Staten Island is a good place to buy a home if you want more space, a yard, and a driveway while staying inside New York City. Compared with most of the city, Staten Island has a higher share of single family homes and a more suburban feel. The main tradeoff is the commute, since most trips to Manhattan involve the ferry, an express bus, or a drive across a bridge.

What do buyers like about Staten Island?

• Space: detached and semi attached homes with yards are common
• Parking: many homes have driveways or garages, which is rare in other boroughs
• Neighborhood feel: quiet blocks, parks, and a strong sense of community
• Green space: the Staten Island Greenbelt and many parks and beaches
• The ferry: the Staten Island Ferry to lower Manhattan is free

For families coming from a small apartment in Brooklyn or Queens, the jump in square footage can be dramatic.

What are the tradeoffs?

Every borough has tradeoffs, and Staten Island is no different. Be honest with yourself about these before you buy:

• Commute: depending on where you work, travel time can be long
• Car dependence: many households need a car for daily errands
• Bridge tolls: driving to other boroughs or New Jersey adds cost
• Flood risk: parts of the East and South Shores were hit hard by Hurricane Sandy, so flood zones and insurance matter

Which Staten Island neighborhoods should you explore?

Each part of the island has its own character. Here is a starting point:

• St. George: near the ferry terminal, with more walkability and apartment options
• Westerleigh: classic tree lined blocks on the North Shore
• Todt Hill: larger homes on the highest natural point in New York City
• New Dorp: a busy commercial strip and easy access to the Staten Island Railway
• Great Kills: near the water and Great Kills Park, popular with boaters
• Tottenville: at the southern tip, with a quieter, small town feel

Visit at different times of day and try your commute before you commit to a neighborhood.

What should you check before buying on Staten Island?

1. Flood zone: look up the address on FEMA flood maps and get an insurance quote early.
2. Property type: confirm whether the home is detached, semi attached, or attached, since it affects maintenance and privacy.
3. Legal use: if the home has a basement apartment or a second unit, confirm it is legal before counting on rental income.
4. Commute test: do your real commute on a weekday morning.
5. Condition: a full inspection matters, especially for older homes near the water.

Is Staten Island a good investment?

Staten Island attracts steady demand from families who want more space at prices that can be lower than comparable homes in Brooklyn or Queens. Like any market, values depend on location, condition, and timing. The best realtor in New York will show you recent sales on your target blocks, not borough averages, so you see the real numbers for the homes you are considering.

At REHUB, we help buyers compare Staten Island with other boroughs side by side, including commute, monthly cost, and space, so the decision fits your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Staten Island Ferry free?

Yes. The Staten Island Ferry between St. George and lower Manhattan is free to ride.

Do I need flood insurance on Staten Island?

It depends on the address. Homes in high risk flood zones with a federally backed mortgage usually require it. Check FEMA maps for each home.

Do I need a car to live on Staten Island?

Many residents have one. Neighborhoods near St. George and the Staten Island Railway are easier without a car.

Ready to explore Staten Island?

Call the REHUB team at 718-550-6497 or visit REHUBTEAM.com. We will help you compare neighborhoods and find a home with the space you want.

This article is for general information only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Rules and programs change, so confirm current details with the right professional before you act.