Montclair, New Jersey, is a vibrant and diverse suburb located just 12 miles from Manhattan. Known for its rich cultural scene, historic architecture, and excellent schools, Montclair offers its residents a unique blend of suburban charm and urban convenience. This article details the best residential neighborhoods in Montclair, emphasizing their characteristics, housing options, and average prices.
Table of Contents
Upper Montclair
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Upper Montclair is known for its spacious homes, tree-lined streets, and park-like atmosphere. It's a family-friendly area with a strong sense of community, making it ideal for those looking for a peaceful suburban life.
Characteristics of the Upper Montclair
* Culture: Home to numerous parks and community events; close-knit community feel.
* Transportation: Easy access to NYC via NJ Transit; bus services available.
* Services: Local boutiques, grocery stores, and dining options within walking distance.
* Environment: Quiet and family-oriented
Housing Options in the Upper Montclair
Single-family homes, Larger estates
Average Home Prices in the Upper Montclair
* Buying: $750,000 – $1,500,000
* Renting: $2,500 – $4,000/month
Montclair Center
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Montclair Center is the bustling heart of the town, full of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. It's great for those who want the convenience of urban living with a suburban feel.
Characteristics of the Montclair Center
* Culture: Rich in arts and culture, home to various theaters and galleries.
* Transportation: Excellent public transit options, including a train station with direct routes to NYC.
* Services: Vibrant dining scene, shopping, and entertainment options.
* Environment: Dynamic and urban
Housing Options in the Montclair Center
Condos, Townhouses, Apartments
Average Home Prices in the Montclair Center
* Buying: $500,000 – $1,200,000
* Renting: $2,000 – $3,500/month
Watchung Plaza
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Watchung Plaza boasts a mix of residential charm and small-town feel with its quaint shops and restaurants. It's an excellent choice for families and young professionals alike.
Characteristics of the Watchung Plaza
* Culture: Community-focused, with regular events and gatherings.
* Transportation: Good access to NJ Transit for straightforward commuting.
* Services: Shops, cafes, and essential services within walking distance.
* Environment: Friendly and welcoming
Housing Options in the Watchung Plaza
Single-family homes, Some multi-family units
Average Home Prices in the Watchung Plaza
* Buying: $600,000 – $1,000,000
* Renting: $2,200 – $3,000/month
South Montclair
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
South Montclair offers a more suburban feel, with beautiful homes and access to several parks. It's popular among families looking for a peaceful environment.
Characteristics of the South Montclair
* Culture: Family-oriented with parks and recreational activities.
* Transportation: Buses serve the area while NJ Transit offers nearby service.
* Services: Grocery stores, schools, and parks are conveniently located.
* Environment: Relaxed and suburban
Housing Options in the South Montclair
Single-family homes, Bungalows
Average Home Prices in the South Montclair
* Buying: $500,000 – $800,000
* Renting: $1,800 – $2,700/month
Edgemont Park
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Edgemont Park is known for its natural beauty and recreational spaces. The park itself is a focal point for the community, providing various outdoor activities.
Characteristics of the Edgemont Park
* Culture: Nature-loving community with a focus on outdoor recreation.
* Transportation: Biking-friendly and accessible public transport nearby.
* Services: Local amenities are more limited but are supported by nearby districts.
* Environment: Tranquil and scenic
Housing Options in the Edgemont Park
Single-family homes, Some modern condos
Average Home Prices in the Edgemont Park
* Buying: $500,000 – $900,000
* Renting: $1,900 – $2,500/month
Clifton
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Clifton borders Montclair and offers a mix of urban and suburban living. It's sought after for its affordability compared to other Montclair neighborhoods.
Characteristics of the Clifton
* Culture: Diverse cultural scene and a blend of residential options.
* Transportation: Good public transport, easy access to main roads.
* Services: Access to various shops and amenities nearby.
* Environment: Lively and accessible
Housing Options in the Clifton
Apartments, Single-family homes, Multi-family units
Average Home Prices in the Clifton
* Buying: $350,000 – $700,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,200/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Montclair:
The best residential areas in Montclair include Upper Montclair, Montclair Center, Watchung Plaza, South Montclair, Edgemont Park, and Clifton.
Edgemont Park is known for its tranquility and scenic views, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle.
Montclair Center has a variety of new condos and apartments available, appealing to young professionals.
Montclair Center is the most centrally located and has the best access to amenities and public transportation.
Clifton tends to have the most affordable housing options compared to other neighborhoods in and around Montclair.
Upper Montclair is highly recommended for families due to its excellent schools and family-friendly atmosphere.
Edgemont Park and Upper Montclair are known for their beautiful parks and recreational opportunities.
Montclair Center has the highest concentration of shops, restaurants, and services.
Upper Montclair is considered one of the most exclusive areas for its large homes and affluent community.
Montclair Center offers the best public transport options, including direct NJ Transit trains to New York City.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Montclair:
Montclair offers a diverse range of residential neighborhoods, each with its charm and character. Upper Montclair provides spacious homes and a family-oriented atmosphere, while Montclair Center offers an urban feel with a bustling cultural scene. Watchung Plaza presents a friendly community environment, while South Montclair features a more relaxed suburban vibe. Edgemont Park appeals to nature lovers and Clifton provides affordability for those looking to live close to Montclair. No matter your lifestyle or preference, Montclair has something to cater to every resident's needs, making it a desirable 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.