Huntington is a town on the north shore of Long Island in Suffolk County, New York, established in 1653. It is part of the broader New York metropolitan area and had a population of 203,264 at the 2010 United States Census. The town combines long-standing maritime communities, suburban neighborhoods, and concentrations of cultural and scientific activity.
Geography and communities
Huntington stretches along the Long Island Sound and includes a mixture of incorporated villages and unincorporated hamlets. The shoreline features harbors, marinas, and small beaches, while inland areas contain residential streets, commercial centers, and parks. Major roads such as Route 25A run near the north shore, linking villages and towns across Long Island.
- Notable villages and hamlets: Huntington Village, Huntington Station, Northport, Cold Spring Harbor, Centerport, Lloyd Harbor, Greenlawn, Huntington Bay
- Coastal features: Huntington Harbor and several smaller inlets and estuaries along the Sound
History and development
Originally settled by English colonists in the mid-17th century, Huntington developed from agricultural beginnings into a maritime and shipbuilding center during the 18th and 19th centuries. Over the 20th century it became increasingly suburban as rail and road links to New York City improved, shaping the town into a commuter-oriented community while preserving many historic districts and older village centers.
Economy, culture, and institutions
The local economy blends residential services, small business, and a modest industrial and research presence. Huntington hosts important cultural venues and institutions: notable examples include performance spaces in the downtown area, the Heckscher Museum of Art, and historic estates such as Oheka Castle. The town is also home to internationally recognized research facilities, most prominently Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, known for work in genetics and molecular biology.
Government, transportation, and recreation
Municipal services are provided by the Town of Huntington government and by the various incorporated villages, with a local elected board and supervisor overseeing townwide matters; see the town's official pages for details at Town of Huntington. Transportation options include the Long Island Rail Road at Huntington station for commuter rail service, regional roads, and local bus routes. Recreational life emphasizes waterfront activities, parks, walking and biking along historic Main Streets, and community events held in village centers.
Huntington is often noted for its mix of coastal scenery, longstanding village character, cultural offerings, and the presence of scientific institutions. These elements together make it a prominent and diverse community on Long Island's north shore.