Living in Bohemia, NY, combines affordability with a strong sense of community. The median home price hovers around $470,000, providing various housing options suitable for families and young professionals. Bohemia is family-friendly, featuring low crime rates and abundant parks. Residents enjoy cultural diversity, recreational activities, and a robust job market with an unemployment rate around 4.5%. Nonetheless, the cost of living is above the national average, particularly concerning housing and utilities. Altogether, Bohemia offers a balanced lifestyle with numerous amenities. To uncover more about what this charming suburb has to offer, additional perspectives await.
Pros of Living in Bohemia, NY
PROS OF LIVING IN BOHEMIA, NY
1. AFFORDABLE HOUSING PRICES
Bohemia offers reasonable housing prices compared to other regions in Suffolk County and Long Island. The median home price in Bohemia is approximately $470,000, which is more manageable compared to the average price of homes in nearby towns like Sayville or Patchogue, where prices can range as high as $600,000.
Additionally, the community features a variety of housing options, including single-family homes and apartments, making it appealing for both families and young professionals looking to enter the real estate market.
2. FAMILY-FRIENDLY COMMUNITY
The family-friendly atmosphere in Bohemia is a significant draw for residents. The area boasts a crime rate of about 1.45 cases per 1,000 residents, which is considerably lower than the national average of 4.0 cases per 1,000 residents.
Numerous parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities are available, providing children with plenty of options for outdoor activities. Moreover, the community is known for its supportive environment, with various family-oriented programs and events nurturing neighborhood connections.
3. DIVERSITY AND CULTURE
Bohemia is marked by a rich cultural diversity, with residents hailing from various backgrounds. This melting pot of cultures amplifies the community's social fabric through festivals, culinary experiences, and art exhibitions.
The local gastronomy scene reflects the diverse population, with restaurants offering cuisines from around the world. Community events, such as cultural festivals and farmer's markets, further celebrate this diversity and encourage unity among residents.
4. EXCELLENT RECREATION OPTIONS
Recreation plays a crucial role in the Bohemia lifestyle, with numerous parks and nature preserves in the vicinity. Residents enjoy access to outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and fishing at the nearby Connetquot River State Park.
The town's well-maintained facilities cater to sports enthusiasts with baseball and soccer fields, basketball courts, and playgrounds for children. Moreover, the community hosts seasonal events, such as outdoor movies and concerts, which guarantee that there's never a dull moment in the area.
5. STRONG JOB MARKET
Bohemia possesses a strong job market, anchored by a mix of local businesses and proximity to larger metropolitan employment centers. The unemployment rate hovers around 4.5%, which is lower than the national average of 6.0%.
The area's economy is bolstered by sectors such as healthcare, education, and retail. Importantly, its location provides easy access to major highways and the Long Island Rail Road, allowing residents to commute to nearby hubs like New York City for even more employment opportunities.
Cons of Living in Bohemia, NY
CONS OF LIVING IN BOHEMIA, NY
1. HIGH COST OF LIVING
The cost of living in Bohemia is considerably higher than the national average. The cost of living index in this area is estimated to be around 148, where the national average sits at 100. This means residents can expect to pay nearly 50% more for goods and services compared to other locations in the U.S.
High costs especially impact housing, transportation, and food. Many families find themselves stretching their budgets, which can put financial pressure on daily life.
2. EXPENSIVE HOUSING MARKET
Housing in Bohemia is a major concern, with average home prices hovering around $450,000. For comparison, the national median home price is about $300,000.
Renting is also pricey, with average rents for a two-bedroom apartment reaching $2,300 per month, considerably higher than the national average of just $1,200. The competitiveness of the real estate market means that families and individuals often struggle to find affordable options close to their workplaces.
3. HIGH UTILITY COSTS
Utilities are another area where residents feel the pinch, as Bohemia's average monthly utility costs come in at approximately $250. This includes electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage services.
In comparison, the national average is closer to $200, indicating that Bohemia's utility costs are roughly 25% higher. This discrepancy can be particularly burdensome during severe weather months when heating and cooling costs can spike sharply.
4. GROCERY EXPENSES
Grocery prices in Bohemia are also high compared to the national average, with an index score of roughly 115 compared to the national average of 100.
Basic food items such as milk, bread, and eggs can cost anywhere from 10% to 20% more in Bohemia. For example, a gallon of milk could be priced around $4.00, while the average elsewhere may only be around $3.50. This ongoing inflation can strain household budgets, affecting families, especially those with children, as they try to keep up with rising food costs.
5. TOUGH TAXATION ENVIRONMENT
Residents of Bohemia face a challenging tax situation that includes high property taxes, averaging about 2.3% of the home value—much higher than the national average of 1.1%.
Additionally, sales taxes in New York are around 8.875%, which is considerably above the national average of about 6.5%. Believe it or not, this cumulative tax burden can lead to families feeling like their hard-earned money is being siphoned away, making it difficult to afford everyday necessities.
Cost of Living in Bohemia, NY
COST OF LIVING IN BOHEMIA, NY
The housing market in Bohemia, NY, is relatively competitive, with the median home price hovering around $500,000. Renting is also an important consideration, with average apartment rents reaching approximately $2,600 per month for a two-bedroom unit. Compared to national averages, where the median home price is about $300,000, Bohemia can appear *expensive*, particularly for first-time homebuyers. Residents should also note that property taxes in the area average around $9,300 annually, which is a budget consideration that can impact general affordability.
When it comes to groceries, costs are fairly standard for suburban New York, with estimates showing a monthly grocery bill of about $400 for an individual. Utilities, like electricity, gas, water, and internet services, can average about $200 per month, placing them slightly above the national average of $170. Transportation expenses are also remarkable; the average commuter may spend around $350 monthly on public transit, especially considering the proximity to New York City. In general, while Bohemia has its unique charm and amenities, prospective residents should carefully assess these cost factors as part of their budgeting process.
Cost of living in Bohemia, NY
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $500,000 |
| Average Rent (2BR) | $2,600/month |
| Monthly Grocery Bill | $400 |
| Utilities (Average) | $200/month |
| Transportation (Commute) | $350/month |
| Average Property Tax | $9,300/year |
History of Bohemia, NY
HISTORY OF BOHEMIA, NY
Bohemia, NY, has a rich history that is connected with the development of Long Island, specifically in Suffolk County where it is located. Founded in the 19th century, the area was originally part of the extensive estates of wealthy landowners, attracting settlers seeking agricultural opportunities.
The arrival of the Long Island Rail Road in 1873 considerably contributed to the growth of the community by providing essential transportation links, leading to an increase in population and commerce. Notable figures such as Charles D. Moore, a prominent local businessman in the early 1900s, played a key role in developing the local economy, which shifted from agriculture to various industries like manufacturing and retail.
Over the years, Bohemia has seen a population growth that reflects patterns throughout Long Island; by 2000, the population had reached approximately 8,000 residents.
While there are no major historical landmarks within Bohemia itself, nearby areas like Sayville and Patchogue offer historical districts and sites that date back to the colonial era.
The community celebrates its heritage through local festivals like the annual Bohemia Fall Festival, nurturing a sense of identity and culture.
In general, Bohemia's evolution reflects the broader historical trends of suburban development in Long Island, with a blending of agricultural roots and modern suburban living.
Quality of Life and Weather in Bohemia, NY
QUALITY OF LIFE AND WEATHER IN BOHEMIA, NY
Bohemia, NY, boasts a solid quality of life defined by a safe suburban atmosphere and access to essential amenities. The region's air quality generally falls within acceptable ranges, although proximity to urban areas may impact it during peak traffic hours.
Residents experience distinct seasons, with hot summers averaging around 85°F and cold winters that can dip to 25°F, making climate flexibility necessary. Many locals appreciate the area's natural beauty, frequently taking advantage of the nearby parks and recreational facilities, such as the 190-acre Lakeland County Park, which promotes community well-being.
While there are occasionally concerns regarding hurricanes impacting the Long Island area, their direct effects are relatively rare, with the most severe storms occurring approximately once every few years. Access to healthcare services is decent, complemented by regional hospitals and clinics that strengthen public health.
In general, Bohemia residents express a favorable opinion on livability, valuing a balance of suburban tranquility and accessibility to urban opportunities in the broader Long Island region.
Education in Bohemia, NY
EDUCATION IN BOHEMIA, NY
The public school system in Bohemia is part of the Connetquot Central School District, which has a comprehensive rating of about 7 out of 10 on GreatSchools, indicating a solid educational environment. Local schools, such as Connetquot High School, demonstrate strong academic performance, with a graduation rate of around 90%.
For those seeking private or charter options, nearby Smithtown and Islip offer alternatives like Smithtown Christian School and Islip Academy.
With regard to higher education, students can drive approximately 20 miles to reach Stony Brook University, a public research institution ranked among the top universities in New York State, boasting a student-to-teacher ratio of 19:1.
The education budget in the Connetquot District is approximately $138 million, allowing for a range of extracurricular programs including sports, arts, and clubs. Average class sizes range from 22 to 25 students, encouraging a personalized learning experience for pupils.
Employment Opportunities in Bohemia, NY
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN BOHEMIA, NY
Bohemia, NY, as part of Suffolk County, is situated in a thriving job market that primarily revolves around industries such as health care, retail, and manufacturing.
The unemployment rate in the area is relatively low, hovering around 4.2% in 2023, reflecting a steady demand for workers. Common job types include positions in retail sales, healthcare support, and skilled trades, with average salaries in these sectors ranging from $35,000 to $60,000 annually.
Notable employers in the region include hospitals like Southside Hospital and firms like CDI Corp., offering noteworthy career growth opportunities particularly for skilled professionals.
Additionally, the broader Long Island area presents further job options in sectors such as technology and finance, leading to increased competition for available roles.
As the economy continues to recover and grow, the median income growth rate is projected at around 2.5% per year, indicating that the job market in and around Bohemia remains robust for prospective employees.
Recreation and Attractions in Bohemia, NY
Beyond its employment environment, Bohemia, NY offers a variety of recreational opportunities and attractions that enrich the community's appeal.
Residents and visitors can enjoy:
- Cedar Beach – A beautiful destination for sunbathing and water activities.
- Local Parks – Ideal for picnics, sports, and hiking.
- Marinas – Perfect for boating enthusiasts, offering easy access to nearby waters.
These amenities enrich the outdoor lifestyle in Bohemia.
Real Estate in Bohemia, NY
Real estate in Bohemia, NY, presents a diverse array of options for potential homeowners and investors alike. Ranging from charming single-family homes to modern condominiums, the market caters to various preferences. Factors such as location, style, and pricing greatly influence choices, making Bohemia an appealing community.
| Property Type | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Single-Family Homes | $500,000 |
| Townhouses | $350,000 |
| Condominiums | $300,000 |
| Land Lots | $200,000 |
Transportation in Bohemia, NY
Transportation in Bohemia, NY, is well-facilitated by a variety of options that cater to both residents and visitors.
The community benefits from:
- Long Island Rail Road (LIRR): Providing convenient access to New York City.
- Major Highways: Including Route 495 and Sunrise Highway for efficient driving.
- Local Bus Services: Offering connections to neighboring towns and key destinations.
These options improve mobility throughout the area.