If you are looking for a city with a quick commute with the sophistication of a big city, then Maplewood is what you need. Maplewood NJ is a city located in Essex county. The city has a diverse cultural atmosphere. And it’s a popular alternative for families who do not want to spend money on raising a family in Manhattan. Residents are proud that the city is diverse and family-friendly. But what living in Maplewood NJ is really like? Here are some pros and cons to consider before hiring Gibraltar Van Lines and moving.
Pros of living in Maplewood NJ
Schools
Maplewood is part of The School District of South Orange and Maplewood. Children there attend one of six public elementary schools, Maplewood or South Orange Middle School, and Columbia High School, located in Maplewood. The high school prides itself on the diversity of its approximately 1,860 students. As well as programs such as the Robotics Club, which has participated in world championships over the past two years. The school offers 21 AP courses.
Commute
Maplewood is located about 20 miles west of lower Manhattan. The journey takes 35-45 minutes, if traffic permits, through Interstate 78 and the Holland Tunnel. New Jersey Transit trains go directly to Penn Station in New York in about 35–40 minutes or transfer to Newark, which takes about 45 minutes or more. One-way tickets cost $7.25, and a monthly pass costs $208. During peak hours, the jitney takes passengers to and from the train station. New Jersey Transit buses run right to the port in about 50 minutes for $6.50 one way. Moving to the suburbs doesn’t sound that bad, does it?
There is something fun for everyone
Residents gravitate toward Maplewood’s vibrant center, full of shops, restaurants, and movie theaters. Or the Memorial Park, 25 acres of playgrounds, picnic areas, tennis courts, and ball fields. It is here that every July the Maplewoodstock annual two-day city music and art festival takes place. Another popular summer destination is the Maplewood Public Pool, open to residents through paid membership. The South Mountain Reservation, a 2.047-acre county park that is partly in Maplewood, has a zoo, an ice skating arena, a dog park, about 20 miles of walking paths, and 27 miles of carriage roads. There are two libraries in the city, and the weekly farmer’s market is open from June to October. A lot of great reasons to hire movers Maplewood NJ and move to the suburb.
Cons of living in Maplewood NJ
Expensive housing
With an average home price of $641,800, Maplewood’s home prices are not only among the most expensive in New Jersey, but also one of the most expensive in all of America. On the market, there are mainly houses built in the 1920s and 30s, with an average price of $475,800. The condominiums include Top, a high-rise luxury complex built in 1991, where apartments range in price from $375,000 to $600,000. Less luxurious apartments in other projects start at less than $100,000 and reach $200,000. And with those prices, it is hard to find the perfect NJ home in Maplewood.
Safety
The crime rate in Maplewood NJ is notably higher than the national average. The probability of becoming a victim of violent or property crimes in Maplewood is 1 in 59. Maplewood has a higher crime rate than 71% of the cities and towns in the state. So, living in Maplewood NJ is not only expensive, but it can also be dangerous. But, there are also some great things in the city. Weigh the pros and cons and decide.