Introduction to Staten Island, NY
Known as the forgotten borough, Staten Island, is a wonderful location that offers beautiful residences, affordable apartments, lots of green spaces and beaches, and many attractions and cozy spots to appreciate.
If you’re considering moving to Staten Island, you’ve come to the right place! This article enumerates the pros and cons of living on the island, with a few recommendations on the best neighborhoods to explore. Let’s dive in!
Pros of Living on Staten Island
Affordable Housing Compared to Other NYC Boroughs
The biggest reason people are relocating to Staten Island is because buying a home in in this borough is more affordable. You can purchase an entire house in this borough for the cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Manhattan or Brooklyn.
The median home value in Staten Island is $660,600. This may be significantly higher than the US average of $338,100, but this is relatively lower compared to that of Brooklyn, at $884,000, and Manhattan, at $1,169,400.
Rent in this borough is also much lower compared to nearby neighborhoods in Manhattan or Brooklyn. The average rent in Staten Island, NY is $1,639 per month, 5% higher than the national average of $1,556.
In Brooklyn, the average rent is $2,822 per month, 81% higher than the national average. The average rent in Manhattan is much higher at $3,890 per month, 150% higher than the national average.
Abundant Green Spaces and Parks
Called the Borough of Parks, Staten Island is a great place to keep a healthy lifestyle, having a total of 170 parks that offer plenty of opportunities to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.
The largest park in Staten Island is Freshkills Park, a 2,200-acre expanse built on a former landfill, Fresh Kills Landfill. It is the largest park developed in New York City in over a century.
Fresh Kills Park is still in development, but some parts are already open to the public. Yearly tours are held in the summer to experience the park while the process of site transformation goes forward.
Access to Scenic Waterfront Views and Beaches
Staten Island is home to several beaches, including South Beach and Midland Beach.
At South Beach, beachgoers can sunbathe while taking in a lovely view of the Verrazzano Bridge, bike through a scenic trail, jog along the boardwalk, kayak, play tennis, or fish off of the Ocean Breeze Fishing Pier.
Midland Beach shares the Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk with its neighbor, South Beach. This is an excellent spot if you prefer a less crowded beach. Amenities include a playground and courts for tennis and shuffleball, as well as a sea turtle fountain for children.
Suburban Atmosphere with Urban Amenities
Staten Island, NY, offers the savings and convenience of a suburban lifestyle while still being reasonably close to the action of Manhattan.
Residents love the quiet, laid-back environment in neighborhoods that offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of other parts of New York City. It’s an ideal location to call home for those seeking tranquility and a slower pace of life.
Convenient Transportation to Manhattan (Staten Island Ferry)
The Staten Island Ferry is free public transportation accessible for locals and visitors that offers a fantastic view of the Manhattan skyline while passing by Lady Liberty and Ellis Island. You can also see views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in the world.
The Staten Island Ferry never stops, literally, having a 24-hour schedule. It takes trips every half hour and every 20 minutes during rush hour. The ferry has a capacity of around 5,000 people, and has a total of 70,000 passengers a day, on average.
Strong Community and Cultural Identity
Staten Island is known for being a friendly, family-oriented, and supportive community. It has a strong sense of community pride, particularly in its quieter suburban neighborhoods.
This borough is home to various cultural attractions, including the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, the Staten Island Zoo, and the Staten Island Children’s Museum.
Cons of Living on Staten Island
Limited Public Transportation Options
One of the things that anyone who lives in Staten Island complains about is there’s not enough public transportation, so residents mostly depend on their own vehicles to get around.
Staten Island has one main train line, the Staten Island Railway, which runs from Tottenville to St. George. If you live near any of the local train stops it is a convenient way to get to the Staten Island Ferry.
For those who live in areas where the train does not pass, the only option of public transportation is the local and express buses.
Traffic Congestion on Bridges and Roadways
Although Staten Island is not as densely populated as other parts of New York City, it still experiences significant traffic congestion.
This is particularly due to the limited access points to the borough and the heavy use of the Staten Island Expressway. This thoroughfare can become heavily congested during peak hours.
Higher Dependence on Cars and Personal Vehicles
Unlike the other boroughs, there are no subways that run in Staten Island. Instead, people must take the ferry to Manhattan or drive over the Verrazzano-Narrows bridge to Brooklyn to use the subways.
There are buses and the Staten Island Railway, but most people living here own their cars to get around.
Best Neighborhoods to Live in Staten Island
St. George
Located on the North Shore of the island, St. George is home to older, classically styled residences designed in the Greek Revival Style, Second Empire Style, and Victorians.
This waterfront community boasts an impressive selection of luxury homes, properties with calming water views, and easy access to the waterfront esplanade. The neighborhood also offers multi-family properties, two-family homes, co-ops, and condominiums.
Todt Hill
Todt Hill, an exclusive and prestigious neighborhood on Staten Island, renowned for its affluent character, picturesque beauty, and luxurious residences.
Situated on one of the highest natural points on the Eastern Seaboard, Todt Hill residents have spectacular vistas of the surrounding landscapes, including the Atlantic Ocean, the New York City skyline, and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge.
Great Kills
Another charming waterfront neighborhood on Staten Island, Great Kills, is known for its coastal beauty, a strong sense of community, and historical significance. It boasts gorgeous waterfront views and convenient access to the Great Kills Harbor.
The community spirit in Great Kills is evident through various events, sports leagues, and organizations that bring residents together, creating a vibrant and close-knit environment.
Conclusion
Staten Island, NY, is an amazing place to call home for many reasons. If you’re ready to check out your options, please feel free to contact us:
- Simon Umanoff
- 718-873-6144
- Sumanoff@remaxedgeny.com
- Frank Bergen
- 347-567-7153
- Frank@remaxedgeny.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there good schools and colleges on Staten Island?
Yes, Staten Island has a few well-regarded colleges, including Wagner College and the College of Staten Island, which are both good options for students looking for quality education in the area.
What public transportation options are available on Staten Island?
Public transportation options in Staten Island include the Staten Island Ferry, the Staten Island Railway, and bus routes.
What are some of the best parks to visit on Staten Island?
Some of the best parks in Staten Island are Freshkills Park, Ocean Breeze Park, and Snug Harbor.
