Is Oakdale (Islip) safe?
Islip, New York · safety score updated nightly
Yes — it is one of the safer places in the metro to walk around.
VibeLoco rates Oakdale (Islip) as “Go”.
What makes up this score?Recent news
Gogo's take on Oakdale (Islip)
“Go. Oakdale is an exceptionally safe, serene suburban hamlet along Long Island's South Shore. Visitors will find minimal safety concerns and a peaceful environment ideal for waterfront dining, historic sightseeing, and outdoor recreation.”
About the area
Oakdale is a quiet, residential waterfront community in the Town of Islip celebrated for its Gilded Age estates, canals, and proximity to the Connetquot River. It offers a relaxed coastal suburban atmosphere with established single-family homes and scenic marinas.
- Quiet / Suburban
- Waterfront
- Historic / Scenic
- Car-Dependent
Walking and biking in Oakdale (Islip)
Walk score: 34/100 · Bike score: 42/100
There is no municipal bike-share system, but residential side streets are generally low-traffic; caution is advised along Montauk Highway due to the lack of dedicated bike lanes.
Reasons to go, and reasons to think twice
Pros
- Violent and property crime rates are among the lowest in the region and far below national averages.
- Strong socioeconomic foundation with high median household incomes and over 85% homeownership.
- Excellent access to waterfront dining, boating facilities, and nature preserves along the South Shore.
Cons
- Car dependence is high, with few sidewalks along major arterials like Montauk Highway.
- Residential streets are poorly lit at night, requiring caution when walking or driving.
- Limited late-night commercial activity and transit service outside peak commuter hours.
Homelessness: Visible homelessness is virtually nonexistent in Oakdale, with no encampments or panhandling present in the community.
What Oakdale (Islip) is like at each time of day
- Morning · 5a – 11a
- Peaceful and safe, with commuters heading to the LIRR station and residents walking dogs along residential lanes.
- Afternoon · 11a – 5p
- Calm and pleasant, featuring light traffic and patrons enjoying waterfront parks and dining spots.
- Evening · 5p – 10p
- Quiet and secure, with activity centered around local waterside restaurants and pubs.
- Late night · 10p – 5a
- Very dark and tranquil with minimal street activity, maintaining a safe atmosphere though lacking sidewalk lighting.
Transit, parking and getting around
The Oakdale LIRR station on the Montauk Branch provides rail service to New York City and Eastern Long Island, while Suffolk County Transit operates limited bus service along Montauk Highway.
Parking is abundant and largely free across the hamlet, including generous on-site restaurant lots and commuter parking at the train station.
Things to do in Oakdale (Islip)
- Dine alongside the water with views of the Connetquot River and Great South Bay.
- Explore the historic grounds of the Bourne Mansion and the former Idle Hour estate.
- Hike, fish, and birdwatch in adjacent nature corridors like Connetquot River State Park Preserve.
Local favorites
- The View · Seafood Restaurant · 4.4★ (2150)Upscale South Shore waterfront restaurant serving refined seafood and steaks with panoramic bay views.
- The Snapper Inn · Seafood Restaurant · 4.3★ (1820)Historic riverside establishment operating since 1929 offering fresh seafood and outdoor lawn seating.
- Oakdale Brew House · Gastropub · 4.4★ (780)Cozy neighborhood tavern serving craft beers, elevated pub food, and live music.
Neighborhoods near Oakdale (Islip)
Common questions about Oakdale (Islip)
Is Oakdale (Islip) safe to walk at night?
Generally yes — use the same awareness you would anywhere after dark.
Is Oakdale (Islip) a good place to live?
On safety, Oakdale (Islip) scores 90/100 — safer than most of the areas we score, which is a good start for anyone looking to live here.
How walkable is Oakdale (Islip)?
Walk score 34/100 and bike score 42/100. Most trips need a car.
Which areas near Oakdale (Islip) are safer?
Great River (92) score higher nearby.
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