"One belongs to New York instantly. One belongs to it as much in five minutes as in five years." Thomas Wolfe
Holtsville is in central Long Island, south of New York City. The very first thing you need to know is that Long Island is not part of New York City. People there do not want to be considered as living in "The City." They do want to be considered New Yorkers. There's a difference, and they'll make it clear if you mix up the two. The hamlet of Holtsville is split between two larger towns, Islip and Brookhaven, on the south side of Long Island. Anywhere in Holtsville is a short drive to the beach. It's also pretty stable, with only about 15% of the 19,714 population renting.
Moving to Holtsville
How much will it cost?
Rental homes are readily available but there are no high-rise apartment buildings in Holtsville. Everything is on the expensive side. You'll pay approximately 6.3% higher than in "The City," but the quality of life is worth it.
When Should I Start Looking?
Start home searching about four to six weeks out from your proposed move-in date for apartment rentals. This is one area where it's a good idea to work with apartment locators to find the most current lists of rentals.
What You Need to Move There
You'll need the "usual" to secure a house rental or apartment complex home in Holtsville. Your credit score, letter verifying employment and salary, and a copy of your last paycheck stub should help. Expect to pay to have the property manager run a new credit report, but at least you can get your foot in the door if you bring your own. No handshakes here - you'll need cash in the form of a cashier's or bank check to secure your spot. Expect to pay first and last month's rent and a security deposit. Pet-friendly apartments will require a pet deposit, too.
Neighborhoods in Holtsville
With a living score of 77, Holtsville is a terrific place to hang your hat. Although there aren't distinct neighborhoods here, there are a few popular areas to check out.
Greenbelt Mews: This community offers top-rated rentals, but you'll pay more for them.
Blue Point Road: This area offers lower rates than most, and finding furnished apartments is easier here.
Life in the City
Culture
Holtsville was carved out of the towns of Brookhaven and Islip. Most cultural sites and museums for the area are in Brookhaven. Visit the Historical Society Museum and other handsome historic sites around town. The National Science Laboratory Museum and the Long Island Museum of Art, History and Carriages are two worth the view. Catch a film at Island 16 Cinema De Lux movie theater.
Shopping
Grocery stores and basics are mostly what you'll find here, but there are some exceptions. The sign at Tor Comics says it's a "law office," but when you see the giant Spiderman Statue outside, you'll know you're in the right place. Once you're inside, though, it's a collector's paradise. People drive from all over NY to buy comics, baseball cards and more here.
The Bloomin House is technically a garden center, but if you are into plants, you'll love the 14 greenhouses and rows of plants in-between each greenhouse. Topiary trees and garden decor are charming. Situated on both sides of Waverly Ave., this place gets busy on the weekend, so try to go during the week
Dining Out
La Capannina's Italian food is perfect for pre- or post-movie dates. Right next door to the movie theater complex, specialties to try include Rice Balls and Chicken Parmigiana. It's close to the Long Island Expressway too, in case you are headed in or out of town.
On the Border Mexican Food serves a torta Cubana and a Patron Margarita that locals love as much the friendly owners, who heavily support the community.
Get Outside
There's only one park in Holtsville, but it's just a short drive (11 minutes) to Fire Island National Seashore for water sports, boating and lounging on the shore.
Getting Around
Holtsville's Walk Score is 29 out of one hundred points. Don't even try to get along without a car. The best train station for commuting to New York City is at Ronkonkoma. You'll have to drive to get there. Long Island MacArthur Airport in Islip is also only 10 miles from Holtsville.
