History and Background

Oyster Bay has a rich history dating back to colonial times:

• Named by Dutch explorers in 1615 for its abundance of shellfish
• English colonists settled near Oyster Bay Harbor in 1653
• Played a role in the American Revolution, with both Loyalist and Patriot presence
• Home to Sagamore Hill, Theodore Roosevelt’s “Summer White House”
• Long tradition of shipbuilding, including the historic Jakobson Shipyard

Demographics

As of the 2020 census:

• Population: 301,332 (5th most populous city or town in New York State)
• Racial Composition (as of 2019):
  • White: 75.5% (80% Non-Hispanic White)
  • Asian: 12.5%
  • Hispanic or Latino: 8.1%
  • Black or African American: 2.3%
  • Two or more races: 2.0%

Government and Structure

Oyster Bay’s structure includes:

• 18 villages and 18 hamlets within the town
• 30 five-digit ZIP Codes served by 20 post offices
• Part of Nassau County, formed in 1899

Economy and Housing

Oyster Bay’s economy and housing market are characterized by:

• Median Household Income: $108,111 (as of 2022)
• Median Property Value: $589,700 (as of 2022)
• Homeownership Rate: 49.6%
• Average commute time: 33.5 minutes

Education

Oyster Bay is served by several school districts, including:

• Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District
• Other local districts serving various parts of the town

Recreation and Attractions

Oyster Bay offers numerous recreational opportunities and attractions:

• Beaches and marinas maintained by the Parks Department
• TOBAY Beach with ocean and bayside beaches
• Community park pools and ice skating rinks
• The Honorable Joseph Colby Golf Course
• Sagamore Hill National Historic Site
• Raynham Hall Museum and Earle-Wightman House
• Christeen, the oldest operating oyster sloop in North America

Conclusion

Oyster Bay, NY, offers a unique combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and suburban comfort. Its rich heritage, diverse communities, and proximity to both urban centers and coastal attractions make it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike.