Village Of The Branch

Village of the Branch was named for a portion (or branch) of the Nissequogue River that flows through the community. Stewards of the one-square-mile incorporated village, with a population of fewer than 1,750 residents, take its history very seriously. A 20-acre parcel of land, upon which a slew of lovingly preserved homes stands, a church and a library constructed as early as the 18th century, was designated a historic district. Even newer homes in Village of the Branch were designed in a style that respects the community’s original architectural influences. Karen Roth, a licensed associate broker at RE/MAX Integrity Leaders in nearby Centereach, says clients seeking a small, quiet and close-knit community tend to seek out areas like Village of the Branch. “Homebuyers who want to know all of their neighbors and enjoy a country-club vibe will like it here.”<br><br>Village of the Branch is not a coastal community, and it’s far enough west from summertime hotspots in the Hamptons. But that doesn’t mean the community is immune to tourism. Due to its proximity to beaches, event venues, shopping and restaurants, village trustees voted to regulate short-term rentals a few years ago. The purpose of the law is to ensure residents’ quality of life.<br><br>Despite the perceived exclusivity, buyers can find a home in Village of the Branch starting at just over $550,000. But the average cost of real estate ranges from $700,000 to $900,000. Homes are typically on generously sized lots. In the summer of 2023, only three houses were listed for sale in the village, fetching anywhere from $1 million to $2.5 million.<br><br>Village of the Branch is served by one of the top school districts in Suffolk County, according to Niche. Three public primary schools in the neighborhood, Dogwood Elementary School, Smithtown Elementary School and Mount Pleasant Elementary School, get an A- from Niche, which averages scores from categories like academics and teacher performance. Several nearby private schools are popular with Smithtown families, including St. Patrick’s School and Ivy League School, both of which are for pre-kindergarten to eighth-grade students. On a scale of one to 10, GreatSchools gives Smithtown High School East an eight for test scores and a nine for college readiness.<br><br>Village of the Branch has a plentiful selection of eateries for such a small neighborhood, especially along Main Street and Route 111. When Dirty Taco + Tequila opened in Smithtown – the restaurant’s fifth Long Island branch – Newsday reported that locals waited in line for two hours to get their hands on LA-style tacos and margaritas made with fresh juice.<br>Other neighborhood joints in Village of the Branch include Blue Bean Café, a popular spot for organic, vegan and gluten-free food and beverages; and the reliable Millennium Diner. Deloar Khan, a licensed real estate salesperson with AVS Realty in Deer Park, says that diners are some of the most treasured restaurants in Long Island. This one is located down the street from the Smithtown Long Island Rail Road station. It’s a convenient spot to grab breakfast or dinner before and after a long day at the office.<br><br>This part of Smithtown is buzzing with restaurants, bars, salons, pharmacies, pet supplies and grocery stores.<br><br>Millers Pond is a local fishing hole in a 21-acre park in Village of the Branch. Anglers can catch warm water species like largemouth bass, perch, and bullhead.<br>A few years ago, when the news broke regarding stronger short-term rental laws, it was notable because Village of the Branch isn’t exactly a hotspot for large crowds or hopping events. When it comes to local activities, it’s a whole different story. The Town of Smithtown has a variety of classes and programs for residents, from cultural arts workshops to horseback riding, sailing, backyard games and day trips. The town posts event dates and registration information on its website. It’s a great way to get to know the neighbors on a first-name basis.