Mariners Harbor, Staten Island, NY
Discover Mariners Harbor: Staten Island's Historic Waterfront Community
Located on the northwestern corner of Staten Island, Mariners Harbor is a neighborhood with a rich maritime history and a vibrant, diverse community. Named for its historic connection to shipbuilding and fishing, the neighborhood offers a unique blend of industrial heritage, residential tranquility, and a lively multicultural atmosphere.
If you're looking for a community with a strong sense of its past, a welcoming vibe, and a convenient location, Mariners Harbor is a North Shore gem.
A History Forged by the Sea
From Oysters to Ocean Liners: Mariners Harbor's story is deeply intertwined with the water. In the 19th century, the area was known for its abundant oyster beds and was home to wealthy ship captains who built grand homes along "Captain's Row" (now Richmond Terrace).
As the maritime industry grew, the neighborhood became a major hub for shipbuilding. During World War II, the Bethlehem Steel shipyard in Mariners Harbor was a critical center for building destroyers for the U.S. Navy. While its industrial heyday has passed, the neighborhood still honors its seafaring past. Today, the Mariners Harbor Yacht Club remains an active part of the shoreline, and the neighborhood's maritime spirit is preserved in its street names and local landmarks.
A Diverse Community with a Friendly Vibe
Mariners Harbor is a multicultural neighborhood known for its "urban suburban mix." Residents from a variety of backgrounds have created a strong, tight-knit community where neighbors often look out for one another.
Community Revitalization: In early 2026, the neighborhood is celebrating the recent $6.1 million renovation of the Mariners Harbor Community Center. This state-of-the-art facility now features a new teaching kitchen, high-tech computer rooms, and expanded youth programming, serving as a modern hub for the area's 1,300 residents.
Global Flavors: This blend of cultures is reflected in local eateries and shops along Richmond Terrace and Forest Avenue, offering everything from authentic Caribbean and West African cuisines to traditional Italian delis.
Architectural Variety and Affordability
The architectural landscape of Mariners Harbor reflects its long history and diverse development:
Historic "Captain's Row": You can still find grand Greek Revival and Victorian-style homes in the older parts of the neighborhood.
Suburban Comfort: The majority of the housing stock consists of detached and semi-attached single-family houses, along with a growing number of modern townhouses.
Housing Landscape: About 31% of the neighborhood consists of attached units, while 27% are detached single-family homes, offering a versatile range of options for different family sizes.
Real Estate in Mariners Harbor: 2026 Market Insights
As of January 2026, Mariners Harbor is recognized as one of Staten Island's "Value Leaders," providing an affordable path to homeownership compared to the borough's more expensive South Shore.
Pricing Trends: The median home sale price is approximately $579,900, which has seen a slight softening of about 3.3% year-over-year, offering a window of opportunity for buyers.
Market Activity: Homes are selling in a median of 55 days, a significant 49% decrease in time-on-market from the previous year, signaling that buyers are acting quickly on available inventory.
Value per Square Foot: Homebuyers are paying a median of roughly $416 per square foot, reflecting steady value for both residential buyers and rental investors.
Rental Market: Renters can expect a median price of roughly $3,450 per month, a figure that has seen substantial upward pressure over the last 12 months.
Amenities and Connectivity: A North Shore Hub
Experience a mix of historic charm and modern living with major infrastructure projects currently underway.
Local Commerce and Recreation
Parks: Residents enjoy local spots like the Bobbie Lewis Jr. Playground and the newly renovated community center. For a more "wild" experience, Mariners Marsh Park offers a unique glimpse into the area's natural industrial history and wildlife.
Faber Park: Located just to the east, it features a popular outdoor pool, skate park, and stunning views of the Kill Van Kull.
Shopping: Major retailers and supermarkets are a short drive away at the Forest Avenue Shoppers Town and other nearby plazas.
Schools and Community Resources
Families are served by several local public schools, including P.S. 24 and P.S. 44, as well as the New World Preparatory Charter School. The Mariners Harbor Library serves as a vital resource, hosting events like the "Get Crafty!" winter workshops for kids.
Exceptional Transportation Connectivity
Mariners Harbor is a premier location for commuters, especially those traveling to New Jersey:
Bridge Access: Immediate proximity to the Goethals Bridge and the Bayonne Bridge provides a seamless 10-15 minute commute into Elizabeth or Jersey City.
Express Bus: Commuters enjoy direct service to Manhattan via several routes, including the SIM3, SIM33, and SIM34.
Future Transit: The Staten Island North Shore Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project is advancing in 2026, with plans for a dedicated Mariners Harbor station to further speed up commutes to the St. George Ferry Terminal.
At a Glance:
HOA: No
55+ Community: No
2026 Median Price: ~$579,900
Vibe: Historic, Diverse, and Highly Accessible.
Mariners Harbor, Staten Island, offers a truly unique opportunity to live in a neighborhood that is both steeped in history and actively building its future. Its exceptional connectivity and practical lifestyle make it a captivating place to call home.
