$512,363Average Value$361Average Price per Sq Ft60Homes For Sale
Once a vacation spot, Plainfield is now a commuter hub
Placed between mountains to the northwest and Newark Bay to the east, Plainfield isn’t all that plain. It’s nicknamed “The Queen City” of New Jersey, making it more than just a commuter community of New York City. In the past, it was a vacation spot for the elite who wanted fresh air. These days, Plainview is a hub of its own. The city's government and Board of Education are big local employers, as are large retailers, like the Home Depot in South Plainfield. Many commute an hour to Manhattan for work, but city officials are finding unique ways to make train travel part of the local experience. “Behind the Plainfield train station we're building a pedestrian plaza,” says Jazz Clayton-Hunt, director of Plainfield’s Communications & Media Division. “We envision it like a restaurant row, where you just hop off the train and eat. This is part of our transit-oriented development plan."
Plainfield is known for its history, so these new developments will bring balance to the town by adding modern amenities. “We have housing stock that’s unparalleled across New Jersey, and 10 historic districts that boast stately Victorians,” says Clayton-Hunt. “But local governments have been called upon by the state to cover a housing shortage, and the city is growing alongside the residential development taking place. We are developing new spaces for our community to eat, hang out and create great memories." Nearly 55,000 people live in the city, and the median age is 33.
One of the central areas of Plainfield displaying the old church.
Art work is displayed on the walls in Plainfield's Queen City Coffee Roasters.
Shakespeare Garden in Plainfield was set to recreate the feel of an English Garden during Shakespeare's time.
Fun and fitness are inseparable at the joyous Zumba Fitness By D&C in Plainfield, NJ.
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Sleepy Hollow and Netherwood Heights among most popular neighborhoods
Certain neighborhoods have become synonymous with the vibe of Plainfield: historic, unique and even a bit quirky. “If a homebuyer is considering Plainfield, it’s likely that they at least want to check out Sleepy Hollow,” says Joseph Burris, a Realtor with EXP Realty who has sold homes in the area for nearly 30 years. The neighborhood is known for its Victorian architecture. Netherwood Heights is another neighborhood that gets attention for being full of single-family properties. “Old homes but well kept, quiet, with big trees lining the street,” says Burris. One of the primary draws to Plainfield as a whole, though, is lower prices compared to neighboring locales like Westfield. A multi-million-dollar mansion in Westfield, for example, might go for $800,000 on Plainfield’s east end, Burris says. Another draw is space. “The houses are not always close together. You can get an acre lot, and have three floors and a full basement, and not see neighbors unloading groceries,” says Tania Center, a Realtor with Keller Williams who has sold over 100 homes in Plainfield.
Houses also come with features hard to find anywhere else. “There’s a house in town with a bowling alley in its basement,” says Center. “Mine has a heart-shaped swimming pool in the backyard. I’ve seen other properties where they have tiny hidden staircases that servants were supposed to use. You have to realize that many of the homes are 100 years old or more.” And then there’s the west side of Plainfield: A bit more densely developed, with multi-family units coming to the forefront. The median price of a home in the city is $465,000 compared to the national median of $416,000.
Classical homes meet with some newer houses in this area of Plainfield.
Plainfield's Netherwood section features some spectacular homes.
Sleepy Hollow is the section this classic colonial was found in Plainfield.
A storybook looking home in Plainfield's Sleepy Hollow.
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Renovation on the horizon for Planfield recreation centers
One of the biggest projects that city officials are focused on is the rehabilitation of Plainfield’s recreation centers. Next year the city plans to break ground on the Center of Excellence, which will renovate a former YMCA to include basketball courts, a competition-sized swimming pool, a walking trail, a simulated golf course and a fitness center. There will also be classrooms for educational workshops and vocational pursuits. In spring 2025, the new Rushmore Recreational Complex will be completed with concession facilities and a large spray park, among other amenities. A former warehouse on North Avenue is being converted into a pickleball and rollerskating park, and it too will have food options, leading the complex to be named Chicken and Pickle. Milt Campbell Field is an expansive green space for those who want to enjoy their recreation on some grass. It has a playground plus facilities for basketball, baseball, tennis and soccer. Seidler Field has similar amenities but also includes an outdoor swimming pool.
Milton Campbell Field playground and swings in Plainfield.
Rushmore Recreational Complex, located in Plainfield, NJ, has multiple basketball courts.
Milton Campbell Field in Plainfield, NJ, has unique benches stating 'Parks Make Life Better'.
A look-down view of the athletic field at Rushmore Recreational Complex in Plainfield, NJ.
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Plainfield High earns a C-minus
Locals will say that public schooling is another aspect that Plainfield needs to focus on, in order to boost the city’s profile. Students can start at Evergreen Elementary, which covers kindergarten through fifth grade. It receives a D-plus from Niche. Students can then go to Hubbard Middle, which also scores D-plus. Plainfield High is rated C-minus and has a 15-to-1 student teacher ratio. Private school options include the Koinonia Academy, a Catholic institution covering pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.
Evergreen Elementary School in Plainfield houses grades K-5, and has over 660 students.
Plainfield's Hubbard Middle School is for grades 6-8 and has almost 750 students.
Plainfield High School has 1,831 Plainfield students in grades 9 through 12.
Children at play outdoors on a winters day at Koinonia Academy, Plainfield, NJ.
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Musical events and cultural cred give the city an edge
Plainfield has some claim to fame when it comes to music history. Jazz pianist Bill Evans was born here. George Clinton, leader of the band Parliament Funkadelic, grew up in the area, too. In 2022, the city created Parliament Funkadelic Way, which compliments the band mural on a local train station. When one of the members recently passed away, Realtor Tania Center hosted the others. “They stayed at my house for a week,” she says. “They were having jam sessions in my living room.” Speaking of music, the Annual House Music Festival is one of the city’s biggest events – and has continued to grow throughout the years. House music DJs are the focus, but there are also food vendors and fireworks. The event happens in September, and city officials have documented visitors arriving from seven states. “Around 5,000 to 6,000 people would come when we hosted it in Milt Campbell Park,” says Clayton-Hunt. “We’ve since moved it to Cedar Brook Park and had over 10,000 people in attendance.” Just before the music fest is another annual blockbuster. “Every year on the third Saturday in August we close North Avenue behind the Plainfield train station and turn the area into a block party,” says Clayton-Hunt. “Over 3,000 people will come out for The Queen City Street Fair.”
Rhythm and Blues by the Brook Festival is a spectacular event in Plainfield, NJ.
Queen City Arts Festival has a wide range of art, including painting, photography and more.
Plainfield House Party is a fun afternoon for everyone involved.
There is amazing talent to be seen at the Queen City Arts Festival in Plainfield.
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Nearby cities offer retail therapy, but small gems can be found here
Many Realtors say Plainfield’s retail scene is still getting back on its feet after a midcentury heyday, when large department stores and restaurants would fill downtown with shoppers and diners. But there are still special spots. “The Queen City Coffee Roasters is one of the city’s hidden gems,” says Clayton-Hunt. “In the summer they put out umbrellas to sit under, and the inside feels a bit like a New York City café.” A strong Latino community downtown also brings international flavor to the dining scene. But many locals also say that the surrounding towns fill consumer needs. “People will go to Cranford, Scotch Plains or Westfield,” says Russo. “Downtown Elizabeth has a lot of businesses and is walkable,” says Romina Scandroglio, a Realtor with Keller Williams Metropolitan, speaking of the city just 10 miles east.
Latte art is carefully constructed at the famous Queen City Coffee Roasters in Plainfield.
You can explore the real taste of Peru on Watchung Avenue in Plainfield at Punto Peruano.
Service with a smile at La Union Bakery, an Ecuadorian speciality bakery in Plainfield.
Pete's Fish Market is a popular old-school seafood retailer in Plainfield, NJ.
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Commuters reach New York City by train or interstate
It takes about an hour for commuters to drive the 25 miles to New York City, thanks to Interstate 78. Train travel is also popular. There are two stations in Plainfield, and commuters use the Raritan Valley line. Local buses can be picked up on often-used thoroughfares, like Front Street.
Police saw a downward trend in overall crime numbers
According to data from Plainfield police, overall crime declined nearly 10 percent in 2022 from 2021.
Written By
Paul Spencer
Photography Contributed By
Steve Cuttler
Video By
Logan Cox
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Roseann O'Keefe,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Plainfield, NJ sell after 43 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Plainfield, NJ over the last 12 months is $515,000, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Well maintained ranch in vicinity of new construction and lovely neighborhood yet near enough to Routes 22 and NJ Garden State Parkway, this home will not disappoint. New 50-year warranty roof - including 6 inch gutters and new soffits as well. Great front porch invites to lovely living / combo dining room with recessed lighting here. Spacious kitchen with new 2026 flooring, newer appliances,
SELLER Is providing $15000 credit to buyers Modern New Construction Homes - Where Style Meets Functionality. Welcome to S. 2nd Street, where modern design meets thoughtful craftsmanship. These brand-new construction homes are built to enhance everyday living with a perfect blend of contemporary style, smart layouts, and premium finishes. Key Features: 4 spacious bedrooms, including a full bedroom
Welcome to this rare mother-daughter style Colonial situated on a double lot in the highly desirable Netherwood Heights neighborhood. Partly refreshed in 2025, this exceptionally spacious home provides flexible living arrangements across four distinct levels, making it a fantastic opportunity for various living situations. Come in from the classic open front porch to the first level, which shines
Enjoy spacious condo living in this oversized 2-bedroom, 2 full bathroom unit in the heart of Plainfield. This well-maintained home features an open-concept living and dining area that flows seamlessly into a spacious kitchen featuring abundant cabinetry and storage.Both bedrooms are generously sized, including a primary suite with a walk-in closet and plenty of room for a full furniture set
Updated Colonial combines timeless architectural charm with modern peace of mind. The home features four bedrooms, including a versatile primary suite that boasts an integrated sitting area perfect for a private retreat, a nursery, or even a small fifth bedroom if needed. The interior has been meticulously refreshed, showcased by a stylishly updated kitchen and updated bathrooms designed for a
This renovated Cape Cod offers a comfortable and functional layout with modern updates throughout, including new utilities and a roof approximately 4 years old. Natural light fills the home, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere.The main level features 2 bedrooms and a full bath, offering flexibility for a variety of living needs. The second level includes 2 additional bedrooms and another
Own a rare piece of Plainfield history at 944 Madison Avenue. This distinctive 3,900 sq ft residence was built in 1897 as the carriage house to the iconic Coriell Mansion, the largest home ever constructed in the Queen City. Located in the Van Wyck Brooks Historic District, the property offers architectural integrity and timeless character rarely found today. The home has been featured in
438 W 2nd St is a move-in ready 3-bedroom, 2-full bath home located in a beautiful Plainfield neighborhood. This property features a bright, modern interior with updated flooring and contemporary finishes throughout. A standout feature is the professionally finished garage, which offers a versatile bonus space perfect for a custom bar, a dedicated area to watch the big game, or a large lounge for
Spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath split-level home featuring a living room with a wood-burning fireplace and a formal dining room. The home also offers a screened porch, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The finished basement provides additional living space with a family room and wet bar. Additional highlights include central air conditioning and a built-in garage in the main house. Situated on a
Updated Home with Finished Basement, New Roof & Composite Deck. This well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home combines thoughtful upgrades with flexible living space. Major improvements include a brand-new roof (1 year old, 30-year warranty, $24K investment), conversion to hot-water baseboard heating with zone controls, and a whole-house water purification system. For added peace of mind, the home
Prime ready to build development opportunity in Plainfield, NJ! This offering includes 228, 234, and 236 E Ninth Street - three combined lots totaling approximately 44,465 sq ft. Delivered with approved plans for two separate buildings, each featuring 8 residential units (16 total units), this is a rare chance for builders and developers to start construction immediately and avoid lengthy
Well-maintained, income-producing two-family home in Plainfield, NJ, offering an excellent opportunity for both investors and owner-occupants. Each unit features 2 bedrooms, living room, kitchen and 1 full bathroom, providing comfortable and functional living spaces. The property also includes a finished attic, adding valuable bonus space, as well as a fully finished basement with a private
This beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bath North Plainfield Bi-Level is ready for market. Imagine sipping your morning coffee on a stunning Trex deck while park views stretch across the yard, enjoying live summer concerts drifting over from the iconic Vermeule Mansion located on the corner. This is not just a home; it's an experience. This beautiful, well maintained, updated bi-level offers the perfect
Beautifully renovated 2800Sqft open-concept ranch-style home located in desirable Plainfield! This move-in ready property has been completely redone from top to bottom, featuring a brand new roof, brand new HVAC system, stunning new kitchen with modern finishes, brand new appliances, updated bathrooms with brand new showers, Wood flooring throughout. Offering 4 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 baths,
Well maintained ranch in vicinity of new construction and lovely neighborhood yet near enough to Routes 22 and NJ Garden State Parkway, this home will not disappoint. New 50-year warranty roof - including 6 inch gutters and new soffits as well. Great front porch invites to lovely living / combo dining room with recessed lighting here. Spacious kitchen with new 2026 flooring, newer appliances,
Spacious one-bedroom apartment with a den, featuring a modern open layout. The unit offers a contemporary kitchen with quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, and high-end stainless-steel appliances, large windows with excellent natural light, and an in-unit washer and dryer for added convenience. Enjoy resident-controlled central air and heat, plus access to building amenities including a rooftop
Spacious one-bedroom apartment with a den, featuring a modern open layout. The unit offers a contemporary kitchen with quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, and high-end stainless-steel appliances, large windows with excellent natural light, and an in-unit washer and dryer for added convenience. Enjoy resident-controlled central air and heat, plus access to building amenities including a rooftop
Spacious one-bedroom apartment with a den, featuring a modern open layout. The unit offers a contemporary kitchen with quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, and high-end stainless-steel appliances, large windows with excellent natural light, and an in-unit washer and dryer for added convenience. Enjoy resident-controlled central air and heat, plus access to building amenities including a rooftop
Stylish studio apartment featuring a modern open layout. The unit offers a contemporary kitchen with quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, and high-end stainless-steel appliances, large windows with excellent natural light, and an in-unit washer and dryer for added convenience. Enjoy resident-controlled central air and heat, plus access to building amenities including a rooftop terrace, community
Stylish studio apartment featuring a modern open layout. The unit offers a contemporary kitchen with quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, and high-end stainless-steel appliances, large windows with excellent natural light, and an in-unit washer and dryer for added convenience. Enjoy resident-controlled central air and heat, plus access to building amenities including a rooftop terrace, community
Spacious 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath apartment in good condition. Offers comfortable living space with a practical layout and plenty of natural light. Convenient location close to shopping, transportation, and schools. Ready for immediate occupancy!
Be the First to Experience the Epitome of Luxury Living in this Stunning Brand New 3 Bedroom 2 Full Bath Apartment, Meticulously Designed with a Primary Suit that features a large Bedroom, Full Bath & walk in closet. Open Concept layout Seamlessly Integrates the Living, Kitchen & Dining Areas, creating an Inviting & Airy Atmosphere. The Kitchen features state-of-the-art Appliances, Granite
1000 North Avenue offers you the contemporary luxury and everyday convenience you've been searching for. Live, entertain, and work in superbly luxurious accommodations surrounded by a wealth of amenities while enjoying the perfect balance of urban access and suburban living. Find your true north...at 1000 North Avenue today.CURRENT SPECIALS!!!!!! ONE MONTH FREE ON A 15 PLUS MONTH LEASESECURITY
Welcome to 143 Johnston Ave, Unit 2 a newly renovated luxury rental offering modern comfort and everyday convenience in Plainfield. Featuring all new flooring, quartz countertops, wood cabinetry, custom tile backsplash and high end accents throughout. This unit features HVAC, an electric water heater and stove, and a dedicated laundry room. A one-car garage is available for an additional $100 per
NEW OWNERSHIP & NEW MARCH INCENTIVES! *$100 OFF RENT* $350 OFF FIRST 3 MONTHS* 1 MO. FREE ON 18 MO. LEASE*Welcome to 803 South, a luxurious residential rental community offering an exceptional city living experience that seamlessly blends style, comfort, and convenience in the heart of Plainfield near Netherwood Station. With 104 beautifully designed residences and resort-style indoor and
Welcome to this newly renovated 4-bedroom, 2-bath home, complete with a 2-car driveway and move-in ready for immediate occupancy. This unit features a bright and inviting living room, along with a modern kitchen equipped with tall cabinetry, brand-new appliances, and updated finishes. Low-maintenance tile and laminate flooring run throughout the home for both style and convenience. Enjoy
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