Fort Wadsworth, Staten Island, NY
Discover Fort Wadsworth: Staten Island's Historic Waterfront Gateway
Nestled at the northeastern tip of Staten Island, Fort Wadsworth is a neighborhood of profound historical gravity and striking natural beauty. As the gateway to New York Harbor, it offers residents unparalleled panoramic views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and the Manhattan skyline.
Home to one of the oldest military installations in the nation, this community blends the solemnity of a National Landmark with the tranquility of a seaside retreat. If you appreciate living history, vast open spaces, and a location with rapid access to both Brooklyn and Manhattan, Fort Wadsworth is a truly special place to call home.
A Legacy of Defense and Transformation
From Colonial Fortification to Urban Park: Fort Wadsworth’s history spans over 200 years of American defense. Originally established by the British during the Revolutionary War, the site evolved into a massive complex of fortifications, including Battery Weed and Fort Tompkins.
The fort played vital roles in the War of 1812, the Civil War, and both World Wars before being decommissioned in 1994. Today, it is a crown jewel of the Gateway National Recreation Area. The transformation into a public park has allowed the neighborhood to flourish as a unique residential enclave where former military structures coexist with modern homes.
A Community Defined by History and Natural Beauty
The community of Fort Wadsworth is intimately connected to the 226 acres of parkland that wrap around it. Residents enjoy a peaceful, almost campus-like atmosphere where the "commute" often involves walking through historic tunnels or along the shoreline.
The "Marathon" Neighborhood: Every November, the eyes of the world are on Fort Wadsworth as the official starting point of the TCS New York City Marathon.
Quiet Sophistication: Unlike the denser parts of the North Shore, Fort Wadsworth feels secluded and safe, with a high pride of ownership reflected in its well-kept yards and historic streetscapes.
Architectural Integration with a Historic Landscape
The visual landscape of Fort Wadsworth is a fascinating hybrid of styles:
Military Repurposing: A limited number of former officer quarters and military buildings have been thoughtfully converted into unique private residences, maintaining their sturdy brick facades and high ceilings.
Diverse Housing Stock: Surrounding the park, you’ll find a mix of early 20th-century detached homes, semi-attached Colonials, and newer custom-built houses designed to maximize the bridge and water views.
Low-Density Zoning: The neighborhood has retained its quiet character thanks to zoning that favors single-family homes and prevents over-development.
Real Estate in Fort Wadsworth: 2026 Market Insights
As of early 2026, real estate in Fort Wadsworth is characterized as a "niche luxury" market with exceptionally stable value.
Pricing Trends: In January 2026, the median sale price for homes in Fort Wadsworth is approximately $700,000, though this figure varies significantly based on views. Smaller homes and semi-attached units offer accessibility, while premier detached homes near the park can easily range from $950,000 to over $1.5 million.
Market Dynamics: Inventory is famously tight; because of the small footprint of the residential area, only a handful of homes hit the market each year.
Value Retention: The "Inventory Gap" across Staten Island in 2026 has kept prices firm. For buyers, the "Marry the House, Date the Rate" strategy is popular; securing these rare locations now with plans to refinance as rates moderate throughout the year.
Amenities and Connectivity: Tranquility with Easy Access
Experience peaceful waterfront living with the fastest bridge access in the borough.
Direct Access to a National Park
The Gateway National Recreation Area is essentially a massive private backyard for residents:
The Shoreway: A popular route for bikers and runners that connects the fort to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk.
Cultural Events: The park regularly hosts community events such as the weekly "Gather and Stitch" programs and guided historic tours of the batteries.
Von Briesen Park: An adjacent lush park known for its rolling hills and "secret" views of the Narrows.
Local Scene and Dining
While the neighborhood is a quiet retreat, it is adjacent to the culinary variety of Rosebank and South Beach:
Dining: Local staples like The South Fin Grill offer high-end seafood with waterfront views, while Gino’s Restaurant & Pizzeria remains a beloved neighborhood favorite for classic Italian.
Exceptional Connectivity
Fort Wadsworth is arguably the best-connected neighborhood for those who frequently travel to Brooklyn:
Driving: You are literally at the foot of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. A commute to Bay Ridge or Dyker Heights takes under 10 minutes.
Public Transit: The S53 bus provides a direct link to Brooklyn, while the S51 and S81 connect residents to the Staten Island Ferry for a free trip to Manhattan.
Express Bus: Routes like the SIM5 and SIM6 offer a one-shot, comfortable coach commute directly into Midtown and Lower Manhattan.
At a Glance:
HOA: Yes (In select repurposed residential enclaves)
55+ Community: No
2026 Median Price: ~$700,000
Vibe: Historic, Waterfront, and Secluded.
Fort Wadsworth, Staten Island, offers a truly unique opportunity to live in a neighborhood steeped in history and surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Its tranquil atmosphere and exceptional waterfront location make it a captivating and distinctive place to call home.
