Hamptons Transforms Into High-End Celebrity Resort Amid Local Tensions

The Hamptons have undergone significant transformations over the decades, from a relatively modest summer retreat to a symbol of extreme wealth and social status, marked by megamansions and celebrity-driven events. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated price surges, intensifying tensions among longtime working-class locals, the growing Latino community, and affluent newcomers, with political and generational shifts evident across the region. Westhampton Beach stands out as a less stuffy, more affordable area with an old-money feel, though it exhibits political divides, including ties to pro-Trump groups and local disputes like the Shinnecock Nation's controversial gas station project. The region's distinctive culture is also reflected in its niche luxury goods, artisanal crafts, and highly specialized service providers who cater to the wealthy elite. Despite these changes, each town grapples with preserving its unique identity amid rising commercialization and demographic shifts. The Hamptons today embody a complex mix of exclusivity, evolving social dynamics, and ongoing conflicts between tradition and modern affluence.