East End officials are now preparing for an influx of New York City residents who are expected to stay on Long Island after Labor Day due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

By nixing the traditional exodus off the Island, shop and restaurant owners say they could see business booming through the fall.

"To have these Manhattanites here in our own backyard, dining at our restaurants, shopping at our retailers, staying longer then they have ever stayed before – supporting our local business is critical to our economy," says Kristen Jarnagin, of Discover Long Island.

Michael Pitsinos, the owner of the Capri Southampton hotel, says many of his summer guests have extended their stay through the fall.

“We are open until at least year’s ends and our main goal is to remain open throughout the winter," he says.

According to Suffolk officials, the housing market has seen a significant increase in home purchases and new rentals.