Westerleigh, Staten Island, NY
Discover Westerleigh: Staten Island's Historic and Leafy Retreat
Nestled on Staten Island's North Shore, Westerleigh is a charming and historically significant neighborhood known for its picturesque, tree-lined streets, well-preserved Victorian architecture, and strong sense of community. Providing a tranquil suburban lifestyle with convenient access to local amenities, Westerleigh is a truly special place to call home.
A History Rooted in Reform and Community Spirit
From Temperance Colony to Treasured Neighborhood: Westerleigh's history is unique, originating in the 1880s as a planned community founded by the National Prohibition Party. Originally named "Prohibition Park," it was envisioned as a summer retreat and a moral, alcohol-free haven.
The neighborhood’s heritage is still visible in its street names, which honor prominent temperance leaders like Neal Dow (Maine) and Clinton B. Fisk (New Jersey), or states that supported anti-liquor laws like Maine, Ohio, and Virginia. By 1907, as the area transitioned into a year-round residential enclave, it was renamed Westerleigh: a blend of "western" and the Old English "leigh," meaning meadow.
A Community that Cherishes its History and Green Spaces
Westerleigh fosters a deep sense of community pride. The Westerleigh Improvement Society, founded in 1893, is one of the oldest civic organizations in New York City and continues to organize local events like the annual Patriotic Sunday and summer concerts.
The neighborhood is also famous for its long-standing traditions and distinguished residents of the past, including Isaac K. Funk (co-founder of Funk & Wagnalls) and the renowned etiquette expert Amy Vanderbilt.
Architectural Grandeur and Victorian Charm
Westerleigh is an architectural showcase of late 19th-century design. Walking through the neighborhood, you'll find:
Victorian Gems: Stately Queen Annes, Stick-style houses, and grand Italianates featuring wrap-around porches, chestnut trim, and stained-glass windows.
Diverse Housing: Alongside the Victorians are charming Dutch Colonials and bungalows, many dating back to the early 20th-century development boom.
The Canopy: The neighborhood is defined by its mature spruce and maple trees, which create a beautiful natural shade and a "leafy" atmosphere that is rare in a major city.
Real Estate in Westerleigh: 2026 Market Insights
As of early 2026, real estate in Westerleigh remains highly competitive, reflecting the neighborhood's prestige and stability.
Pricing Trends: In January 2026, the median home sale price in Westerleigh is approximately $818,950. While the market has stabilized compared to the rapid gains of the early 2020s, home values remain strong due to limited inventory.
Market Activity: Homes typically spend an average of 51 days on the market.
Value per Square Foot: The average listing price per square foot is approximately $504.
Property Highlights: Recent sales in late 2025 ranged from $535,000 for well-kept semi-attached units to over $1.37M for expansive six-bedroom Victorian estates on larger lots.
Amenities and Connectivity: Tranquil Living with Local Convenience
Experience historic charm with modern comforts and easy access to the borough's best features:
Local Shops and Green Spaces
The heart of the neighborhood is Westerleigh Park, a beautiful green space featuring a central octagonal gazebo that has hosted concerts and rallies since the 1920s.
Dining & Retail: Local favorites are found along Victory Boulevard and Jewett Avenue, where residents enjoy community staples like the nearby Staten Island Diner or specialty boutiques.
Tennis History: Westerleigh is home to the oldest tennis club in the U.S.; the sport was famously introduced to America by Mary Ewing Outerbridge at her home on College Avenue.
Excellent Schools
Families are served by high-performing institutions in District 31, including:
P.S. 30 - Westerleigh: A highly-rated public elementary school (Grade A- per Niche 2026) known for its strong community and academic proficiency.
I.S. 51 Edwin Markham: A respected middle school serving the North Shore community.
Reliable Transportation Links
While Westerleigh feels like a secluded retreat, it is exceptionally well-connected:
Bus Service: Several local and express bus routes (like the SIM3 and SIM3C) serve the area, providing direct, comfortable commutes into Manhattan.
Driving: Immediate access to the Staten Island Expressway (I-278) via the Victory Blvd exit makes for a quick trip to the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge or the Goethals Bridge.
At a Glance:
HOA: No
55+ Community: No
2026 Median Price: ~$818,950
Vibe: Historic, Leafy, and Community-Driven.
Westerleigh offers a truly unique opportunity to live in a neighborhood rich in history and architectural beauty. Its tranquil atmosphere and unique character make it a captivating place to call home on Staten Island.
