Why Do New Yorkers Hate Staten Island?

As one of New York City’s five boroughs, Staten Island is still considered part of the Big Apple, yet it might as well be a different planet from the perspective of most New Yorkers. While each borough has its own distinct personality and culture, Staten Island tends to be the black sheep that residents of the other boroughs love to mock and deride.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: New Yorkers disparage Staten Island for being too suburban, isolated, conservative, and lacking in diversity compared to the more urban boroughs. They also resent Staten Island’s separation from the NYC subway system.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the various reasons why New Yorkers from Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx hold so much animosity toward Staten Island. We’ll explore the vast cultural differences, political leanings, and lack of public transit that make Staten Island the most alienated borough within New York’s fabric. Let’s investigate the complex relationship between Staten Island and the rest of NYC.

Cultural and Demographic Differences

One of the main reasons for the animosity between New Yorkers and Staten Island is the stark cultural and demographic differences between the two. Staten Island, often referred to as the “forgotten borough,” is known for its predominantly white and suburban population.

In contrast, the other four boroughs of New York City are more diverse and urban in nature.

More White and Suburban

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Staten Island has a higher percentage of white residents compared to the rest of New York City. This demographic difference contributes to the perception that Staten Island is less diverse and less representative of the city as a whole.

New Yorkers living in other boroughs may view Staten Island as disconnected from the vibrant multicultural fabric of the city.

Reputation as Conservative and Provincial

Staten Island has also developed a reputation as being more conservative and provincial compared to the other boroughs. This perception stems from the fact that Staten Island has historically voted more Republican in elections and has a higher proportion of residents who identify as conservative.

This political and ideological difference can lead to clashes between Staten Island residents and their more liberal counterparts in the rest of the city.

Perceived Lack of Diversity

Another factor contributing to the animosity towards Staten Island is the perception of a lack of diversity. While Staten Island does have a diverse population, it is often overshadowed by the cultural and ethnic diversity found in the other boroughs.

This perception can create a sense of exclusion and make residents of other boroughs feel that Staten Island does not fully represent the multicultural essence of New York City.

It’s important to note that these perceptions and animosities are not universal, and many New Yorkers have positive opinions of Staten Island. However, the cultural and demographic differences between Staten Island and the rest of the city can contribute to the negative perception and animosity towards the borough.

Geography and Transportation Isolation

One of the main reasons why New Yorkers have a complicated relationship with Staten Island is its geography and transportation isolation.

Physically Cut Off from NYC

Located in the southwestern part of New York City, Staten Island is physically separated from the rest of the city by the Upper New York Bay. This geographical separation makes it feel disconnected from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan and the other boroughs.

It is often referred to as “the forgotten borough” due to its isolated location.

Not Part of Subway System

Unlike the other four boroughs, Staten Island is not connected to the New York City subway system. This lack of subway access means that residents and visitors have to rely on other modes of transportation to get to and from the island.

While there are buses and the Staten Island Railway, the absence of a subway line makes it less convenient for commuters and tourists to travel to Staten Island.

Requires Driving or Ferry Ride

To reach Staten Island, one must either drive through the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge or take a ferry ride from Manhattan. The bridge toll can be expensive, and the commute can be time-consuming, especially during rush hours.

The ferry, on the other hand, offers a scenic and enjoyable way to travel, but it may not be the most efficient option for daily commuters.

Socioeconomic and Lifestyle Divides

One of the main reasons why New Yorkers seem to have a dislike for Staten Island is the socioeconomic and lifestyle divides that exist between the two boroughs. Staten Island is generally considered to be wealthier compared to the other boroughs, with a higher concentration of single-family homes and a suburban feel.

This stark contrast in living standards can create a sense of resentment or jealousy, as some New Yorkers perceive Staten Island residents as having a more comfortable and privileged lifestyle.

Wealthier with More Single-Family Homes

Staten Island is known for its large number of single-family homes, providing residents with spacious living environments and a suburban atmosphere. This stands in contrast to the dense apartment buildings and smaller living spaces that are more commonly found in Manhattan or Brooklyn.

The perception of Staten Island as a wealthier borough can lead to feelings of frustration among residents of other boroughs who may be struggling financially or living in cramped conditions.

According to a study conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income in Staten Island is higher than the citywide median income, indicating a higher level of affluence in the borough.

This statistic further highlights the socioeconomic divide between Staten Island and the rest of New York City.

Viewed as Materialistic and Flashy

Staten Island has sometimes been stereotyped as a borough that is overly focused on material possessions and a flashy lifestyle. This perception is fueled by the presence of upscale neighborhoods and shopping centers, such as the Staten Island Mall.

Some New Yorkers may view this emphasis on material wealth as superficial or lacking in authenticity.

Additionally, the prevalence of luxury cars and large houses in certain areas of Staten Island can contribute to the perception of residents as being showy or overly concerned with status symbols. This can create a sense of disconnect between Staten Island and the other boroughs, where a more laid-back and down-to-earth attitude may be valued.

Disdain for Urban Bohemian Culture

Another factor that contributes to the divide between Staten Island and the rest of New York City is the difference in cultural preferences. Staten Island is often seen as more conservative and less interested in the urban bohemian culture that is celebrated in neighborhoods like Greenwich Village or Williamsburg.

This disconnect in cultural values can lead to a sense of alienation or misunderstanding between Staten Island and the other boroughs. While some New Yorkers may embrace the diversity and artistic vibrancy of the city, others may view Staten Island as being out of touch or lacking in cultural sophistication.

It’s important to note that these perceptions are not universally held, and there are undoubtedly many New Yorkers who appreciate and value Staten Island for its unique qualities. However, the socioeconomic and lifestyle divides, along with the stereotypes and cultural differences, contribute to the perception of animosity towards Staten Island among some residents of the other boroughs.

Political Differences

One of the main reasons for the animosity between New Yorkers and Staten Island is the stark political differences between the two. Staten Island has long been known for its more conservative voting patterns compared to the rest of New York City.

While the city as a whole tends to lean towards liberal policies and candidates, Staten Island often aligns more with conservative values.

More Conservative Voting Patterns

Staten Island residents have consistently voted for Republican candidates in local, state, and national elections. This divergence in political ideology has created a divide between Staten Island and the other boroughs.

The political differences between Staten Island and the rest of New York City can be seen in the voting patterns of its residents, with more conservative candidates and initiatives gaining popularity in the borough.

Pro-NYPD Sentiments

Another factor contributing to the animosity towards Staten Island is the borough’s strong pro-NYPD sentiments. Staten Island has a higher concentration of law enforcement families compared to other parts of the city.

This has led to a deep-rooted support for the police force and an inclination to defend law enforcement actions. The pro-NYPD sentiments can clash with the prevailing sentiments in other parts of the city, leading to tension and resentment.

Opposition to Liberal NYC Policies

Staten Island residents often oppose the liberal policies implemented by the New York City government. The borough has a reputation for being more resistant to progressive initiatives such as increased taxes, stricter gun control laws, and expanded social welfare programs.

This opposition to liberal policies can create a sense of disconnect between Staten Island and the rest of the city.

It’s important to note that these political differences are complex and multifaceted, and not all Staten Island residents hold the same views. However, the political divergence between Staten Island and the rest of New York City has played a significant role in the animosity and perception of Staten Island among other New Yorkers.

NYC Borough Rivalry and Resentment

New York City is known for its borough rivalries, and one of the most prominent examples of this is the animosity towards Staten Island. While it may seem surprising to outsiders, there are several reasons why New Yorkers harbor negative feelings towards this particular borough.

Competition for Resources and Attention

One of the main sources of resentment towards Staten Island is the perception that it receives an unfair share of resources and attention from the city. Many New Yorkers feel that Staten Island gets preferential treatment when it comes to infrastructure projects, public services, and even cultural events.

This perceived favoritism can lead to feelings of neglect and frustration among residents of other boroughs.

For example, some New Yorkers point to the construction of the Staten Island Expressway, which connects the borough to the rest of the city, as evidence of special treatment. They argue that other boroughs, such as the Bronx or Brooklyn, have been neglected in terms of transportation infrastructure.

This sense of inequality fuels the resentment towards Staten Island.

Perceived Special Treatment

Another factor contributing to the animosity towards Staten Island is the perception that its residents receive special treatment. Some New Yorkers believe that Staten Island residents enjoy lower taxes, better public services, and greater government support compared to other boroughs.

While these perceptions may not always be grounded in reality, they contribute to the negative sentiment towards Staten Island.

It is important to note that these perceptions are often based on stereotypes and generalizations, rather than factual evidence. However, they still play a significant role in shaping the attitudes of New Yorkers towards Staten Island.

Not Regarded as ‘Real’ New Yorkers

Lastly, Staten Island is sometimes seen as not being a part of the “real” New York City. This perception stems from the fact that Staten Island is physically separated from the other boroughs by water and has a more suburban feel.

Some New Yorkers view it as a separate entity, not fully integrated into the city’s cultural and social fabric.

This sentiment is reinforced by the fact that Staten Island has a distinct identity and a unique set of challenges compared to the other boroughs. It is often seen as a more conservative and family-oriented community, which may further contribute to the perception that it is not a true representation of New York City.

It is important to remember that these negative attitudes towards Staten Island do not represent the views of all New Yorkers. Many individuals appreciate the borough for its natural beauty, historical sites, and strong sense of community.

However, the rivalry and resentment between boroughs continue to be a part of the fabric of New York City.

Conclusion

The rivalry and animosity between Staten Island and the rest of New York City run deep, fueled by major differences in demographics, culture, politics, identity, and transportation. While officially part of NYC, Staten Island is generally looked down upon by residents of the more urbanized boroughs.

With better understanding and open-mindedness on both sides, perhaps the relationship between Staten Island and greater NYC can improve over time. But for now, expect most New Yorkers to keep poking fun at their isolated borough cousin.