East Farmingdale

East Farmingdale is an unincorporated hamlet in the Town of Babylon. Most residents don’t distinguish between Farmingdale and East Farmingdale; both areas share a post office. The greater Farmingdale area also straddles Nassau and Suffolk counties, with the incorporated village in Nassau and the unincorporated area of East Farmingdale in Suffolk. The population of East Farmingdale is 6,500, though 50,000 people reside in the greater Farmingdale area.

East Farmingdale is home to Farmingdale State College and Republic Airport. Along with St. Charles Cemetery, the three landmarks occupy one-third of the hamlet’s 5.4 square miles. Broad Hollow Road, also known as Route 110, serves as one of Long Island’s largest commercial corridors. Furniture outlets are especially well-represented, though many other big-box stores, including Target and Wal-Mart, are located on 110. Adventureland, a small amusement park and another local landmark, is located on 110 across from Farmingdale State.

Two school districts serve East Farmingdale. Students who reside in the northern part of the hamlet attend the Half Hollow Hills School District, which has a student enrollment of approximately 10,000. There are seven elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools. Beginning in fifth grade, students may choose to participate in the district’s well-regarded theater program. Both high schools have excellent science research programs, with regular participation in the Intel and Siemans-Westinghouse competitions.

Students who reside south Conklin Street attend the Farmingdale School District, which has four elementary schools, one middle school and one high school; the district offers Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) for eligible four-year-olds. This year, the state cited Farmingdale as needing improvement in English Language Arts at all levels. An alternative high school program is available.

Residing in the Town of Babylon gives residents access to a large variety of recreation programs and activities, which are outlined in an annual recreation guide. Three town beaches, Gilgo Beach, Oak Beach and Overlook Beach, are a short ride away.

Much of East Farmingdale’s land is not residential, limiting housing options. Homes in the Half Hollow Hills School District tend to be more expensive than the Farmingdale School District. A good amount of inventory is available in the $300,000 to $400,000 range; less expensive homes tend to be smaller and in need of work. Homes in the Half Hollow Hills district hover around the $500,000 range, with very limited inventory.