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assapequa Park, a village on Long Island's South Shore, has earned top honors in New York State as the best place to live. According to US News & World Report's 2025-2026 list of the top places to live in America, Massapequa Park ranked first among all cities and towns in the Empire State.

    The village boasts a strong public school system, easy access to beaches, and a convenient commute to New York City for those heading to work. A total of 850 cities and towns were evaluated based on factors such as affordability, job prospects, crime rates, and quality of life indicators, with a public survey giving weight to these criteria.

    While Massapequa Park ranked first in the Empire State, it fell short of the national top spot, coming in at 140th out of 250 cities. Residents are thrilled about the recognition, citing the village's friendly community, great food, and overall quality of life. The median home price in Massapequa Park is $746,500, more than twice the statewide median sale price.

    The village has faced challenges in the past, including a high-profile arrest related to the Gilgo Beach serial killings. However, locals are now basking in the positive attention, with many expressing pride and enthusiasm on social media about the US News & World Report distinction.

    Massapequa Park's ranking is a departure from last year's list, which saw Buffalo lead the New York pack. The village's mayor shared the news on Facebook, eliciting largely enthusiastic responses from residents. While some expressed concerns about increased property values and potential gentrification, others celebrated the recognition as a testament to the village's unique charm and quality of life.