Park Hill Staten Island: Complete Neighborhood Living Guide 2025

Park Hill Staten Island neighborhood aerial view showing residential apartments and tree-lined streets with Manhattan skyline in background.

Park Hill Staten Island is a culturally diverse North Shore neighborhood that blends rich cultural heritage with convenient Manhattan access. This vibrant community, known for its strong Liberian population and Wu-Tang Clan connection, offers residents affordable housing options, quality schools, and authentic neighborhood character within New York City’s most affordable borough.

Located between Stapleton and Grymes Hill, Park Hill provides an ideal balance of urban convenience and suburban tranquility for families, young professionals, and retirees seeking authentic community living with Manhattan accessibility.

Park Hill Overview & Geographic Location

Park Hill Staten Island occupies a strategic position on Staten Island’s North Shore, bordered by Stapleton to the northwest, Grymes Hill to the west, Clifton to the northeast, Rosebank to the east, and Concord to the south. This 10304 zip code neighborhood sits approximately 2.5 miles from the Staten Island Ferry terminal at St. George.

The neighborhood’s elevated terrain provides residents with scenic harbor views and proximity to Silver Lake Park. Park Hill’s central North Shore location ensures easy access to Staten Island Railway stations at both Stapleton and Clifton, connecting residents to Manhattan via the free Staten Island Ferry.

North Shore Context

As part of Staten Island’s North Shore region, Park Hill benefits from the area’s established transportation infrastructure, cultural diversity, and proximity to employment centers. The North Shore’s ferry connectivity makes Park Hill an attractive option for commuters working in Manhattan’s Financial District, Midtown, or Brooklyn.

Transportation accessibility includes:

15-minute walk to Stapleton Staten Island Railway station
12-minute walk to Clifton station
Multiple bus routes connecting to St. George Ferry Terminal
Easy highway access via Staten Island Expressway

Housing & Real Estate Market Analysis

The Park Hill Staten Island real estate market offers diverse housing options at prices significantly below Manhattan and Brooklyn averages. Current market conditions make Park Hill attractive for both homebuyers and renters seeking spacious accommodations with city access.

Housing Types & Options

Park Hill Apartments dominates the rental market with its large residential complex, offering 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments with amenities including parking, laundry facilities, and green spaces. These apartments typically rent for $2,800 to $4,200 monthly, depending on size and specific location within the complex.

Housing Type	Price Range	Key Features
1-Bedroom Apartments	$2,800 – $3,400	Modern kitchens, parking included
2-Bedroom Apartments	$3,200 – $3,800	Family-friendly layouts, storage
3-Bedroom Apartments	$3,600 – $4,200	Spacious living, multiple bathrooms
Single-Family Homes	$450,000 – $750,000	Private yards, parking, basements
Townhomes	$500,000 – $850,000	Multi-level living, outdoor space

Market Trends & Investment Potential

Park Hill’s median home price of $665,124 represents excellent value compared to NYC’s overall median of $1.2 million. The neighborhood has experienced steady 3-5% annual appreciation over the past five years, making it attractive for both residents and investors.

Investment considerations include:

Rising property values due to Manhattan accessibility
Strong rental demand from young professionals and families
Limited inventory creating competitive market conditions
Development potential in surrounding areas

For detailed market analysis and current listings, explore Park Hill homes for sale through experienced local professionals.

Rent vs. Buy Analysis

Median monthly rent of $3,325 versus median home price of $665,124 creates favorable buying conditions for residents planning to stay 5+ years. With current mortgage rates, monthly homeownership costs often equal or exceed rental costs while building equity.

Homeownership advantages in Park Hill:

Building equity in appreciating market
Stable housing costs compared to rising rents
Tax benefits including mortgage interest deductions
Community investment and neighborhood stability

Demographics & Community Culture

Park Hill’s cultural diversity represents one of Staten Island’s most internationally connected neighborhoods. The area’s vibrant Liberian community forms the largest concentration of Liberian Americans on Staten Island, contributing to the neighborhood’s authentic multicultural atmosphere.

Cultural Composition & Heritage

The neighborhood’s demographics reflect global connections with residents representing:

Liberian American community (largest concentration in NYC)
African American families with generational roots
Caribbean immigrants from various islands
Latino families primarily from Central America
White American families including Italian-American heritage

Community celebrations include Liberian Independence Day festivities, Caribbean cultural events, and neighborhood block parties that strengthen social connections across cultural lines.

Wu-Tang Clan Cultural Legacy

Park Hill gained international recognition as the neighborhood that inspired legendary hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan. The group’s members, including Method Man and Raekwon, grew up in Park Hill Apartments and frequently reference the area in their music.

This cultural significance attracts music fans worldwide while contributing to the neighborhood’s authentic character and artistic heritage. Local pride in this connection remains strong among long-term residents.

Family-Oriented Community

Park Hill appeals to families seeking affordable urban living with strong community bonds. The neighborhood features active community organizations, youth programs, and informal support networks that help families navigate city life while maintaining cultural connections.

Community assets supporting families:

Active parent-teacher associations in local schools
Youth sports leagues and recreational programs
Community gardens and neighborhood beautification projects
Cultural organizations preserving heritage traditions

Schools & Educational Opportunities

Park Hill students attend quality public schools within walking distance, creating convenient educational access for families. The neighborhood’s school options serve students from elementary through high school with additional private alternatives.

Public School Options

P.S. 57 serves as the primary elementary school, offering Pre-K through 5th grade education with programs including:

Dual language instruction supporting multilingual students
After-school programs including homework help and enrichment
Special education services with individualized support
Parent engagement initiatives strengthening school-community connections

I.S. 49 provides 6th through 8th grade intermediate education with:

STEM programming including robotics and computer science
Arts education covering music, visual arts, and theater
Athletic programs including basketball, soccer, and track
College prep counseling beginning in 7th grade

Concord High School offers comprehensive high school education featuring:

Advanced Placement courses in core subjects
Career and technical education programs
College partnerships with local institutions
Athletic programs competing in PSAL leagues

Private Education Alternatives

Bright Minds Academy provides private elementary education with smaller class sizes and individualized attention. The school emphasizes academic excellence and character development while serving diverse student populations.

Religious schools in nearby neighborhoods offer additional private options for families seeking faith-based education with values-centered curricula.

Higher Education Access

Wagner College sits just minutes away on Grymes Hill, offering undergraduate and graduate programs with beautiful campus facilities. The College of Staten Island (CSI) provides affordable public higher education with extensive program offerings.

Educational advantages for Park Hill residents:

Close proximity to multiple colleges and universities
Community college partnerships offering continuing education
Adult education programs supporting career advancement
Public library branches providing educational resources

Amenities & Local Attractions

Park Hill residents enjoy access to diverse recreational, shopping, and cultural amenities within walking distance or short drives. The neighborhood’s location provides both local conveniences and easy access to broader Staten Island attractions.

Parks & Recreation

Silver Lake Park serves as Park Hill’s primary recreational destination, offering 36 acres of green space with:

Walking and jogging trails through wooded areas
Tennis courts available for public use
Playground equipment designed for different age groups
Picnic areas with tables and grilling facilities
Silver Lake reservoir providing scenic water views

Alice Austen Park (10-minute drive) features waterfront access with Manhattan skyline views, perfect for photography and peaceful reflection.

Shopping & Dining

Local shopping options include:

Vanderbilt Avenue commercial strip with essential services
Small ethnic markets specializing in African and Caribbean foods
Family restaurants serving authentic Liberian, Caribbean, and American cuisine
Beauty salons and barbershops reflecting community cultural preferences

Nearby shopping centers:

Staten Island Mall (15-minute drive) with major retailers
Empire Outlets at St. George (20-minute commute) featuring designer brands
Fresh Direct and grocery delivery services available

Healthcare Access

Richmond University Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services including:

Emergency services available 24/7
Specialty care in cardiology, orthopedics, and pediatrics
Women’s health services including obstetrics and gynecology
Mental health and counseling services

Community health centers offer affordable primary care with multilingual staff supporting diverse populations.

Cultural & Entertainment Venues

Local entertainment includes:

Community centers hosting cultural events and programs
Youth centers providing after-school and summer activities
Churches and cultural organizations offering social connections
Nearby Snug Harbor Cultural Center (15-minute drive) with museums and performances

Transportation & Commuting Guide

Park Hill’s transportation options provide excellent connectivity to Manhattan and other NYC boroughs while maintaining affordable commuting costs. The neighborhood’s strategic location offers multiple transit alternatives.

Staten Island Railway Access

Stapleton Station (15-minute walk):

Direct service to St. George Ferry Terminal
20-25 minute journey to ferry connection
Frequent service during peak and off-peak hours
Free transfers to Staten Island buses

Clifton Station (12-minute walk):

Alternative SIR access with slightly shorter walk
Same service frequency and ferry connections
Parking availability for residents preferring to drive to station

Ferry Connectivity to Manhattan

Staten Island Ferry provides free transportation to Manhattan’s Whitehall Terminal with:

24/7 service with ferries every 15-30 minutes
25-minute crossing with harbor and skyline views
Pedestrian and vehicle capacity accommodating all commuter needs
Direct connections to subway and bus systems in Manhattan

Bus Transportation

MTA buses serve Park Hill with routes including:

S40/S44/S46 connecting to St. George Ferry Terminal
S74/S76 providing cross-island service
Express bus service available to Manhattan during peak hours
Reduced fare programs for seniors and students

Driving & Parking

Car ownership advantages in Park Hill:

Street parking availability in most residential areas
Private parking included with many apartment complexes
Easy highway access via Staten Island Expressway
Lower gas prices compared to Manhattan and Brooklyn

Commute times by car:

Manhattan via Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge: 45-60 minutes
Brooklyn: 25-35 minutes
New Jersey: 20-30 minutes
Staten Island Mall: 15 minutes

Cost of Living & Budget Planning

Park Hill offers affordable urban living with housing costs significantly below NYC averages while maintaining quality of life and city access. Understanding local costs helps residents budget effectively for comfortable living.

Housing Cost Breakdown

Monthly housing expenses typically include:

Expense Category	Average Cost	Notes
1-Bedroom Rent	$3,100	Utilities often included
2-Bedroom Rent	$3,500	Family-friendly options
3-Bedroom Rent	$3,900	Spacious layouts
Property Taxes (Annual)	$8,000-$12,000	Based on assessed value
Utilities (Monthly)	$150-$200	Electric, gas, internet
Parking (Monthly)	$75-$150	Private garage or lot

Living Expenses

Monthly budget considerations:

Groceries: $400-$600 for family of four
Transportation: $120 MetroCard plus occasional car expenses
Dining out: $200-$400 depending on frequency
Entertainment: $100-$250 for local activities
Healthcare: Variable based on insurance coverage

Comparison to NYC Averages

Park Hill cost advantages:

30-40% lower housing costs compared to Manhattan
25-35% savings versus Brooklyn neighborhoods
Significantly lower parking and storage costs
Comparable grocery and utility expenses

Total monthly expenses for families typically range $4,500-$6,500 including housing, utilities, food, and transportation—representing substantial savings compared to other NYC areas.

Financial Planning Tips

Budgeting strategies for Park Hill residents:

Allocate 35-40% of gross income for housing costs
Take advantage of free Staten Island Ferry for commuting
Utilize local markets for affordable grocery shopping
Consider car ownership for convenience and potential savings

Nearby Neighborhoods Comparison

Park Hill’s location provides easy access to several distinct Staten Island neighborhoods, each offering unique characteristics and amenities. Understanding these areas helps residents appreciate their housing choice and explore local options.

Grymes Hill

Grymes Hill (adjacent to west) features:

Wagner College campus with beautiful architecture and cultural events
Higher elevation providing panoramic harbor views
More expensive housing with larger single-family homes
Quieter residential character with tree-lined streets

Residents often visit Grymes Hill for college events, upscale dining, and scenic walks while appreciating Park Hill’s more affordable housing options. Explore Grymes Hill homes for comparison.

Stapleton

Stapleton (northwest of Park Hill) offers:

Historic waterfront district with ongoing revitalization efforts
Staten Island Railway hub with ferry connections
Diverse dining scene including international cuisines
Mixed-income housing from affordable to luxury developments

The 10-minute walk to Stapleton provides Park Hill residents access to additional shopping and dining while maintaining their quiet residential environment. View Stapleton real estate options.

Clifton

Clifton (northeast boundary) features:

Family-oriented community with established neighborhoods
Good school options and recreational facilities
Convenient SIR access at Clifton station
Mixed housing stock from apartments to single-family homes

Clifton’s proximity allows Park Hill residents to access additional amenities while benefiting from their neighborhood’s unique cultural character. Research Clifton Staten Island housing market.

Rosebank

Rosebank (eastern border) provides:

Waterfront access along the Arthur Kill
Industrial and residential mix with ongoing development
Lower housing costs in some sections
Growing arts and cultural scene

Concord

Concord (southern boundary) offers:

Suburban residential character with larger lots
Family-friendly atmosphere with good schools
Shopping and dining options along major corridors
Mix of housing types from condos to single-family homes

Park Hill’s central location allows residents to easily access the amenities and characteristics of all surrounding neighborhoods while maintaining their own community’s distinctive identity and affordability. Consider Concord Staten Island for additional housing options.

Honest Assessment: Pros and Cons

Park Hill Staten Island offers significant advantages for specific resident profiles while presenting certain challenges that potential residents should consider. This balanced assessment helps families make informed housing decisions.

Major Advantages

Cultural diversity and community:

Authentic multicultural environment with strong community bonds
Rich cultural heritage including Liberian community and Wu-Tang legacy
Active neighborhood organizations supporting residents
Intergenerational families creating stable community foundation

Financial benefits:

Affordable housing costs compared to other NYC neighborhoods
Strong property appreciation potential for investors
Free ferry transportation reducing commuting expenses
Lower overall cost of living while maintaining city access

Practical conveniences:

Manhattan accessibility via Staten Island Ferry
Quality schools within walking distance
Green space access at Silver Lake Park
Parking availability for car owners

Potential Challenges

Transportation limitations:

Longer commute times compared to Manhattan or Brooklyn residents
Limited late-night transportation options
Car dependency for some shopping and entertainment
Ferry delays can occasionally impact commuting schedules

Urban infrastructure:

Older housing stock in some areas requiring maintenance
Limited nightlife and entertainment compared to other boroughs
Fewer high-end shopping options within immediate vicinity
Some areas need continued revitalization efforts

Best Fit Resident Profiles

Park Hill works best for:

Families with children seeking affordable space and community
Young professionals willing to commute for housing savings
Cultural diversity enthusiasts appreciating authentic community
First-time homebuyers building equity in appreciating market
Retirees seeking quiet neighborhood with city access

Consider alternatives if you prioritize:

Minimal commute times to Manhattan employment
Extensive nightlife and entertainment options
Walking access to high-end shopping and dining
Car-free urban lifestyle with extensive public transit

Getting Started: Next Steps for Potential Residents

Moving to Park Hill Staten Island requires careful planning and local expertise to navigate the housing market and community integration successfully. These steps help ensure a smooth transition to neighborhood living.

Research and Planning Phase

Start your Park Hill journey by:

Visiting the neighborhood during different times and days
Exploring transportation options including ferry schedules and SIR access
Researching school options if you have children
Calculating total living costs including housing, transportation, and utilities

Connect with local resources:

Community organizations for cultural integration opportunities
Parent groups if you have school-age children
Professional networks for career connections
Healthcare providers accepting new patients

Real Estate Process

Work with experienced local professionals who understand Park Hill’s unique market conditions and community character. Staten Island real estate experts provide valuable insights into:

Current market conditions and pricing trends
Neighborhood-specific considerations for different areas
Financing options and first-time buyer programs
Property history and community information

Professional guidance helps with:

Market analysis comparing properties and prices
Negotiation strategies in competitive situations
Inspection processes for older housing stock
Community connections facilitating integration

Community Integration

Successful Park Hill living involves:

Participating in community events and cultural celebrations
Supporting local businesses and establishing neighborhood relationships
Joining parent-teacher associations or community organizations
Exploring recreational opportunities at Silver Lake Park and beyond

Building connections through:

School involvement if you have children
Religious or cultural organizations matching your interests
Volunteer opportunities supporting neighborhood improvement
Local business relationships with service providers

Park Hill Staten Island combines authentic community living with practical urban advantages, making it an excellent choice for families and individuals seeking cultural diversity, affordable housing, and Manhattan accessibility. The neighborhood’s rich heritage, strong schools, and growing property values create opportunities for both comfortable living and smart financial investment.

Ready to explore Park Hill living? Contact experienced Staten Island real estate professionals who understand the neighborhood’s unique character and can guide you through the process of finding your perfect home in this vibrant, culturally rich community.

Discover why Park Hill Staten Island offers the ideal balance of urban convenience, cultural authenticity, and affordable living that makes it one of NYC’s most compelling residential choices.