You may know Colin Jost as the sharp-witted co-anchor of Saturday Night Live’s Weekend Update, or perhaps as the husband of Scarlett Johansson. But beyond the bright lights of Studio 8H, this Emmy-nominated writer and comedian has found his slice of paradise in one of Long Island’s most coveted coastal communities.
Montauk isn’t just any beach town. It’s where the Hamptons meet the wild Atlantic, where surfers chase perfect waves at Ditch Plains, and where New York’s creative elite escape the city’s relentless pace. And right in this magical setting sits Colin Jost’s Montauk modern house, a property that tells a story of coastal elegance meeting modern comfort.
Montauk: The Ideal Coastal Haven
Why Montauk Captures Hearts
Let me paint you a picture of why Montauk is so special. Imagine driving east on Route 27, watching as the landscape transforms from manicured Hamptons estates to rugged coastal beauty. That’s when you know you’re approaching Montauk, often called “The End” because it sits at Long Island’s easternmost tip.
This isn’t your typical beach town with boardwalks and cotton candy stands. Montauk offers something rawer and more authentic. The beaches here aren’t just for sunbathing; they’re where professional surfers train, where fishing boats launch before dawn, and where you might spot seals playing in the waves during winter months.
The Creative Colony
You’re probably wondering why so many artists, writers, and performers choose Montauk over other coastal destinations. The answer lies in its unique blend of accessibility and escape. It’s close enough to New York City for weekend trips but far enough to feel like another world entirely.
The town has maintained its fishing village charm despite the influx of wealthy residents. You’ll find lobster rolls served from food trucks alongside high-end restaurants. This democratic mix appeals to creative types who value authenticity over pretense.
Real Estate Trends in Paradise
The Montauk real estate market tells an interesting story. Properties here range from modest beach cottages to sprawling oceanfront estates. What’s fascinating is how the market has evolved while maintaining its character.
Recent years have seen property values climb steadily, with oceanfront homes commanding premium prices. Yet unlike some neighboring Hamptons communities, Montauk has resisted complete gentrification. You can still find properties that feel connected to the area’s maritime heritage.
Overview of Colin Jost’s Montauk House
Location and Natural Setting
Colin Jost’s Montauk house sits in one of the area’s most coveted neighborhoods, where privacy meets accessibility. The property enjoys proximity to both the ocean and the bay, offering diverse water views that change with the seasons and time of day.
The house is strategically positioned to capture those legendary Montauk sunsets that paint the sky in shades of orange, pink, and purple. Mature trees serve as natural privacy barriers, framing views of the surrounding landscape. You can hear the ocean from the property, that constant rhythm that reminds you why coastal living is so therapeutic.
Architectural Harmony
The architectural style of Colin’s house represents what I call “modern coastal traditionalism”. It’s not trying to be a Cape Cod cliché or a stark modernist statement. Instead, the design reflects Montauk’s evolution from a fishing village to a sophisticated retreat.
The structure features cedar shingle siding that will weather to a beautiful silver-gray over time, helping the house blend naturally with its surroundings. Large windows dominate the ocean-facing walls, creating an indoor-outdoor flow that’s essential for coastal living.
Size and Layout Excellence
Without being ostentatious, the house offers generous living spaces that can accommodate both intimate gatherings and larger entertaining. The layout follows an open-concept design on the main level, where living, dining, and kitchen areas flow seamlessly together.
Multiple levels take advantage of the elevated position, with upper floors offering even more dramatic views. The footprint respects the natural landscape rather than dominating it, a choice that reflects Colin’s understated approach to luxury.
Interior Design and Décor
The Coastal Aesthetic Reimagined
Step inside, and you immediately understand that this isn’t your grandmother’s beach house. The interior design strikes a perfect balance between coastal casualness and sophisticated comfort. White walls provide a gallery-like backdrop for carefully chosen art pieces and personal touches.
The color palette draws directly from Montauk’s natural environment. Think weathered driftwood grays, soft sand beiges, and ocean blues that shift from deep navy to pale aqua. These colors don’t shout; they whisper, creating a calming atmosphere that enhances rather than competes with the views.
Living Spaces That Live
The living room serves as the heart of the home, with a massive stone fireplace anchoring one wall, while floor-to-ceiling windows frame the ocean views on another. Comfortable seating encourages conversation and relaxation, with fabrics chosen for both beauty and practicality – essential when sand and salt air are constant companions.
The kitchen reflects Colin’s practical nature and appreciation for quality. Professional-grade appliances are concealed behind custom cabinetry that complements the home’s casual elegance. A large island provides space for meal prep and casual dining, with bar seating that encourages guests to gather while the host cooks.
Personal Sanctuaries
The bedrooms continue the coastal calm theme, with the primary suite offering a private balcony perfect for morning coffee or evening stargazing. Natural linens, soft textures, and minimal clutter create spaces that promote rest and rejuvenation.
What’s particularly clever is how each bedroom captures different views and light exposures. Some face east for spectacular sunrises, while others look west for those famous Montauk sunsets. Guest rooms feel just as special as the primary suite, ensuring visitors experience the full magic of coastal living.
Outdoor Integration
The outdoor spaces deserve special mention because they’re not afterthoughts but integral parts of the home’s design. Multiple decks and patios create various zones for different activities and times of day. A morning yoga deck catches the first light, while an evening entertainment area features a fire pit for those cool coastal nights.
Amenities and Features
Luxury Meets Functionality
Let’s discuss the features that elevate this house from beautiful to truly extraordinary. The heated pool isn’t just for swimming; it’s positioned to create an infinity edge effect that visually connects with the ocean beyond. The surrounding deck includes a hot tub strategically placed for sunset viewing.
An outdoor kitchen goes beyond the typical grill setup. We’re talking about a complete cooking station with a pizza oven, refrigeration, and a bar area. This isn’t just for show – it reflects how people actually live in Montauk, where outdoor entertaining is a way of life from May through October.
Smart Home Integration
While maintaining its coastal charm, the house incorporates cutting-edge technology. Climate control systems adjust automatically based on weather conditions and occupancy. Lighting scenes can transform spaces from bright and energetic to soft and romantic with a single command.
Security features provide peace of mind without creating a fortress feeling. Discrete cameras and smart locks offer protection while maintaining the home’s welcoming atmosphere. Even the window treatments are automated, adjusting to maximize views while managing sun exposure and privacy.
Comfort in Every Detail
Here’s a detail that shows thoughtful design: heated bathroom floors. After a day at the beach or an evening ocean swim, stepping onto warm tiles is pure luxury. Multiple indoor and outdoor showers accommodate sandy feet and wet swimsuits, keeping messes from tracking through the house.
The house includes a dedicated workspace that proves Colin hasn’t forgotten his day job. With ocean views for inspiration and professional-grade connectivity for video calls, it’s where comedy gold might be mined between beach walks.
The Lifestyle: Living in Montauk like Colin Jost
A Day in Coastal Paradise
Imagine waking up in Colin Jost’s Montauk house. Your day might start with coffee on the deck, watching surfers catch early morning waves while seabirds dive for breakfast. The pace here is different from Manhattan – deliberate rather than frantic, purposeful rather than rushed.
Mornings include a beach run along the sand, where you’ll encounter fellow early risers walking dogs or practicing yoga. The local farmers’ market offers fresh produce and artisanal goods, perfect for stocking that gorgeous kitchen. Afternoons could mean paddleboarding in the calm bay waters or hiking the trails at Camp Hero State Park.
Creative Inspiration Everywhere
For someone in Colin’s creative field, Montauk offers endless inspiration. The changing seasons provide natural variety – from summer’s vibrant energy to winter’s moody beauty. Local characters, from weathered fishermen to eccentric artists, offer material that no writers’ room could invent.
The luxury house itself encourages creativity with its peaceful atmosphere and inspiring views. Whether working on SNL sketches or personal projects, the environment promotes both focus and imagination. It’s easy to see why Colin chose this setting for his creative retreat.
Entertaining in Style
When it comes to hosting, the house shines. Picture summer barbecues where guests flow seamlessly between the pool, beach, and outdoor dining areas. Or intimate dinner parties where fresh seafood from local waters takes center stage. The layout accommodates both large gatherings and small groups equally well.
Local amenities enhance the entertaining options. Guests might enjoy sunset sails from Montauk Harbor, surfing lessons at Ditch Plains, or wine tasting at nearby vineyards. The house serves as a perfect base for exploring all that Montauk has to offer.
Celebrity Influence on Montauk Real Estate
The Celebrity Effect
When celebrities like Colin Jost choose Montauk, it creates ripple effects throughout the local real estate market. Property values in desirable areas have increased, but more importantly, the quality of preservation and development has improved. Celebrities often invest in maintaining a property’s character rather than tearing it down and starting fresh.
This celebrity presence has helped Montauk maintain its position as a desirable alternative to the more developed Hamptons communities. The town has successfully attracted investment while preserving its authentic character—a notable achievement in today’s competitive real estate market.
Market Dynamics
The presence of high-profile residents, such as Colin, has created interesting market dynamics. Luxury properties now command prices that would have seemed impossible a decade ago. Yet the market hasn’t become exclusive to the ultra-wealthy. Montauk still offers options for different budgets, maintaining its diverse community feel.
Property Type Average Price RangeTypical FeaturesMarket Demand
Oceanfront Estate $5M – $15M+ Private beach access, pools, guest houses Very High
Village Home $1.5M – $3M Walk to town, smaller lots, charm High
Condo/Townhouse $800K – $2M Lower maintenance, amenities, views Moderate
Inland Property $600K – $1.5M More space, privacy, short drive to beach Steady
Future Implications
Looking ahead, Colin Jost’s investment in Montauk signals confidence in the area’s future. As remote work becomes more common, properties that offer both lifestyle and connectivity become increasingly valuable. Montauk’s proximity to New York City, while maintaining its distinct character, positions it well for continued growth.
Public and Media Reception
Social Media Sensation
When glimpses of Colin Jost’s Montauk house appear online, they generate immediate buzz. Fans dissect every visible detail, from furniture choices to art selections. The property has become an integral part of Colin’s public persona, representing his success and refined taste.
Instagram and Twitter light up whenever Colin or Scarlett share glimpses of their Montauk life. These posts consistently generate hundreds of thousands of likes and comments, showing public fascination with celebrity coastal living. The couple has mastered sharing just enough to satisfy curiosity while maintaining privacy.
Media Coverage Evolution
Traditional media coverage has evolved from simple “celebrity buys house” stories to deeper lifestyle pieces. Publications now explore how the property reflects Colin’s personality and values. Architecture and design magazines analyze aesthetic choices, while lifestyle publications focus on the community aspect of Montauk.
What’s interesting is how the coverage has helped reshape Montauk’s image. Rather than just another Hamptons overflow area, media attention has highlighted Montauk’s unique character and appeal. Colin’s choice validates Montauk as a destination for those seeking authentic coastal living over mere status.
Fan Reactions and Interest
Fans have embraced Colin’s Montauk house as part of his relatability. Unlike some celebrity homes that seem impossibly luxurious, Colin’s choice feels aspirational yet achievable. The house represents success without excess, comfort without ostentation.
Local businesses have benefited from the attention, with fans visiting Montauk in the hopes of spotting Colin or experiencing the lifestyle he has chosen. This “Colin effect” has brought younger visitors to Montauk, diversifying the tourist demographic beyond traditional beachgoers and fishing enthusiasts.
Where Does Colin Jost’s Currently Live?
Colin Jost currently lives in a spacious prewar penthouse in the Carnegie Hill neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City.
