Moving to Staten Island
Relocating to a new area is a major decision, and moving to Staten Island comes with its own set of advantages and challenges. As the least populated of New York City’s five boroughs, Staten Island offers a unique blend of suburban charm and urban convenience. But is it the right place for you?
This guide covers everything you need to know before moving to Staten Island, from the cost of living and housing market to commuting, schools, and things to do. Whether you’re looking for a quieter lifestyle within NYC or searching for a family-friendly community, this article will help you make an informed choice.
Where Is Staten Island? Understanding Its Location
Staten Island sits at the southernmost tip of New York City, separated from Brooklyn by the Narrows and from New Jersey by the Arthur Kill and Kill Van Kull waterways. Despite being part of NYC, it feels more like a suburban enclave than a bustling metropolis.
Key Facts About Staten Island’s Location:
- Distance from Manhattan: ~16 miles
- Borders: New Jersey (west), Brooklyn (northeast), Atlantic Ocean (southeast)
- Size: ~58.5 square miles, making it NYC’s second-largest borough by land area
- Bridges & Access: Connected to Brooklyn by the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and to New Jersey via the Goethals Bridge, Bayonne Bridge, and Outerbridge Crossing
Many Staten Islanders commute to Manhattan daily, making transportation a key consideration for prospective residents. The borough’s lower population density and abundant green spaces make it a stark contrast to the fast-paced lifestyle of the other boroughs.
Pros and Cons of Moving to Staten Island
Relocating to Staten Island comes with distinct advantages and a few drawbacks. Understanding these factors will help you decide if this borough is the right fit for your lifestyle.
Pros of Living in Staten Island
- More Affordable Housing – Compared to Manhattan and Brooklyn, Staten Island offers larger homes at lower prices. Buyers can find single-family homes, townhouses, and condos with more space for their money.
- Suburban Feel with Urban Amenities – Unlike the rest of NYC, Staten Island has a quieter, residential atmosphere, perfect for those who want a mix of city access and suburban tranquility.
- Abundant Green Space – Staten Island is often called “the greenest borough” because of its numerous parks and nature reserves, including:
- The Staten Island Greenbelt – Over 2,800 acres of trails and forests
- Clove Lakes Park – A local favorite for fishing, hiking, and picnics
- Great Kills Park – Offers beautiful waterfront views and recreational activities
- Great Public Schools – Staten Island boasts some of the highest-rated public and private schools in NYC, making it a solid choice for families.
- Lower Crime Rates – According to NYPD data, Staten Island consistently has lower crime rates than the other NYC boroughs, making it a safe and family-friendly place to live.
Cons of Living in Staten Island
- Limited Public Transportation – Unlike the other boroughs, Staten Island does not have a subway system. Commuters must rely on buses, the Staten Island Railway, or the Staten Island Ferry.
- High Car Dependency – Most residents own cars due to limited public transit options. Parking is generally easier than in Manhattan, but traffic can be heavy during peak hours.
- Expensive Tolls on Bridges – Commuting by car can be costly, with tolls on the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and other crossings ranging from $6.94 to $19.00 (depending on residency and payment method).
- Limited Nightlife & Entertainment – While Staten Island has bars, restaurants, and entertainment options, it’s not as vibrant as Brooklyn or Manhattan. Those who love nightlife may find themselves frequently traveling off the island.
Cost of Living in Staten Island
Housing Costs: Renting vs. Buying
Staten Island is more affordable than Manhattan or Brooklyn, but home prices have been steadily rising.
- Median Home Price: ~$625,000 (as of 2024)
- Median Monthly Rent: ~$1,800 for a one-bedroom, ~$2,500 for a two-bedroom
- Property Taxes: Higher than other NYC boroughs but lower than New Jersey
General Cost of Living
- Groceries: Similar to NYC averages, but cheaper than Manhattan
- Utilities: Slightly lower than NYC averages due to larger homes
- Dining & Entertainment: Less expensive than Manhattan but pricier than New Jersey
Best Neighborhoods in Staten Island for Different Lifestyles
Best Neighborhoods for Families
- Great Kills – Top-rated schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities
- Tottenville – Quiet, suburban feel with great schools and safety
- Westerleigh – Historic charm, tree-lined streets, and strong community
Best Neighborhoods for Young Professionals
- St. George – Close to the Staten Island Ferry, making for an easy commute to Manhattan
- Tompkinsville – Up-and-coming area with new restaurants and developments
Best Neighborhoods for Retirees
- Bay Terrace – Affordable, peaceful, and close to shopping centers
- Oakwood – Easy access to parks and medical facilities
Best Waterfront Neighborhoods
- Shore Acres – Scenic ocean views and a mix of condos and single-family homes
- Midland Beach – Beachfront access and a quiet coastal lifestyle
Staten Island Housing Market – Buying vs. Renting
- The real estate market has been steadily appreciating over the years, making Staten Island a great long-term investment.
- Buying a Home: Most homes are single-family detached houses, unlike the apartment-heavy boroughs of NYC.
- Renting: Rental prices are rising, but still cheaper than Brooklyn or Manhattan.
Commuting to and From Staten Island
Staten Island Ferry – The Free Connection to Manhattan
- Free and runs 24/7 – A huge perk for commuters
- Travel Time: ~25 minutes one way
- Views: Offers incredible views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline
Driving & Bridges
- Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge: $6.94 (EZ-Pass) to $19.00 (cash)
- Goethals, Bayonne, Outerbridge: Connect to New Jersey
Public Transportation
- Staten Island Railway (SIR) – Runs from Tottenville to St. George, but doesn’t connect to the subway
- Express Buses – Direct service to Manhattan but can be slow during rush hour
Jobs and Employment in Staten Island
Staten Island has fewer job opportunities compared to Manhattan and Brooklyn.
Major Industries: Healthcare, education, retail, and civil service.
Commuting to Manhattan: Many professionals work in Manhattan but live in Staten Island for lower housing costs.
Schools and Education in Staten Island
Top Public Schools
- Staten Island Technical High School (Ranked among the best in NYC)
- PS 6, IS 75, and Tottenville High School (Top-rated public schools)
Private & Charter Schools
- Monsignor Farrell High School
- Staten Island Academy
Colleges & Higher Education
- CUNY College of Staten Island – The largest college on the island
- Wagner College – Private institution known for strong academics
Things to Do in Staten Island
Outdoor Activities & Parks
- Staten Island Greenbelt (hiking and nature trails)
- Great Kills Park (boating, fishing, and beach access)
Museums & Cultural Attractions
- Staten Island Zoo
- Staten Island Children’s Museum
Dining & Shopping
- Staten Island Mall (largest shopping center)
- Richmond Avenue for diverse dining options
Safety and Crime Rates in Staten Island
- Staten Island has the lowest crime rate of all NYC boroughs.
- Tottenville, Great Kills, and Westerleigh are among the safest neighborhoods.
Healthcare and Medical Facilities in Staten Island
- Staten Island University Hospital (Northwell Health)
- Richmond University Medical Center
Is Staten Island Right for You? Final Thoughts
Staten Island offers affordable housing, suburban tranquility, and excellent schools, making it ideal for families and professionals seeking a quieter NYC lifestyle. However, commuting challenges and a slower nightlife scene may not suit everyone. If you’re considering moving to Staten Island, visiting first and exploring its neighborhoods can help you determine if it’s the right fit.
Check out the ins and outs of living in Staten Island! Dive into the details by visiting https://homesofstatenisland.com/moving-to-staten-island/.