The Five Towns

The Five Towns typically refer to the following communities:

• Hewlett
• Woodmere
• Lawrence
• Cedarhurst
• Inwood

Additionally, the area often includes the villages of Hewlett Bay Park, Hewlett Harbor, Hewlett Neck, and Woodsburgh.

Location and Accessibility

Hewlett and the Five Towns are strategically located on Long Island’s South Shore, bordering Queens County. The area is well-connected to New York City via the Long Island Rail Road‘s Far Rockaway Branch, with the Hewlett station located within the hamlet. Major roadways also provide easy access to surrounding areas and New York City.

Real Estate Market Conditions

As of August 2024, the Hewlett real estate market shows the following trends:

• Median Sale Price: $600,000 (down 19.9% since last year)
• Median Price Per Square Foot: $416 (up 7.2% since last year)
• Average Days on Market: 34 days

The Hewlett housing market is somewhat competitive. Hot homes can sell for about 2% above list price and go pending in around 26 days.

For more detailed market information, visit Redfin’s Hewlett Market Trends.

Education

The Five Towns area is known for its excellent schools, particularly the Hewlett-Woodmere Union Free School District. Notable institutions include:

• George W. Hewlett High School
• Woodmere Middle School
• Hewlett Elementary School
• Franklin Early Childhood Center

George W. Hewlett High School is particularly renowned for its academic excellence, offering 25 AP classes and boasting a strong science research department.

Community and Lifestyle

Hewlett and the Five Towns offer residents:

• Tree-lined streets and upscale residences
• Proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and beaches
• Strong sense of community with local events and gatherings
• Diverse array of local businesses, restaurants, and cultural events
• Access to parks and recreational facilities

Demographics

As of the 2010 census, Hewlett had a population of 6,819. The area is known for its diverse community, with a significant Jewish population and a mix of various ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Notable Residents

The Five Towns area has been home to many notable individuals, including:

• Louise Glück – Poet and 2020 Nobel Prize in Literature laureate
• Harvey Milk – American politician and LGBT advocate
• Ross Bleckner – Artist
• Jim Steinman – Composer, lyricist, and record producer

Conclusion

Hewlett and the Five Towns offer a unique blend of suburban charm, excellent education, and easy access to urban amenities. With its strong sense of community, diverse population, and proximity to New York City, this area continues to be a highly desirable location for families and professionals seeking a high quality of life on Long Island’s South Shore.