South Valley Stream, NY

220 Apartments for Rent

The theme to the 80s sitcom Cheers was partially written by South Valley Stream resident Gary Portnoy; its refrain about going "where everybody knows your name" might have been based on his experience growing up in this small Long Island town just east of Queens.

South Valley Stream is a small hamlet in the town of Hempstead, New York, that is home to just under 6,000 people. It is a friendly town full of diverse people that is close enough to Queens and New York city to allow residents to feel like they live in the big city while experiencing all the benefits of small town life -- great neighbors, light traffic and peace and quiet. It is conveniently located within driving distance of Jones Beach in one direction and New York City in the other, making it an ideal location no matter what type of activities you enjoy in your spare time.

Moving to South Valley Stream

As you might imagine, housing is at a premium in South Valley Stream because of the location. That doesn't mean you should give up on the idea of finding rental properties in South Valley Stream, however. Just start your search early and give yourself at least three to six months to find rental apartments or house rentals. Doing your research is key!

Before beginning your search for rental apartments or a condo for rent, gather all your documentation. South Valley Stream can be a bit pricey, so make sure that you have proof you make at least three times the monthly rent, a reference from your previous landlord attesting to your greatness as a tenant -- and that you pay rent on time -- and a positive credit report. You will also need your driver's license and Social Security card so that your prospective new landlord can run his or her own credit check, just to make sure you are who you say you are.

Neighborhoods

South Valley Stream consists of two distinct neighborhoods in addition to Valley Stream proper.

North Woodmere: This small neighborhood is bounded by Mott's Creek on the south. It offers easy access to Brooklyn and Queens via the Belt Parkway, though there is plenty to do without leaving town. North Woodmere has its own shopping area, two schools and three synagogues.

Mill Brook: Mill Brook was incorporated during the Great Depression as part of a plan to stimulate the economy. Today, it is located close to the Green Acres shopping mall, one of the largest malls in Nassau County, and features two school districts and a large park.

Valley Stream proper: Valley Stream proper, located just north of South Valley Stream, shares its western border with Queens. There is a Long Island Railroad station here for easy access to New York City and it is easy to get to JFK Airport via the Belt Parkway, making travel a snap.

Living in South Valley Stream

South Valley Stream may be small, but it is not a sleepy little town by any stretch of the imagination. It is home to one of the most diverse populations anywhere in the United States; people from a variety of backgrounds live, work and go to school together here. South Valley Stream is known for its shopping because of its proximity to Green Acres Mall. There are also seven colleges or universities within a few miles, making it an ideal location for students who wish to commute rather than live on campus, and there are several elementary, middle and secondary schools in the area. People here often commute to work in Queens, Brooklyn or Manhattan; it is also very easy to get to these cities to enjoy theater, movies and cultural events. Finally, its proximity to Sunrise Highway makes it easy to jump in the car and go east to enjoy the beaches and other attractions on eastern Long Island.