Midland Beach, NY

Situated along the east coast of Staten Island, Midland Beach is a quaint waterfront community rich with history. 

What was once a bustling summertime resort destination for city residents seeking relief from the heat has evolved into a tight-knit residential neighborhood… yet one can still see glimpses of Midland Beach's past through its recreational beaches and family-owned businesses lining Hylan Boulevard.

Population

Midland Beach has a diverse population of around 22,000 residents.

 While it is considered part of the larger neighborhood of New Dorp-Midland Beach, Midland Beach has developed its own tight-knit community feel over the years.

The latest census from 2010 shows that the population is made up of around 78% white residents, with Asian and Hispanic populations each accounting for around 5% of the total. 

It's an ethnically mixed area where long-time families live side by side with newer immigrants. Most residents are in the younger and middle-aged groups. Around 20% are children and teens, with 25% between 25-44 years old. 

Many families seem to settle down here to enjoy family life near the beach. At the same time, nearly 30% of the populace falls in the 45-64 bracket, giving Midland Beach a good mixture of young families and more experienced residents.

Demographic Data

Population	22,000
Racial Breakdown	78% White, 5% Asian, 5% Hispanic
Age Groups	20% 0-17 years, 25% 25-44 years, 29% 45-64 years

History

Midland Beach began to develop as a beach resort community in the late 1800s.

In the 1890s, the arrival of the South Beach Railroad brought many visitors to its shores to enjoy a sunny day. A massive 1,700 foot pier jutted into the Atlantic, where steamboats would ferry beachgoers into Manhattan. To reach the pier's end, some travelers even rode a miniature railway.

By the early 1900s, Midland Beach had become wildly popular. 

With Coney Island just across the bay, it attracted huge crowds looking for fun and entertainment. 

On summer nights, the glow from Coney Island's famous fireworks displays could illuminate the Midland Beach sky. The town bustled with activity as visitors crowded its boardwalks, watching theatrical performances or riding the carousel. Three separate wooden rollercoasters also thrilled riders up and down the shoreline.

Quality of Life

With tree-lined streets and family-owned businesses, Midland Beach has maintained a tight-knit community feel. 

Residents enjoy a slower pace of life close to nature. The newly constructed wetlands help control flooding while preserving open space. Outdoor enthusiasts love kayaking through the vibrant coastal habitat. 

Whether relaxing at home or exploring the shoreline, Midland Beach provides an enjoyable small-town quality of life by the sea.

Health

Hospitals nearby Midland Beach include: 

• Staten Island University HospitalLocated just north of Midland Beach, Staten Island University Hospital is a 427 bed facility and Level II regional trauma center. It offers a wide range of medical services including maternal and children's services, cancer care, rehabilitation, and a 24/7 emergency department.
• Richmond University Medical CenterAlso near Midland Beach, Richmond University Medical Center is a 250 bed hospital with over 30 outpatient specialty practices. In addition to emergency services, it is known for its orthopedic surgery, cardiovascular care, and bariatric weight loss programs.
• CHI Richmond University Medical GroupWith several pediatric offices in South Shore Staten Island, CHI provides primary and specialty care services for children and adolescents. Their pediatricians and expert staff see young patients for checkups, illnesses, and ongoing care needs.

Shopping and Dining

Dozens of family-owned restaurants and stores line Hylan Boulevard, the main street through Midland Beach. 

Stop inside popular deli Mike's Deli for sandwiches or browse the aisles of Staten Island Market for fresh produce. 

Meanwhile, Vincent's Pizza is a neighborhood staple, churning out classic New York-style slices. The laidback atmosphere and convenience of shopping locally give Midland Beach a real small-town charm.

Transportation

Getting to and around Midland Beach is easy thanks to public transportation options. The neighborhood is served by express and local buses along Hylan Boulevard and Father Capodanno Boulevard. 

The Staten Island Ferry terminal and St. George Train Station provide links to other parts of the city. For drivers, parking is readily available on side streets and in small lots.

Education

For primary education, PS 38 George Cromwell and PS 52 John C Thompson serve local families. Student performance on state tests and attendance rates are strong. 

Additionally, Staten Island Technical High School, one of the top public STEM schools in the city, is located nearby in New Dorp. The educational opportunities help Midland Beach residents thrive.

Points of Interest

• Midland Beach Park. A shady green space perfect for picnics, with views of the harbor. Its playground and walking paths see many visitors throughout the nicer months.
• Preserves Wetlands. Wandering the boardwalks through these restored wetlands is a unique way to observe local wildlife like herons and egrets. It's especially beautiful during fall bird migrations.
• Ocean Breeze Fishing Pier. At over 800 feet long, this is a scenic spot to cast a line and perhaps catch dinner. You may also see cargo ships sailing past on the horizon.
• Miller Field. Once the estate of a wealthy tycoon, this flat former horse track is used for baseball, soccer, and kite-flying today.
• Hudson-Fulton Ferry Landing. Pay a visit to learn about the history of transportation on the island through this small museum.
• Midland Beach Esplanade. Take a stroll along the paved path bordering the sandy beach and watch surfers brave the Atlantic waters. On warm evenings, you may catch a gorgeous orange sunset.