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Water Mill, NY

Area Guide

A relaxing home environment between the beach and the countryside

Coastal Historic Upscale

Water Mill, New York, is a hamlet nestled within the Town of Southampton on Long Island's South Fork, sitting comfortably between the Atlantic coastline and the rolling agricultural countryside that defines this corner of Suffolk County. The area carries real historical weight: in 1644, Edward Howell built a grist mill here that became such a landmark, nearby settlements were simply described as east or west of "the watermill," giving the community its enduring name. Today, Water Mill is recognized as one of the most sought-after addresses in the country, consistently ranking among the top ZIP codes nationally for real estate value. The landscape blends open farmland, working vineyards, and oceanside tranquility, with the broader Hamptons scene just minutes away. Cultural anchors like the Watermill Center and the Parrish Art Museum draw an engaged arts audience year-round. Housing here leans toward expansive single-family estates and upscale cottage-style homes, though rental opportunities do surface, ranging from charming historic houses to more contemporary residences tucked along quiet, tree-lined roads. The community's small scale (roughly 11 square miles) keeps the atmosphere intimate and unhurried, a true contrast to the pace of nearby New York City.

Demographics

Median Household Income

$211,765

Average: $207,587

Education

2,703

Residents Have a Degree

Job Market

2,283

Workers Employed

Age Distribution
Get a sense of this area's population profile.

Median Age

49 Years

Largest Age Group

60-69 Years

Approximately 17% of Residents

Under 20

20%

Over 65

27%

Housing Distribution

Water Mill has more homeowners than renters.

Renters
13%
Non-Renters
87%

Education Distribution

Review this city's overall education levels.

Bachelor's or Higher
55%
Other Education
45%

Getting Around

Somewhat Walkable

Walkability

20 / 100

Exceptionally Drivable

Drivability

90 / 100

Somewhat Bikeable

Bikeability

20 / 100

Points of Interest

Parks and Recreation

  • Elizabeth A. Morton National Wildlife Refuge
  • South Fork Natural History Museum & Nature Center
  • Shinnecock East County Park
  • Meschutt Beach County Park
  • LongHouse Reserve

Top Apartments in Water Mill

Houses for Rent in Water Mill

Living in Water Mill

History

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Water Mill takes its name from the 1644 mill built by Edward Howell to grind grain for early Southampton settlers, a landmark that became so recognizable it defined the entire area. The community's roots stretch back to the earliest days of English settlement on Long Island, and that colonial history remains visible in the hamlet's character today. The Parrish Art Museum and the Watermill Center serve as cultural anchors, blending artistic innovation with historic preservation. Strolling through Water Mill, you'll encounter a landscape where rural farms and vineyards evoke centuries of agricultural tradition, while historic architecture dots the scenic countryside. The hamlet has maintained its unhurried, village-like atmosphere despite its proximity to the busier Hamptons, preserving the sense of place that originally drew settlers nearly four centuries ago.

Transportation

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Water Mill is a hamlet in Southampton Town on Long Island's South Fork, and getting around here primarily means having a car. Montauk Highway (NY Route 27) serves as the main corridor through the area, connecting residents to neighboring Hamptons communities, Southampton Village to the west, and East Hampton to the east. The Long Island Rail Road's Southampton station offers rail service into New York City, making a car-free commute to Manhattan possible for those willing to drive or bike to the station. The nearest major airport is Long Island MacArthur Airport in Islip, with John F. Kennedy International Airport roughly 90 miles west via the Sunrise Highway or I-495.

Parks

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Water Mill, nestled in the Hamptons on New York's South Fork, is surrounded by stunning natural spaces that make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby Poxabogue Golf Center and Poxabogue Pond offer peaceful waterfront settings, while Sagg Swamp Preserve provides a serene wetlands experience with trails winding through rare plant habitats. Residents enjoy easy access to the pristine Atlantic Ocean beaches along the South Shore, as well as the scenic Long Pond Greenbelt, a protected natural area featuring miles of trails perfect for hiking and birdwatching. The area's open farmlands and preserved land trusts further enhance the region's lush, green character.

Highlights

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Water Mill, NY, is a picturesque hamlet in Southampton Town on Long Island's South Fork, renowned for its scenic farmland, serene beaches, and upscale charm. Nestled in the heart of the Hamptons, the area offers easy access to pristine Atlantic shoreline, lush vineyards, and farm stands brimming with local produce. Its historic windmill, a beloved local landmark, reflects the area's rich colonial heritage. With a peaceful, small-town atmosphere paired with proximity to world-class dining and boutique shopping, Water Mill is a standout destination for those seeking a refined yet relaxed coastal lifestyle.

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Methodology

† Our analysis of utilities, groceries, transportation, healthcare, home prices, and other goods and services is sourced from the Cost of Living Index, a respected benchmark published by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) that provides a thorough overview of living expenses across different regions.

Rent data is provided by CoStar Group’s Market Trend reports. As the industry leader in commercial real estate information, analytics, and news, CoStar conducts extensive research to produce and maintain a comprehensive database of commercial real estate information. We combine this data with public record to provide the most up-to-date rental information available.

Consumer goods, services, and home prices are sourced from the Cost of Living Index published by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). The data on this page is updated quarterly. It was last published in June 2026.

Demographic information comes from Neustar and combines detailed address data with U.S. Census and American Community Survey statistics to produce reliable local estimates.