As interest in Swing Dancing (Lindy Hop) became stronger in the 1930, the professional dance studios in New York decided to offer a simplified 'swing-like' dance to their students. They took the basic beat of Foxtrot (slow-slow-quick-quick), and combined it with a few simple turns and the backstep from Lindy Hop. This toned-down 'swing' dance eventually became known as East Coast Swing. It is easy to teach, and learn, and became one of the most popular dance style in North America. It is usually danced to swing dance music of the 40s, and early rock & roll music.

East Coast Swing is also listed as a rhythm dance of American Style Ballroom dancing, where it more formal, and flamboyant, and danced as a triple step.