Grasmere, Staten Island, NY
Grasmere: Staten Island's Picturesque East Shore Retreat
Located on Staten Island's scenic East Shore, Grasmere is a charming and tranquil residential neighborhood that offers a perfect blend of suburban peace and urban accessibility. Named after a village in England's Lake District, this community lives up to its namesake with beautiful ponds, lush green spaces, and a quiet, inviting atmosphere.
If you're seeking a serene and well-connected neighborhood with a rich history and a strong sense of community, Grasmere is a hidden gem and a wonderful place to call home.
A History Shaped by Water and Transit
From Farmland to Residential Haven: Grasmere's story began in 1661 when English settlers were drawn to its fertile farmland. The area remained rural for centuries until the arrival of the Staten Island Railway in the early 20th century spurred residential development.
This transformation was deeply influenced by the neighborhood's unique geography. The area is dotted with glacial ponds that became focal points for development, most notably the 15-acre Brady’s Pond. Wealthy shipping magnate Sir Roderick Cameron is credited with shaping the area's development in the mid-1800s; his estate surrounded what is now Grasmere Lake, and his love for the English Lake District gave the neighborhood its distinctive name.
A Community that Values Natural Beauty and Connection
Grasmere fosters a close-knit community feel, characterized by a shared appreciation for its quiet streets and scenic landscape. Its residential character is a key part of its appeal, with tree-lined streets creating a peaceful environment that encourages neighborly interactions. Local associations, such as the Cameron Club of Staten Island, play a vital role in maintaining the private ponds and hosting community gatherings, preserving the neighborhood's "village-like" charm.
Architectural Variety Amidst a Scenic Backdrop
The architectural landscape of Grasmere is a diverse mix of styles, reflecting its gradual evolution from grand estates to a modern suburb:
Classic Styles: You'll find a variety of homes ranging from stately Tudors and Colonials to mid-century Ranches.
Modern Living: The neighborhood also features successful gated communities like Stonegate at Grasmere, known for its meticulously maintained townhouses and luxury condos.
Lakefront Estates: Some of the island's most unique properties sit directly on the shores of Brady’s Pond, offering private docks and a lifestyle rarely found within New York City.
Real Estate in Grasmere: 2026 Market Insights
Real estate in Grasmere is highly desirable, consistently outperforming broader market averages due to its premier location for commuters.
Pricing Trends: As of early 2026, Grasmere remains a "Seller's Market" with limited inventory. The median home sale price is approximately $925,000, representing a nearly 14% increase over the last year.
Commuter Value: Due to its proximity to the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, homes in Grasmere typically command a premium. Attached townhouses often start in the $650,000+ range, while detached single-family homes frequently exceed $1.1 million.
Market Speed: Properties are currently selling in an average of 52 days, faster than the Staten Island average, as buyers prioritize the neighborhood’s "first-exit" status for Brooklyn and Manhattan commutes.
Amenities and Connectivity: Peaceful Living with a Quick Commute
Experience tranquil suburban life with unmatched access to local businesses and transportation.
Natural Hotspots and Recreation
The defining feature of the neighborhood is its water.
Brady’s Pond Park: A 6.4-acre forested preserve on the northeast shore of the pond. It offers a 0.35-mile hiking trail (the Yellow Trail) that provides a clear view over the water; perfect for spotting herons, egrets, and cormorants.
Swimming and Boating: While the pond is partially managed as a Bluebelt, the Cameron Club maintains a private sand beach and swimming dock for its members, making it the only swimmable lake in the five boroughs.
Local Scene and Shopping
Residents have easy access to the commercial corridors of Hylan Boulevard and Richmond Road.
Dining: Local favorites include the diverse eateries at the Hylan Shopping Center and a variety of Italian and Mediterranean restaurants just minutes away.
Media Hub: The neighborhood is also home to the executive offices of the Staten Island Advance, the borough's long-standing daily newspaper.
Exceptional Accessibility
Grasmere is arguably the best-connected neighborhood on Staten Island:
Rail: The Grasmere SIR Station provides a direct, 13-minute ride to the St. George Ferry terminal.
Bus: The neighborhood is served by local routes (S53, S78) and multiple express buses that provide a direct link to Manhattan.
Driving: Located at the first exit off the Staten Island Expressway (I-278) after the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, it offers an incredibly fast commute to Brooklyn.
At a Glance:
HOA: Yes (Primarily in communities like Stonegate)
55+ Community: No
Unique Perk: Access to the only swimmable lake in NYC.
Vibe: Picturesque, Commuter-Friendly, and Refined.
Grasmere offers a truly special opportunity to experience a peaceful, community-rich, and incredibly well-connected lifestyle. Its stunning natural beauty and prime location make it an exceptionally engaging place to call home.
