Train stations opened on the north side of Montclair in the late 1800s, creating a transit line between the New Jersey township and New York City and shepherding in the suburban lifestyle that became popular over the next 130 years. These train stations continue to draw people to Upper Montclair, the community covering the township’s north end. The ease of travel to the city, along with walkable shopping and dining districts close to home, makes all of Montclair a popular destination. In fact, celebrities such as late-night host Stephen Colbert and actor Patrick Wilson call it home. Nancy Chu, owner of Nancy Chu Homes at Keller William NJ Metro Group, says Montclair has become the stand-out community in Essex County. “It’s usually the only town in the county that people have heard of,” says Chu, who opened her office in Upper Montclair roughly 20 years ago. “They might not buy in the town, but they come out because they’ve heard of Montclair.” Of course, plenty of people buy homes in Montclair, which is evident from the speed at which homes sell and the higher-than-average prices they fetch.
Downtown Montclair has emerged as a vibrant hub for young families and first-time homeowners, thanks to its exceptional walkability and convenient transit options.
There are several options available for commuters who wish to travel into NYC from Montclair.
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Three stations to catch a train to New York
Chu says Upper Montclair isn’t much different from the rest of the township, except for the concentration of train stations in the community. There are three NJ Transit stations, with departing trains reaching Manhattan’s Penn Station in just under an hour. Residents often commute to jobs in Jersey City, Hoboken or New York City, with highways just east of Upper Montclair leading to all three destinations. The three cities are within 20 miles, but the drive can take a little over an hour during rush hour. Still, Chu says she can often reach Manhattan from Essex County faster than from Queens. “This part of New Jersey is just another borough of New York in some ways.”
Natural feel in the suburbs
Upper Montclair is part of the nation’s most populous metro area, but the community’s narrow streets and abundance of trees and hedges create a lush, green environment. Rows of homes, many built more than a century ago, stretch throughout Upper Montclair, houses sitting on compact lots. There are also a few condo communities on the west side. The median home price of $1.3 million is more than three times the national median and much more expensive than the typical home price in Essex County. Homes spend an average of 25 days on the market, two weeks shorter than the national average.
The Upper Montclair neighborhood boasts stunning scenery and picturesque landscapes that truly captivate the senses.
Upper Montclair is a serene and charming neighborhood in New Jersey, perfect for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle.
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Magnet system at Montclair Public Schools
Niche gives Montclair Public Schools an A-minus rating. The school district’s magnet system assigns children to schools based on preference, rather than home address. Families get opportunities to tour the schools, each of which has a unique focus. For example, Northeast School emphasizes global studies, while STEM education is a key part of Buzz Aldrin Middle School’s curriculum. Parents rank their preferred schools, and children are assigned based on those rankings and building capacity. Many schools collaborate with faculty at Montclair State University, a nearby public research university.
Montclair State University, nestled in the heart of Montclair, NJ, stands out as a leading public research university that offers students a vibrant community and exceptional opportunities for academic growth.
Buzz Aldrin Middle School is a vibrant educational hub dedicated to nurturing students in the Upper Montclair community.
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Valley Road: a walkable strip of shops and restaurants
Upper Montclair is home to one of the township’s largest commercial areas: Valley Road, a walkable street of Tudor Revival storefronts. Turkish, Thai and Indian restaurants, along with clothing boutiques, florists and wine shops, do business along this half-mile stretch of Valley Road. Grocery stores bookend the commercial strip to the north and south. Another couple blocks of eateries and cafes line Watchung Plaza on the south end of Upper Montclair, while downtown Montclair further south has theaters and art galleries.
Discover De Novo European Bar in Montclair, NJ, where you'll indulge in exquisite homemade French and Italian cuisines.
Experience a vibrant mix of Turkish, Thai, and Indian cuisines nestled among charming boutiques and curated shops along this bustling half-mile stretch of Valley Road in Upper Montclair, NJ.
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Annual events include Montclair Film Festival and more
Montclair Township puts on several major annual events, typically held downtown. The Montclair Film Festival puts together 10 days of movie screenings, artists talks and award presentations in October, while the Montclair Jazz Festival lines up eight hours of music for one Saturday every September. Other notable events include the African-American Heritage Parade and Festival, Montclair Pride Festival and a Diwali celebration.
The Montclair Pride Festival reaches its pinnacle with an unforgettable musical performance in June that you won't want to miss.
MAM's LNY Celebration offers a unique experience: witness stunning acrobatics, traditional dances, & shop unique vendors.
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Anderson Park hosts annual art show
Olmstead Brothers, a renowned architecture firm founded by the sons of landscape architecture pioneer Frederick Law Olmstead Sr., designed Upper Montclair’s Anderson Park in 1903. The simple layout consists of a grass oval surrounded by trees and walking paths, making it a popular spot for walks and games of Frisbee. More than 130 artists come to the park every year for the Rose Squared Art Show, showing off ceramics, photography and paintings. Nearly 10 other parks and golf courses are within 2 miles of Upper Montclair.
Upper Montclair boasts a variety of stunning golf courses, providing breathtaking views and endless opportunities for enjoyment on the greens.
Anderson Park serves as a vibrant hub where individuals unite, fostering a strong sense of community in the Montclair area in New Jersey.
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Montclair crime rates lower than national averages
The number of crimes reported to the Montclair Police Department dropped significantly in 2023, according to the latest data from the state of New Jersey. Montclair Township’s property-crime and violent-crime rates were lower than national rates in 2023, according to FBI data.
Written By
Alex Soderstrom
Photography Contributed By
Elma Kukaj
Video By
Chris Norton
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GreatSchools:
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Ideally situated between the Watchung Avenue and Upper Montclair train stations, this location is perfect for commuters traveling to New York City. Nestled on the second floor, the unit is bathed in natural light. It features a spacious living room, a dining room, a galley kitchen, a king-sized bedroom, and a full bathroom. Sliding glass doors off the dining room lead to a private balcony,
Nestled on a quiet street that dead-ends at iconic Brookdale Park, this newer and sizable, custom Colonial offers the perfect blend of sophistication and comfort. The first floor features multiple living areas, including a generous dining rm, formal living rm, and an open-concept kitchen and family room. The sunny breakfast nook overlooks the sweeping backyard, making it ideal for both everyday
IMPECCABLE UPPER MONTCLAIR SANCTUARY W/ LUXE MALIBU VIBES-TUCKED AWAY ON A PICTURESQUE TREE-LINED STREET. Evoking effortless vibes, this mid-century retreat has an open concept floor plan & is bathed in natural light. The main floor is anchored by a chic living room w/ oversized picture windows & features a WB fireplace plus custom built-ins. A gourmet kitchen includes Carrara marble countertops,
Investor Opportunity – Cash Buyers Only Welcome to 1283 Valley Road, Unit 7, an excellent turnkey investment opportunity located in one of Montclairâ€TMs most desirable and vibrant neighborhoods. This charming ground-level 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo is part of a beautifully restored Victorian home just steps from Montclair State University, dining, shopping, and NYC transportation. The unit is
Ideally situated between the Watchung Avenue and Upper Montclair train stations, this location is perfect for commuters traveling to New York City. Nestled on the second floor, the unit is bathed in natural light. It features a spacious living room, a dining room, a galley kitchen, a king-sized bedroom, and a full bathroom. Sliding glass doors off the dining room lead to a private balcony,
An elegant Upper Montclair custom home offering refined living and exceptional scale, set on a lushly landscaped three-quarter-acre property designed for both grand entertaining and everyday comfort. This impressive residence features four expansive three-room bedroom suites, including a luxurious first-floor primary suite, along with an additional ground-floor bedroom ideal for guests. Six
Experience unparalleled luxury and privacy in this exclusive mansion situated on nearly 6 acres in Montclair and Cedar Grove, NJ. Located on a private road with breathtaking, unobstructed views of the New York City skyline, this estate is perfect for a helipad. Enjoy expansive living and outdoor spaces, an impressive 85-foot pool, and unmatched privacy. Embrace a lifestyle of sophistication and
Nestled on a quiet street that dead-ends at iconic Brookdale Park, this newer and sizable, custom Colonial offers the perfect blend of sophistication and comfort. The first floor features multiple living areas, including a generous dining rm, formal living rm, and an open-concept kitchen and family room. The sunny breakfast nook overlooks the sweeping backyard, making it ideal for both everyday
Mid-century MODERN! Welcome to 33 Tuers. This 1957 split level has been updated to preserve its original thoroughly enjoyable lifestyle! Every space affords comfort and light.An ample entry with guest closet opens to a living room/dining room space with large windows overlooking the back & front yards.Natural light floods the house. Adjacent is the modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances,
IMPECCABLE UPPER MONTCLAIR SANCTUARY W/ LUXE MALIBU VIBES-TUCKED AWAY ON A PICTURESQUE TREE-LINED STREET. Evoking effortless vibes, this mid-century retreat has an open concept floor plan & is bathed in natural light. The main floor is anchored by a chic living room w/ oversized picture windows & features a WB fireplace plus custom built-ins. A gourmet kitchen includes Carrara marble countertops,
Step into a world where elevated design meets effortless living -where every inch is thoughtfully curated- and every space invites you to linger. Just off vibrant Watchung Plaza, 82-84 Watchung Avenue features two four-story showpiece Townhomes that redefine Montclair luxury. Each offers 3 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, an in-home elevator connecting all levels and a heated/cooled 2-car garage ideal for
Quintessential Victorian brimming with original architectural charm, featuring the always-popular wrap-around front porch and soaring high ceilings. Perfectly positioned in one of Upper Montclair's most sought-after neighborhoods, just one block from village shopping, dining, fitness studios, and NYC train and bus service. The home offers six bedrooms, two full baths and three half baths, with
This one will have you at the white picket fence! Sundrenched, spacious and beautifully updated, this delightful home will check every box and throw in some lovely surprises to boot. The Living Room is huge and inviting, the perfect place for entertaining or cozying up in front of the fireplace. French doors lead out to the heated, glass-enclosed Porch overlooking the perennial garden and patio.
Brookdale Cape offers a wonderful Cul-De-Sac location 3 blocks to Brookdale park, 2 blocks to Shop Rite, transportation & close to Upper Montclair shopping village with shops, retaurants & train. This well kept home features many special extras which include 18x17 addtion, updated kitchen, two 2nd floor skylights, 2 car garage, Generac Generator, solar panels (for savings on utilities) & 3 full
Craving the small-town charm of Glen Ridge but also the lifestyle and convenience of Montclair? This inviting four bedroom home truly offers the best of both worlds. Ideally located just one block from Brookdale Park, it also provides easy NYC access via nearby train or bus. The home features a thoughtful layout with two bedrooms on the main level and two additional bedrooms upstairs, along with
*Advertised photos may not be of actual unit available, please contact for more details.With its Tudor style construction and magnificent weeping willow tree gracing the front yard, The Apartments at 188 Bellevue Avenue are a special place to call home. With old world construction and a courtyard setting, these spacious apartments feature thick walls, new windows, separate dining rooms
Prime location just steps from Watchung Plaza and the train station, offering easy access to shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences. This well-maintained two-bedroom unit features hardwood floors throughout, a combined living and dining area with exposed brick, basement laundry, additional storage, and parking. Non-smoking unit.
*Advertised photos may not be of actual unit available, please contact for more details.Situated in a park like setting, Commonwealth Gardens features two bedroom townhouses with updated kitchens and appliances, beautiful hardwood floors, new windows and a full private basement with a washer/dryer. Additionally, off street parking is provided and garages are available. Our Resident
Wonderful Ranch Home ready for occupancy! Great Location, Walking distance to town! Set on a beautiful wooded lot amid lush landscaping. Close to New York Transportation. Also Walk to Montclair State University! Features: Gleaming hardwood floors, updated Kitchen and Bathrooms, a sunny Florida Room with nice views of the outdoors, a beautifully finished lower level with a full bath! Traffic
Welcome to Gordonhurst Village Apartments, where quality and comfort meet. Enjoy such amenities as high speed Internet, on-site laundry facilities, and dishwashers. Our on-site management will meet your needs in a friendly and efficient manner. Let Gordonhurst Village Apartments be your new home.
This Charming Dutch Colonial with Craftsman accents like chestnut trim, stunning crown moldings, leaded glass windows, oak floors w walnut ribbon trim, is light-filled and inviting! First floor boasts large living rm w decorative fireplace, opening to formal dining room. The updated kitchen, w. custom Cherry cabinets, granite counters, SS appliances and a Wolf oven/stove leads into the sunny
Mary Seton BeckwithKELLER WILLIAMS - NJ METRO GROUP
Location, location, location!Beautiful, sunny, and spacious 2-bedroom apartment featuring all new appliances and upgraded hardwood floors throughout. Generous closet space, ample storage, and a charming sitting porch make this home both comfortable and functional.Located in a prime Montclair location, just steps from transportation, including trains and buses, and within easy walking distance to
Charming 1-Bedroom in Prime Upper Montclair Location!!!Set on a beautiful tree-lined street between the two villages of Upper Montclair, this inviting second-floor unit offers warmth and convenience. Featuring hardwood floors throughout, a spacious living area, a separate dining space, and a generously sized bedroom with ample closet storage, this home is both comfortable and stylish. Additional
This colonial is filled with character and offers a prime location close to Iris Gardens, the train station, and local parks. The backyard is a highlight with its spacious lawn, mature trees, and a private patio that creates a great setting for outdoor gatherings. Inside, the kitchen looks out onto the yard and features a farm sink along with a self-cleaning oven, combining charm with everyday
Step into a world where elevated design meets effortless living where every inch is thoughtfully curated and every space invites you to linger. Just off vibrant Watchung Plaza, 84 Watchung Avenue is one of two four-story, side-by-side duplex townhomes that redefine Montclair luxury. It features 3 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, an in-home elevator connecting all levels, and a heated/cooled 2-car garage
Step into a world where elevated design meets effortless living where every inch is thoughtfully curated and every space invites you to linger. Just off vibrant Watchung Plaza, 82 Watchung Avenue is one of two four-story, side-by-side duplex townhomes that redefine Montclair luxury. It features 3 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, an in-home elevator connecting all levels, and a heated/cooled 2-car garage
COMMUTER'S DELIGHT- newer construction! Beautiful, open concept 2BR./ 1.5 BA in the heart of Watchung Plaza. HW floors throughout, terrace for outdoor enjoyment, SS appliances, Central Air, laundry in unit. Close to Mid-town Direct train, NYC buses, shops, restaurants, schools. LEASE COMES WITH OVERNIGHT ONLY PARKING FOR ONE CAR! Pictures taken before current occupancy. Available March 1, 2026.
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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