Let the numbers do the talking.
Jersey City, NJ vs Maplewood, NJ
Jersey City, NJ vs Maplewood, NJ: What the data shows
Jersey City, NJ is in Jersey City, NJ while Maplewood, NJ is in Maplewood, NJ — both in the same state. On home prices, Maplewood, NJ is the more affordable option at $638,000 median — $224,800 less than Jersey City, NJ's $862,800. WYLT rates Jersey City, NJ as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Maplewood, NJ as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Maplewood, NJ has the stronger safety profile of the two. Jersey City, NJ has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Maplewood, NJ has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Jersey City, NJ has Low flood risk and Maplewood, NJ has Low flood risk.
Jersey City, NJ is the more walkable neighborhood. Jersey City, NJ scores 82/100 (very walkable) versus Maplewood, NJ's 13/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Maplewood, NJ has the higher school rating — Jersey City, NJ rates 7.2/10 and Maplewood, NJ rates 8.2/10.
| Category | Jersey City, NJ | Maplewood, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Settle here |
| Median Price | $863K | $638K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $165K | $166K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 82/100 ✓ More walkable | 13/100 |
| Transit Score | 55/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 71/100 ✓ More bikeable | 25/100 |
| Commute | 17 min ✓ Shorter commute | 38 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 | 7.2/10 | 8.2/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Young professionalsFamilies with older kidsRemote workers | FamiliesProfessionalsCommuters |
Bottom line
For someone prioritizing public transportation, walkability, and a shorter commute to a major city center, Jersey City is the clear winner. On the other hand, Maplewood makes a better choice for families who can afford it, value excellent schools and a strong sense of community, and don't require convenient public transit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to individual priorities and lifestyle.
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