Maplewood, located in Essex County, New Jersey, is a vibrant suburban town known for its diverse community, rich culture, and excellent schools. This picturesque area is perfectly situated just 20 miles west of New York City, making it an ideal location for commuters who seek suburban comfort with easy access to urban amenities. In this detailed exploration, we will highlight the best residential neighborhoods in Maplewood, focusing on their characteristics, culture, transportation options, housing availability, and average price ranges.
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Maplewood Village
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Maplewood Village is the heart of the township, featuring a charming downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes. The village has a vibrant community feel, making it a hub for local activities and events.
Characteristics of the Maplewood Village
* Culture: Eclectic mix of arts and culture, hosts community events
* Transportation: Easy access to NJ Transit trains, bus services, and walkable streets
* Services: Local shops, grocery stores, cafes, and restaurants
* Environment: Bustling and community-oriented
Housing Options in the Maplewood Village
Victorian homes, Townhouses, Apartments
Average Home Prices in the Maplewood Village
* Buying: $500,000 – $800,000
* Renting: $2,000 – $3,000/month
The Wyoming Section
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Known for its beautiful tree-lined streets and spacious homes, the Wyoming Section is a popular neighborhood for families seeking tranquility and a suburban lifestyle. This area features a mix of architectural styles, including colonial and tudor homes.
Characteristics of the The Wyoming Section
* Culture: Family-oriented, community events like block parties
* Transportation: Close proximity to NJ Transit stations, residential streets ideal for cycling
* Services: Nearby parks, playgrounds, and reputable schools
* Environment: Quiet and suburban
Housing Options in the The Wyoming Section
Single-family homes, Cottages
Average Home Prices in the The Wyoming Section
* Buying: $600,000 – $900,000
* Renting: $2,500 – $3,500/month
South Mountain
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The South Mountain area is highly sought after for its scenic views and proximity to nature, with easy access to the South Mountain Reservation. Residents enjoy hiking trails, picnic spots, and a sense of community.
Characteristics of the South Mountain
* Culture: Nature-centric lifestyle, active community groups
* Transportation: Car commuting preferred, close to major highways
* Services: Local shops, nearby grocery stores, and outdoor activities
* Environment: Natural and suburban
Housing Options in the South Mountain
Single-family homes, Modern builds
Average Home Prices in the South Mountain
* Buying: $550,000 – $850,000
* Renting: $2,200 – $3,200/month
North Maplewood
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This area is characterized by a mix of vintage and more contemporary homes. North Maplewood offers a close-knit, friendly atmosphere. The neighborhoods are predominantly residential with a diverse demographic.
Characteristics of the North Maplewood
* Culture: Diverse community with family-oriented events, arts presence
* Transportation: Access to public transport, good for commuters
* Services: Local schools, parks, and restaurants
* Environment: Friendly and welcoming
Housing Options in the North Maplewood
Bungalows, Split-level homes
Average Home Prices in the North Maplewood
* Buying: $400,000 – $700,000
* Renting: $1,800 – $2,800/month
East Maplewood
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East Maplewood is known for its charming residential streets and strong sense of community. This area offers a variety of events throughout the year, fostering neighborly connections.
Characteristics of the East Maplewood
* Culture: Community spirit with various local festivals and gatherings
* Transportation: Convenient access to public transport and major roadways
* Services: Schools, parks, and recreational facilities for families
* Environment: Inviting and family-friendly
Housing Options in the East Maplewood
Colonial style homes, Smaller family homes
Average Home Prices in the East Maplewood
* Buying: $450,000 – $750,000
* Renting: $2,000 – $3,000/month
Old Short Hills
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Old Short Hills is an affluent community characterized by luxury homes and expansive properties. This area offers an exclusive residential atmosphere with proximity to upscale amenities.
Characteristics of the Old Short Hills
* Culture: Affluent community with upscale shops and dining
* Transportation: Accessible via train and highways; car preferred
* Services: Top-notch schools, private clubs, and parks
* Environment: Exclusive and upscale
Housing Options in the Old Short Hills
Mansion-style homes, Upscale condos
Average Home Prices in the Old Short Hills
* Buying: $1,000,000 – $3,000,000
* Renting: $4,000 – $8,000/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Maplewood:
Maplewood Village is often considered the most desirable area due to its vibrant community, shops, and restaurants, along with its easy access to public transportation.
Yes, Maplewood is known for its excellent public schools that consistently receive high ratings, making it an attractive location for families.
The average home prices in Maplewood range from approximately $400,000 to over $1,000,000, depending on the neighborhood and type of home.
Yes, Maplewood offers easy access to NJ Transit trains, making it ideal for commuters traveling to New York City and other surrounding areas.
Residents can enjoy various activities including outdoor recreation in parks, local festivals, art shows, and community events throughout the year.
Maplewood offers a diverse range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, luxury properties, and apartments.
Yes, Maplewood has several parks and recreational facilities, including playgrounds, sports fields, and hiking trails, catering to families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Maplewood is characterized by its eclectic mix of culture and community spirit, with an artistic vibe that is reflected in local events and festivals.
Yes, public transport is available via NJ Transit trains and local bus services, providing easy access to nearby cities and towns.
Neighborhoods such as Wyoming Section and East Maplewood are particularly family-friendly, with good schools, parks, and residential ambiance.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Maplewood:
Maplewood, NJ offers a multitude of appealing residential neighborhoods, each with its own distinct characteristics and atmosphere. From the vibrant Maplewood Village with its cultural and commercial vibrancy to the quiet, family-friendly enclaves of Wyoming Section and East Maplewood, there are living options that cater to a wide range of preferences and lifestyles. The availability of quality schools, proximity to public transport, and sense of community make Maplewood an attractive choice for families, professionals, and retirees alike. As a suburb that balances urban convenience with suburban charm, selecting the right neighborhood in Maplewood can provide a fulfilling place to call home.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.