Let the numbers do the talking.
South Orange, NJ vs Westfield, NJ
South Orange, NJ vs Westfield, NJ: What the data shows
South Orange, NJ is in South Orange, NJ while Westfield, NJ is in Westfield, NJ — both in the same state. On home prices, South Orange, NJ is the more affordable option at $769,100 median — $160,900 less than Westfield, NJ's $930,000. WYLT rates South Orange, NJ as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Westfield, NJ as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. South Orange, NJ has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Westfield, NJ has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, South Orange, NJ has Low flood risk and Westfield, NJ has Low flood risk.
Westfield, NJ is the more walkable neighborhood. South Orange, NJ scores N/A/100 versus Westfield, NJ's 83/100 (very walkable). For families weighing school quality, South Orange, NJ has the higher school rating — South Orange, NJ rates 8.8/10 and Westfield, NJ rates 7.3/10.
| Category | South Orange, NJ | Westfield, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Settle here |
| Median Price | $769K ✓ Lower price | $930K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $4K |
| Median Income | $173K ✓ 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 | 37 min ✓ Shorter commute | 48 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A | A |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Low | Low |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.8/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesProfessionalsThose who value excellent schools | Families with childrenYoung professionalsCommute-oriented households |
Bottom line
Both South Orange and Westfield offer excellent suburban lifestyles, but South Orange may be a better fit for families seeking top-notch schools and a strong sense of community, given its even higher school rating and similar commute time to Midtown Manhattan. However, Westfield's more walkable downtown area and well-rounded amenities make it a slightly better choice for young professionals who prioritize convenience and don't need the absolute best schools. Ultimately, the deciding factor will be personal priorities and budget, as both neighborhoods come with a high price tag.
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