Islip

Islip is an administrative town in Suffolk County that covers Long Island's South Shore with residential neighborhoods, shopping districts, and waterfront areas facing the Atlantic Ocean. The town stretches across varied terrain, mixing suburban development with open spaces and recreational waterways.

The name comes from Islip in Northamptonshire, England, when Matthias Nicoll's son William purchased the land from Native American chief Winne-quaheagh in 1683. Settlement remained small until rapid suburban expansion began in the mid-1900s.

Long Island MacArthur Airport in Islip serves as a transportation center, connecting residents to multiple destinations while supporting regional economic development through aviation services.

The town offers several parks and water access for recreation, making it easy to find outdoor activities throughout the area. Schools, libraries, and municipal services are distributed across neighborhoods for convenient access.

After World War II, Islip transformed rapidly from a summer destination into a major suburban area, with its population increasing from 71,000 to 280,000 between 1950 and 1970.

Location: Suffolk County

Inception: 1683

Elevation above the sea: 2 m

Shares border with: Babylon, Brookhaven, Huntington, Smithtown

Website: http://townofislip-ny.gov

GPS coordinates: 40.75667,-73.19889

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:31