Let the numbers do the talking.
Montclair, NJ vs Westfield, NJ
Montclair, NJ vs Westfield, NJ: What the data shows
Montclair, NJ is in Montclair, NJ while Westfield, NJ is in Westfield, NJ — both in the same state. On home prices, Montclair, NJ is the more affordable option at $673,900 median — $256,100 less than Westfield, NJ's $930,000. WYLT rates Montclair, NJ as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Westfield, NJ as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Westfield, NJ has the stronger safety profile of the two. Montclair, NJ has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Westfield, NJ has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Montclair, NJ has Low flood risk and Westfield, NJ has Low flood risk.
Westfield, NJ is the more walkable neighborhood. Montclair, NJ scores N/A/100 versus Westfield, NJ's 83/100 (very walkable). For families weighing school quality, Montclair, NJ has the higher school rating — Montclair, NJ rates 7.5/10 and Westfield, NJ rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Montclair, NJ | Westfield, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Settle here |
| Median Price | $674K ✓ Lower price | $930K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $4K |
| Median Income | $130K ✓ Higher income | $123K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 83/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 10/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 31 min ✓ Shorter commute | 48 min |
| 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 ✓ Better schools | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesProfessionalsCommuters | Families with childrenYoung professionalsCommute-oriented households |
Bottom line
If you're a family with school-age children, Westfield, NJ might be the better choice due to its higher school ratings and more comprehensive school system. However, if you're a single professional or couple without kids, Montclair, NJ offers more affordable housing options and a slightly shorter commute to Manhattan while still providing access to excellent schools. Ultimately, consider your priorities and budget when deciding between these two upscale New Jersey suburbs.
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