Staten Island’s 7 Best Neighborhoods to Live In

From stately Colonials to sleek condos, the Staten Island real estate market offers a diverse range of housing options. But finding the right neighborhood is just as crucial as finding the perfect home. Fortunately, the borough is home to many vibrant and close-knit communities, each with its own flavor and identity.

As the least densely populated borough (pop. 491,000), Staten Island offers respite from the fast-paced environment of New York City. Known as “the greenest borough,” it provides ready access to over 170 parks and gardens with an estimated 12,300 acres of protected land. These include popular recreational spots like the Staten Island Greenbelt, Pelham Bay Park, and the New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden. 

Staten Island encompasses 58.5 square miles in the southwest portion of NYC. The Staten Island Ferry connects the borough to Lower Manhattan through New York Harbor. Staten Island’s proximity to the Financial District and major NYC attractions makes it an excellent choice for many buyers.

STATEN ISLAND’S 7 BEST NEIGHBORHOODS TO LIVE IN

1.  GREAT KILLS: For easy access to beaches and fishing spots  

Located on the South Shore, Great Kills is an established neighborhood that provides ready access to gorgeous beaches and fishing spots. It is bordered by the community of Richmondtown to the north, Great Kills Harbor to the south, Bay Terrace to the east, and Eltingville to the west. The neighborhood is part of Staten Island Community District 3.

Formerly known as Giffords, the neighborhood gets its name from the Dutch word for “creek.” Glistening streams meander through the neighborhood, which offers a fine selection of single-family homes with Cape Cod, Colonial, and Ranch-style architecture. Co-ops and condos are also available. Local attractions include Great Kills Park, Seaside Wildlife Nature Park, and the Great Kills branch of the New York Public Library.

Home to a population of more than 20,000, Great Kills has had its fair share of famous residents, including ESPN anchor Joe Engle and actors Alyssa Milano, Bob Levy, and Rick Schroder. It was also home to Wilbur the Pig, who appeared on the cover of the children’s book “Charlotte’s Web.”

2.  HUGUENOT: Laidback living on the South Shore

Formerly known as Bloomingview, Hugeunot offers laidback living on the South Shore. It is a primarily residential area with limited commercial development. Known for Colonial-style homes with exquisite red brick exteriors, the neighborhood offers single-family properties with mature landscaping. Residents enjoy convenient access to Blue Heron Park, which features walking trails, and the South Shore Country Club, which is known for world-class golf.

3.  NEW DORP: A trendy neighborhood with acclaimed schools

As one of the trendiest neighborhoods on the East Shore, New Dorp is known for New Dorp Lane District, a pedestrian-friendly retail area with fantastic shops and restaurants. The neighborhood is also known for its schools, including the acclaimed New Dorp High School and Staten Island Tech.

Once home to the Staten Island elite, it is now a diverse and bustling community with modern apartment buildings and Colonial, Cape Cod, and Ranch-style homes situated along tree-lined streets. Places of interest include Miller Field, a former military airbase listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the Vanderbilt Mausoleum, which is located in the Moravian Cemetery. 

4.  OAKWOOD BEACH: Tranquility and diverse housing options

This neighborhood is highly coveted for its scenic beach and waterfront. It offers a tranquil environment that is a world away from the frenetic energy of NYC. The housing market is remarkably diverse, offering beach homes and bungalows with spacious yards as well as new construction townhomes with modern amenities. Places of interest include Monsignor Farrell High School, a renowned Catholic preparatory school, and Frederick Douglass Memorial Park, a historic African-American cemetery.

5.  NEW SPRINGVILLE: A hub of commercial and mixed-use developments

New Springville is located near the center of Staten Island. It features a high concentration of commercial and mixed-use developments with condos, offices, and big box stores. In addition to condos, the housing market also offers a fine selection of townhomes and single-family homes with Contemporary and Ranch-style architecture. Residents have easy access to the New Springville Greenway, a 3.2-mile recreational path, and Staten Island Mall, which features major retailers. 

6.  ST. GEORGE: A historic neighborhood of opulent mansions and sleek condos 

Located along the northeastern edge of Staten Island, this historic neighborhood is ideal for buyers who want to live close to the St. George Staten Island Ferry. The housing market offers a wide range of options, including opulent mansions and sleek condos and townhomes. The most coveted properties are located in the historic district, where one will find spacious 19th-century homes with classic architecture. When it comes to leisure and entertainment, the neighborhood is home to Staten Island University Hospital Community Park, St. George Theatre, and National Lighthouse Museum.

7.  TODT HILL: Affluent and exclusive 

Known as one of the most affluent areas in Staten Island, the neighborhood is situated on the highest natural point of NYC. It is also an exclusive community with just over 950 residents. It offers a stunning array of single-family homes with Colonial, Contemporary, Modern, and Tudor-style architecture. The largest properties feature manicured gardens, outdoor pools, and gourmet kitchens. Gain access to Staten Island real estate listings when you work with a local Reator in Staten Island. A real estate professional will help you choose a neighborhood that best suits your needs and lifestyle as well as provide information on schools and amenities.