Let the numbers do the talking.
Montclair, NJ vs Maplewood, NJ
Montclair, NJ vs Maplewood, NJ: What the data shows
Montclair, NJ is in Montclair, NJ while Maplewood, NJ is in Maplewood, NJ — both in the same state. On home prices, Maplewood, NJ is the more affordable option at $720,700 median — $101,000 less than Montclair, NJ's $821,700. WYLT rates Montclair, NJ as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Maplewood, NJ as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Montclair, NJ has the stronger safety profile of the two. Montclair, NJ has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Maplewood, NJ has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Montclair, NJ has Low flood risk and Maplewood, NJ has Low flood risk.
Montclair, NJ is the more walkable neighborhood. Montclair, NJ scores 95/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Maplewood, NJ's 61/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Maplewood, NJ has the higher school rating — Montclair, NJ rates 5/10 and Maplewood, NJ rates 9/10.
| Category | Montclair, NJ | Maplewood, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Settle here |
| Median Price | $822K | $721K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $123K | $174K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 95/100 ✓ More walkable | 61/100 |
| Transit Score | 89/100 ✓ Better transit | 68/100 |
| Bike Score | 95/100 ✓ More bikeable | 79/100 |
| Commute | 31 min ✓ Shorter commute | 38 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5/10 | 9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesProfessionalsCommuters | FamiliesProfessionalsCommunities |
Bottom line
Montclair offers a highly walkable, shorter commute and a vibrant downtown, making it the better choice for professionals and families who want easy access to Manhattan and amenities. Maplewood’s higher school rating and slightly lower home price suit families who prioritize education over walkability and are comfortable with a more car‑dependent lifestyle. Choose Montclair if proximity and walkability are top priorities; choose Maplewood if higher school scores and a modest price are more important.
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