Let the numbers do the talking.
Brick, NJ vs South Orange, NJ
Brick, NJ vs South Orange, NJ: What the data shows
Brick, NJ is in Brick, NJ while South Orange, NJ is in South Orange, NJ — both in the same state. On home prices, Brick, NJ is the more affordable option at $359,100 median — $410,000 less than South Orange, NJ's $769,100. WYLT rates Brick, NJ as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and South Orange, NJ as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
South Orange, NJ has the stronger safety profile of the two. Brick, NJ has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. South Orange, NJ has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Brick, NJ has Low flood risk and South Orange, NJ has Low flood risk.
Brick, NJ is the more walkable neighborhood. Brick, NJ scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus South Orange, NJ's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, South Orange, NJ has the higher school rating — Brick, NJ rates 7.5/10 and South Orange, NJ rates 8.8/10.
| Category | Brick, NJ | South Orange, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $359K ✓ Lower price | $769K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $101K | $173K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 1/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | N/A | 37 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 | 8.8/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesSuburban commutersSchool‑focused households | FamiliesProfessionalsThose who value excellent schools |
Bottom line
For a family that prioritizes excellent schools and a strong sense of community, South Orange is the better choice. However, if you have a moderate income budget and value quiet streets with a shorter commute to city centers, Brick may be a more feasible option. Ultimately, South Orange offers a higher quality of life, but at a higher price tag.
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