The John Olmsted family returned to the United States to reside at Tosomock Farm on Staten Island in New York.

John Olmsted began his career at his father's firm, where he was later joined by his younger brother Frederick.

In these cities, he pioneered his comprehensive planning philosophy of integrating civic buildings, roads, parks, and greenspaces into livable urban areas.

His work in comprehensive planning for the communities surrounding industrial plants and factories is considered especially noteworthy.

In all his work, John Olmsted retained a sensitivity to the natural beauty of the site, including its views, vistas, and greenways.