While much of New York City moves at a relentless pace, Oakwood on Staten Island offers a different kind of experience—one where suburban calm, coastal beauty, and historic charm come together in a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood.
Located on Staten Island’s East Shore, Oakwood combines small-town ambiance with the conveniences of New York City. Whether you’re looking to put down roots or explore a new corner of the city, Oakwood deserves your attention.
📍 Where is Oakwood?
Oakwood is situated along Staten Island’s East Shore, bordered by:
- New Dorp to the north
- Great Kills to the south
- Bay Terrace to the west
- Oakwood Beach and the Lower New York Bay to the east
Its eastern edge touches the shoreline, offering quiet beach access and nature trails, while inland, the area is filled with residential streets, schools, and community institutions.
🏛️ A Quiet Neighborhood with Deep Roots
Oakwood’s history stretches back to the 17th century, originally settled by Dutch and English colonists. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, it was known for farmland, country homes, and later summer cottages near the beach.
While it has become more suburban in recent decades, Oakwood retains echoes of its past in its architecture, street layouts, and local institutions. Notably, Oakwood was one of several neighborhoods severely impacted by Hurricane Sandy in 2012, and its eastern section, Oakwood Beach, has since undergone a major transformation.
🏘️ Residential Character: Suburban Living in NYC
Oakwood offers a residential feel that’s rare in the five boroughs. The housing stock includes:
- Detached single-family homes with driveways and yards
- Two-family homes and townhouses
- New construction on elevated foundations in Oakwood Beach
- Some condo and co-op buildings closer to New Dorp and Great Kills
Homes tend to be well-maintained and located on tree-lined streets with little through-traffic. It’s a great option for families, retirees, or anyone looking to stay in the city but leave behind the density and noise.
🌊 Oakwood Beach: Coastal Views and Environmental Change
The eastern part of Oakwood—Oakwood Beach—has a different vibe than the inland portion. Once a community of modest beach houses and fishing shacks, it suffered major devastation during Hurricane Sandy.
In the aftermath, New York State initiated a voluntary home buyout program, and many residents sold their homes to the state. Today, large portions of the former residential area have been cleared and are being returned to nature as part of a coastal resilience and floodplain restoration effort.
While swimming is not encouraged, Oakwood Beach and its surrounding trails offer quiet coastal views, birdwatching, and sunrise photography without the crowds of city beaches.
🌳 Nature and Recreation: Gateway to Staten Island’s Greenbelt
One of Oakwood’s greatest assets is its proximity to Staten Island’s natural spaces. Key locations include:
🏞️ Great Kills Park
- Part of the Gateway National Recreation Area
- Offers boating, kayaking, fishing, and walking trails
- Nearby Oakwood Marina is a hotspot for boaters
🌲 The Staten Island Greenbelt
- Oakwood borders one of NYC’s largest natural preserves
- Miles of hiking trails, wildlife, and forested areas
- High Rock Park and La Tourette Park are easily accessible
These areas provide a natural counterbalance to the city’s fast pace and are beloved by runners, hikers, birders, and families.
🚉 Transportation and Accessibility
Oakwood is well-connected by public transportation and roads, making it commuter-friendly despite its peaceful vibe:
- Staten Island Railway – Oakwood Heights Station provides direct access to the Staten Island Ferry terminal at St. George (about 25 minutes)
- Express buses (SIM5, SIM6, SIM1C) – Direct routes to Midtown and Downtown Manhattan
- Local buses (S57, S78) – Connect to nearby neighborhoods and shopping centers
- Easy access to the Staten Island Expressway, Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, and Outerbridge Crossing to New Jersey
🛍️ Shops, Schools & Daily Essentials
While Oakwood itself is primarily residential, it’s just minutes from several commercial hubs, including:
- New Dorp Lane – Known for restaurants, small shops, and services
- Hylan Boulevard – Offers major retailers, groceries, pharmacies, and banks
- Staten Island Mall – A short drive away for big-box shopping and dining
🏫 Schools in Oakwood:
- P.S. 50 Frank Hankinson School – A well-rated elementary school in the neighborhood
- IS 75 Frank D. Paulo – A top middle school within commuting distance
- Monsignor Farrell High School – A private Catholic high school for boys, known for academics and athletics
- St. Charles School – Private Catholic K–8 school in Oakwood
The area also includes preschools, daycare centers, and proximity to public libraries and community centers.
🍽️ Dining in and Around Oakwood
While Oakwood itself is quiet on the dining front, nearby areas like New Dorp and Great Kills offer plenty of options. A few local favorites include:
- La Strada – Classic Italian with cozy vibes
- Pronto Pizza – Beloved neighborhood pizzeria
- Bocelli – Upscale Italian dining nearby in Grasmere
- The Richmond – A stylish New American eatery in New Dorp
- Ralph’s Italian Ices – A summer must-have with locations close to Oakwood
Whether you’re craving a quick slice or a romantic dinner, everything is just a short drive away.
🏡 Real Estate Overview
Oakwood remains one of Staten Island’s most desirable residential neighborhoods, especially for buyers seeking:
- Safe, suburban streets
- Larger lots and home sizes
- Access to beaches and parks
- Lower density and newer construction options
📊 As of 2025:
- Median home price: $650,000–$750,000 (higher for new construction near the beach)
- Rental market: Moderate, with townhouses and basement apartments available
- New builds: In areas like Oakwood Beach, new flood-resistant homes are rising, offering modern amenities and coastal views
💬 Community and Culture
Oakwood is known for its tight-knit community, low crime rates, and active civic participation. Residents take pride in maintaining their properties and participating in local improvement efforts.
Annual events include:
- Neighborhood clean-up days
- Parish festivals and church events
- Little League and soccer games at local fields
- Nature walks and volunteer days in the Greenbelt
It’s a neighborhood where families stay for generations and newcomers are welcomed.
🧭 Why Oakwood is a Staten Island Standout
Oakwood combines New York convenience with coastal tranquility, natural beauty, and a true sense of community. It’s ideal for:
- Families seeking safe, spacious surroundings
- Nature lovers who want hiking, boating, and beach access
- Professionals commuting to Manhattan
- Retirees looking for peace without isolation
From its quiet beaches to its strong schools, Oakwood offers a lifestyle that feels miles away from the city—while still being in it.
📸 Plan Your Visit
Best time to explore: Spring to early fall
Must-see spots: Oakwood Beach, Greenbelt Trails, Oakwood Heights train station area
Closest train: Oakwood Heights Station
Instagrammable: Sunrise at the beach, trails in High Rock Park, historic homes
