Let the numbers do the talking.
Newark, NJ vs Toms River, NJ
Newark, NJ vs Toms River, NJ: What the data shows
Newark, NJ is in Newark, NJ while Toms River, NJ is in Toms River, NJ — both in the same state. On home prices, Toms River, NJ is the more affordable option at $357,200 median — $11,200 less than Newark, NJ's $368,400. WYLT rates Newark, NJ as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Toms River, NJ as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Toms River, NJ has the stronger safety profile of the two. Newark, NJ has High violent crime and High property crime. Toms River, NJ has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Newark, NJ has Low flood risk and Toms River, NJ has Low flood risk.
Newark, NJ is the more walkable neighborhood. Newark, NJ scores 37/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Toms River, NJ's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Toms River, NJ has the higher school rating — Newark, NJ rates 7/10 and Toms River, NJ rates 7.2/10.
| Category | Newark, NJ | Toms River, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $368K | $357K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $36K | $97K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 37/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 70/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | D+ ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Poor | Moderate ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 | 7.2/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | commutersstudentslow_income_buyer | Families looking for good schoolsFirst‑time home buyersPeople who drive daily |
Bottom line
For families prioritizing good schools, Toms River is a better choice despite its car-centric layout and moderate crime. If affordable housing and proximity to Manhattan are more important than safety and convenience, Newark might be worth considering for commuters or students on a budget. However, these neighborhoods both come with significant trade-offs, so think carefully about your priorities before making a decision.
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