Suburban Essex County, NJ: Best Towns for NYC Commuters
Suburban Essex County is one of New Jersey’s top choices for NYC commuters. Its blend of charming neighborhoods, convenient transportation options, and vibrant downtowns makes it ideal for buyers seeking a suburban lifestyle without feeling disconnected from the city.
Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular commuter-friendly towns:
Maplewood
Maplewood is celebrated for its walkable downtown, strong community vibe, and direct Midtown Direct train service to Manhattan. Historic homes, local shops, and an active arts scene make it especially appealing. Commuters typically reach Penn Station in about 35–40 minutes by train, making daily trips to NYC manageable.
South Orange
South Orange offers a similar atmosphere to Maplewood, featuring a charming village center and direct train access to NYC. Home to Seton Hall University, the town has a lively, cultural feel while remaining close-knit. Commuters can expect train rides of approximately 35–45 minutes to Penn Station.
Montclair
Montclair is one of Essex County’s most recognized suburban towns, with multiple train stations, a vibrant dining and arts scene, and diverse housing options. While prices are higher, Montclair’s amenities and strong long-term value make it a draw. Commuters can reach NYC in roughly 35–50 minutes by train, depending on which station they use.
Want more details?
To explore other towns in the county, check out our Communities Page.
Or, download our free NJ Commuter Comparison Guide to compare commute times, home prices, lifestyle features.
Bloomfield
Bloomfield offers a more affordable entry point into suburban Essex County, with growing downtown areas and a variety of housing styles. Several train stations provide access to NYC, with commute times around 30–45 minutes by train. Its proximity to Montclair and Newark adds extra convenience for residents.
Verona
Verona appeals to buyers seeking a quieter, residential environment. Although it lacks a direct train station, nearby Montclair stations and bus routes provide transit options. Residents can reach NYC by bus or train in about 45–60 minutes, and major roadways make driving feasible. Verona is also known for its parks, including the scenic Verona Park.
Livingston & Millburn (Including Short Hills)
For those prioritizing space and top-rated schools, Livingston and Millburn are highly desirable. Millburn and Short Hills offer direct train access to NYC with commute times of 35–40 minutes, while Livingston offers larger homes and a suburban feel, with bus routes into Manhattan averaging 50–60 minutes. These towns combine convenience with upscale residential living.
Why Suburban Essex County Works for Commuters in 2025
Direct Midtown Direct train lines into NYC
Multiple walkable town centers
A mix of price points and housing styles
Strong demand and long-term resale value
With its balance of community, convenience, and stability, Suburban Essex County remains one of the best commuter-friendly regions near NYC in 2025.
At The Beckwith Team, we specialize in helping buyers navigate these commuter-friendly towns. Let’s work together to find the community and commute that’s right for you.