Staten Island vs Brooklyn: Where Should You Buy?

Staten Island vs Brooklyn: Where Should You Buy?

See exactly what your budget gets you in each borough side by side, dollar for dollar. The results might surprise you.

Takes 60 seconds * 100% Free

The Numbers at a Glance (2026)

42%
Less expensive (SI vs BK avg.)
3x
More space per dollar in SI
25 min
Express ferry to Manhattan

Brooklyn gets the hype, but Staten Island has quietly become one of the best-value markets in all of NYC. You’re still buying in New York City with all the same first-time buyer programs and benefits but your dollar goes dramatically further.

Compare Your Budget

Enter your budget to see what you get in each borough.

Staten Island

What your budget gets you

Avg. Sqft
Bedrooms
Lot Size
Property Tax/yr
Monthly Payment
Parking
Outdoor Space
Monthly All-In Cost
VS

Brooklyn

What your budget gets you

Avg. Sqft
Bedrooms
Lot Size
Property Tax/yr
Monthly Payment
Parking
Outdoor Space
Monthly All-In Cost

By Choosing Staten Island, You Could Save

$0/month

That’s $0/year back in your pocket or $0 over 10 years

Explore SI Homes with Joseph

65+ Five-Star Google Reviews * SI & Brooklyn Expert

Top Neighborhoods by Budget

Staten Island Best Value Areas

Great Kills / Eltingville

Family-friendly, excellent schools, SIR access. Avg: $550-700K for 3BR houses with yards.

Tottenville / Huguenot

Waterfront community feel, larger lots. Avg: $500-650K. Great for first-time buyers.

New Dorp / Midland Beach

Walkable, close to beach, growing restaurant scene. Avg: $475-600K.

Westerleigh / Port Richmond

Most affordable, close to ferry. Avg: $400-525K. Best entry point for buyers.

Brooklyn Comparable Areas

Bay Ridge

Classic Brooklyn neighborhood, good transit. Avg: $650-900K for similar-sized homes.

Sunset Park

Up-and-coming, diverse food scene. Avg: $700-950K. Smaller lots than SI equivalents.

Bensonhurst / Gravesend

Established, family-oriented. Avg: $650-850K. Tighter lots, less outdoor space.

East New York / Canarsie

Most affordable BK option, developing rapidly. Avg: $500-700K.

The Migration Trend: Thousands of Brooklyn residents are moving to Staten Island every year, citing more space, lower costs, and better quality of life while still keeping NYC salaries and benefits. Joseph helps Brooklyn-to-SI movers every month.

Beyond the Numbers: Lifestyle Comparison

Commute to Manhattan

Staten Island Ferry: 25 minutes (free!). Express bus: 45-60 min. Brooklyn subway: 30-50 min depending on neighborhood. The ferry commute is actually one of the most scenic and enjoyable in the city.

Space & Lifestyle

The average Staten Island home has a driveway, a yard, and a garage. The average Brooklyn home at the same price has… none of those. If you have kids, pets, or just value breathing room, the space difference is massive.

Schools

Staten Island has several top-rated school districts. District 31 consistently ranks among NYC’s best. Many SI families specifically choose the borough for the school quality something that’s much harder to find at the same price point in Brooklyn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Staten Island really part of NYC? Do I get the same benefits?
Yes! Staten Island is one of NYC’s five boroughs. You get all the same first-time buyer programs (HomeFirst, HDP, SONYMA), city services, and benefits as any other borough. You’re a New Yorker.

What about the commute? Is it really doable?
Absolutely. The Staten Island Ferry is free and takes 25 minutes to Manhattan. Express buses run frequently. Many residents also drive (free parking at home is a huge perk). Post-COVID remote/hybrid work has made SI even more attractive.

Are property values in SI still going up?
Staten Island has seen consistent appreciation over the past 5 years, with some neighborhoods up 15-20%. The migration from Brooklyn is driving demand. Buying now, before prices catch up further, is a strategic move.

Ready to See What’s Available?

Joseph knows both boroughs inside and out. Whether you’re moving from Brooklyn to SI, or weighing your options, a quick call will give you clarity.

Book a Free Borough Strategy Call ->

No pressure * No obligation * 15-minute call

Estimates based on market data as of early 2026. Property values, taxes, and costs vary by specific location and property. For personalized advice, schedule a consultation with Joseph Ranola Licensed Real Estate Agent, Bridge & Boro Team.