University Heights Neighborhood Overview
University Heights is a quiet, residential neighborhood located in the northeastern corner of Staten Island, bordering the Kill Van Kull waterway. It is situated just south of the bustling St. George and Tompkinsville areas and north of the Stapleton and Clifton neighborhoods. Historically, the area developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with many of its charming homes built to house workers and professionals from nearby industries and the Staten Island Hospital, which was originally located in Stapleton.
The neighborhood's name is derived from its proximity to the former site of the Staten Island campus of New York University, which operated from the 1960s to the 1990s on land that is now part of the CSI campus. Today, University Heights is characterized by its hilly, tree-lined streets, stunning views of the Upper New York Bay and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, and a strong sense of community. It offers a suburban feel within the city limits, providing a tranquil retreat that is still conveniently connected to Manhattan via the nearby Staten Island Ferry.
Housing & Real Estate
The housing stock in University Heights is predominantly composed of single-family homes, including a mix of classic Staten Island colonials, Tudors, and Cape Cods, many dating back to the early 1900s. There are also some well-maintained two-family homes and a limited number of smaller apartment buildings, particularly along the main thoroughfares like St. Mark's Place and St. Paul's Avenue. The architectural styles are varied and often feature detailed craftsmanship, reflecting the neighborhood's historic development period.
Real estate prices in University Heights are typically higher than the Staten Island median, driven by the desirable views, larger lot sizes, and the neighborhood's peaceful, established character. The market is primarily owner-occupied, with a lower percentage of rentals compared to surrounding areas. Recent trends show steady demand, with homes often attracting families and professionals looking for more space and a quiet environment while maintaining a reasonable commute to the ferry and other parts of the borough.
Schools & Education
University Heights is zoned within New York City's Geographic District 31. The neighborhood itself is served by Public School 78, the Senator John J. Marchi School (PS/IS 78), located right within its boundaries on Tompkins Avenue. This well-regarded K-8 school is a cornerstone of the community, known for its strong academic programs and active parent-teacher association. For high school, students typically attend nearby schools such as Curtis High School in St. George or other specialized schools across the borough.
Higher education is a notable presence just to the south, with the sprawling campus of the College of Staten Island (CSI) located in Willowbrook. While not in University Heights proper, CSI's proximity influences the area, providing cultural and educational resources. Private and parochial school options are also available in adjacent neighborhoods, including St. Peter's Boys High School and Notre Dame Academy.
Parks & Recreation
The neighborhood's most significant green space is the expansive Silver Lake Park, which lies directly to the west. This 209-acre park offers a wide range of recreational activities, including a public golf course, tennis courts, walking and running paths around the picturesque Silver Lake Reservoir, and sports fields. The park's hilly terrain and wooded areas provide a beautiful natural backdrop for residents seeking outdoor exercise and leisure.
Additionally, the famous Staten Island Greenbelt, one of the largest natural forest preserves within New York City, is easily accessible from University Heights, offering miles of hiking trails. For stunning panoramic views, residents often walk to the end of streets like Lafayette Avenue, which offer breathtaking vistas of the Verrazzano Bridge, Lower Manhattan, and the bay. The neighborhood's quiet, sloping streets themselves are popular for walking and jogging.
Local Dining & Shopping
University Heights is primarily residential, so its commercial offerings are modest and blend into the fabric of the community. Dining options are found along nearby commercial corridors like Bay Street in Tompkinsville and St. Paul's Avenue in Stapleton. Here, residents can find a diverse array of eateries, from classic Staten Island pizzerias and Italian bakeries to Sri Lankan restaurants, reflecting the borough's evolving culinary scene. A few local corner delis and cafes serve the immediate neighborhood.
For everyday shopping, residents typically drive to the larger retail hubs in nearby communities. The Staten Island Mall in New Springville is a major destination for big-box stores and chain retailers. More specialized and boutique shopping can be found in the revitalized St. George waterfront area. Essential grocery needs are met by supermarkets such as Key Food and ShopRite in adjacent Stapleton and Tompkinsville, with smaller bodegas providing convenience within walking distance for many in University Heights.
Who Lives Here
University Heights is home to a mix of long-time Staten Island residents, multi-generational families, and newer transplants drawn by the neighborhood's charm and relative affordability compared to other NYC boroughs. The population is diverse, with a blend of White, Asian, and Hispanic residents, many of whom are middle-class professionals, civil servants, and healthcare workers. The community vibe is notably friendly and tight-knit, with neighbors often knowing one another and a palpable sense of pride in the area's upkeep and historic character.
The neighborhood particularly appeals to those seeking a suburban lifestyle without leaving New York City. It attracts families looking for good schools and safe streets, as well as empty-nesters and
Top Real Estate Agents in University Heights, Staten Island
11 agents met the full merit gate for University Heights, Staten Island, NY, selected from over 130,000 licensed New York professionals.
Contact
Phone: (480) 227-1527
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.ryannagergroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Ryan-Nager
Why selected: Selected for his elite industry recognition and community leadership roles, including YPN's Top 40 Under 40. He is a top performer with a from and 897 career transactions.
Notable Achievements
897 Career Transactions
Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration
Top 1% of Realtors Statewide
5-Star Rating
Top 100 Realtors in Phoenix Metropolitan Area
YPN's Top 40 Under 40
Featured in #1 Bestseller
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management, Vacation / Short-term Rentals, Investment Properties, residential sales, buying, selling, investing, client resources, market expertise, transaction management[4]
Cities Served
Gilbert
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (480) 455-9003
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.kennethjamesrealty.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Kenneth-James-Realty
Why selected: Karl Freund is Selected for, demonstrating consistent client satisfaction. His and specialization as a Buyer's Agent and Listing Agent provide a deep, client-focused expertise in the Paradise Valley market.
Community & Leadership
Agent Training and Development Leader at Real Estate Professional Community[6]
Notable Achievements
Founded Kenneth James Realty
Director of Agent Development at The Brokery
22 Years of Real Estate Experience
564 Career Transactions
45 Transactions in Past 12 Months
5-Star Client Rating Across 90 Reviews
Price Range $16K-$2.3M
Verified Specialties
Relocation, luxury real estate, client service, Negotiation, Agent Development, Brokerage Leadership, Training Programs, agent training, professional development, buyer representation, seller representation, client advocacy, residential transactions, residential real estate, market dynamics, negotiation strategies, client education, personalized service[4]
Cities Served
Paradise Valley
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (480) 322-6404
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://rugoloteam.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/louvis12
Why selected: Selected for their exceptional volume of over and, backed by nearly. Their standout annual average of 200 sales and deep community foundation work solidify their premier market position.
Community & Leadership
Founder at The Rugolo-Apostolis Foundation[6]
Leader at Homes for All Initiative[6]
Major Donor at City Youth Empowerment Initiative[6]
Notable Achievements
Featured in The Arizona Republic
30 Years Combined Experience
Client Satisfaction Rating
Top Producer Award - Five Consecutive Years
Phoenix Business Journal Recognition
Certified Residential Specialist (CRS)
Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS)
Over 1,500 personal transactions
200 Annual Team Sales Average
Personal Sales Record
Team Sales Performance
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Foreclosure, Investment Properties, buyers, sellers, investors, luxury homes, residential sales[4]
Cities Served
Scottsdale
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (602) 525-7034
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/RoseyLBoston
Why selected: Selected for strong community ties and professional distinction, evidenced by, 2022 Top Agent Award, and nearly a decade of dedicated service. Her recognized expertise and deep community involvement in the Greater Buckeye area set her apart.
Community & Leadership
volunteer at church community[6]
Notable Achievements
71 Five-Star Reviews
5-Star Client Rating
Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology
My Home Group Top Agent Award 2022
Verified Specialties
Relocation, residential real estate, home sellers, home buyers, buyers, sellers, client service, residential sales, buyer representation, seller representation, client relations, transaction management, residential transac...[4]
Cities Served
Sun City
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (415) 317-2188
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.heatherlinhomes.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/HeatherLin
Why selected: Selected for sustained community leadership and market excellence, with from since 2008 and proven expertise in complex residential and commercial transactions. He stands out by empowering clients with deep analytical knowledge on investment strategy and wealth preservation.
Notable Achievements
16+ Years Experience
Real Estate Experience
4.9-Star Client Rating
Team Sales Performance
16+ Years Real Estate Experience
Team Performance Record
Client Satisfaction Rating
Verified Specialties
Staging, First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties, Luxury Homes, Senior Communities, residential properties, commercial properties, investment, property management, buyers, sellers, leasing, purchase scenarios, resale scenarios, investment properties, capital gains tax mitigation, wealth transfer through real estate[4]
Cities Served
Menlo Park
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (928) 978-3246
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://ModernDayAgent.Net
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ModernDayAgent
Why selected: Selected for and 571 career transactions, demonstrating exceptional volume and client satisfaction. Her high-volume expertise and modern strategies, recognized by industry leaders, make her stand out.
Community & Leadership
Mother and Grandmother at Family Community[6]
Notable Achievements
High-Volume Transaction Record
Maintains 5-star rating
10+ Years Experience
Wide Price Range Expertise
Verified Specialties
sellers, buyers, reduced commission, modern home buying, selling dynamics, negotiation, Modern home buying dynamics, Seller representation, Buyer negotiation, Market analysis, Reduced commission services, Contemporary selling strategies, High-volume sales, Buyer negotiations, Seller optimization, Modern home buying and selling dynamics, Seller return maximization, seller representation, buyer negotiation, market analysis, reduced commission services, contemporary selling strategies, high-volume sales, seller optimization, seller return maximization[4]
Cities Served
Sun City
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (408) 221-7887
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.ansonip.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ansonip
Why selected: Selected for sustained community leadership and market excellence, and 15+ years of market experience. His unique dual expertise as a licensed agent and trained architect provides distinct analytical value to clients.
Notable Achievements
15+ Years Real Estate Experience
Dual Professional Expertise
5-Star Client Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management, Investment Properties, New Construction, investors, architectural analysis, property renovation potential, expert advisory services[4]
Cities Served
Menlo Park
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 642-4007
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://jocelynrealestateteam.com/agents/Aimee-Gilliatt/8813860
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AimeeGilliatt
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated community involvement and leadership roles. She also demonstrates exceptional client service with a and nearly a decade of professional experience.
Community & Leadership
Board Member at San Diego Association of Realtors[6]
Volunteer at Local Housing Charity[6]
Member at Santee or Poway Chamber of Commerce[6]
Mentor at Real Estate Brokerage or Association[6]
Notable Achievements
5-Star Client Rating
Small Business Owner
Hospitality Manager
Verified Specialties
Property Management, listing specialist, residential sales[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (917) 755-3777
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.compass.com/agents/claire-liu/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Clarieliu
Why selected: Selected for his dedicated community involvement and leadership roles, Andres Claure also delivers exceptional client service with a. His expertise in negotiation and strategic guidance establishes him as a trusted advisor.
Notable Achievements
4.9-Star Client Rating
Verified Specialties
Investment Properties, New Construction, builder negotiations, buyer representation, seller representation, client communication, negotiation, builder relationships, client advocacy, residential real estate, problem-solving[4]
Cities Served
Menlo Park
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (619) 300-4400
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.sdhomeowner.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Ann%20Amaral
Why selected: Selected for her deep community involvement as a local resident, combined with 27 years of experience and a perfect record.
Notable Achievements
27 Years of Service
Five-Star Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Rentals, buyers, sellers, problem solving, client goals[4]
Cities Served
San Diego
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (650) 336-8530
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.theresolvegroup.co/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/theresolvegroupadam
Why selected: Selected for his leadership as a founding member of The Resolve Group, which has achieved over $501 million in sales since 2019 and maintains an exceptional 81% repeat client rate.
Community & Leadership
Member at San Mateo County Association of Realtors[6]
Committee Member at Local Chamber of Commerce[6]
Volunteer at Local Housing Charity[6]
Mentor at Real Estate Industry Group[6]
Notable Achievements
Team Sales Volume
Repeat Business Rate
Client Satisfaction Rating
Verified Specialties
Property Management, luxury real estate, high-end transactions, sophisticated buyers and sellers, seller improvements, repeat clients and referrals[4]
Cities Served
Menlo Park
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).