood
State:
NY
Distance:
9 miles
Students:
26,000
Name:
Adelphi University
City:
Garden City
State:
NY
Distance:
19 miles
Students:
7,500
Healthcare
West Bay Shore offers excellent healthcare access, anchored by the nearby Good Samaritan University Hospital and a high physician-to-population ratio of 2.9 per 1,000 residents. Over 95% of locals have health insurance coverage, ensuring most families are well-served in medical emergencies and routine care. The community benefits from reputable local providers and reliable emergency services.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Good Samaritan University Hospital
Address:
1000 Montauk Hwy, West Islip, NY 11795
Phone:
(631) 376-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
95.2%
Health Care Index:
77.6
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in West Bay Shore, NY?
The housing market in West Bay Shore is robust, with a median home price of $540,000 and strong owner-occupancy at 84%. Homes appreciate steadily (6.7% in the past year), while rental options remain available but limited, with a low vacancy rate of 3.1%. The area’s stability appeals to both homebuyers and long-term renters.
Median Home Price:
$540,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,200
Owner Occupied Rate:
84.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in nearby Commack. The DMV offers comprehensive services and support, with information and appointment scheduling available online. Access to the DMV is straightforward for West Bay Shore locals.
State:
New York
Department:
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
250 Veterans 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.