Moving to Staten Island: Key Takeaways
- Staten Island is a smart move for those seeking affordable homes, quality schools, and plenty of green space to enjoy
- Citywide moving costs may be high, but Staten Island’s lower rent and home prices deliver long-term savings
- Reserve your movers early to secure your ideal moving date and avoid last-minute stress
When most people think of Staten Island, they picture the iconic ferry ride across the harbor.
However, just steps from the St. George Ferry Terminal lies a vibrant neighborhood filled with cultural gems, locally brewed craft beers, acclaimed dining spots, and breathtaking views of the New York City skyline.
So how much does it cost to move to Staten Island, and is it worth it?
In this guide, we will:
- Cover the benefits of moving to Staten Island
- Explore average housing costs across Staten Island
- Share expert tips for hiring the right Staten Island movers
- Introduce Imperial Movers, a moving company in Staten Island
Simplify your move with Imperial Movers. Get in touch for a free quote
Why Consider Moving to Staten Island?
Dreaming of a fresh start? Here’s why Staten Island could be your next great move.
Affordable Homes and Diverse Neighborhoods
Staten Island gives you more space for your money compared to much of NYC.
With a wide range of home prices, from upscale neighborhoods to more affordable areas, there’s something to fit nearly every lifestyle and budget.
Reputable Schools
With top-rated public and private schools and the College of Staten Island offering accessible higher education, the borough stands out as a smart, family-friendly hub for students of all ages.
Ample Green Space
Known as the “Borough of Parks,” Staten Island boasts over 9,200 acres of open space.
Residents can enjoy scenic trails, waterfront views, and year-round outdoor activities, all without leaving the city.
With budget-friendly homes, great schools, and room to roam, Staten Island is an ideal spot to settle down
Average Housing and Moving Costs in Staten Island
According to Statista, New York ranks as the sixth most expensive U.S. state in 2024. While part of NYC, Staten Island is more budget-friendly, especially in housing.
The New York State Comptroller reveals what it really costs to live in NYC today, specifically Staten Island.
Staten Island-Specific Insights
- Still NYC’s best-kept affordability secret: Staten Island boasts the smallest gap between what residents actually earn ($86,054) and what the federal government considers the area’s median income (AMI at $105,224). That means your paycheck stretches further here than in any other borough.
Implications for Moving Costs
- Brace for sticker shock: Moving to NYC can cost you $13,000 or more upfront, thanks to rent, security deposits, and broker fees, and that’s before your first utility bill.
- Staten Island softens the blow: While moving costs are steep citywide, Staten Island’s lower rents and home prices offer real savings over time, making it a smarter choice for budget-conscious movers.
Moving to Staten Island? Imperial Movers makes it effortless
10 Expert Tips for Hiring the Right Moving Company in Staten Island
Whether you’re heading to a new neighborhood or settling into your first Staten Island home, the right moving company can make all the difference.
Skip the chaos and costly surprises with these expert tips to help you find a mover that’s trustworthy, transparent, and the perfect fit for your move.
Start With Local Expertise
Look for movers who are based in or familiar with Staten Island.
Local pros understand the borough’s quirks: think tight streets, tricky parking, and ferry routes, saving you time, stress, and surprise setbacks.
Verify Licensing and Insurance
Ensure your mover is licensed and insured.
In New York, local movers must register with the NYSDOT and hold a valid license or certificate of authority to operate legally within the state.
Read Reviews and Request References
Check reviews on Google and Yelp to gauge reputation and ask for references from similar past moves.
For interstate movers, review complaints via the FMCSA National Consumer Complaint Database.
Get Multiple Visual Estimates
To avoid last-minute price hikes, request written estimates based on a visual inspection, either in-home or via video walkthrough.
Compare at least three to avoid movers who quote blindly without seeing your items.
Clarify Services and Extra Fees
Not all movers offer the same services.
Some provide full-service moves that include packing, unpacking, and furniture assembly, while others might only handle transportation.
Confirm what’s included and ask about extra fees for stairs, long carries, elevators, or special packing.
Confirm Availability and Scheduling
Weekends, month-ends, and holidays fill up fast, so book your movers early and lock in your date.
Don’t forget to check with your building about elevator access or move-in time slots, as missing these details can lead to delays, extra fees, or even having to reschedule your move.
Review the Contract
Never sign a moving contract without reading the fine print.
The agreement, formally called the Bill of Lading, should clearly outline pickup and delivery windows, pricing, payment terms, cancellation policies, item inventory, and the mover’s insurance liability.
Watch for Red Flags
Watch out for warning signs like big upfront deposits, a lack of a physical business address, vague answers, or refusal to put things in writing.
Request Details on Specialty Services
If you’re moving items like pianos, antiques, or valuable pictures, make sure your mover knows how to handle them.
Ask if they offer custom crating or extra coverage to keep your valuables protected.
Compare Value, Not Just Price
While staying within budget is important, the cheapest option isn’t always the best.
Local, reputable movers with proven track records often offer more personalized service, better communication, and less unexpected fees than large national chains.
Support local businesses that combine quality with competitive pricing.
Here are expert tips to help you find a mover who’s reliable, honest, and the right fit for your Staten Island move
Consider Imperial Movers as Your Recommended Staten Island Movers
For a smooth, stress-free move in Staten Island, trust Imperial Movers, your reliable, experienced partner for moving to New York.
Our professional team handles the heavy lifting so you can focus on settling in.
We specialize in:
- Packing and unpacking services
- Convenient scheduling built around your timeline, even for same-day or last-minute moves
- Local residential and commercial moves
- International relocations
- VIP moving services offering discreet, white-glove services
Imperial Movers makes your Staten Island move stress-free. Reach out to us
Moving to Staten Island: FAQs
Is Staten Island a good place to live?
Yes, Staten Island is a good place to live. It gives you NYC access without the chaos.
