Let the numbers do the talking.
Howell, NJ vs South Orange, NJ
Howell, NJ vs South Orange, NJ: What the data shows
Howell, NJ is in Howell, NJ while South Orange, NJ is in South Orange, NJ — both in the same state. On home prices, Howell, NJ is the more affordable option at $530,000 median — $239,100 less than South Orange, NJ's $769,100. WYLT rates Howell, NJ as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and South Orange, NJ as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
South Orange, NJ has the stronger safety profile of the two. Howell, NJ has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. South Orange, NJ has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Howell, NJ has Low flood risk and South Orange, NJ has Low flood risk.
For families weighing school quality, South Orange, NJ has the higher school rating — Howell, NJ rates 7.5/10 and South Orange, NJ rates 8.8/10.
| Category | Howell, NJ | South Orange, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $530K ✓ Lower price | $769K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $92K | $173K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 2/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 1/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 91 min | 37 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 | 8.8/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with school-aged childrenRemote workers seeking quiet suburbRetirees looking for a safe, family-oriented community | FamiliesProfessionalsThose who value excellent schools |
Bottom line
Bottom line: If you value shorter commutes and stronger schools and can stretch your budget, South Orange is the clear upgrade over Howell. However, if you prioritize lower home costs and don’t mind a longer drive to Manhattan, Howell remains a solid, family‑friendly choice.
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