Let the numbers do the talking.
Clifton, NJ vs Toms River, NJ
Clifton, NJ vs Toms River, NJ: What the data shows
Clifton, NJ is in Clifton, NJ while Toms River, NJ is in Toms River, NJ — both in the same state. On home prices, Toms River, NJ is the more affordable option at $357,200 median — $26,000 less than Clifton, NJ's $383,200. WYLT rates Clifton, NJ as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Toms River, NJ as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Clifton, NJ has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Toms River, NJ has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Clifton, NJ has Low flood risk and Toms River, NJ has Low flood risk.
Clifton, NJ is the more walkable neighborhood. Clifton, NJ scores 29/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Toms River, NJ's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Toms River, NJ has the higher school rating — Clifton, NJ rates 6.8/10 and Toms River, NJ rates 7.2/10.
| Category | Clifton, NJ | Toms River, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $383K | $357K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $71K | $97K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 29/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 4/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 2/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 45 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.8/10 | 7.2/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families seeking good schoolsCommuters who rely on a carLong‑term homeowners | Families looking for good schoolsFirst‑time home buyersPeople who drive daily |
Bottom line
If you prioritize good schools, affordability, and a quiet suburban setting, Clifton might be a better fit for you. However, if you're willing to overlook moderate crime incidents and limited public transit, Toms River offers no commute time to NYC and could be suitable for families, first-time homebuyers, or those who drive frequently. Overall, the choice ultimately depends on your individual priorities and comfort level with each neighborhood's trade-offs.
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