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
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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Tucked between two of Montclair's most beautiful parks, and fronting the Edgemont green, this lovingly cared-for and meticulously maintained 1906 four-square Colonial is a treasure. From its delightful East-facing lemonade porch to its bountiful backyard deck, this classic Montclair home offers loads of charm, comfort, and real convenience, close to shops and trains at Watchung Plaza and Upper
The formal columned, beautifully maintained exterior of this colonial home belies the comfortable lifestyle that awaits within. The mid-century modern floor plan adapts to every lifestyle....open floor plan but private spaces. A spacious entry foyer with guest closet opens to a living room with fireplace& book shelves. Two lovely clamshell builtins enhance the dining room, perfect for displaying
Rare mid-century gem w/ expansive open plan living and wonderful flow, set on one of Upper Montclair's most desirable tree-lined side streets. Perfectly situated on extra wide lot walking distance to NYC buses, trains, schools, shops, restaurants, and 121-acre Brookdale Park. Well maintained with many fabulous upgrades, this striking home has been freshly painted throughout. A sun-drenched and
WELL BOOKED SHORT-TERM RENTAL PROPERTY! Turnkey, fully furnished income-producing Airbnb 4.79 rating & VRBO with a proven 6+ year track record. Cozy Colonial offers 3 bedrooms hosting 6 guests, 1 full and 3 half baths & is ideally located in sought-after Upper Montclair, just 3 blocks to the NYC direct train and minutes to major 2026 "once-in-a-lifetime events including MetLife Stadium FIFA World
Tucked between two of Montclair's most beautiful parks, and fronting the Edgemont green, this lovingly cared-for and meticulously maintained 1906 four-square Colonial is a treasure. From its delightful East-facing lemonade porch to its bountiful backyard deck, this classic Montclair home offers loads of charm, comfort, and real convenience, close to shops and trains at Watchung Plaza and Upper
Located in one of Montclair's most cherished neighborhoods, this enchanting Center Hall offers the character, & livability today's buyers are searching for. Graceful architecture defines the home, w/soaring ceilings, pristine wood floors, & refined millwork throughout. Paneled wainscoting and beautiful arched openings introduce a quiet sophistication that carries from room to room. A welcoming
Meredith BergmannCompass New Jersey, LLC-Montclair
In a town filled with beautiful homes, this may be one of the most irreplaceable settings in Montclair. Positioned along the park side of Yantacaw Brook Road, this exceptional mid-century ranch enjoys a private setting with protected green space as a natural backdrop. Clean architectural lines, oversized windows, & effortless indoor-outdoor flow capture everything we love about mid-century
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
Welcome to The Bellaire House, Upper Montclair's premier condominium community. This beautifully updated, light-filled one bedroom residence offers exceptional convenience near to shops, restaurants, cafes, a supermarket, parks, and the Midtown Direct train station. The new galley kitchen features granite countertops, modern cabinetry and stainless steel appliances. The versatile open-concept
One of a kind 2 family located in Watchung Plaza ,one of the sought after area in Montclair, a scroll to Watchung Train Station to & from NY Penn Station & Hoboken., Wrap around front porch. The first floor has two large bedrooms,one bath, living room, a formal dining room, and two decorative fire places with marble mantel. The second floor and third floor come together with 4 bedrooms, kitchen.
The formal columned, beautifully maintained exterior of this colonial home belies the comfortable lifestyle that awaits within. The mid-century modern floor plan adapts to every lifestyle....open floor plan but private spaces. A spacious entry foyer with guest closet opens to a living room with fireplace& book shelves. Two lovely clamshell builtins enhance the dining room, perfect for displaying
Set on a private Estate Road Magnificent custom gate and a curving 450ft long paver driveway lead to an elegant brick and limestone mansion set majestically on 5 plus acres on a private road with breathtaking panoramic NY CITY VIEWS ranging from the George Washington Bridge to the Verrazano Bridge and the Bay. Only 15 miles from midtown Manhattan, this truly magnificent estate, located both in
Jennifer AppsProminent Properties Sotheby's International Realty-Ridgewood
Rare mid-century gem w/ expansive open plan living and wonderful flow, set on one of Upper Montclair's most desirable tree-lined side streets. Perfectly situated on extra wide lot walking distance to NYC buses, trains, schools, shops, restaurants, and 121-acre Brookdale Park. Well maintained with many fabulous upgrades, this striking home has been freshly painted throughout. A sun-drenched and
Best of Both Worlds: Upper Montclair address, low Little Falls taxes and schools. This custom-built residence offers 4,000 SQFT of living space with quality craftsmanship. Set on a beautifully manicured property, this home offers complete privacy and just a stroll to the trails of historic Mills Reservation, Upper Montclair Village and NYC transportation. Cedar siding & a detached garage
ROBERT W. VAN DER WENDEBHHS VAN DER WENDE PROPERTIES
Set across from Edgemont Park, this beautifully updated Colonial home blends the timeless elegance of early 1900s architecture with modern amenities designed for today's lifestyle. This freshly painted (interior and exterior) home offers 6 bedrooms and 4.5 baths. It provides exceptional space for both everyday living and entertaining. The thoughtfully designed floor plan features formal Living
Welcome to 1283 Valley Road, Unit 7, a beautifully maintained ground-level 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo in one of Montclairâ€TMs most sought-after neighborhoods. Situated in a restored Victorian home, this residence offers timeless charm and an unbeatable location just moments from Montclair State University, dining, shopping, and NYC transportation. The apartment features a renovated kitchen 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
*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
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.
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
Beautifully updated two-bedroom, two-bath residence featuring brand-new vinyl flooring and a bright, open-concept layout ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. Located in an immaculate, well-maintained building, this inviting home offers central air conditioning, covered parking for one car, and convenient on-site laundry.Perfectly situated in the heart of Upper Montclair Village,
Life in Montclair can be easy!! Fully renovated, WHOLE HOUSE for rent, in the best location in town! Just steps from gorgeous Anderson Park, with the NYC train and Upper Montclair shops and restaurants just a couple of blocks away, this is as good as it gets. This sunny home was fully renovated, top to botton, within the past 5 years. The first floor is sunny and open, flowing easily out to the
Wonderfully located apartment with 2 brs and extra room for office -on 2nd and 3rd floors -door is to right on front. 2 parking spaces provided-new appliances in kitchen and hook up in basement for washer & dryer. Tenant pays all utilities. As close to the train station that you can be. Easy commute-1/2 mi to Up Montclair center and same to Mont State. Also around the corner from Mountainside
Welcome to The Montana, a collection of brand-new residences. Unit C, known as The Charles, offers thoughtfully designed living with timeless finishes, modern comfort, and an exceptional village lifestyle. Experience elevated living in this beautifully designed 2-bedroom, 1-bath residence featuring an open-concept layout, central air conditioning, in-unit LG Smart stackable washer and dryer,
This newly renovated one-bedroom apartment is located on the top floor of a charming garden-style complex, conveniently situated between the villages and train stations of Upper Montclair. The apartment features an open-concept living space with hardwood floors throughout and a modern kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Additional features include a garage parking
Rare Upper Montclair Rental! Spacious and sunny, first floor, 3 bedroom, 1 bath apartment in a two-Family home on a private, park-like, 1-Acre lot. This first floor unit offers an updated kitchen, formal dining room, big living room and three large bedrooms. Tenants have access to the basement for laundry and storage. The unit comes with 2+ parking spaces, and shared use of the yard. You will
A finished third floor provides valuable bonus space that can serve as a fourth bedroom, home office, or a creative studio. Tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac, this inviting home offers a rare combination of privacy, tranquility, and convenience. The spacious eat-in kitchen serves as the heart of the home, featuring sliding glass doors that open to a deck overlooking the beautiful Bonsal Preserve
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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