Welcome to Tottenville, Staten Island’s southernmost neighborhood that perfectly blends small-town charm with big-city convenience. This tottenville staten island neighborhood guide reveals why this historic community attracts families, professionals, and retirees seeking waterfront living without Manhattan price tags.
Tottenville sits at the southern tip of Staten Island, offering residents stunning views of the Arthur Kill waterway and New Jersey’s rolling hills. The neighborhood maintains its village-like atmosphere through tree-lined streets, Victorian homes, and a tight-knit community that still gathers at local establishments like family-owned restaurants and corner shops.
Real estate here spans from cozy ranch homes starting around $500,000 to waterfront estates exceeding $1.2 million. The area’s appeal lies in its accessibility—just 45 minutes to Manhattan via Staten Island Railway—combined with suburban tranquility. Parks, beaches, and historic sites provide year-round recreation, while excellent schools and low crime rates make it ideal for families.
Whether you’re considering your first home purchase or seeking a peaceful retirement destination, Tottenville offers compelling advantages that deserve serious consideration in today’s competitive real estate market.
Tottenville Staten Island Neighborhood Guide: Quick Snapshot
Population: Approximately 12,500 residents
Median Home Price: $625,000 (2025)
Commute to Manhattan: 45-60 minutes
School District: District 31 (excellent ratings)
Notable Features: Waterfront access, historic sites
Best For: Families, commuters, retirees
Where Exactly Is Tottenville?
Tottenville occupies Staten Island’s southwestern corner, bordered by the Arthur Kill to the west and south, and the neighborhoods of Pleasant Plains and Richmond Valley to the north. Main Street serves as the commercial spine, running parallel to the waterfront and connecting residents to essential services.
The area encompasses roughly 2.5 square miles, making it one of Staten Island’s more compact neighborhoods. Hylan Boulevard provides the primary north-south route, while Page Avenue and Amboy Road offer east-west connectivity. The Tottenville train station sits at the neighborhood’s heart, providing direct rail service to St. George Ferry Terminal.
Geographic isolation creates distinct boundaries that preserve the community’s character. The Arthur Kill waterway separates Tottenville from Perth Amboy, New Jersey, visible across the narrow channel. This positioning offers residents unique dual-state views while maintaining clear neighborhood identity.
A Stroll Through History
What makes Tottenville special begins with Native American settlements dating back thousands of years? The Lenape tribe established fishing camps along these shores, taking advantage of the rich waterways that still define the area today.
European settlement began in the 1680s when Captain Christopher Billop received a land grant from the British Crown. The Conference House, built around 1680, hosted the failed peace conference between British Lord Howe and American representatives including Benjamin Franklin in September 1776.
The 19th century brought industrial growth as oystering became the dominant industry. Tottenville’s waters produced some of New York Harbor’s finest oysters until pollution ended commercial harvesting in the early 1900s. Victorian-era homes from this prosperous period still grace many streets.
Railroad arrival in 1860 connected Tottenville to the broader Staten Island network, spurring suburban development that continues today. The neighborhood evolved from an industrial fishing village into the residential community current residents enjoy.
Real Estate Snapshot 2025
Tottenville’s housing market reflects both affordability and appreciation potential that attracts diverse buyers. Single-family homes dominate, comprising 85% of available properties, with the remaining 15% split between condominiums and two-family houses.
Current Tottenville homes for sale range from $450,000 for modest ranch-style properties to $1.3 million for waterfront estates with private docks. The median price of $625,000 represents excellent value compared to Manhattan’s $1.2 million median and Brooklyn’s $950,000 average.
Victorian homes built between 1880-1920 command premium prices, especially those maintaining original architectural details like wraparound porches and bay windows. Modern construction focuses on contemporary colonials and split-levels, often featuring garage parking and updated systems.
Popular Price Ranges:
- Under $600K: Starter homes, typically 2-3 bedrooms
- $600K-$800K: Family homes with yards and parking
- $800K+: Luxury properties, waterfront access
Many buyers discover Tottenville homes under $800K offer exceptional space and amenities compared to other NYC boroughs. The neighborhood’s inventory remains relatively stable, with properties typically selling within 60-90 days.
Things to Do & See
Conference House Park stands as Tottenville’s crown jewel, offering 265 acres of recreational space along the Arthur Kill shoreline. The historic Conference House museum provides guided tours showcasing colonial architecture and Revolutionary War significance. Walking trails wind through maritime forests, leading to secluded beaches perfect for fishing and bird watching.
The Staten Island Railway Museum, housed in a restored 1925 trolley car, displays local transportation history through vintage photographs and artifacts. Train enthusiasts particularly enjoy the collection of subway car models and signal equipment.
Main Street shopping provides essential services within walking distance. Local favorites include Mike’s Deli for Italian specialties and Angelina’s Ristorante for upscale dining. The Tottenville Branch Library hosts community events and children’s programs throughout the year.
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Seasonal activities include summer concerts at Conference House Park, autumn nature walks, and winter holiday celebrations organized by the Tottenville Historical Society. The nearby Living Breakwaters project, featured in AP News coverage{target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”}, creates artificial reefs that improve water quality while providing educational opportunities.
Parks & Waterfront
Beyond Conference House Park, Tottenville offers multiple green spaces that enhance quality of life. Lemon Creek Park features 238 acres of salt marshes, walking trails, and diverse wildlife habitats. This ecological preserve attracts bird watchers seeking herons, egrets, and migratory species.
The Arthur Kill waterfront provides 3.5 miles of accessible shoreline through various parks and access points. Butler Manor Golf Course, while technically in neighboring Charleston, serves Tottenville residents seeking recreational golfing with water views.
Surf Avenue Beach offers a small sandy area perfect for family outings and sunset viewing. Unlike crowded Coney Island, this beach maintains a peaceful atmosphere where children can safely play while parents relax.
Fishing opportunities abound along the Arthur Kill, with popular species including striped bass, fluke, and blue crab. The NYC Parks Conference House Park page provides current fishing regulations and seasonal information.
Kayaking and small boat launching is possible at several locations, though boaters should check tide schedules and weather conditions before venturing onto the water.
Restaurants & Coffee
Tottenville’s dining scene reflects its working-class roots and growing sophistication. Angelina’s Ristorante leads upscale options with Northern Italian cuisine and extensive wine selection. The restaurant consistently earns recognition for fresh seafood and romantic waterfront ambiance.
Mike’s Deli serves Staten Island’s Italian-American community with fresh mozzarella, imported meats, and prepared foods. Their sandwich selection draws customers from across the island, particularly the chicken parmigiana and eggplant heroes.
Nunzio’s Pizzeria provides neighborhood pizza with thin-crust pies and daily specials. The family-owned establishment maintains quality through fresh ingredients and traditional preparation methods passed down through generations.
Coffee Culture:
- Dunkin’ (Main Street) – morning commuter favorite
- Local Corner Café – community gathering spot
- Starbucks (nearby Eltingville) – weekend destination
Joe & Pat’s Pizzeria, technically in neighboring Charleston but serving Tottenville residents, claims to have invented the “Staten Island-style” thin crust pizza that locals consider superior to Manhattan versions.
Casual dining options include Chinese takeout, Mexican family restaurants, and classic American diners that provide comfort food at reasonable prices.
Schools & Education
Tottenville benefits from New York City Department of Education District 31, consistently ranking among the city’s top-performing districts. PS 1 serves elementary students with strong academics and after-school programs that support working families.
Tottenville High School, the neighborhood’s flagship institution, enrolls approximately 3,400 students making it one of NYC’s largest high schools. The school offers Advanced Placement courses, career and technical education programs, and extensive extracurricular activities including championship-level sports teams.
District 31 Schools Serving Tottenville:
- PS 1: Elementary (Pre-K through 5th grade)
- IS 34: Middle school option
- Tottenville High School: Grades 9-12
The high school’s graduation rate exceeds 85%, with many students continuing to four-year colleges including SUNY schools, local private institutions, and competitive universities. Career programs in automotive technology, culinary arts, and healthcare prepare students for immediate workforce entry.
Private school options include Catholic elementary schools in nearby neighborhoods, though most families choose excellent public options. The College of Staten Island provides local higher education, while community college programs offer continuing education for adults.
Demographics & Lifestyle
Tottenville attracts families seeking suburban tranquility with urban accessibility. The median age of 42 reflects the community’s appeal to established professionals and empty nesters, while young families comprise roughly 30% of residents.
According to U.S. Census Community District 3 data{target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”}, the neighborhood maintains economic diversity with household incomes ranging from $60,000 to $150,000 annually. This range supports local businesses while avoiding the gentrification pressures affecting other NYC neighborhoods.
Community Characteristics:
- 68% homeownership rate (well above NYC average)
- Average household size: 2.8 people
- Strong civic participation and volunteerism
- Low crime rates compared to borough averages
The lifestyle pace remains decidedly suburban despite proximity to Manhattan. Residents often know neighbors by name, children play safely on quiet streets, and community events draw significant participation. This small-town feel within America’s largest city attracts buyers seeking the best of both worlds.
Cultural events include summer street festivals, holiday parades, and community clean-up days that strengthen neighborhood bonds.
Getting Around
Transportation options make Tottenville surprisingly accessible despite its geographic isolation. The Staten Island Railway provides direct service from Tottenville station to St. George Ferry Terminal in approximately 45 minutes, connecting residents to Manhattan via the free Staten Island Ferry.
Public Transportation:
- SIR: Direct rail service (every 15-30 minutes)
- Local buses: S53, S56, S74 serving various neighborhood sections
- Express buses: Limited service to Manhattan during peak hours
Driving remains the preferred option for most residents. Hylan Boulevard connects to the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in 25 minutes, while the Outerbridge Crossing provides New Jersey access in 10 minutes. Parking is rarely problematic, with most homes featuring driveways or garage space.
The MTA Staten Island Railway service page{target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”} provides current schedules and service updates. During rush hours, trains run more frequently to accommodate commuters traveling to Manhattan jobs.
Cycling infrastructure includes bike lanes along certain streets, though the area’s hilly terrain challenges casual riders. Many residents use bicycles for local errands rather than long-distance commuting.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Affordable housing compared to other NYC neighborhoods
- Strong sense of community and safety
- Access to waterfront recreation and parks
- Excellent public schools and family-friendly atmosphere
- Direct rail connection to Manhattan
- Low crime rates and suburban feel
- Beautiful historic architecture and tree-lined streets
Cons:
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Commute time to Manhattan can exceed one hour
- Fewer dining and shopping choices than urban areas
- Car dependency for most daily activities
- Limited public transportation frequency outside peak hours
- Distance from cultural attractions and museums
Buying a Home in Tottenville
First-time buyers particularly benefit from Tottenville’s competitive pricing and stable market conditions. Many Staten Island condos in the area offer maintenance-free living ideal for busy professionals or retirees.
Working with experienced local agents proves essential given the neighborhood’s unique characteristics and zoning considerations. Waterfront properties require additional due diligence regarding flood zones and insurance requirements, while historic homes may need specialized inspections.
Key Buying Considerations:
- Property taxes: Generally lower than Manhattan/Brooklyn
- Flood insurance: Required for waterfront properties
- Commute testing: Try the rail journey during rush hour
- School districts: Verify specific school assignments
- Future development: Research planned infrastructure projects
Market timing favors buyers during fall and winter months when inventory increases and seller motivation peaks. The broader Staten Island real estate market shows steady appreciation, making Tottenville purchases sound long-term investments.
Consider exploring featured listings and the comprehensive Tottenville market guide before scheduling property visits.
FAQ
Question: How long does it take to commute from Tottenville to Manhattan? The journey typically takes 75-90 minutes including Staten Island Railway to St. George (45 minutes) plus ferry crossing and subway connections. Express bus service during peak hours reduces travel time to 60 minutes.
Question: Are there good restaurants in Tottenville? Yes, notable options include Angelina’s Ristorante for upscale Italian dining, Mike’s Deli for authentic Italian-American specialties, and several family-owned pizzerias. The TripAdvisor Things to Do in Tottenville list{target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”} provides additional dining recommendations.
Question: Is Tottenville safe for families? Tottenville maintains some of Staten Island’s lowest crime rates with strong community policing and neighborhood watch programs. The area is considered very safe for children and families.
Question: What’s the average home price in Tottenville? Current median home prices are approximately $625,000, with starter homes beginning around $450,000 and luxury waterfront properties reaching $1.3 million or higher.
Question: Does Tottenville have good schools? Yes, the neighborhood is served by NYC District 31, one of the city’s top-performing school districts. Tottenville High School offers excellent academics and extensive extracurricular programs.
Ready to Call Tottenville Home?
Tottenville offers an exceptional combination of affordable living, community charm, and urban accessibility that’s increasingly rare in the New York metropolitan area. Whether you’re seeking your first home, upgrading for more space, or planning retirement, this historic waterfront neighborhood deserves serious consideration.
Browse current new Staten Island listings or contact Robert DeFalco Realty today to schedule private showings. Our local expertise ensures you’ll find the perfect Tottenville property to call home.