Moving to Montclair NJ — A Complete Newcomer's Guide
Montclair is one of the most sought-after towns in New Jersey — and for good reason. It combines genuine urban energy, a thriving arts scene, excellent public schools, and a 45-minute train ride to Midtown Manhattan. Here's what you actually need to know before making the move.
The Montclair Basics
Montclair is a township in Essex County, New Jersey, with a population of about 38,000. It borders Glen Ridge, Bloomfield, Verona, Cedar Grove, Clifton, and Little Falls. The downtown area — centered on South End and Church Street — has a genuine walkable core with restaurants, boutiques, and the arts center.
What makes Montclair unusual for a New Jersey suburb is its cultural diversity and political progressiveness. It was one of the first US school districts to voluntarily desegregate, and that commitment to integration is still reflected in its schools and community culture.
Neighborhoods: Which Part of Montclair Is Right for You?
Upper Montclair
The northern section of town. More residential, larger lots, excellent schools. The Upper Montclair train station (Montclair-Boonton line) gives you direct access to NYC Penn Station. Home prices here tend to be higher — expect $800K–$2M+ for single-family homes. Very family-oriented.
Best for: Families prioritizing school ratings and more space
South End (Downtown Area)
The most walkable and urban part of Montclair. Close to restaurants, the Wellmont Theater, Montclair Art Museum, and coffee shops. More condos and smaller homes. The Bay Street and Walnut Street train stations are in this zone. Higher density, great energy.
Best for: Young professionals, couples who want walkability without the full NYC price tag
North End / Watchung Plaza Area
A quieter residential area with a charming neighborhood plaza. Good transit access, a mix of housing types, and a strong community feel. Often slightly more affordable than Upper Montclair while still in the Montclair school district.
Best for: Families or couples who want a quieter feel with proximity to downtown
Cost of Living in Montclair NJ
Montclair is not cheap. Here's a realistic picture:
| Category | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Home purchase price | $500K–$2M+ (median ~$700K) |
| Property tax (annual) | $12,000–$25,000+ (among NJ's highest) |
| 2BR apartment rent | $2,400–$3,800/month |
| Monthly NJ Transit pass (Montclair→NYC) | ~$200–$260/month |
| Dinner for two (mid-range restaurant) | $80–$150 |
The property tax situation is real. New Jersey has the highest property taxes in the country, and Montclair is on the higher end within NJ. A $700,000 home can easily carry a $15,000–$18,000 annual property tax bill. Factor this into your budget calculation before falling in love with a house.
The NYC Commute from Montclair
The commute is genuinely good by NJ standards — and it's a major reason people choose Montclair. The Montclair-Boonton NJ Transit line runs through town with five stations: Bay Street, Walnut Street, Montclair State University, Upper Montclair, and Mountain Avenue.
- Express trains: ~45 minutes to NYC Penn Station during peak hours
- Frequency: Multiple trains per hour during rush hour; less frequent off-peak
- DTC option: Some commuters drive to the Montclair Heights Park & Ride and catch the Midtown Direct from there for a faster ride
- Bus options: NYC-bound bus service available but less popular than rail
Montclair Schools
Montclair Public Schools are a major draw. The district is known for its magnet school system — students apply to different magnet programs across elementary schools, which has maintained diversity and academic quality simultaneously.
Montclair High School is consistently ranked among NJ's better public high schools and has strong AP program participation and college placement.
Private school options also exist for families who prefer them: Lacordaire Academy, Montclair Kimberley Academy (MKA), and several Montessori and religious schools in the area.
What Locals Say About Living in Montclair
Consistent positives from long-term Montclair residents:
- Strong sense of community — neighbors know each other
- Cultural diversity that feels authentic, not performative
- Excellent restaurant scene for a suburb its size
- Anderson Park, Edgemont Park, and great hiking at Watchung Reservation nearby
- Active local arts and music scene (Wellmont Theater, Montclair Art Museum)
Consistent negatives:
- Property taxes are genuinely high — this is the most common complaint
- Traffic on Bloomfield Avenue during rush hour
- Limited parking downtown
- Some streets have aging infrastructure (water main issues have come up in town council discussions)