Westerleigh Staten Island: Your Complete Neighborhood Guide

Welcome to Westerleigh Staten Island, a charming and historically rich neighborhood nestled in the northwestern corner of Staten Island. This tree-lined community offers the perfect blend of suburban tranquility and urban accessibility, making it an ideal choice for families, young professionals, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat within reach of New York City’s vibrant pulse.

Known for its distinctive Victorian architecture, strong community bonds, and fascinating prohibition-era history, Westerleigh stands out as one of Staten Island’s most desirable residential areas. The neighborhood’s elevated position provides stunning views across the harbor while maintaining the intimate, small-town atmosphere that residents cherish.

Location and Boundaries of Westerleigh

Westerleigh occupies a prime position in Staten Island’s northwestern quadrant, strategically located for both convenience and tranquility. The neighborhood is clearly defined by its natural and developed boundaries:

• North: Forest Avenue, connecting to Port Richmond
• South: Victory Boulevard, bordering Meiers Corners
• East: Jewett Avenue, adjacent to Castleton Corners
• West: Stewart Avenue, near Graniteville

This central North Shore location places Westerleigh residents within easy reach of Staten Island’s major transportation hubs, shopping centers, and recreational facilities. The neighborhood’s elevated terrain, sitting on some of Staten Island’s highest ground, provides residents with scenic harbor views and natural protection from flooding—a significant advantage over lower-lying areas.

From certain vantage points throughout Westerleigh, residents can enjoy views extending to Newark, New Jersey, and on particularly clear days, even further afield. This geographic positioning creates a unique microclimate that’s both aesthetically pleasing and practically beneficial.

Rich Historical Heritage of Westerleigh

The Prohibition Park Era

Westerleigh’s most fascinating chapter began in 1877 when the National Prohibition Campground Association purchased 25 acres of land and established what they called “Prohibition Park.” This unique community became a summer retreat for temperance movement leaders and followers who sought to escape the perceived moral corruption of urban life.

The prohibition advocates developed an impressive array of amenities including tennis courts, bowling alleys, sports fields, and a grand auditorium called University Temple where influential speakers would address gatherings. Notable figures such as former President Theodore Roosevelt and populist leader William Jennings Bryan spoke at these events, cementing Westerleigh’s place in American political history.

Street Names Tell the Story

The neighborhood’s prohibition heritage remains visible today through its street names, many of which honor prominent figures and states from the temperance movement:

• Neal Dow Avenue: Named after Maine’s “Father of Prohibition”
• Clinton B. Fisk Avenue: Honoring New Jersey’s prohibition candidate
• Woolley Avenue: Commemorating Illinois’ John G. Woolley
• Maine Avenue, Ohio Place, Virginia Place: Representing states that supported anti-liquor laws

Notable Early Residents

Westerleigh attracted distinguished residents who contributed significantly to American culture and business. Isaac K. Funk, co-founder of the renowned Funk & Wagnalls publishing company, made his home here alongside poet Edwin Markham. Heiress Amy Vanderbilt also resided in the neighborhood, adding to its reputation as an enclave for accomplished individuals.

Perhaps most remarkably, Westerleigh is home to the oldest tennis club in the United States. Mary Ewing Outerbridge introduced tennis to America at her Staten Island Cricket Club home on College Avenue, where she played the first game on an hourglass-shaped court. The location still features a tennis court today, maintaining this important sporting heritage.

Westerleigh Real Estate Market Overview

The Westerleigh real estate market offers exceptional value for buyers seeking character, space, and convenience within the New York metropolitan area. Home prices reflect the neighborhood’s desirability while remaining significantly more affordable than comparable communities in Manhattan or Brooklyn.

Home Price Ranges and Property Types

Single-Family Homes: The backbone of Westerleigh’s housing market, these properties range from $600,000 to $1.5 million depending on size, condition, and specific location. Older colonial-style homes from the 1920s and 1930s represent excellent value, often featuring original hardwood floors, formal dining rooms, and period architectural details.

Townhouses: More affordable entry points into the neighborhood, typically priced between $430,000 and $545,000. These properties often include private parking and small outdoor spaces, making them ideal for first-time buyers or those seeking lower maintenance living.

Victorian Homes: The neighborhood’s architectural gems, these historic properties showcase period features like chestnut trim, oak flooring, wrap-around porches, and small upper-floor balconies. Many include formal parlors and libraries that reflect the era’s elegant lifestyle.

New Construction: Limited new development preserves the neighborhood’s historic character while offering modern amenities. These homes typically command premium prices above $1 million but provide contemporary conveniences within the established community framework.

Market Trends and Investment Potential

Recent market analysis shows Westerleigh homes selling after an average of 66 days on the market, slightly faster than the national average of 70 days. The median sale price has increased 9% over the past year, demonstrating strong appreciation potential while maintaining affordability relative to other New York City neighborhoods.

The neighborhood’s limited inventory and steady demand from both local buyers and those relocating from other boroughs create favorable conditions for property appreciation. Families particularly value the combination of space, school quality, and transportation access that Westerleigh provides.

Architectural Character and Housing Styles

Westerleigh’s architectural landscape reflects its rich history and evolution from summer retreat to established residential neighborhood. The area showcases remarkable diversity in housing styles while maintaining cohesive community character.

Victorian Heritage Homes

The neighborhood’s oldest and most distinctive properties date to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These Victorian-era homes feature:

• Ornate trim work in chestnut and other premium woods
• Original oak hardwood floors throughout main living areas
• Street-level wrap-around porches perfect for community interaction
• Small decorative balconies on upper floors
• Period details including formal parlors, libraries, and dining rooms
• High ceilings and generous room proportions typical of the era

Colonial Revival Homes

Representing a significant portion of Westerleigh’s housing stock, these homes from the 1920s and 1930s offer:

• Solid brick or wood frame construction built to last
• Symmetrical facades with centered entrances
• Generous lot sizes providing privacy and outdoor space
• Updated kitchens and bathrooms while preserving original character
• Formal dining rooms ideal for family gatherings
• Multiple bedrooms accommodating growing families

Contemporary Options

While respecting the neighborhood’s historic character, Westerleigh also offers more recent construction and extensively renovated properties featuring:

• Modern floor plans with open concepts
• Updated electrical and plumbing systems
• Energy-efficient windows and insulation
• Contemporary kitchen designs with premium appliances
• Finished basements providing additional living space

Community Life and Neighborhood Character

Westerleigh’s greatest asset may be its exceptionally strong sense of community. Residents frequently describe the neighborhood as feeling like a small town within the larger metropolis, where neighbors know each other and actively participate in community life.

Westerleigh Park: The Community Heart

The nearly three-acre Westerleigh Park serves as the neighborhood’s central gathering place, bordered by Maine and Springfield Avenues and Neal Dow and Willard Avenues. This beloved green space hosts numerous community events throughout the year:

Patriotic Sunday: Every June, residents gather for this unique celebration combining Flag Day and Independence Day festivities. The event features live music, family activities, and community fellowship that strengthens neighborhood bonds.

WesterFest: The annual folk music festival draws visitors from throughout Staten Island, featuring live performances and activities that showcase the community’s cultural vibrancy.

Year-Round Activities: The park’s paved paths, mature spruce trees, and central gazebo provide venues for informal gatherings, children’s play, and quiet contemplation. It’s nearly impossible to walk through the park without encountering familiar faces, emphasizing the close-knit community atmosphere.

Northerleigh Park and Additional Recreation

Just blocks north of Westerleigh Park, Northerleigh Park features a prominent baseball field that hosts little league games and adult softball leagues. This additional green space ensures ample recreational opportunities for residents of all ages.

The neighborhood’s tree-lined streets themselves contribute to community character, with wide sidewalks encouraging walking and casual interaction among neighbors. The abundance of mature trees—including acacia, blue spruce, cedar, chestnut, elm, and various oak species—creates a natural canopy that enhances the suburban feel while providing environmental benefits.

Schools and Education Excellence

Education represents one of Westerleigh’s strongest selling points for families. The neighborhood is served by highly-rated public schools while also providing access to quality private institutions.

Public School Excellence

PS 30 Westerleigh (Elementary): Serving Pre-K through fifth grade, this highly-rated school receives an “A” rating from Niche. Located at 200 Wardwell Avenue, PS 30 provides a strong foundation in academics while maintaining manageable class sizes that allow for individual attention.

IS 51 Edwin Markham (Middle School): Also earning an “A” rating from Niche, this intermediate school at 20 Houston Street serves middle school students with comprehensive academic programs and extracurricular activities that prepare students for high school success.

Susan E. Wagner High School: One of Staten Island’s premier public high schools, Wagner offers advanced placement courses, specialized programs, and strong college preparation. The school’s reputation attracts families from throughout the borough.

Port Richmond High School: An alternative high school option featuring specialized programs including:

• Gateway Scholars Program: For students pursuing medicine and health-related careers
• Academy of Television, Visual & Performing Arts: Supporting students interested in creative fields
• Student-to-teacher ratio of 21.5, ensuring personalized attention

Higher Education Access

Westerleigh residents enjoy proximity to several institutions of higher learning:

• College of Staten Island: Part of the City University of New York system, offering undergraduate and graduate programs
• Wagner College: A prestigious private liberal arts college on Grymes Hill
• St. John’s University: Additional higher education options nearby

Private School Options

Families seeking private education can choose from several quality institutions:

• St. John’s Lutheran School (663 Manor Road)
• Blessed Sacrament Catholic School (830 Delafield Avenue)
• St. Rita’s Catholic Elementary School (30 Wellbrook Avenue)

Transportation and Commuting

Westerleigh’s strategic location provides residents with multiple transportation options for commuting to Manhattan, other boroughs, or various Staten Island destinations.

Bus Transportation

The neighborhood is well-served by MTA Staten Island bus routes that connect residents to ferry terminals and other key destinations:

Local Routes:

• S57: Connects to Port Richmond and provides access to other cross-island routes
• S62: Travels along Victory Boulevard to Travis
• S66: Runs along Victory Boulevard and Jewett Avenue to Port Richmond
• S93: Provides service to College of Staten Island and connections to Brooklyn

Express Routes:

• SIM3 and SIM34: Express service to Manhattan via Watchogue Road
• SIM30 and SIM35: Additional express options along Forest Avenue

Ferry Access

The free Staten Island Ferry provides the most economical and scenic route to Manhattan. From Westerleigh, residents can reach St. George Terminal in approximately 20-25 minutes via local bus routes, then enjoy the 25-minute ferry ride to Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan.

Highway Access

For residents who prefer driving, Westerleigh offers convenient access to major highways:

• Staten Island Expressway (I-278): Provides southern boundary access for travel to Brooklyn via the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge
• Route 440: Western access connecting to New Jersey via multiple bridge crossings
• Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Expressway: Additional north-south connectivity

Shopping and Dining

Westerleigh residents enjoy a diverse array of shopping and dining options both within the neighborhood and in nearby commercial areas.

Local Dining Favorites

Roberto’s Gourmet Kitchen: A neighborhood staple offering casual lunch and dinner options with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients.

Café Juliet: Popular for breakfast and brunch, this busy café serves as a community gathering spot where residents catch up over coffee and fresh pastries.

Osteria Santina: An upscale dining option on Jewett Avenue featuring Northern Italian cuisine and a full bar, perfect for special occasions and date nights.

Angel’s Tavern: A newer addition to the dining scene, offering a blend of Italian and Mediterranean fare in a welcoming atmosphere.

Island Coffee Shop: Located on Manor Road, this local favorite serves breakfast and provides a comfortable setting for morning meetings or casual dining.

Shopping Convenience

Forest Avenue Commercial Corridor: Just minutes from Westerleigh, this area features:

• Target: Full-service retail for household needs and more
• CVS Pharmacy: Convenient healthcare and personal care items
• Stop & Shop: Complete grocery shopping with extensive selection

Victory Boulevard: The neighborhood’s southern boundary offers additional shopping options including banks, florists, bagel shops, and pizza establishments.

Nearby Shopping Centers

Residents can reach larger shopping destinations including the Staten Island Mall and various strip centers along major commercial corridors within a short drive.

Parks and Recreation

Staten Island’s reputation as the “borough of parks” is exemplified in Westerleigh’s access to exceptional green spaces and recreational facilities.

Westerleigh Park

The neighborhood’s crown jewel, this nearly three-acre park provides:

• Paved walking paths for exercise and leisure strolls
• Mature spruce trees creating natural shade and beauty
• Central gazebo serving as a focal point for community events
• Open grass areas for informal recreation and community gatherings
• Historical significance as part of the original Prohibition Park

Clove Lakes Park

Just east of Westerleigh, this expansive 193-acre park offers:

• Fishing ponds with clubs for both children and adults
• Baseball diamonds and athletic fields for organized sports
• Outdoor ice skating rink providing winter recreation
• Walking and jogging paths throughout the park
• Picnic areas perfect for family gatherings
• Wildlife observation opportunities in natural settings

Additional Green Spaces

Northerleigh Park: Features baseball facilities and serves as home field for local little league teams and adult softball leagues.

Ingram Woods: Located on the neighborhood’s southern edge near the Staten Island Expressway, this preserved forest remnant provides hiking trails and nature observation opportunities.

Staten Island Greenbelt

While not directly in Westerleigh, the 2,800-acre Greenbelt network is easily accessible and offers:

• 35 miles of hiking trails at various difficulty levels
• High Rock Park with tranquil ponds and wildlife viewing
• Mountain biking opportunities on designated trails
• Environmental education programs for all ages

Cultural Attractions and Entertainment

Westerleigh’s location provides easy access to Staten Island’s rich cultural offerings while maintaining its own community-centered entertainment traditions.

Local Cultural Events

Annual Folk Festival: WesterFest brings live music and family entertainment to Westerleigh Park, creating an authentic community celebration that attracts visitors from throughout the borough.

Patriotic Sunday: This unique June celebration combines historical remembrance with contemporary community spirit, featuring brass band performances and family activities.

Seasonal Celebrations: Throughout the year, Westerleigh Park hosts various seasonal events including holiday celebrations and outdoor concerts.

Nearby Cultural Attractions

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden: This Smithsonian-affiliated institution features 14 distinctive gardens, historic buildings, and rotating art exhibitions.

Staten Island Museum: Offers permanent and temporary exhibitions focusing on natural science, history, and art.

Historic Richmond Town: A living history village showcasing Staten Island’s colonial and 19th-century heritage.

Conference House Park: Located at Staten Island’s southern tip, this historic site features the 1680 Conference House and waterfront recreational opportunities.

Arts and Entertainment

The neighborhood’s proximity to Wagner College provides access to theatrical performances, concerts, and other cultural events. Additionally, the College of Staten Island hosts various community programs and cultural activities throughout the year.

Dining and Nightlife

While Westerleigh maintains a family-friendly, residential character, residents have access to diverse dining and entertainment options both locally and throughout Staten Island.

Neighborhood Establishments

The local dining scene emphasizes quality casual restaurants that serve as community gathering places. Many establishments feature outdoor seating during pleasant weather, encouraging the social interaction that defines Westerleigh’s community spirit.

Entertainment Options

For more extensive nightlife and entertainment, residents can easily access other Staten Island neighborhoods or travel to Manhattan via the ferry system. The neighborhood’s residential character means most evening entertainment focuses on community events, local restaurants, and family-oriented activities.

Why Choose Westerleigh Staten Island

Westerleigh offers a unique combination of historical significance, community spirit, and modern convenience that’s increasingly rare in the New York metropolitan area. The neighborhood provides families and individuals with:

Authentic Community Living

Unlike many urban neighborhoods where residents remain strangers, Westerleigh fosters genuine connections among neighbors. The combination of community events, walkable streets, and shared green spaces creates opportunities for meaningful interaction and long-lasting friendships.

Historical Character with Modern Convenience

Living in Westerleigh means residing in a place with genuine historical significance while enjoying contemporary amenities. The neighborhood’s prohibition-era heritage adds depth and character that new developments simply cannot replicate.

Educational Excellence

The combination of highly-rated public schools, quality private options, and proximity to higher education institutions makes Westerleigh ideal for families prioritizing education.

Value Proposition

Compared to similar communities in Manhattan or Brooklyn, Westerleigh offers significantly more space, both indoors and outdoors, at much more reasonable prices. The neighborhood provides suburban amenities with urban accessibility.

Transportation Flexibility

Whether preferring public transportation or private vehicles, residents enjoy multiple commuting options that make working throughout the New York metropolitan area feasible.

Green Living

The abundance of parks, mature trees, and proximity to the Staten Island Greenbelt provides residents with exceptional access to nature and outdoor recreation.

Future Development and Community Planning

Westerleigh’s established character and strong community involvement ensure that future development will respect the neighborhood’s historical significance while accommodating modern needs. The Westerleigh Parks Coalition actively works to enhance and preserve the community’s green spaces.

Community involvement in local planning processes ensures that residents have a voice in decisions affecting their neighborhood. This active civic engagement helps maintain the small-town atmosphere that makes Westerleigh special while adapting to changing needs and opportunities.

Map of Local Area near Westerleigh Staten Island

Frequently Asked Questions About Westerleigh Staten Island

Where is Westerleigh located on Staten Island?

Westerleigh is located in the northwestern part of Staten Island, bordered by Forest Avenue to the north, Victory Boulevard to the south, Jewett Avenue to the east, and Stewart Avenue to the west. The neighborhood sits in ZIP code 10314 and is adjacent to Port Richmond, Castleton Corners, Graniteville, and Meiers Corners.

What are home prices like in Westerleigh Staten Island?

Home prices in Westerleigh typically range from $430,000 for townhouses to $1.5 million for larger Victorian and colonial homes. Single-family homes generally cost between $600,000 and $965,000, making Westerleigh significantly more affordable than comparable neighborhoods in Manhattan or Brooklyn while offering more space and community amenities.

How do I commute to Manhattan from Westerleigh?

Residents can reach Manhattan via several bus routes (S57, SIM3, SIM34) that connect to the St. George Ferry Terminal, followed by the free 25-minute Staten Island Ferry ride to Lower Manhattan. Total commute time is typically 45-75 minutes. Express buses also provide direct service to Manhattan during peak hours.

What schools serve Westerleigh Staten Island?

Westerleigh is served by highly-rated public schools including PS 30 Westerleigh (Pre-K through 5th grade, rated “A” by Niche), IS 51 Edwin Markham (middle school, also “A” rated), and Susan E. Wagner High School. Private options include St. John’s Lutheran School and several Catholic schools in nearby areas.

Is Westerleigh a safe neighborhood?

Yes, Westerleigh is considered one of Staten Island’s safest neighborhoods with low crime rates, active community involvement, and strong neighborhood watch participation. The area’s residential character, well-maintained properties, and engaged residents contribute to its family-friendly safety profile.

What’s the difference between Westerleigh and nearby Port Richmond?

While Port Richmond offers more commercial development and ferry terminal proximity, Westerleigh provides a more residential, suburban atmosphere with larger lots, historic homes, and stronger community park presence. Westerleigh tends to have higher property values and more single-family homes compared to Port Richmond’s mixed-use character.

How far is Westerleigh from other Staten Island neighborhoods?

Westerleigh is centrally located with easy access to: Castleton Corners (5 minutes), Port Richmond (10 minutes), St. George (15 minutes), New Dorp (20 minutes), and Tottenville (25 minutes). The Staten Island Mall and College of Staten Island are both within 15 minutes by car.

What shopping and dining options are available in Westerleigh?

Local dining includes Roberto’s Gourmet Kitchen, Café Juliet, Osteria Santina, and Angel’s Tavern. Shopping is available along Victory Boulevard and nearby Forest Avenue, which features a Target, CVS, Stop & Shop, and various local businesses. The Staten Island Mall is a 15-minute drive away.

Can you walk around Westerleigh safely?

Absolutely. Westerleigh features wide sidewalks, tree-lined streets, and a very walkable layout centered around Westerleigh Park. The neighborhood encourages walking with its pedestrian-friendly design, and residents regularly walk to the park, local shops on Victory Boulevard, and community events.

What makes Westerleigh historically significant?

Westerleigh was originally “Prohibition Park,” established in 1877 by the National Prohibition Campground Association as a temperance movement retreat. The neighborhood features street names honoring prohibition leaders and hosted speeches by Theodore Roosevelt and William Jennings Bryan. It’s also home to America’s first tennis court, where Mary Ewing Outerbridge introduced the sport to the United States.

How does Westerleigh compare to Great Kills or Tottenville?

While Great Kills and Tottenville offer waterfront access and beaches, Westerleigh provides more central island location with shorter commutes to ferry terminals and other boroughs. Westerleigh’s historic character and prohibition-era heritage make it unique, while Great Kills and Tottenville focus more on coastal lifestyle. All three neighborhoods offer excellent schools and family-friendly environments.

What recreational activities are available in and near Westerleigh?

Westerleigh Park hosts community events, walking paths, and the annual WesterFest folk music festival. Nearby Clove Lakes Park offers fishing, ice skating, baseball fields, and hiking trails. The neighborhood provides easy access to the 2,800-acre Staten Island Greenbelt for extensive hiking and nature activities.

Is parking available in Westerleigh?

Most homes in Westerleigh include private driveways or garages, and street parking is generally available. The residential nature of the neighborhood means parking is rarely a significant issue, unlike denser areas of NYC. Townhouses typically include garage parking, while larger homes often feature multiple parking spaces.

How close is Westerleigh to hospitals and medical care?

Staten Island University Hospital is approximately 15 minutes away, while Richmond University Medical Center is about 20 minutes from Westerleigh. The neighborhood also has convenient access to urgent care facilities, pharmacies (CVS on Forest Avenue), and medical offices throughout the North Shore area.

What’s the best time to visit Westerleigh to get a feel for the neighborhood?

Visit during weekend mornings to see families enjoying Westerleigh Park, or attend the June Patriotic Sunday celebration or fall WesterFest to experience the community spirit. Weekday evenings showcase the neighborhood’s peaceful residential character, while Saturday afternoons reveal the active family life that defines the area.

Getting Started in Westerleigh

For those considering making Westerleigh home, the neighborhood offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a young professional seeking an affordable entry point into homeownership, a growing family needing space and good schools, or someone looking to be part of a genuine community, Westerleigh provides the foundation for a fulfilling lifestyle.

The combination of historical character, community spirit, educational excellence, and convenient location makes Westerleigh one of Staten Island’s most desirable neighborhoods. Here, residents don’t just live—they become part of a community with deep roots and a bright future.

Ready to explore what Westerleigh has to offer? Contact Robert DeFalco Realty to discover available properties and learn more about making this special neighborhood your home. Our experienced team understands Westerleigh’s unique character and can help you find the perfect property to begin your next chapter in this remarkable community.

From Victorian mansions to charming colonials, from family-friendly activities to excellent schools, Westerleigh Staten Island offers the complete package for those seeking authentic neighborhood living within reach of everything New York City has to offer.