Best Places to Live in New Jersey Near NYC for Commuters
Home prices in and around New York City remain elevated. As a result, buyers are looking to New Jersey for better value, more space, and commuter-friendly living.
Whether you commute daily or just a few times a week, choosing the right county can make a big difference in your lifestyle and your budget. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a commuter county in New Jersey,including commute options, home prices, and overall quality of life.
What “Value” Means for NJ Commuters in 2025
When we talk about value, we’re looking at more than just purchase price. For commuters, value typically includes:
Reasonable home prices compared to NYC and nearby suburbs
Access to NJ Transit trains, buses, or major highways
Commute times to Manhattan
Walkable downtowns, green space, and community amenities
With hybrid and flexible work schedules becoming the norm, buyers are prioritizing space and livability without sacrificing access to the city.
Essex County, NJ
Best for: Urban feel with direct NYC access
Essex County remains one of the most popular choices for NYC commuters looking for walkable downtowns and train access. Towns like Maplewood, South Orange, Montclair, and Bloomfield offer Midtown Direct service into Penn Station, making commutes efficient and predictable.
Commute times are ~28-45 minutes by NJ Transit to Penn Station (varies by station and line). In addition to train service, these communities have numerous NJ Transit and private bus lines, offering flexible and reliable commuting options.
Why it stands out in 2025:
Direct Midtown train service
Vibrant downtowns and cultural amenities
Strong long-term demand and resale value
Union County, NJ
Best for: Affordability with strong transit options
Union County remains a strong location for commuters. Towns such as Westfield, Cranford, Summit, and Rahwayoffer NJ Transit rail service and proximity to major highways, including the Garden State Parkway and Route 22.
Commute times are ~40-57 minutes by NJ Transit. Compared to neighboring counties, Union often provides slightly lower price points while still offering charming downtowns, good schools, and manageable commute times to NYC.
Why it stands out in 2025:
Multiple train lines into NYC
Competitive home prices for commuter towns
Central location with access to both NYC and North Jersey
Download Our Free NJ Commuter Comparison Guide
Thinking about making a move?
Download our free NJ Commuter Comparison Guide to compare commute times, home prices, lifestyle features, and who each community is best for—so you can narrow your search with confidence.
It provides a clear, side-by-side look at commute times, transit options, lifestyle features, and housing considerations across Suburban Essex and Passaic Counties in North Jersey towns to help you choose the best fit for your daily routine and long-term goals.
Morris County, NJ
Best for: Space, lifestyle, and hybrid commuters
Morris County is ideal for buyers who want more space and don’t mind a slightly longer commute. Towns like Morristown, Madison, Chatham, and Denville combine suburban living with direct train access to NYC. It has excellent parks, strong school systems, and lively town centers, and is a good choice for those who want more home for their money.
Commute times are ~50-80 minutes and can vary based on peak versus off-peak service, express or Midtown Direct availability, and door-to-door factors like getting to the station and transfers, which can add 10–20 minutes or more depending on the day.
Why it stands out in 2025:
Larger homes and lots
Strong quality of life and recreation
Ideal for hybrid or flexible commuters
Passaic County, NJ
Best for: Entry-level pricing and up-and-coming areas
Passaic County offers some of the most affordable commuter options near NYC. Towns like Clifton, Little Falls, and Totowa provide train and bus access while maintaining lower price points than neighboring Essex or Bergen counties.
Commuter times are ~30-70 minutes to NYC, depending on whether they take the bus, train, or a combination of transit.
For first-time buyers or those priced out of closer-in suburbs, Passaic County remains a compelling option in 2025.
Why it stands out in 2025:
More accessible home prices
Improving downtowns and infrastructure
Close proximity to Essex County and NYC
Bergen County, NJ
Best for: Short commutes and strong resale value
Bergen County offers some of the shortest commute times to Manhattan, especially via bus routes and nearby train lines. Towns like Ridgewood, Fair Lawn, and Fort Lee are popular for their convenience and strong local amenities.
Commute times are ~40–60 minutes, depending on train, bus, or driving.
While prices can be higher, Bergen County continues to hold value well and appeals to buyers who prioritize proximity to NYC above all else.
Why it stands out in 2025:
Extremely close to Manhattan
Strong public transportation options
High demand and long-term stability
Choosing the right commuter county ultimately depends on how often you travel to NYC, your budget and space needs, and the lifestyle you prefer, whether urban, suburban, or somewhere in between.
If you’re considering buying or selling in New Jersey, working with a local expert can help you identify the best commuter locations based on your goals and timeline.