Clifton, Staten Island, NY
Discover Clifton: Staten Island's Historic and Diverse North Shore
Nestled on Staten Island's northeastern shore, Clifton is a neighborhood defined by its rich history and a vibrant, multicultural community. Blending Victorian-era charm with modern convenience, Clifton offers a unique urban-suburban lifestyle with stunning views of the New York Harbor and immediate access to the Manhattan ferry.
If you appreciate a neighborhood with a deep-rooted past, a global identity, and excellent transportation, Clifton is a captivating place to call home.
A History of Gilded Estates and Enduring Communities
From Vanderbilt's Landing to a Melting Pot: Clifton’s history is a story of profound transformation. In the early 19th century, the area was part of the Vanderbilt family's extensive landholdings. Cornelius Vanderbilt established one of the island's first ferry services here, turning the waterfront into a prestigious gateway for grand Victorian estates.
By the mid-20th century, Clifton had evolved into a multi-ethnic, middle-class community. In the 1990s, it gained national recognition as a center for West African and Liberian immigrant populations; a community that remains a cornerstone of the neighborhood today. In early 2026, Clifton continues to honor this heritage through the Staten Island North Shore Action Plan, a revitalization project aimed at enhancing public spaces and connecting the neighborhood’s historic waterfront to the broader North Shore esplanade.
A Community of Global Identity
Clifton is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in New York City, fostering a dynamic social fabric where long-time residents and new arrivals coexist.
Ancestry & Language: The neighborhood has a significant international presence; roughly 55.4% of residents were born in another country.
Cultural Breakdown: Residents identify with a wide array of backgrounds, including Sub-Saharan African (19.9%), Asian (15.7%), and Arab (10.2%).
Global Atmosphere: This diversity is reflected in the shops along Bay Street, where you'll find authentic West African markets, Mexican bakeries, and traditional Italian-American storefronts.
Architectural Variety with Waterfront Allure
The landscape of Clifton is a fascinating mix of eras:
Historic Victorians: Notable collections of late 1800s Victorian homes still line the hilly side streets, many meticulously preserved.
Modern Living: These stand alongside contemporary attached homes, duplexes, and apartment buildings.
The "Clifton View": Because of its North Shore elevation, many properties enjoy panoramic views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and the Manhattan skyline.
Real Estate in Clifton: 2026 Market Insights
As of January 2026, the Clifton real estate market is characterized as "Stable and Price-Forward," providing competitive options for those priced out of the South Shore or Brooklyn.
Pricing Trends: In early 2026, the median sale price for homes in Clifton is approximately $625,000, which has seen a robust 17.7% year-over-year increase.
Market Activity: It is currently a Seller’s Market, meaning demand slightly outweighs supply. Homes are moving in a median of 110 days, reflecting the time buyers take to evaluate the neighborhood's unique historic properties.
Sales Snapshots: * Single-Family/Multi-Family: Renovated homes on Clifton Avenue have recently sold for between $650,000 and $900,000.
Condominiums: Units in waterfront complexes can range from $450,000 to over $600,000 depending on the view.
Value Retention: The neighborhood maintains a 100% sale-to-list price ratio, meaning homes typically sell for their full asking price.
Amenities and Connectivity: A North Shore Hub
Experience a blend of historic charm and modern living with some of the best transit links on the island.
Local Commerce and Culture
Bay Street Corridor: The heart of local business, offering an eclectic mix of global dining and specialty services.
Alice Austen House Museum: A National Historic Landmark located on the waterfront, providing a unique look into 19th-century photography and local history.
Healthcare Hub: Home to the Bayley Seton Hospital campus and conveniently close to the Staten Island University Hospital North campus.
Schools and Community Resources
Families are served by District 31, including a variety of public and charter options that reflect the diverse needs of the population.
Unmatched Transportation Links
Clifton is a premier choice for Manhattan commuters:
Staten Island Railway (SIR): The Clifton Station provides a 5-minute ride to the St. George Ferry Terminal for a free 24/7 commute to Lower Manhattan.
Bus Service: Numerous routes connect the neighborhood to the North Shore esplanade and the South Shore.
Driving: Immediate access to the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge makes for a 10-minute commute to Brooklyn.
At a Glance:
HOA: No
55+ Community: No
2026 Median Price: ~$625,000
Vibe: Historic, Multicultural, and Transit-Oriented.
Clifton offers a truly unique opportunity to live in a neighborhood rich in history and global diversity. Its exceptional connectivity and welcoming community make it a captivating and convenient place to call home.
