Bellmore

Bellmore is a hamlet within the Town of Hempstead, one of three towns in Nassau County. It occupies three square miles, and has a population of approximately 16,000. Bellmore and adjacent North Bellmore are sometimes collectively referred to as “the Bellmores.”

In general, Bellmore is known as a family-friendly community, drawing new residents and keeping natives because of excellent schools, suburban conveniences and good commuting location. The town’s history dates back to the 1600s, when English and Dutch settlers arrived. In the mid-1800s, the name “Bellmore” was conferred on the area, but the origin of the name is uncertain. The town’s population grew exponentially after World War II, a trend taking place across Nassau County.

Schools in Bellmore are well-regarded. The school organization is unique. Unlike most Nassau districts, where the students remain in one district their entire school career, Bellmore is served by separate elementary and high school districts. The Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District educates students in grades 7 through 12, taking in students from four area elementary districts. Student performance is very strong in both the Bellmore elementary district and the central high school district.

Inclusion in the Town of Hempstead gives Bellmore’s residents access to a wide variety of recreational and cultural programs. The Town has 90 parks, plus two public golf courses. Its arts programs include classes in painting and quilting. During the warmer months, many of the town’s parks host concerts. Bellmore’s Newbridge Arena offers ice skating lessons, open public skating and ice hockey leagues.

Many of Bellmore’s residents commute to Manhattan from its Long Island Rail Road station. Travel time to the city is about forty-five minutes. Parking permits aren’t needed, but spaces go quickly during the morning rush. A program is being piloted which would distribute a very small number of resident permits. Sunrise Highway, Southern State Parkway and the Wantagh Parkway are conveniently located for car commuters.

Shopping is abundant, with restaurants and retailers located along Bedford Avenue, Merrick Road and Sunrise Highway. Bellmore’s proximity to parkways puts it close to two large malls, Roosevelt Field and Sunrise.

The recession and housing slump have made Bellmore more affordable than in recent years, thoughproperty taxes are still high. Five years ago, homes priced below $300,000 were almost non-existent or needed major overhauls. Though inexpensive houses are not abundant, they do exist. Homebuyers who choose to purchase starter homes will be pleased with Bellmore, as houses come at a variety of price points, allowing people to trade up while remaining in the same town and school district.