Living in Edgemere: Pros, Cons & What Buyers Should Know
- Nicole Switzer, REALTOR®

- Jul 2
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 12

Living in Edgemere: What Makes This Neighborhood Unique?
Living in Edgemere offers buyers an opportunity to enjoy coastal living in Queens with convenient beach access, a growing residential community, and proximity to everything the Rockaway Peninsula has to offer.
If you are thinking about moving to Edgemere, Queens, you probably want a clear picture of what life looks like in this coastal neighborhood. As a local REALTOR®, I’ve helped many buyers navigate the unique opportunities and challenges of buying a home in 11692. This Edgemere neighborhood guide covers everything from housing options and prices to schools, transportation, and safety. By the end, you’ll understand if Edgemere fits your lifestyle and how it compares to nearby areas like Arverne and Far Rockaway.
Housing Options and Prices in Edgemere
Edgemere homes for sale range from modest single-family houses to small multi-family buildings. The neighborhood offers a mix of older homes and some newer construction, often more affordable than other parts of Queens.
Typical home prices in 11692 hover between $350,000 and $600,000, depending on size and condition.
Property taxes tend to be moderate compared to other Queens neighborhoods, which helps keep monthly costs manageable.
Many homes come with yards or small gardens, a rarity in more densely packed NYC areas.
For first-time buyers or investors, Edgemere offers a chance to enter the market without the high price tags seen in Manhattan or Brooklyn. However, some properties may need renovation, so budgeting for repairs is wise.

Beach Access and Outdoor Spaces
One of Edgemere’s biggest draws is its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Residents enjoy easy access to the beach, which is perfect for summer days, jogging, or family outings.
The neighborhood borders the Rockaway Peninsula, giving you miles of sandy shorelines.
Nearby parks like Bayswater Park provide green space for picnics, sports, and playgrounds.
The waterfront also offers fishing spots and scenic views that many buyers find appealing.
If you value outdoor living and want a neighborhood where you can enjoy nature without leaving the city, living in Edgemere offers that balance.
Schools and Community Services
Families considering moving to Edgemere often ask about schools. The neighborhood has several public schools serving K-12 students, though some parents choose to explore charter or private options in nearby Queens areas.
PS/MS 114 is a local public school with a focus on community involvement.
Nearby high schools offer programs in arts and technology.
Community centers provide after-school activities and support services.
While schools in Edgemere may not rank among the highest in Queens, many families appreciate the close-knit community feel and the efforts to improve education locally.
Transportation and Commuting
Getting around Edgemere and commuting to other parts of NYC is a key consideration for buyers.
The A train services the Rockaway Park branch, with stations in nearby Arverne and Far Rockaway, connecting to Manhattan in about an hour.
Several bus routes run through the neighborhood, linking residents to subway hubs and local shopping areas.
For drivers, the Belt Parkway is accessible for trips outside the city.
Commuting times are longer than in central Queens or Brooklyn, so this neighborhood suits buyers who prioritize affordability and beach access over a short commute.
Shopping, Dining, and Local Amenities
Edgemere offers a modest but growing selection of shops and restaurants.
Small grocery stores and bodegas serve daily needs.
Nearby Arverne and Far Rockaway provide more dining options, including seafood spots and casual eateries.
The Rockaway Beach Boardwalk hosts seasonal events and food vendors during warmer months.
While not a major commercial hub, Edgemere’s local businesses support a comfortable lifestyle with essentials close by.
Safety and Neighborhood Feel
Safety is often a top concern for homebuyers. Edgemere has seen improvements in recent years, with community policing and neighborhood watch programs active in the area.
Crime rates have decreased but remain higher than some other Queens neighborhoods.
Residents often describe Edgemere as a quiet, family-oriented community.
Neighborhood groups work to maintain public spaces and organize events.
If you value a community where neighbors know each other and work together, Edgemere offers that environment, though it’s important to stay informed about safety updates.
Future Redevelopment and Investment Potential
The city has plans to invest in the Rockaway Peninsula, including Edgemere, focusing on infrastructure upgrades and flood protection.
New housing developments and commercial projects are in progress nearby.
Improvements to public spaces and transportation are expected to increase property values.
Buyers looking for long-term growth may find Edgemere a promising option.
That said, redevelopment can bring construction noise and changes to the neighborhood character, so weigh these factors carefully.
How Edgemere Compares to Arverne, Arverne By The Sea, and Far Rockaway
Arverne offers a similar coastal vibe but has seen more upscale development, especially in Arverne By The Sea, with modern condos and townhouses.
Far Rockaway has a larger commercial district and more transit options but also faces challenges with crime and aging infrastructure.
Edgemere remains more affordable and quieter, making it attractive for buyers seeking value and a slower pace.
Choosing between these neighborhoods depends on your priorities: affordability, amenities, or newer housing.
Who Should Consider Living in Edgemere
Edgemere suits buyers who want:
Affordable homes near the beach
A family-friendly, community-focused neighborhood
Access to outdoor activities and parks
A quieter lifestyle away from the city’s busiest areas
Potential for property value growth with future redevelopment
For first-time buyers, families, and investors willing to put in some work, Edgemere offers a unique opportunity in Queens.
Thinking About Buying or Selling in the Rockaways?
Whether you're considering a move to Rockaway Beach, Arverne, Arverne By The Sea, Belle Harbor, Far Rockaway, or elsewhere on the Rockaway Peninsula, Nicole Switzer with Rockaway Properties specializes in waterfront homes, beach properties, multifamily homes, and helping buyers and sellers throughout Queens.
Meet Nicole Switzer

Nicole Switzer is a REALTOR® with Rockaway Properties, helping buyers and sellers throughout the Rockaway Peninsula and surrounding Queens neighborhoods.
Proudly serving:
Rockaway Beach • Arverne • Arverne By The Sea • Edgemere • Far Rockaway • Rockaway Park • Belle Harbor • Neponsit • Broad Channel • Howard Beach
📞 917-921-5266📧 nswitzer@rockaprop.com🌐 www.nicoleswitzer.com


