5 Great Marvel Heroes Not Based in New York

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DC Comics is well-known for creating fictional cities like Gotham and Metropolis, which have become almost as famous as the superheroes who live there. Marvel Comics, however, generally preferred to set its stories in real-world locations. They often promoted their comics as taking place in the world around us, wanting readers to feel like the heroes could be right outside their window. Because Marvel and many publishers were located in New York City, it was natural to base many of their early and most important stories there.

It’s no surprise that New York City quickly became a hub for superheroes, starting with the very first ones. They established NYC as the center of the superhero world, and now it feels like the vast majority of Marvel’s heroes who operate on Earth live within the city limits – it’s not much of an exaggeration! With the exception of the X-Men, most of Marvel’s biggest heroes consider New York their home base. Today, we’re highlighting five fantastic heroes who don’t actually live in New York, even though they often travel there when trouble strikes.

5) Cable

Cable, the X-Men’s leading time-traveler from a bleak future, avoids New York City – and with good reason. As a child, Nathan was infected with a dangerous techno-organic virus and sent forward in time to a future dominated by Apocalypse. He was raised by the Clan Askani in a world where New York City had been destroyed and absorbed into Apocalypse’s empire. Now, Cable journeys through time and space, working to protect the timeline and prevent even worse futures from happening.

4) Mister Immortal

Mister Immortal is aptly named – he’s a unique being, considered the next step in human evolution, even beyond mutants. After realizing he couldn’t succeed as a solo superhero, he created the Great Lakes Avengers, a team of less-than-capable heroes. Unlike most superhero groups, they’re based not in New York City, but in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. While they may not be the most heroic team, the Great Lakes Avengers have a lot of spirit, and if Mister Immortal’s fate holds true, he’ll be around for the entirety of the Marvel Universe – still potentially avoiding a move to New York.

3) Sunfire

Shiro Yoshida is considered Japan’s greatest hero. He first appeared as a villain opposing the X-Men, but he eventually overcame his initial distrust of Westerners and learned to admire the team. Once a rigid and self-righteous man, he evolved into a hero committed to protecting all people. Though he lived in New York for a short time as part of the Avengers Unity Division, he primarily works in Japan, except for the period he spent living on the island nation of Krakoa.

2) Beta Ray Bill

Beta Ray Bill isn’t your typical Earth-bound hero. Originally from the planet Korbin in a distant galaxy, he was created to be a powerful guardian for his people. When he encountered Thor, he proved himself worthy enough to lift Mjolnir, becoming the first being other than Thor to do so. Recognizing his strength, Odin gifted Bill with Stormbreaker, a weapon that matched Thor’s power. This allowed Bill to become a protector not just of Korbin, but of all the realms. While he eventually used Earth as a base, he chose Canada as his home. Beta Ray Bill is a cosmic traveler, typically journeying through the galaxy and only visiting Asgard when duty calls or he needs to rest. He’s always on the move, responding to any plea for help he encounters.

1) Ms. Marvel

Kamala Khan, also known as Ms. Marvel, is a rising star in the superhero world, traveling wherever help is needed. However, Jersey City, New Jersey, will always be home. She first became known for her dedicated protection of the city, becoming its primary hero in a place that didn’t have many others. While Kamala has evolved – recently discovering she’s a mutant and joining the X-Men – her roots and family remain in Jersey City. No matter where her adventures take her, her heart will always be there.

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2026-03-22 00:13