Relocation Guide · Union County NJ
Moving to Union County, NJ
The definitive guide for relocating families and NYC professionals. Compare towns, commutes, schools, and home prices — so you move to the right neighborhood the first time.
Why Union County?
6 reasons families choose Union County NJ
NYC Access Without NYC Prices
Union County gives you a 35–55 minute door-to-door commute to Manhattan at a fraction of Hoboken or Jersey City prices. You get a house with a yard, not a shoebox apartment.
Top-Ranked Public Schools
New Jersey is ranked #1 or #2 nationally for K-12 education virtually every year. Union County's public schools — especially Westfield and Summit — consistently rank in the top 5% statewide.
Safe, Walkable Downtowns
Westfield and Summit have vibrant Main Street downtowns with restaurants, boutiques, farmers markets, and community events. You get suburban space without suburban isolation.
Strong Property Value Appreciation
Union County has averaged 6–8% annual home price appreciation over the past decade. It's not just a place to live — it's a strong long-term investment.
Diverse Community & Culture
Union County offers one of the most culturally diverse environments in NJ. From international cuisine to cultural events and houses of worship, you'll find your community here.
Outdoor Recreation
Watchung Reservation (2,000+ acres of trails), Cranford's Orange Park, Mindowaskin Park in Westfield, and 140+ parks countywide. Not just suburbs — genuine green space.
Town Comparison
Which Union County town is right for you?
Every town in Union County has a distinct personality. Here's the honest breakdown.
Westfield, NJ
Explore →Walkable downtown, family-friendly, strong community
Median Price
$875K
NYC Commute
~45 min (NJ Transit)
Schools
9/10
Best for: Families prioritizing walkability + schools
Summit, NJ
Explore →Affluent, top-rated schools, NYC professional community
Median Price
$1.35M
NYC Commute
~50 min (Midtown Direct)
Schools
10/10
Best for: Professionals wanting the best of everything
Cranford, NJ
Explore →Charming downtown, riverside setting, great value
Median Price
$615K
NYC Commute
~47 min (NJ Transit)
Schools
8/10
Best for: Value-seekers who want Westfield's vibe at lower cost
Kenilworth, NJ
Explore →Tight-knit, quiet residential, easy highway access
Median Price
$490K
NYC Commute
~35 min (highway)
Schools
7/10
Best for: Buyers who drive to work and want max space for $
NYC Commute
The commute from Union County to NYC
NJ Transit's Raritan Valley Line connects most Union County towns directly to Newark Penn (with connection to NYC Penn Station) or to Hoboken Terminal. Monthly passes typically run $200–$280 depending on your zone.
Cranford
Raritan Valley Line
~47 min to Newark Penn + PATH
~$220/mo
Westfield
Raritan Valley Line
~50 min to NYC Penn Station
~$240/mo
Summit
Raritan Valley Line (Midtown Direct)
~50 min direct to NYC Penn
~$250/mo
Kenilworth
Best by car / NJ Transit bus
~35 min drive to Newark
Varies
Relocation Checklist
Your NJ relocation to-do list
FAQs
Relocation questions answered
What is the best town in Union County NJ to live in?
It depends on your priorities. Westfield for walkability + family life. Summit for top schools and NYC commute. Cranford for value with charm. Kenilworth for affordability and space. Book a call with us and we'll tell you exactly which town fits your lifestyle and budget.
How far is Union County from New York City?
20–30 miles from Manhattan. NJ Transit train: 35–55 minutes. By car: 45–75 minutes depending on traffic. Summit offers the fastest train (Midtown Direct, no transfer needed).
What is the cost of living in Union County NJ?
Higher than national average — driven by housing and property taxes. Median home prices: $490K–$1.35M depending on town. Property taxes: $12K–$18K/year. But you're buying top schools, safety, and a 45-minute NYC commute.
Does Union County have good schools?
Yes — some of the best in New Jersey. Summit HS is 10/10, Westfield HS 9/10. NJ's public schools are ranked #1–2 nationally. School quality is the #1 reason families relocate here from NYC.
Is Union County safe?
Westfield, Summit, Cranford, and Kenilworth all rank among the safest communities in NJ with crime rates well below national averages. Families consistently cite safety as a top reason they chose Union County.
We'll Be Your Guide
Let's find the right town for your family
Michelle David was born and raised in Union County. She knows every block, every school, every neighborhood quirk. One conversation will save you weeks of research.