In the latest release of the U.S. News & World Report 2025-2026 Best Places to Live ranking, a charming village in Nassau County on Long Island – Massapequa Park Village, has been crowned the top spot in New York State and ranked 140th in the nation, surpassing renowned cities like White Plains, New York City, and New Rochelle.
This small village, covering only 1.6 square miles, has a population of around 17,000 people and received an overall score of 6.1. The selection criteria include median household income, median house price, educational resources, green space, and commuting convenience. With a median household income exceeding $167,000, and an average commuting time of just around 28 minutes, Massapequa Park Village is blessed with efficient transportation facilitated by the Long Island Rail Road Babylon Branch, making it an ideal community that combines “rural tranquility” with “urban connectivity.”
Located within the Town of Oyster Bay, Massapequa Park Village was established in 1931 with a focus on community autonomy, boasting a well-designed park system, quality school districts, and a tight-knit neighborhood network. The area is also known for its large Jewish and Italian populations, earning the endearing nickname “Matzo-Pizza Park” and showcasing its multicultural characteristics.
Although housing prices in Massapequa Park Village are not considered cheap, with a median house price of around $628,000, it still holds strong appeal for residents who prioritize school district quality, family safety, and community spirit.
Former Congressman Peter King expressed no surprise at this ranking on social media, emphasizing his longstanding representation of Massapequa Park Village during his 28 years in Congress. He stated, “I have always represented Massapequa Park Village during my 28 years in Congress. I know this place well, it is a microcosm of America, an excellent community made up of hardworking, patriotic residents.”
Apart from Massapequa Park Village, two other communities on Long Island also made the list: Hicksville ranked third in New York State, while Lindenhurst Village claimed the tenth spot, ranking 474th nationwide.