Let the numbers do the talking.
Elizabeth, NJ vs Toms River, NJ
Elizabeth, NJ vs Toms River, NJ: What the data shows
Elizabeth, NJ is in Elizabeth, 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 — $6,600 less than Elizabeth, NJ's $363,800. WYLT rates Elizabeth, NJ as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Toms River, NJ as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Toms River, NJ has the stronger safety profile of the two. Elizabeth, NJ has Moderate violent crime and High property crime. Toms River, NJ has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Elizabeth, NJ has Low flood risk and Toms River, NJ has Low flood risk.
Elizabeth, NJ is the more walkable neighborhood. Elizabeth, NJ scores 37/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Toms River, NJ's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Toms River, NJ has the higher school rating — Elizabeth, NJ rates 7/10 and Toms River, NJ rates 7.2/10.
| Category | Elizabeth, NJ | Toms River, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $364K | $357K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $60K | $97K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 37/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 4/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 2/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 60 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | D+ ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 | 7.2/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | First‑time home buyers with modest budgetsFamilies seeking strong schools in a diverse settingCommuters willing to drive or take train | Families looking for good schoolsFirst‑time home buyersPeople who drive daily |
Bottom line
Between the two, Elizabeth, NJ, is a more appealing choice for those who value strong schools, a diverse community, and don't mind driving, while Toms River, NJ, is better suited for families prioritizing good schools, those who prefer a more suburban feel, and don't mind a car-centric layout. For commuters, Elizabeth edges out Toms River due to its slightly shorter commute to Midtown Manhattan. Ultimately, consider Elizabeth if your priorities align with its unique strengths.
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