Staten Island, the greenest of New York City's five boroughs, offers renters a distinctive living experience with over 12,300 acres of protected parkland across 170 parks. As the only borough not connected to the NYC subway system, Staten Island maintains a more suburban character than the rest of New York City while still providing convenient access to Manhattan via the free 25-minute Staten Island Ferry ride.

Renters on Staten Island enjoy diverse housing options, from small boutique apartment communities to single-family homes and townhouses. The North Shore neighborhoods like St. George and Stapleton feature historic Victorian homes and waterfront dining, with a growing arts scene. South Shore communities offer newer construction and more spacious properties, while the East Shore boasts the 2.5-mile FDR Boardwalk with spectacular views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. Mid-island neighborhoods like Willowbrook provide a balance of convenience and quieter residential streets.

Transportation options include the Staten Island Railway running from St. George to Tottenville, express bus service to Manhattan, and an extensive local bus network. The island's average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,700 per month, making it more affordable than most NYC boroughs. Major employment sectors include healthcare at Staten Island University Hospital and Richmond University Medical Center, education at the College of Staten Island, and a growing number of small businesses and restaurants, particularly in developing areas near the St. George Ferry Terminal.