Merrick is a hamlet in the Town of Hempstead in prestigious Nassau County, New York. It lies on the East Bay, east of Meadowbrook State Parkway, west of Bellmore, and south of East Meadow. Merrick Road divides the village east to west and the other major east-west artery is Sunrise Highway. The main north-south bisector is Merrick Avenue. The name “Merrick” is derived from the word “meroke” which means “peaceful” in the language of the Algonquian Indian tribe who were indigenous to the area. European colonist arrived in 1643 and the area became a trading center thanks to deep channels in the Jones Inlet. During the War of 1812, the channels and coves nearby were a haven for buccaneers preying on merchants. In the 1860’s Methodists, as many as 10,000 of them, would gather annually for ten days of services held in open fields. Cottages which were built during the era remain today in the North Merrick neighborhood and are referred to by locals as “The Campgrounds” or “Tiny Town”. The population really began to surge in the 1880’s with the arrival of what is now known as the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). Currently the village consists of 5.2 square miles, 4.1 being land and the remaining water. The population of Merrick is around 22,764 residents. Nearby villages, within a distance of two miles include: Freeport, North Merrick, Roosevelt, Wantagh and Baldwin.
Areavibes.com gives Merrick a score of 86 out of 100 for liveability based on great amenities, excellent schools, affordable housing and a low crime rates. If “walkability” were factored in, Merrick would have scored even higher. Banks, bagel shops, restaurants and parks are all within walking distance for most Merrick residents. Students in Merrick are served by the North Merrick School District and the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District. A majority of jobs in the area are professional, scientific, technical and managerial in nature. Famous local notables include former president of ABC Sports/News Roone Arledge, actors Ed Begley and his son Ed Begley, Jr., and author of The Godfather, Mario Puzo. Residents love living here and report it feels like vacation every day. Marinas, yacht clubs, and local parks add to the vacation-like atmosphere. Recreation opportunities abound at destination like Merrick Road Park which offers basketball courts and baseball fields. Additionally, a nine hole golf course in nearby and the ocean is just 10 minutes away.
A wide variety of homes are currently available in Merrick. Choose from apartments, townhomes, condominiums, and single family homes. Current home prices in Merrick range from around $317,000 for a 1 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo to around $3 million for a luxurious 6 bedroom, 3 bathroom newly constructed, single family home. The average price for a home in the Merrick area is around $600,000. Styles currently available include: contemporary, Mediterranean, cape, ranch, split level and raised ranch. If you’d like to live in a place that’s close to everything New York City has to offer, but desire a home in a peaceful village with a serene nautical feel, Merrick is both, and perfect for you.
If you would like to buy a home in Merrick of Hempstead, New York, please do not hesitate to contact us today for assistance or more information.