Cost of Living in Shelter Island, NY

With a cost of living index of 163, Shelter Island, NY is one of the most expensive cities in the United States. Living here is 63% more expensive than the national average and 52% above the New York state average of 111. Shelter Island is a small community of 2,281 residents.

The median household income in Shelter Island is $129,410, which is 72% higher than the national median of $75,149. While incomes are above average, they more than offset the higher cost of living.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Shelter Island. The area sees an average annual temperature of 53°F, with summers averaging 71°F and winters around 36°F. Annual rainfall totals 44.3 inches spread over roughly 125 days.

Everyday prices in the New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area tend to run above the national average. Out of 6 common grocery and utility items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced higher than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.