Is Ellis Island in New Jersey?

What State Is Ellis Island In? Here’s a NYC history fact that surprises a LOT of people: Ellis Island is in both New York AND New Jersey! So, which state is Ellis Island actually in? The answer is… complicated. Ellis Island is federally owned, but its history involves both New York and New Jersey. The original island was part of New York, while much of the island’s current land was created through landfill and historically claimed by New Jersey. And yes, there’s a fascinating legal battle behind it! Remember, there is only one way to get to Ellis Island. That is Statue City Cruises.