The Hamptons: Sag Harbor
When looking to purchase a home in the Hamptons, one of the biggest considerations a potential buyer will have to make, is which village or hamlet that they would like to call home. Deciding on this can help to focus your home buying search. The Hamptons, located on the eastern end of Long Island, New York, consist of a combination of villages and hamlets. There are around 20 distinct villages and hamlets in the Hamptons, including well-known areas like Southampton, East Hampton, Sag Harbor, and Bridgehampton. These communities are famous for their beautiful beaches, high-end shopping, historic sites, and vibrant arts and culture scenes, making the Hamptons a popular destination for both home buyers.
Sag Harbor is a historic and charming coastal village in the Hamptons, known for its rich maritime heritage and bustling harbor. The village features a vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries, antique shops, and annual events such as HarborFest and HarborFrost. Sag Harbor also boasts an array of dining options and boutiques, offering visitors and residents a unique blend of small-town charm and sophisticated amenities. Its picturesque streets and historic architecture reflect its significance as a former whaling port, adding to its appeal as a popular destination in the Hamptons.
Population Size
As of the latest available data, Sag Harbor has a population of approximately 2,785 residents. The population size can fluctuate with its height occurring between Memorial Day and Labor Day due to the summer seasonal residents and tourism.
Sag Harbor Public Schools and Their Rankings
Sag Harbor is served primarily by the Sag Harbor Union Free School District, which includes:
Rankings:
Pierson Middle-High School has been recognized for its academic performance and ranks well within the state and national levels. According to U.S. News & World Report, Pierson High School is ranked within the top 5% of high schools nationally, and it often performs well in state rankings due to its high graduation rates, college readiness, and strong performance in standardized tests.
International Baccalaureate (IB). Pierson High School in Sag Harbor is one of only 942 public high schools in the United States offering the IB Diploma Programme (DP). The IB program is designed to provide a rigorous and internationally recognized curriculum that encourages students to think critically, understand and respect other cultures, and develop a global perspective. IB can give students an advantage by developing strong academic, social, and emotional skills, and by being highly regarded by universities worldwide for their emphasis on holistic education and independent research. The IB Diploma Programme, in particular, prepares students for higher education through a challenging set of courses and assessments, fostering skills such as research, writing, and critical analysis.
Crime Rate
Sag Harbor is known for being a safe community with a low crime rate. Crime rates are typically measured per 100,000 people, and in small communities like Sag Harbor, specific numbers can vary year to year. However, it consistently ranks as one of the safer areas, with very few violent crimes and relatively low property crime rates.
Average Price to Buy a Home
The average home price in Sag Harbor can be quite high due to its desirability, scenic location, and affluent population. As of 2024, the median home price is around $2.5 million. Prices can vary significantly based on proximity to water, property size, and the condition of the home.
Sag Harbor Beaches
Sag Harbor features several notable beaches that offer various recreational activities and scenic views. Residents can purchase beach passes for $50 per season. Here are some of the main beaches in Sag Harbor:
Long Beach (Foster Memorial Beach):
Located on Noyac Road, just outside Sag Harbor.
Popular for its long stretch of sandy shoreline and gentle waves.
Ideal for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying sunsets over the Peconic Bay.
Sagg Main Beach:
Located a short drive from Sag Harbor in the village of Sagaponack.
Offers wide, sandy beaches with strong waves, popular among surfers.
Features amenities like lifeguards, restrooms, and parking.
Noteworthy Culture and History
Sag Harbor's historical significance as a beachfront community for Black Americans is rooted in its SANS (Sag Harbor Hills, Azurest, and Nineveh) neighborhoods. Established in the 1940s, these communities provided a rare opportunity for African-Americans to own beachfront property at a time when segregation and housing discrimination were prevalent. Visionaries like Maude Terry played a crucial role in developing these areas, overcoming barriers such as racially restrictive covenants and redlining by creating the Azurest Syndicate to facilitate land purchases and mortgages for Black families (EBONY) (SANS-- Black Beachfront Communities).
This community became a haven where African-American families could escape the systemic oppression of the era and foster a sense of belonging and freedom. Notable figures, including Langston Hughes, frequently visited the area, further enriching its cultural significance.
Sag Harbor Shops and Restaurants
While Sag Harbor has a lot of great shops and restaurants, here are a few of our favorites:
Sag Harbor Coffee/Breakfast
Sagtown Coffee: Sagtown Coffee is a cozy and inviting café in Sag Harbor known for its artisanal coffee blends, breakfast menu, and relaxed atmosphere.
Grindstone Coffee & Donuts: Grindstone Donuts is renowned for its delectable, handcrafted donuts that boast a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Jack’s Stir Brew: Jack's e is a favorite local spot renowned for its artisanal coffee blends and relaxed, community-centric vibe
Goldberg’s Bagels: Goldberg's Bagels has two locations in Sag Harbor serving their famous for its freshly baked bagels and gourmet spreads
Sag Harbor Entertainment
Sag Harbor Cinema: Sag Harbor Cinema is a beloved cultural landmark renowned for its rich history and commitment to showcasing diverse, thought-provoking films. Enjoy pre or post film viewings with a craft cocktail at The Green Room located on the rooftop and overlooking Sag Harbor Village
Bay Street Theater: Bay Street Theater is a vibrant cultural hub in Sag Harbor, known for its dynamic productions that range from classic plays to innovative new works, attracting theater enthusiasts from near and far.
Sag Harbor Books: Sag Harbor Books is a charming independent bookstore nestled in the heart of Sag Harbor, offering a curated selection of books and fostering a love for literature in the community.
Sag Harbor Markets
Schiavoni’s Market: Schiavoni's Market is a cherished Sag Harbor institution offering a delightful array of gourmet foods, fresh produce, and specialty items, embodying the essence of local charm and culinary excellence.
Provisions: Provisions in Sag Harbor is a natural foods market and cafe known for its curated selection of fine foods, artisanal products, and local provisions
Serene Green: Farm stand offering fresh local fruits, vegetables, herbs, seafood, prepared foods, a variety of fresh-baked bread, cookies, pies, local honey, fresh flowers, pantry items, and local fresh dairy items.
Sag Harbor Restaurants
The Bell & Anchor: The Bell and Anchor restaurant in Sag Harbor is celebrated for its exquisite seafood dishes served in a picturesque waterfront setting, embodying the essence of coastal dining.
Tutto Il Giorno: Tutto il Giorno in Sag Harbor is a stylish Italian restaurant known for its authentic cuisine, chic ambiance, and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for both casual dining and special occasions alike.
Sen: Sen in Sag Harbor is a contemporary Japanese restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and expertly crafted sushi and sashimi, offering a refined dining experience in the heart of the village. In the off-season, they host tasting menu experiences based on various themes.
American Hotel Restaurant: The American Hotel Restaurant in Sag Harbor is a historic dining establishment renowned for its classic American cuisine and romantic ambiance
Summary
Sag Harbor is a small and vibrant village with a strong sense of community, excellent schools, a low crime rate, and high property values. It is a desirable location for Hamptons home buyers looking for a combination of historical charm and modern amenities.