Let the numbers do the talking.
Clifton, NJ vs Passaic, NJ
Clifton, NJ vs Passaic, NJ: What the data shows
Clifton, NJ is in Clifton, NJ while Passaic, NJ is in Passaic, NJ — both in the same state. On home prices, Passaic, NJ is the more affordable option at $379,800 median — $3,400 less than Clifton, NJ's $383,200. WYLT rates Clifton, NJ as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Passaic, NJ as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Clifton, NJ has the stronger safety profile of the two. Clifton, NJ has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Passaic, NJ has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Clifton, NJ has Low flood risk and Passaic, NJ has Low flood risk.
Clifton, NJ is the more walkable neighborhood. Clifton, NJ scores 29/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Passaic, NJ's 23/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Clifton, NJ has the higher school rating — Clifton, NJ rates 6.8/10 and Passaic, NJ rates 6.7/10.
| Category | Clifton, NJ | Passaic, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $383K | $380K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $71K ✓ Higher income | $58K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 29/100 ✓ More walkable | 23/100 |
| Transit Score | 4/100 | 4/100 |
| Bike Score | 2/100 | 3/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min ✓ Shorter commute | 90 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.8/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.7/10 |
| Best for | Families seeking good schoolsCommuters who rely on a carLong‑term homeowners | Budget buyers wanting a home in NJPeople who plan to commute by carFamilies looking for decent schools |
Bottom line
If you're a family seeking a quiet suburban setting with good schools, Clifton is a better fit. However, if budget is your top priority and you're willing to sacrifice convenience and safety for a lower home price, Passaic might work for you. Ultimately, Clifton offers a more balanced lifestyle for the price, making it a more attractive choice for those who can afford it.
Share this comparison