The Best Areas of New Jersey to Live

10/29/2025
New Jersey

Areas within counties of New Jersey, such as Morris, Bergen, Essex, Monmouth, and Ocean, each offer distinct and appealing lifestyles for every preference.

Families often look for highly-rated schools and safe, welcoming neighbourhoods. Retirees might prioritise peaceful streets, parks, and a slower pace of life. Young professionals are drawn to easy commutes to New York City and vibrant social scenes.

Since everyone’s needs are different, this blog takes a closer look at some of the best areas of New Jersey to live in and why residents appreciate living there.

Overview of New Jersey (NJ)

Known as the Garden State, New Jersey offers the perfect mix of suburban calm and city‑style convenience. With an estimated population of 9.5 million in 2024, it’s one of the fastest‑growing states in the Northeast.

The average household income sits at $140,299, with a median of $101,050 — both well above the national average.

There are 21 counties in New Jersey, including Morris, Union, Bergen, Essex, Middlesex, Somerset, Passaic, and Camden, with beautiful landscapes, vibrant downtowns, and welcoming communities for families, professionals, and retirees alike.

Keep reading to find out New Jersey’s most loved neighborhoods for all lifestyles.

The Best Areas Of New Jersey to Live for Families

New Jersey consistently ranks high among the best states for families to live, thanks to its reputable schools, safe neighborhoods, and unbeatable location. The Garden State offers a rare mix of suburban peace and urban convenience.

Parks, community events, and trusted school districts offer short commutes to major job hubs like New York City and Newark. Families love the variety of home styles, activities, vibrant downtowns, shores, and strong sense of community that define so many of our local towns.

Here are some top choices for family-friendly living in New Jersey:

Ho-Ho-Kus

Average property price: $900,000+ (suburban Bergen County range)

Ho-Ho-Kus is a small, affluent borough in Bergen County known for its quiet streets, large lots, and trusted school system. NJ Transit’s Ho-Ho-Kus station (Main Line) and nearby highways like Route 17 and I-287 make commuting feasible.

It shares resources with neighboring Waldwick and Ridgewood schools. Residents enjoy easy access to nature preserves, boutique shopping, and a peaceful, community feel.

Why families choose Ho-Ho-Kus:

Excellent school systems
Safe neighborhoods
Walkable downtown and local amenities
Easy access to NYC

Ridgewood

Average property price: $1,105,000 median sale price

Ridgewood is a leafy Bergen County village about 20 miles from Manhattan, prized for its top schools, walkable downtown, and strong community vibe. The NJ Transit Ridgewood station, plus proximity to I-80, I-287, and the Garden State Parkway, supports commuters.

Ridgewood Public Schools are highly rated; nearby Ramapo College adds options. Enjoy boutique shopping, Saddle River County Park, Van Neste Square, and frequent town events.

Why families choose Ridgewood:

Reputable schools
Safety and low crime rates
Community and family atmosphere
Walkable and active downtown with shops, restaurants, and coffee shops (Insider tip: check out Black Magic Bakehouse)

Montclair

Average property price: $750,000–$1,000,000

Montclair is a creative, diverse suburban town in Essex County offering arts, culture, and easy transit. It’s served by several NJ Transit lines into NYC and is close to I-280 and the Garden State Parkway.

Montclair Public Schools are well-regarded, and Montclair State University is in town. Highlights: Montclair Art Museum, Montclair Center shopping and dining, parks like Brookdale Park, and a lively theater/music scene.

Why families choose Montclair:

Well-regarded public school system
A lot of parks and outdoor spaces, such as Brookdale Park, Anderson Park, and Eagle Rock Reservation
Family-friendly amenities and consistent events in town
Diverse cultures
A good balance between suburban calm and urban activities

Princeton

Average property price: $995,000 median sale price

Princeton is a storied college town in central New Jersey, anchored by Princeton University. High walkability, historic charm, and strong schools make it desirable. NJ Transit and Amtrak access via Princeton Junction, and easy access to I-95 / US 1.

The Princeton Public Schools and private prep schools are notable. Enjoy Nassau Street’s shops and restaurants, Princeton University campus, McCarter Theatre, and the art museum.

Why families choose Princeton:

Highly ranked public school system
Safety and low crime rates
Family-friendly amenities such as Marquand Park, playgrounds, museums, and more.
Walkable downtown with restaurants, cafes, and shops
Good for commuter families wanting to utilize NJ Transit to NYC or Philadelphia

Livingston

Average property price: $700,000–$900,000

Livingston is a suburban Essex County township with highly-regarded schools, safe neighborhoods, and family appeal. It’s near the NJ Transit lines via nearby stations, and close to I-280 / Route 10 for highway access.

Schools in Livingston are strong; many families commute to Newark, NYC, or neighboring counties. Local amenities include the Livingston Mall, parks such as Riker Hill, and easy shopping and dining.

Why families choose Livingston:

Top-rated school district
Low crime rates
Family-friendly community life
Easy access to commute to NYC or local businesses via highway
An affluent community with a lower density of people

Summit

Average property price: $900,000–$1,200,000

Summit is an upscale Essex County city with a walkable downtown and commuter convenience. NJ Transit’s Summit station provides direct Midtown Direct service to NYC. Major roads like I-78, US 24, and Route 24 are nearby.

Summit’s public schools are highly rated. The city has boutique shops, restaurants along Springfield Avenue, Reeves-Reed Arboretum, Memorial Field, and several parks.

Why families choose Summit:

Well-regarded public school system
Safe, low-crime community
Plenty of parks, recreation spaces
Walkable downtown with restaurants, shops, and cafes

Clifton

Average property price: $400,000–$600,000 (varies widely)

Clifton is a diverse Passaic County city with affordable residential neighborhoods and good highway access. It’s near multiple NJ Transit lines, plus major roads like Route 3, Route 19, Garden State Parkway, and I-80.

Clifton’s public schools offer standard options; higher ed is accessible in neighboring cities. Local amenities include parks (Garret Mountain, Clifton City Park), shopping centers, and recreation facilities.

Why families choose Clifton:

Highly regarded school systems
39 parks with playgrounds, sports fields, and more
Community atmosphere
Culturally diverse community

Glen Ridge

Average property price: $700,000–$900,000 (older housing stock)

Glen Ridge is a small, densely built Essex County borough known for its historic charm and close-knit feel. It’s served by NJ Transit’s Glen Ridge station on the Montclair-Boonton line.

Easy highway access via nearby highways (I-280, Route 21). The Glen Ridge Public Schools are highly rated. Enjoy tree-lined streets, local shops, the Glen Ridge Country Club, and proximity to Montclair’s arts/culture.

Why families choose Glen Ridge:

Trusted public school system
Many parks and recreation areas
Strong sense of community with events

Chatham

Average property price: $800,000–$1,100,000

Chatham (Chatham Borough / Chatham Township) is an attractive suburban community in Morris/Union counties. NJ Transit’s Chatham, plus nearby stations (Morris & Essex line), provide direct NYC access. Highways like I-78 and Route 24 are also nearby.

Schools in Chatham are outstanding. Downtown offers restaurants and shops; nearby attractions include the Great Swamp, bike trails, and proximity to Morristown/Madison cultural amenities.

Why families choose Chatham:

Highly ranked schools
Parks and recreation spaces
Family-oriented community

Edison

Average property price: $500,000–$700,000

Edison is a populous Middlesex County township, known for its transit access, schools, and suburban amenities. It’s served by NJ Transit’s North Jersey Coast Line (Metuchen station) and is near the NJ Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, and I-287.

Edison public schools are well-rated; Middlesex County College is local. Attractions: Menlo Park Mall, parks like Roosevelt Park, and its proximity to New Brunswick and Princeton.

Why families choose Edison:

Highly rated public school system
Diverse housing options from townhomes to single-family homes
Community-oriented atmosphere

Haworth

Average property price: $700,000–$1,100,000

Haworth is a small Bergen County borough prized for its privacy, wooded lots, and suburban charm. Commuters use NJ Transit’s Haworth or nearby stations on the Pascack Valley line, and highways like Route 17 and I-80.

Schools are highly ranked (Haworth & Northern Valley Regional). Local amenities include the Haworth Country Club, walking trails, and close proximity to Ridgewood’s shops and services.

Why families choose Haworth:

Excellent schools
Safety and low crime rates
Many parks and recreation areas promote an active family lifestyle

Mountain Lakes

Average property price: $ $800,000–$1,200,000

Mountain Lakes is a scenic Morris County borough known for its quiet residential streets, strong schools, and family-friendly atmosphere. Convenient access to Route 46, I-80, and nearby NJ Transit stations makes commuting to NYC and the surrounding areas easy.

Residents enjoy high-performing schools, local parks, and outdoor recreation at Mountain Lakes Beach and nearby Lake Parsippany. Charming downtown shops, restaurants, and community events create a welcoming, close-knit feel, making Mountain Lakes an ideal choice for families, professionals, and anyone seeking a suburban lifestyle with metropolitan access.

Why families choose Mountain Lakes:

Highly rated schools with low student-to-teacher ratios
Strong sense of community due to small-town feel
Proximity to NYC for commuting families

Berkeley Heights Township

Average property price: $600,000–$900,000

Berkeley Heights is a suburban Union County township with quiet residential neighborhoods and good schools. New Jersey Transit’s nearby stations (e.g., Gillette, Berkeley Heights) and highways (Route 78, I-287) support commuters.

The school district is strong, and the town is adjacent to Summit and other affluent suburbs. Amenities include the Watchung Reservation, Olmstead Park, local shops, and dining clusters.

Why families choose Berkeley Heights Township:

Desirable schools
Safe and low-crime community
An active lifestyle with parks and recreational facilities

Closter

Average property price: $700,000–$1,000,000

Closter is a Bergen County borough known for its wooded lots, quiet streets, and good schools. Commuting is via NJ Transit’s nearby stations (Hillsdale, Norwood) and highways like Route 9W, Route 304, and the Palisades Interstate Parkway.

Closter’s public schools are solid; proximity to nearby Bergen County high schools, private schools, and shopping in Tenafly or Englewood adds value. Nature trails, local shopping, and a close-knit feel define Closter.

Why families choose Closter:

Strong school systems with a small district feel
Safety and low crime rates
Walkable downtown with shops, restaurants, and cafes
Strong community culture

Harrington Park

Average property price: $800,000+ (affluent Bergen County)

Harrington Park is a quiet, upscale borough in Bergen County known for large lots and family appeal. It’s near NJ Transit’s Park Ridge or Woodcliff Lake stations and accessible to Route 4, Route 17, and Palisades Interstate Parkway.

The Northern Valley Regional and Harrington Park elementary schools are well-regarded. Residents enjoy walking paths, green spaces, a small business district, and proximity to shops in nearby towns.

Why families choose Harrington Park:

Family-friendly atmosphere
Low crime ratings
Reputable school district
Many parks and recreational activities

Westfield

Average property price: $1,125,000 median sale price (mid-2025)

Westfield is a walkable Union County town, approximately 16 miles southwest of Manhattan, and is known for its vibrant downtown, desirable schools, and commuter convenience. NJ Transit and nearby Midtown Direct trains, plus access to U.S. 22, I-78, and the Garden State Parkway, support transit.

The Westfield Public Schools are highly rated. Residents enjoy Washington and Broad Streets’ shops and restaurants, Mindowaskin Park, and frequent community events.

Why families choose Westfield:

Outstanding school system
Many parks and fields for sports and family outings
Walkable downtown with shops, cafes, and restaurants

Parsippany-Troy Hills

Average property price: $695,000 median list price (2025)

Parsippany, in Morris County, is a sprawling, well-connected township offering suburban ease with direct access to I-80, I-287, and Route 46. It hosts several corporate offices and business parks, making it employment-friendly.

The Parsippany–Troy Hills public schools are solid. Transit includes NJ Transit bus service and proximity to rail lines. You’ll find parks, shopping centers, and lakes, plus a variety of amenities in a mid-size suburban setting.

Why families choose Parsippany-Troy Hills:

Family-friendly culture
Convenient access to Morristown and NYC
Outstanding school district
Strong access to health and social service amenities

Short Hills

Average property price: $2,194,120 average home value (2025)

Short Hills is an upscale enclave in Essex County within Millburn Township, prized for luxury homes, strong schools, and proximity to NYC. It’s served by NJ Transit’s Midtown Direct line at Short Hills station.

Major roads like I-78 and the Garden State Parkway are accessible. Local schools are among the best in the state. Residents enjoy the Mall at Short Hills, scenic estates, green spaces, and a refined suburban environment.

Why families choose Short Hills:

Trusted school system
Family-oriented activities such as the Turtleback Zoo
Vibrant community

Millburn

Average property price: $1,195,498 average home value (2025)

Millburn is an Essex County township combining suburban charm with urban access. NJ Transit Midtown Direct line offers direct NYC service. Routes I-78 and Route 24 are within reach.

The Millburn/Short Hills public schools consistently rank high. Local highlights include the South Mountain Reservation, Memorial Park, and a lively downtown with shops and restaurants.

Why families choose Millburn:

Highly-rated school system
Many parks and recreational areas, such as South Mountain Reservation
Convenient access to NYC for commuting or cultural events
Vibrant downtown

Montville

Average property price: $960,000 median sale price (2025)

Montville is a Morris County township blending suburban living with woodland beauty. The Montclair-Boonton line’s Towaco station gives commuter rail access. Highways such as I-80 and I-287 are nearby.

The Montville Township School District is strong, serving Pre-K through 12. Residents enjoy parks, trails, community leagues, and a close-knit feel. Historic moments, green spaces, and local events enhance its appeal.

Why families choose Montville:

Family-friendly environment
Low crime rate and well-maintained neighborhoods
Solid school district
Family-friendly events for community engagement

Denville

Average property price: $650,000–$725,000 for single-family homes.

Denville is a pleasant Morris County township known for its family-friendly character, charming downtown, and strong schools. The town is served by NJ Transit rail (Morris & Essex Line via Denville station), with access to Route 46 and Interstate 80, making highway travel to NYC and other parts of NJ relatively easy.

Local schools are highly reputable. Amenities include Muriel Hepner Nature Park, Jonathan’s Woods trails, a walkable Main Street, local shops and restaurants, plus cultural events.

Why families choose Denville:

Walkable, busy downtown with shops, restaurants, and cafes (Check out Denville Dairy and the pasta shop)
Excellent school system
Many parks, such as Tourne Park

The Best Areas Of New Jersey to Live for Retirees

New Jersey offers retirees the best of both worlds: a peaceful pace of life paired with convenience, culture, and connection. From coastal living along the Jersey Shore to charming inland suburbs, retirees appreciate the state’s easy access to healthcare, rich recreation, and diverse housing options.

Whether you’re looking to stay near family, downsize without sacrificing quality, or enjoy vibrant community life, New Jersey delivers a comfortable and rewarding retirement lifestyle.

Popular areas of New Jersey for retirees include:

Bernardsville

Average property price: $700,000–$1,200,000 (large lots push value higher)

Bernardsville is a picturesque Somerset County borough characterized by rolling hills, spacious properties, and quiet living. Commuters use nearby Morristown Line stations (e.g., Basking Ridge, Bernards).

Highways such as I-78, I-287, and US 202 are accessible. The Somerset Hills Regional Schools serve the area. Nearby: scenic trails, historic estates, and proximity to shopping in Basking Ridge and Morristown.

Why retirees choose Bernardsville:

Tranquil suburbs full of tree-lined streets
Access to quality healthcare facilities
Engaging senior living communities
Convenient access to NYC for events

Morristown

Average property price: $650,000–$900,000

Morristown is a historic hub in Morris County with a lively downtown, cultural institutions, and strong transit. NJ Transit’s Morristown Line station connects to NYC. Highways like I-287 and US 202 are nearby.

The Morris School District and several private schools serve families. Key attractions include: Morristown Green, Jockey Hollow & Washington’s Headquarters, theaters, restaurants, and festivals.

Why retirees choose Morristown:

Access to outstanding healthcare facilities
Senior service support, including grocery shopping, medical transport, and more benefits
Cultural and recreational activity options

Berkeley Heights Township

Average property price: $600,000–$900,000

The school district is strong, and the town is adjacent to Summit and other affluent suburbs. Amenities include the Watchung Reservation, Olmstead Park, local shops, and dining clusters.

Why retirees choose Berkeley Heights Township:

This town ranks highly for retirees seeking peaceful and supportive living
Access to senior services
Proximity to healthcare facilities and services

River Edge

Average property price: $600,000–$850,000

River Edge is a borough in Bergen County offering a comfortable suburban lifestyle near the Hackensack River. It’s on NJ Transit’s Pascack Valley line via River Edge / New Bridge Road station.

Highways like Route 4, Route 17, and the Garden State Parkway are easily reachable. The River Edge and Oradell school districts are well-regarded. Enjoy parks, recreation along the river, and proximity to shopping in Hackensack and Paramus.

Why retirees choose River Edge:

Life plan community model, including a continuum of care options
Adult community living is available
Community living provides engaging social activities

Short Hills

Average property price: $2,194,120 average home value (2025)

Why retirees choose Short Hills:

Access to quality healthcare services
Many living options
Scenic and peaceful community

Toms River

Average Property Price: $495,000

Toms River and neighboring towns offer a blend of affordability, convenience, and coastal charm that can fit many individuals’ lifestyles as they start to downsize.

Why retirees choose Toms River:

A variety of adult communities are available
Proximity to the Jersey Shore and Atlantic City
Easy access to healthcare
Lower property taxes and cost of living compared to nearby areas
Friendly, active, and social community

The Best Areas Of New Jersey to Live for Young Professionals

New Jersey is quickly becoming one of the top choices for young professionals looking to build their careers while enjoying a balanced lifestyle. Perfectly positioned between New York City and Philadelphia, the Garden State offers an unbeatable combination of opportunity, culture, and convenience.

With thriving job markets in finance, healthcare, and technology, and reliable public transit, New Jersey allows professionals to enjoy shorter commutes, vibrant communities, and more space than city living. Add in lively downtowns, local events, and outdoor recreation, and it’s easy to see why so many choose to live here.

Top neighborhoods for young professionals in New Jersey include:

Hoboken

Average Property: Approximately $895,000

Hoboken is a vibrant waterfront city offering a mix of urban energy and neighborhood charm. Residents enjoy easy access to Manhattan via PATH trains, nearby highways, and airports.

High-performing schools, local colleges, and abundant parks, cafés, and boutiques make it appealing for all lifestyles. Popular attractions include the Hoboken Waterfront, Carlo’s Bakery, and lively nightlife, making it an ideal choice for young professionals.

Why young professionals choose Hoboken:

Walkable streets with shops, restaurants, and cafés
Quick PATH commute to Manhattan
Scenic waterfront parks and jogging paths
Active social and cultural scene

Jersey City

Average property price: $730,000–$800,000

Jersey City is a dynamic, waterfront urban center just across the Hudson from Manhattan. It offers PATH trains, modern light rail, major highway connections (I-78, NJ Turnpike), and access to Newark Liberty Airport.

The area supports many excellent public, charter, and private schools. Key attractions include Liberty State Park, waterfront promenades, the historic Powerhouse Arts District, and a booming dining and cultural scene.

Why young professionals choose Jersey City:

Proximity to NYC makes for an easy commute via PATH ferries, etc.
Vibrant culture full of restaurants, popular bars, cafes, live music, comedy, and more.
Multicultural community
Walkable living access to waterfront, nightlife, views, without needing a car.
Variety in housing options from luxury developments, apartments with charm, and more.