It was a typical summer afternoon on Long Island when Billy Joel, clad in his signature leather jacket, cruised down the winding roads in his motorcycle. This was just another rider enjoying the ocean breeze to the casual passerby. But for those in the know, this was no ordinary local—the “Piano Man” himself, returning to his seaside mansion. For decades, Billy Joel has called Long Island home, a place that reflects both his roots and the source of much of his musical inspiration. Nestled along the coast, his properties offer him the serenity and seclusion he needs, away from the bright lights and clamour of New York City.
Billy Joel’s Primary Residence: Oyster Bay, Long Island
Where does Billy Joel live? Billy Joel’s primary residence is a sprawling estate on Centre Island, an affluent hamlet in Oyster Bay, Long Island. This part of Long Island, known for its exclusivity and breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound, has been home to several high-profile residents. For Joel, who has long cherished his connection to Long Island, this property is the perfect sanctuary where he can retreat after a world tour or a performance at Madison Square Garden.
In 2002, Joel purchased the 14,000-square-foot mansion for a reported $22 million, according to Variety. The house sits on 14 acres of prime waterfront land, offering panoramic views of the Long Island Sound. The mansion, designed in a modern colonial style, features high ceilings, multiple fireplaces, and expansive windows that flood the home with natural light. The property also boasts a private dock, perfect for Joel’s love of boating.
Joel’s love for the sea is well-documented; his home reflects that passion. The estate includes access to the Long Island Sound, where he can take his boat out for leisurely trips along the water. Boating has been a significant part of his life—he even owns a custom-built boat named “Alexa,” after his daughter.
The Historic Village of Oyster Bay
Oyster Bay, where Centre Island is located, is a picturesque village steeped in history and charm. It’s also home to some of the wealthiest individuals in New York, with the median home price sitting at over $1.5 million in 2023, according to Zillow. However, properties like Joel’s, located on prime waterfront land, are valued significantly higher, often in the tens of millions.
Oyster Bay offers a balance of seclusion and community. While it feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, it’s only about a 45-minute drive from the city. This makes it ideal for someone like Joel, who frequently performs in New York but craves the privacy and tranquillity of a coastal retreat.
Billy Joel’s Other Properties
Though Oyster Bay is his primary residence, Billy Joel has owned several other properties over the years, showcasing his preference for high-end real estate in some of the country’s most beautiful areas.
- Sag Harbor, Long Island
In addition to his Centre Island mansion, Joel has owned property in Sag Harbor, another Long Island enclave known for its Hamptons appeal. 2014 Joel purchased a charming 19th-century home in this historic whaling village. The property, located right on the water, cost him $5.9 million, according to The New York Times. Sag Harbor has long been a favoured retreat for artists, writers, and celebrities, offering a laid-back, artistic community vibe.
Joel sold the Sag Harbor property in 2021 for $10 million, doubling his investment. The home, which features a classic New England style, includes a private dock and stunning views of Sag Harbor Bay.
- Palm Beach, Florida
While Long Island has always been Joel’s primary home base, he also spends significant time in Palm Beach, Florida. In 2015, Joel purchased a mansion in the exclusive Palm Beach neighbourhood of Manalapan for $22 million, according to The Wall Street Journal. The Mediterranean-style home spans over 13,000 square feet. It features all the amenities you would expect in a luxury Palm Beach estate, including a private beach, multiple swimming pools, and lush tropical gardens.
Palm Beach has become a favourite retreat for the ultra-wealthy, and it’s no surprise that Joel, who enjoys his privacy, would choose this upscale location for a winter getaway. Florida’s warm climate and tax advantages for residents are just a few of the reasons many celebrities, including Joel, maintain properties there.
Why Long Island?
Despite his global fame and success, Billy Joel has always connected deeply to Long Island. It’s where he was born and grew up, and many of his early musical experiences took place. As a young musician, Joel played in bars and clubs across Long Island, and his love for the region is evident in many of his songs.
In interviews, Joel has often spoken about the importance of Long Island in shaping his music. Songs like “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant” and “The Downeaster’ Alexa'” were inspired by his life on the island. Living near the water, whether on Long Island or in Florida, has provided Joel with the peace and inspiration to craft his iconic songs.
In a Rolling Stone interview, Joel noted, “There’s something about the water, the waves, the horizon—it gives you space to think. It’s where I do my best work.”
Real Estate as an Investment
Beyond his love for living near the water, Billy Joel’s real estate moves are also savvy financial investments. Over the years, his properties have appreciated significantly, allowing him to capitalize on the booming real estate market, particularly in exclusive areas like Long Island and Palm Beach.
For example, when Joel sold his Sag Harbor property for $10 million, he netted a significant return on investment, more than double what he paid for the home. Similarly, his Centre Island estate has likely increased in value since he purchased it in 2002, given the rising property values in Oyster Bay.
According to Realtor.com, properties in waterfront locations, especially those with private access to the ocean or bays, have seen a consistent increase in value, often by 15-20% over the past decade.
The Future of Joel’s Real Estate Portfolio
While Billy Joel continues to call Long Island home, speculation is that he may further expand his real estate portfolio, particularly in Florida. Given the rising popularity of Palm Beach among wealthy buyers, Joel’s investment in the area is likely to appreciate further in value. Additionally, with more musicians and celebrities seeking quiet, private retreats, Joel’s properties in Long Island remain among the most desirable on the market.
Conclusion: Home is Where the Piano Is
For Billy Joel, home is more than just a physical space—it’s a place of creativity, reflection, and connection to his roots. Whether it’s his sprawling mansion in Oyster Bay or his luxurious retreat in Palm Beach, Joel’s homes reflect the balance he’s struck between global superstardom and the quiet life of a Long Island native. As real estate prices in these exclusive areas continue to rise, Joel’s properties remain some of the most iconic celebrity homes in the U.S., each serving as a sanctuary and a sound financial investment.
