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What Is the East Moriches Historic District?
To understand why 428 Montauk Highway is part of the East Moriches Historic District, it helps to know a little about what this designation means — and why it matters.
The Town of Brookhaven, which governs East Moriches, officially established the East Moriches Historic District in November 2001. This designation was created to recognize and preserve the area’s architectural heritage and its connection to the rich history of Long Island’s South Shore.
Drone Photo East Moriches Montauk Highway
Within the district, you’ll find a collection of beautifully maintained homes, historic landmarks, and notable transition zones that reflect the charm and character of East Moriches through the centuries. The official district map outlines its boundaries, key landmarks, and contributing structures, showing how this community continues to celebrate its past while welcoming new generations of homeowners.
Brookhaven Town Map of East Moriches Historic District
Living in the East Moriches Historic District
The East Moriches Historic District is recognized for its collection of homes, buildings, and sites that together tell the story of the community’s rich past. These properties showcase architectural styles and cultural influences that have shaped East Moriches for more than a century.
Purpose and Oversight
According to the Town of Brookhaven, which oversees the district, the goal of this designation is to preserve the historic character and visual harmony of the area. Any exterior changes—such as additions, new construction, or demolition—are carefully reviewed by the Historic District Advisory Committee (HDAC) to ensure that updates respect the district’s unique charm and architectural integrity.
Property owners within the district (and in the adjacent “transition zones”) must obtain approval for certain exterior alterations. These guidelines help maintain the district’s timeless aesthetic while protecting its value and heritage for future generations.
To support homeowners in preserving these historic treasures, the town also offers property tax benefits that help offset the costs of restoration and upkeep.
This careful balance between preservation and modern living sets the stage for a truly special opportunity—428 Montauk Highway, a beautifully restored Historic Colonial estate located right in the heart of the East Moriches Historic District.
Historic Colonial Estate with Cottage – Zoned Residential/Commercial
Website to more details about the Listing
428 MONTAUK HIGHWAY | EAST MORICHES
The main house features 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, showcasing original wood flooring and timeless craftsmanship.
The primary suite offers a serene retreat with cathedral ceilings, a dressing room, sliding doors to a covered balcony, and a luxurious bath with jacuzzi, separate shower, double vanity, and skylight.
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The charming cottage, reconstructed in the 2000s and renovated in 2024, includes 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom.
Highlights include a modern kitchen, cathedral ceilings with skylight, separate utilities, laundry, a private fenced yard, deck, and storage shed — perfect for a rental.
Why 428 Montauk Highway Is Part of the East Moriches Historic District
428 Montauk Highway earns its place in the East Moriches Historic District thanks to its late-19th-century Colonial farmhouse design and the many original features it still retains. These details help preserve the architectural charm and historic character that define the area.
Located along Montauk Highway — East Moriches’ historic Main Street corridor — the home stands among other notable buildings that once formed the center of the community. Together, they create a distinctive historic streetscape, where the collective charm and history of each property enhance the value and beauty of the whole district.
The Benefits of Owning a Home in the East Moriches Historic District
Owning a property like 428 Montauk Highway offers more than just the pride of homeownership — it comes with the privilege of being part of East Moriches’ living history.
As a designated historic property, the home enjoys a level of prestige and recognition that few others do. This status not only highlights its architectural and cultural importance but can also enhance long-term property value and attract buyers who appreciate heritage and craftsmanship.
While exterior changes — such as new siding, windows, or additions — must be reviewed by the Historic District Advisory Committee (HDAC) to ensure they align with the area’s historic character, the guidelines are designed to balance preservation with flexibility.
Homeowners are encouraged to update and improve their properties, so long as the work respects the integrity of the district.
Additionally, historic designation brings potential tax advantages, as the Town of Brookhaven allows for partial tax relief to help offset restoration and maintenance costs.
For the owner of 428 Montauk Highway, this means enjoying both the beauty and prestige of a landmark home — while contributing to the preservation of one of Long Island’s most charming and historically rich communities.
Real Estate in East Moriches
While the rolling farmland, vintage churches and tree-lined lanes evoke a simpler time, East Moriches’s real-estate landscape is very much 21st century. A cozy early-1900s ranch near Hart Cove might list for under $500,000; a restored and expanded farmhouse from the same era often commands closer to $800,000. Along the coastline, sprawling properties with water access and acreage can fetch $1.2 million or more—and still remain far more affordable than similarly sized homes just five miles west in the Hamptons, where comparable homes can top $3 million.
Current market data underscore this dynamic. According to one reputable source, the median sold home price in East Moriches was around $790,000 in June 2025 — a gain of about 6% from the prior year. On another measurement, a recent dataset shows the median sale price at $1,308,750, marking a dramatic year-over-year rise. Redfin
What this means: East Moriches is still one of the South Shore’s last relatively “affordable” enclaves before you cross into the high-priced Hamptons. For buyers seeking historic charm, acreage, and privacy — yet conscious of budget — it’s a compelling alternative.
A Blue Ribbon Education: East Moriches School District
Families in East Moriches benefit from the highly rated East Moriches Union Free School District, earning an overall “A” from Niche. Both the elementary and middle schools are rated A‑, while Center Moriches High School boasts an A‑ rating and 9/10 for college readiness from GreatSchools.
With a graduation rate over 90% and many students moving on to top Long Island colleges like Stony Brook University, the district combines academic excellence with a close-knit, supportive community—making East Moriches a truly desirable place to call home.
Dining and Main Street Charm
While neighboring Center Moriches attracts visitors with its historic Main Street shops and cafés, East Moriches offers a quieter, more relaxed scene—yet it is not without its culinary highlights.
ITA Kitchen Waterfront East Moriches (Italian American Food) 1.2 Miles 3 minutes
At the heart of the hamlet is ITA Kitchen Waterfront East Moriches, part of a popular Long Island restaurant group. This location serves Italian-American cuisine with a creative twist, from pesto risotto balls to ricotta gnocchi, and features a spacious outdoor patio overlooking Tuthill Cove and Atlantic Avenue Park, making it one of the area’s most scenic dining destinations.
Tony’s Sushi & Steakhouse (Hibachi Asian Experience) 0.1 Mile 1 Minute
For other local favorites, Tony’s Sushi & Steakhouse offers a hibachi-style experience just a minute away, providing residents and visitors alike with a variety of flavorful options within walking distance.
From historic streetscapes to waterfront dining, East Moriches blends small-town charm with gourmet appeal, making it a delightful place to live—and to eat.
Hikes, Trails, and Local Parks
For those who love the outdoors, East Moriches offers plenty of natural escapes. Just west in Center Moriches, Webby’s Park features a playground and public beach, perfect for families and casual strolls along the water.
Closer to home, Terrell River County Park provides a more serene experience, with over two miles of hiking trails that wind along the river and through wooded areas, ideal for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying nature. Whether it’s a weekend adventure or a daily retreat, the hamlet’s parks and trails make it easy to embrace the outdoors without leaving town.
Terrell River County Park (Park, Hiking Trail) 3.1 Miles 6 Minutes from 428 Montauk Highway East Moriches.
Few would argue that East Moriches attracts residents who value preserving history over promoting rapid growth. Newcomers might feel as though they’ve stepped back in time—and that’s exactly the point. From its preserved architecture to its protected coastlines, the hamlet remains a living snapshot of early 20th-century Long Island, lovingly maintained by those determined to keep its timeless charm alive.
Residents can also enjoy the coastal lifestyle, with Moriches Bay, marinas, and water sports just a short walk away. The area offers plenty of nearby attractions, including Kaler’s Pond, Soldiers & Sailors Park, ocean and bay beaches, golf courses, theaters, galleries, restaurants, antique shops, farmers markets, wineries, and easy access to both the Hamptons and North Fork.
For those seeking a home that combines historic character, modern comforts, and a prime location, 428 Montauk Highway presents a rare opportunity to embrace the full East Moriches lifestyle—where history, community, and coastal living converge.
Best,
Marina Putova
Your go-to Real Estate and Travel Guide!
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Marina Putova Real Estate Salesperson Coldwell Banker M&D Good Life |
66 Medford Avenue Patchogue, NY 11772
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Office: (631) 289-1400
Cell: (631) 353-2549
Email: marinasellshomes@mdgoodlife.com
Website Real Estate:: http://sellwithmarinaputova.com/
