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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Heather KandawireKeller Williams Realty - NJ Metro Group
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