Oyster Bay is a hamlet and census-designated place located on the North Shore of Long Island in Nassau County, New York. According to the 2020 census, Oyster Bay has a population of 6,707 residents.
Population
As of the 2020 census, Oyster Bay had a population of 6,707. This is a slight decrease from the 2010 census when the population was 6,892. The racial makeup of the population is 91.1% White, 1.4% African American, 4.9% Asian, and 1.7% from other races. Hispanic or Latino residents of any race make up 6.4% of the population.
Over the past several decades, Oyster Bay has seen its population decline. In 1970, the population was 9,420 but this number has steadily decreased over the years as residents have moved away from the hamlet. Despite this population decline, Oyster Bay still maintains its small-town charm and sense of community.
To learn more about the demographics and population of Oyster Bay, check out its Wikipedia page.
Economy and Major Employers
The economy of Oyster Bay is centered around education, healthcare, retail, and tourism. Some of the major employers in Oyster Bay include:
- Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District
- Verizon
- Stop & Shop supermarket
- Oyster Bay Manor nursing home
- The WaterFront Center – environmental education non-profit
Healthcare is a major industry in Oyster Bay. The town is home to several medical offices, imaging centers, physical therapy clinics, and assisted living facilities that provide jobs for local residents. Retail jobs are found in shops and restaurants located in Oyster Bay’s downtown as well as two shopping centers on Route 106.
Tourism also contributes to the local economy during the summer months. Popular attractions like Sagamore Hill National Historic Site and Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park bring in visitors who support local businesses. The maritime industry has a presence in Oyster Bay as well with several marinas, yacht clubs, and boatyards located in the hamlet.
To learn more about business and economy in Oyster Bay, check out the Economic Development page on the town website.
Attractions and Landmarks
Oyster Bay is home to several historic and cultural attractions that highlight its history and natural beauty:
Sagamore Hill National Historic Site
This was the home of President Theodore Roosevelt from 1885 until his death in 1919. Sagamore Hill is located on Cove Neck in Oyster Bay and was Roosevelt’s retreat and primary residence during his presidency. Today it is a National Historic Site that preserves Roosevelt’s home and allows visitors to learn about his life and legacy.
Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park
Dedicated to America’s 26th President, this 72-acre woodland preserve features nature trails, a formal memorial garden, and a visitor center detailing Roosevelt’s conservation efforts. The trails through the hilly terrain offer great views of Oyster Bay Harbor.
Raynham Hall Museum
This historic house museum was originally the home of the Townsend family and dates back to the Revolutionary War era. It features period rooms and galleries exhibiting artifacts from Oyster Bay’s history.
Oyster Bay Harbor
This picturesque harbor on Long Island Sound is dotted with marinas, yacht clubs, and charming seaside villages. It is a popular spot for boating, sailing, kayaking, and fishing during the warmer months.
Townsend Manor
Built in the 1930s in the English Manor style, this 20-room mansion on a hill overlooking Oyster Bay Harbor now operates as a catering and event venue.
For more on things to see and do in Oyster Bay, check out the Discover Oyster Bay tourism website.
Sports
When it comes to sports, Oyster Bay is home to several youth athletics organizations including Little League baseball, Pop Warner football, and youth soccer clubs. Many kids participate in these sports programs which foster community spirit. Adults also participate in sailing leagues based out of the town’s yacht clubs during the summer months.
The town’s high school, Oyster Bay High School, is home to varsity sports teams including football, soccer, basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, lacrosse, swimming, tennis, cross country, track, and others. The school’s sports teams compete as the Oyster Bay Baymen in Nassau County athletics leagues. You can follow the Baymen on the Oyster Bay High School Baymen Sports Facebook page.
Local Government
Oyster Bay has a council-manager form of government. The town supervisor serves as the chief elected official and the town council functions as the legislative body. The town council consists of six council members who are elected to four year terms. Day to day operations are handled by a professional town manager appointed by the council.
You can learn more about Oyster Bay’s local government and services on the Town of Oyster Bay website.