Best Neighborhood Cities Near East Orange, NJ

When people think of East Orange, NJ, they picture a vibrant community with easy access to New York City. Located in Essex County just west of Manhattan, East Orange combines urban convenience with suburban charm, offering strong transit links and a variety of housing options.

The nearby towns provide diverse lifestyles; some ideal for families, others perfect for commuters, and a few tailored to those seeking walkable neighborhoods, cultural amenities, or more open space.

This blog highlights the top neighborhood cities near East Orange, each with its own unique appeal. Whether you’re buying your first apartment, looking for top-rated schools, or moving closer to NYC while enjoying suburban peace, these neighborhoods are worth considering.

Why Consider Cities Near East Orange, NJ?

East Orange is a lively township, but nearby cities bring additional perks:

• Commuter-Friendly: NJ Transit trains, buses, and major highways (I-280, Garden State Parkway, NJ Turnpike) make commuting to NYC or Newark convenient.

• School Districts: Many neighboring towns boast highly rated public schools and reputable private institutions.

• Real Estate Options: From historic homes to modern condos, nearby towns often offer more inventory and competitive pricing.

• Lifestyle & Amenities: Each town has its own mix of restaurants, parks, shopping, and community events.

  
  

Best Neighborhood Cities Near East Orange, NJ

1. South Orange, NJ

Distance from East Orange: 2 miles | Median Home Price: ~$760,000

South Orange is known for its tree-lined streets, lively downtown, and strong community spirit. It’s perfect for commuters and families alike.

• Commute: Midtown Direct train to NYC in ~30 minutes.

• Lifestyle: Cafes, shops, parks, and the South Orange Performing Arts Center offer walkability and culture.

• Housing: Historic Tudors and Colonials, averaging around $760,000.

• Schools: South Orange–Maplewood School District is diverse and community-oriented.

👉 Ideal for NYC commuters who want suburban calm and downtown convenience.

2. Maplewood, NJ

Distance from East Orange: 3 miles | Median Home Price: ~$725,000

Maplewood pairs with South Orange to form a tight-knit “two towns” community. It’s known for its charm, boutique shops, and strong schools.

• Commute: ~30–40 minutes to Manhattan by train.

• Lifestyle: Farmer’s markets, family-friendly restaurants, and community events like Maplewoodstock.

• Housing: Slightly more affordable than South Orange, median homes around $725,000.

• Schools: Shared with South Orange, offering excellent academics.

👉 Great for young families seeking a small-town feel and active community.

3. Montclair, NJ

Distance from East Orange: 4 miles | Median Home Price: ~$850,000

Montclair blends suburban living with arts, culture, and nightlife. It’s sometimes called the “Brooklyn of New Jersey.”

• Commute: Direct train to Manhattan in ~30–35 minutes.

• Lifestyle: Art galleries, live theaters, Montclair Art Museum, eclectic restaurants.

• Housing: Victorian homes, updated colonials, and stylish apartments.

• Schools: Montclair Public Schools have magnet programs emphasizing arts and sciences.

👉 Perfect for professionals, culture lovers, and families valuing diversity.

4. Bloomfield, NJ

Distance from East Orange: 2 miles | Median Home Price: ~$700,000

Bloomfield offers a quieter suburban lifestyle with good access to highways and transit.

• Commute: ~15–20 minutes to NYC via bus or ~30 minutes by train.

• Lifestyle: Bloomfield Center has restaurants and shops; parks and Eagle Rock Reservation nearby.

• Housing: Mix of Colonials, townhouses, and single-family homes.

• Schools: Part of the Bloomfield School District, which scores well academically.

👉 Best for families seeking a quieter town close to East Orange.

5. Nutley, NJ

Distance from East Orange: 4 miles | Median Home Price: ~$650,000

Nutley is a small suburban township with a strong sense of community, parks, and recreational activities.

• Commute: ~30 minutes to NYC by bus; convenient access to highways.

• Lifestyle: Parks, sports fields, local shops, and community events.

• Housing: Single-family homes and townhouses, median price ~$650,000.

• Schools: Nutley Public Schools have high ratings, making it popular with families.

👉 Great for those seeking a suburban feel, strong schools, and family-friendly amenities.

Quick Comparison: Best Cities Near East Orange

Town/City	Median Home Price	Commute to NYC	Best For
South Orange	~$760,000	30 min train	Walkable suburban living
Maplewood	~$725,000	30–40 min train	Family-friendly charm
Montclair	~$850,000	30–35 min train	Culture & nightlife
Bloomfield	~$700,000	20–30 min train	Quiet suburb & parks
Nutley	~$650,000	30 min bus	Family-friendly suburban living

FAQs: Best Neighborhood Cities Near East Orange, NJ

1. Most affordable town near East Orange? Nutley and Bloomfield offer more budget-friendly options.

2. Which city is best for commuting to NYC? South Orange, Maplewood, and Montclair provide direct train service.

3. Where are the best schools near East Orange? South Orange–Maplewood and Montclair schools are highly rated.

4. Which neighborhood has the most vibrant lifestyle? Montclair is the hub for arts, dining, and culture.

5. Are these towns family-friendly? Yes- South Orange, Maplewood, Bloomfield, and Nutley are known for parks, safety, and strong schools.

   
   

Final Thoughts

If you’re exploring the best neighborhood cities near East Orange, NJ, your choice will depend on your lifestyle and priorities. Montclair offers vibrant culture and nightlife, South Orange and Maplewood provide walkable, community-focused living, and Bloomfield and Nutley deliver affordability and suburban charm.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a growing family, or a commuter seeking convenience, the neighborhoods near East Orange have something for everyone.