Shelter Island, NY
Population 2,281 · New York
About Shelter Island, NY
Shelter Island is a small community in New York with a population of 2,281 residents. The median household income is $129,410 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Shelter Island is 40.6 years.
Housing in Shelter Island has a median home value of $1,019,000 and median monthly rent of $0. Of the 1,488 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 675 owner-occupied and 127 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Shelter Island is 4.3% and the poverty rate is 1.2%. 55.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 36.7 minutes.
Cost of Living in Shelter Island, NY
Compared to national averages, Shelter Island has a median household income of $129,410 (72% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $1,019,000, which is 316% above the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within New York, Shelter Island's income is 33% above the state average of $96,987, and home values are 163% above the state median of $387,181.
Why Live in Shelter Island, NY?
Shelter Island offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $129,410, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a well-educated community where 55.0% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 1.2%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $1,019,000. However, Shelter Island’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Shelter Island has a population of 2,281 with a median age of 40.6 years. Compare Shelter Island with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New York.
Similar Cities Near Shelter Island
Cities in New York with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bedford Hills | 2,283 | $102,750 | $491,500 | Compare |
| Lake Katrine | 2,284 | $64,038 | $210,700 | Compare |
| Glasco | 2,275 | $58,808 | $296,400 | Compare |
| Fort Plain | 2,274 | $37,600 | $78,700 | Compare |
| Granville | 2,270 | $44,940 | $140,800 | Compare |
| Buchanan | 2,296 | $127,375 | $492,000 | Compare |
| Marist College | 2,300 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| Eastport | 2,259 | $129,034 | $632,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in New York
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Shelter Island
What is the population of Shelter Island, NY?
The population of Shelter Island, NY is 2,281 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Shelter Island?
The median household income in Shelter Island, NY is $129,410 per year.
What is the median home value in Shelter Island?
The median home value in Shelter Island, NY is $1,019,000.
What is the average rent in Shelter Island?
The median monthly rent in Shelter Island, NY is $0.
What is the unemployment rate in Shelter Island?
The unemployment rate in Shelter Island, NY is 4.3%.