Looking for a great place to settle down on Long Island? Lake Ronkonkoma might be just the spot for you. This welcoming hamlet in the Town of Brookhaven combines affordable homes, lakefront charm, and easy commuting options, all while offering the kind of community vibe that makes you feel right at home.
It’s served by top-rated school districts—Sachem Central and Middle Country Central—and getting around is simple, thanks to nearby highways and the Ronkonkoma LIRR station, one of the most convenient train hubs on Long Island.
A Place with History and Heart
Lake Ronkonkoma gets its name from the beautiful glacial lake at the center of town—the largest freshwater lake on Long Island. The lake holds a special place in local history, once sacred to Native American tribes like the Setauket and Secatogue. Over time, it became a popular summer getaway, with lakeside cottages and resorts that gave way to full-time neighborhoods after World War II.
The postwar years brought big changes, as roads like the Long Island Expressway and Veterans Memorial Highway made commuting easier and encouraged more people to move in year-round. Today, around 18,000 people live in Lake Ronkonkoma, with strong ties to the community and a high number of owner-occupied homes.
Home Styles and Property Sizes
What kind of homes can you expect here? A little bit of everything! Lake Ronkonkoma has mid-century ranches, cozy Cape Cods, and Split-Level homes that date back to the housing boom of the 1950s and ’60s. Many of these homes are tucked into tree-lined neighborhoods or even offer views of the lake.
In newer areas, you’ll find colonial-style homes and more modern suburban builds with room to grow. Most properties come with lots ranging from 7,000 square feet up to about a third of an acre—with some larger ones available, especially closer to the lake.
Even as prices across Suffolk County have gone up, Lake Ronkonkoma remains one of the more affordable options in the area. The median sale price for a single-family home is just over $550,000, and there are condos and co-ops available at even lower price points—great for first-time buyers.
Why Residents Love Living Here
One of the biggest perks of Lake Ronkonkoma is—you guessed it—the lake. It’s perfect for kayaking, fishing, or just taking a walk along the shore. Lake Ronkonkoma County Park offers picnic areas, sports fields, playgrounds, and walking trails that make it easy to enjoy the outdoors.
When it’s time to run errands or grab a bite to eat, you’re close to everything. Portion Road, Ronkonkoma Avenue, and Veterans Memorial Highway are packed with shopping and dining options, from well-known stores to local favorites.
Families especially love the area for its highly rated schools like Sachem High School North, and for the Sachem Public Library, which is consistently recognized as one of the best in the county.
Fun and Recreation for Everyone
Lake Ronkonkoma has no shortage of ways to stay active and have fun. The community is full of parks, sports fields, playgrounds, and places for kids (and adults) to enjoy year-round. Local highlights include Indoor Extreme Sports, RPM Raceway, and plenty of spaces to enjoy weekend adventures.
There’s also a growing cultural scene, with events and programs hosted by civic groups and educational institutions, including the former Dowling College lakeside campus, which now serves the community in various ways.
Thinking About Making a Move? Team Rita Is Here to Help
Lake Ronkonkoma is a fantastic place to call home—especially if you’re looking for a relaxed suburban lifestyle with natural beauty, great schools, and easy access to NYC. And if you’re ready to explore homes in the area, Team Rita would love to help.
Our office is just minutes away in Centereach, and we know the Lake Ronkonkoma market inside and out. Whether you’re buying your first home or looking to make a move, we’ll help you find the perfect fit.
Reach out to Team Rita today to schedule a showing or ask about open houses in Lake Ronkonkoma, NY. We’re ready to help you take the next step toward your dream home!