Let the numbers do the talking.
Clifton, NJ vs West Long Branch, NJ
Clifton, NJ vs West Long Branch, NJ: What the data shows
Clifton, NJ is in Clifton, NJ while West Long Branch, NJ is in West Long Branch, NJ — both in the same state. On home prices, Clifton, NJ is the more affordable option at $383,200 median — $228,400 less than West Long Branch, NJ's $611,600. WYLT rates Clifton, NJ as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and West Long Branch, NJ as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
West Long Branch, NJ has the stronger safety profile of the two. Clifton, NJ has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. West Long Branch, NJ has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Clifton, NJ has Low flood risk and West Long Branch, NJ has Low flood risk.
Clifton, NJ is the more walkable neighborhood. Clifton, NJ scores 29/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus West Long Branch, NJ's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Clifton, NJ has the higher school rating — Clifton, NJ rates 6.8/10 and West Long Branch, NJ rates 5/10.
| Category | Clifton, NJ | West Long Branch, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $383K ✓ Lower price | $612K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $71K | $114K ✓ 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 ✓ Shorter commute | 81 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.8/10 ✓ Better schools | 5/10 |
| Best for | Families seeking good schoolsCommuters who rely on a carLong‑term homeowners | Families with childrenRetireesThose who value a suburban lifestyle |
Bottom line
If you're a family with children and value a suburban lifestyle with good schools, West Long Branch may be the better choice for you, despite its high cost of living and commute. However, if you're a young professional or night owl who relies on public transportation and wants a more affordable option, Clifton is likely the better fit. Ultimately, both neighborhoods cater to specific needs and preferences.
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