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Riverhead,NY Neighborhood Guides

Neighborhoods in Riverhead, NY – Data, Lifestyle & Local Insights

Neighborhood Map

Discover the Best Neighborhoods in Riverhead, NY

Riverhead, NY, nestled on the North Fork of Long Island, offers a charming blend of suburban comfort and scenic beauty. Known for its vibrant community and proximity to both beaches and vineyards, Riverhead is a great place for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. When exploring the best neighborhoods in Riverhead, you’ll find a mix of historic districts, waterfront properties, and quiet residential areas. Whether you're looking at the Riverhead neighborhoods map or strolling through downtown, there’s a unique vibe in every corner waiting to be discovered.

Demographic Insights & Community Composition

The neighborhoods in Riverhead are known for their diverse and welcoming communities. Many areas, such as Aquebogue and Jamesport, attract families who appreciate the small-town feel and access to quality schools like Riverhead High School. The population is a blend of longtime residents and newcomers drawn to the area’s peaceful lifestyle. You'll find a mix of age groups, with a strong presence of families and retirees. Cultural diversity is growing, reflecting a rich tapestry of backgrounds that contribute to the town’s friendly atmosphere.

Housing, Affordability & Market Conditions

When it comes to housing, Riverhead offers a variety of options, from charming single-family homes in neighborhoods like Calverton to modern condos closer to the town center. The real estate market is generally more affordable than many other parts of Long Island, making it attractive for first-time homebuyers and those looking to downsize. The Riverhead neighborhoods map reveals pockets of newer developments alongside historic homes, giving potential residents choices that suit different lifestyles and budgets. Waterfront properties along the Peconic River or near the Long Island Sound tend to be pricier but offer stunning views and tranquility.

Getting Around: Transit Information and Accessibility

Transportation in Riverhead is fairly convenient, especially for commuters. The Long Island Rail Road’s Ronkonkoma Branch has a station in Riverhead, providing direct access to New York City and other parts of Long Island. Local bus services connect various neighborhoods, though having a car is often necessary for exploring the more rural areas. The town’s layout makes most amenities easily reachable, and the Riverhead neighborhoods map highlights key routes and transit hubs that help residents get around efficiently.

Food & Social Scene: Are Some Areas More Popular Than Others, Hotspots

Riverhead’s food scene is a delightful mix of farm-to-table restaurants, casual eateries, and cozy cafes. Downtown Riverhead is a hotspot where locals gather at places like The Riverhead Brewing Company or Bistro 72 for a night out. In neighborhoods like Aquebogue, you’ll find charming diners and wine bars that showcase local Long Island wines. The social scene is vibrant, with farmers markets, art galleries, and seasonal festivals creating a welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.

Things to Do: What Are Some Popular Attractions and Things to Do

There’s no shortage of activities in Riverhead. Families love visiting the Long Island Aquarium, a major attraction located right in the heart of town. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the nearby Hallock State Park Preserve for hiking and birdwatching. The Tanger Outlets offer a popular shopping destination, while the nearby wineries and farms provide a taste of the North Fork’s agricultural charm. The Riverhead neighborhoods map outlines these key attractions, making it easy to plan your adventures around town.

Riverhead Demographics

Population 14,388
Density (People/sqml.) 953
Median Age 44.8
Married Couples
47%
47% of the population of Riverhead aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
19%
19% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

Best Neighborhoods

Hood  Med. Age  Kids  Home Price  Med. Income  Affordability 
Aquebogue 50.8 22.3% $541,783 $122,178 4.5

Riverhead neighborhoods bring their own blend of lifestyle, affordability, and long-term appeal, and the data in the table above helps highlight what makes each area stand out. By comparing home prices, median income, average age, families with kids, and housing affordability ratios, you can quickly uncover the best neighborhoods in Riverhead—those that balance cost, character, and overall livability. For budget-minded buyers, the table also makes it easy to identify the most affordable neighborhoods in Riverhead, where lower home prices combined with local income levels create meaningful value. Families can use the children-per-household data to pinpoint the best neighborhoods for families, revealing which areas offer strong community connections and a family-friendly atmosphere. Meanwhile, adults looking for quieter, age-friendly surroundings can turn to neighborhoods with higher median ages to find the best neighborhoods for retirees, where comfort, stability, and an easy pace of living tend to define the local experience. This data-driven overview offers a clear starting point for understanding how each neighborhood aligns with the lifestyle you want.

Crime in Riverhead

Violent Crime 100% Lower than Nat. Avg.
Property Crime 100% Lower than Nat. Avg.
Total Crime 100% Lower than Nat. Avg.
Crime
 
Reported
 
Riverhead
/100k
NY
/100k
National
/100k
Murder     2.7 5.0
Rape     21.7 37.5
Robbery     96.1 60.6
Assault     259.6 256.1
Total Violent Crime     380 359
Burglary     136.6 229.2
Theft     1,432.8 1,272.1
Vehicle Theft     150.2 258.8
Total Property Crime     1,720 1,760
TOTAL CRIME 0 0 2,100 2,119
Date & Last Updated: This data reflects the 2024 calendar year and was released from the FBI in September, 2025; this is the most current data available.