Let the numbers do the talking.
Elizabeth, NJ vs Westfield, NJ
Elizabeth, NJ vs Westfield, NJ: What the data shows
Elizabeth, NJ is in Elizabeth, NJ while Westfield, NJ is in Westfield, NJ — both in the same state. On home prices, Elizabeth, NJ is the more affordable option at $363,800 median — $566,200 less than Westfield, NJ's $930,000. WYLT rates Elizabeth, NJ as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Westfield, NJ as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Westfield, NJ has the stronger safety profile of the two. Elizabeth, NJ has Moderate violent crime and High property crime. Westfield, NJ has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Elizabeth, NJ has Low flood risk and Westfield, NJ has Low flood risk.
Westfield, NJ is the more walkable neighborhood. Elizabeth, NJ scores 37/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Westfield, NJ's 83/100 (very walkable). For families weighing school quality, Westfield, NJ has the higher school rating — Elizabeth, NJ rates 7/10 and Westfield, NJ rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Elizabeth, NJ | Westfield, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $364K ✓ Lower price | $930K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $4K |
| Median Income | $60K | $123K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 37/100 | 83/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 4/100 | 10/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 2/100 | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 60 min | 48 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 | 7.3/10 ✓ 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 with childrenYoung professionalsCommute-oriented households |
Bottom line
For a family with children seeking a highly rated school system, excellent commute options, and a walkable environment, Westfield, NJ is a better choice despite its higher property prices. If you're a first-time homebuyer or renter on a modest budget, Elizabeth, NJ may be more suitable given its relatively affordable home prices and strong schools. However, Elizabeth's crime concerns and poor walkability should be carefully weighed by prospective residents.
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