How Riverhead’s Tanger Outlets Are Transforming Long Island Living and Drawing New Residents in 2025

Long Island’s retail landscape is experiencing a remarkable transformation, and at the center of this evolution lies Riverhead’s Tanger Outlets. As 2025 unfolds, this premier shopping destination isn’t just attracting weekend shoppers—it’s becoming a catalyst for residential growth that’s reshaping the entire region’s demographic profile.

Tanger’s Strategic Expansion Fuels Regional Growth

Tanger Outlets Riverhead continues to welcome new retailers to its lineup, with recent additions including Collette Home, GOAT USA, and Movado, complementing an evolving retail mix that recently welcomed Wacoal, Arteriors and Smash-it Pickleball. This continuous expansion reflects more than just retail diversification—it signals a robust economic ecosystem that’s drawing families and professionals to establish roots in the area.

The outlet center has become Riverhead’s biggest tax revenue generator, with town officials recognizing the national trend of retail adaptation to combat the challenges posed by online shopping. As Long Island’s largest outlet center featuring over 130 manufacturer designer outlet stores, the complex is strategically positioned at the gateway to Long Island’s East End, conveniently located at the eastern end of the Long Island Expressway.

Population Surge Reflects Economic Opportunity

The numbers tell a compelling story of growth and prosperity. Between 2022 and 2023, Riverhead’s population grew from 14,388 to 15,073, representing a substantial 4.76% increase, while median household income jumped from $73,197 to $83,521, marking a remarkable 14.1% increase. This demographic shift indicates that Riverhead isn’t just attracting visitors—it’s becoming home to a growing number of residents drawn by economic opportunities and quality of life improvements.

The 2025 projected population for Riverhead is 36,236, based on an annual rate of change of 0.5%, consistent with recent population growth patterns. This steady growth trajectory suggests that the retail-driven economic development is creating sustainable, long-term appeal for new residents.

Zoning Changes Enable Diversified Development

Riverhead Town is considering zoning amendments that would greatly expand the types of businesses permitted at Tanger Outlets and surrounding properties, including general retail stores, specialty markets, restaurants, furniture showrooms and certain indoor and outdoor recreation facilities. For the first time, restaurants are now a permitted use, whether stand-alone or part of a retail center.

These regulatory changes reflect a forward-thinking approach to mixed-use development that creates more reasons for people to not just visit, but to live in the area. The integration of dining, entertainment, and recreational facilities alongside traditional retail creates a lifestyle destination that appeals to modern families and professionals.

The Moving Industry Responds to Regional Growth

As Riverhead’s population continues to expand, the demand for professional relocation services has grown correspondingly. Families and businesses relocating to take advantage of the area’s economic opportunities require specialized moving expertise that understands both the local landscape and the unique challenges of Long Island relocations.

For those considering a move to the Riverhead area, partnering with experienced Moving Companies Riverhead can ensure a smooth transition. Avatar Relocation, a Long Island-based moving company, exemplifies the type of specialized service that growing communities like Riverhead require. As an Atlas Van Lines Quality Focus Award-winning agent, Avatar provides comprehensive relocation services including local and long-distance moves, specialized packing for high-value items, and storage solutions.

Infrastructure and Quality of Life Improvements

The infrastructure of Riverhead is improving rapidly, with roads in poor repair being upgraded quickly. These improvements support both the increased retail traffic and the growing residential population, creating a positive feedback loop that enhances the area’s appeal.

Living in Riverhead offers residents a suburban rural mix feel, with most residents owning their homes, attracting both young professionals and retirees. This demographic diversity contributes to a stable, growing community that benefits from the economic activity generated by the Tanger Outlets.

Looking Ahead: Sustainable Growth Model

Tanger Factory Outlet Centers reported strong financial performance in 2025, with a 9.4% rise in core funds from operations, occupancy increasing to 96.6%, and tenant sales growing 6.2%. This financial stability provides confidence for continued investment in the area and suggests that the growth trajectory will continue.

The success of Riverhead’s retail-driven development model demonstrates how strategic commercial development can create ripple effects throughout a community. As more retailers establish presence at Tanger Outlets, they create jobs, generate tax revenue, and attract supporting businesses—all of which contribute to making the area more attractive for residential development.

For prospective residents considering a move to this thriving Long Island community, the combination of economic opportunity, improving infrastructure, and strategic location makes Riverhead an increasingly attractive destination. The ongoing transformation driven by Tanger Outlets’ success represents more than retail growth—it’s the foundation of a sustainable community development model that’s attracting new residents and creating lasting value for the region.