Monsey

Monsey is a hamlet and census-designated place in the town of Ramapo, Rockland County, New York, United States. It lies in the southern Hudson Valley region, near Spring Valley and other Ramapo communities, and is served by several major roads that connect it with surrounding towns.

The community is dominated by a large Orthodox Jewish population, including Hasidic and other Orthodox groups. Monsey contains a concentration of synagogues, yeshivas, and Jewish day schools, along with kosher markets, bakeries, and other businesses that cater to residents and visitors. The area has experienced significant growth since the late 20th century as families moved to Ramapo for housing and religious education, contributing to Monsey’s development as a major center of religious life in suburban New York.

Education and institutions in Monsey reflect its religious character. A substantial portion of residents attend private religious schools and yeshivas in Monsey and nearby communities, while public schooling is provided by nearby districts. The town also maintains a network of community organizations, charitable groups, and cultural venues that serve its diverse Orthodox population.

Notable events in recent memory include a mass stabbing at a Chanukah gathering in Monsey in December 2019, which injured several people and drew national attention to security and safety concerns in the community. The incident highlighted broader discussions about anti-Semitism and community resilience in suburban areas.

Monsey is characterized by a suburban, hilly landscape, with residential neighborhoods interspersed with commercial corridors. It functions as a local hub for religious life, education, and small businesses within the Ramapo region.