Living in Cranford, NJ

Living in Cranford NJ is an ultimate goal for many homebuyers. Cranford consistently ranks as one of the best places to reside in all of New Jersey. This means the real estate here is always in high demand! A quick drive through its nearly five square miles reveals many reasons why Cranford is so idyllic: beautiful architecture and historic buildings abound; charming real estate in every size, type, and age; hundreds of acres of green space provide year-round outdoor leisure, and a thriving downtown district with myriad restaurants and boutiques adds urban flare. Add to that list a top-rated school system and convenient central location, and it’s easy to see why Cranford is such an appealing place to set roots.

Cranford, New Jersey real estate

Cranford has enjoyed a long history of strong real estate values, due in part to its stellar public schools, vibrant Downtown, and its proximity to major NJ highways. The NJ Transit train station in the heart of Cranford is also a benefit to residents who commute to NYC. Homes in Cranford are known for their charm and style, and the local real estate ranges from traditional colonial homes and cottages, to newer split-level and cape cod style homes. And while the town is known for its historic riverfront Victorians , a savvy buyer can even find a few new construction homes in Cranford! In January 2022, the New York Times featured a classic Cranford home in their article Homes That Sold Around $600,000. To sum it up, Cranford truly is the perfect place to call home, no matter what style of architecture you love.

Cranford at the top of livability lists

It’s not just the residents that love to live here. National and statewide publications also tend to reward Cranford for its unique livability. National ranking firm Niche shows Cranford ranking high for millennials on the 2018 list of “Best Places to Live”.  In Union County, Niche ranked Cranford No. 4 (of 21) on its “Best Places for Millennials” list and No. 7 (of 21) on its overall “Best Places to Live” list. Plus, Cranford was recently named NJ’s BEST DOWNTOWN by NJ.com! Due to its’ popularity, living in Cranford NJ has become the dream for many people of all ages.

The township also ranked No. 69 (of 411) in New Jersey on its “Best Suburbs to Raise a Family” list and No. 110 (of 566) in New Jersey on its “Places with the Best Schools” list. In 2019, NJ Monthly Magazine landed Cranford in the #36 spot overall (and the number 4 spot in Union County) for the Top Towns in NJ list !

The commute in Cranford, NJ

With NJ Transit train and bus stops right in town, commuting to Manhattan for work or pleasure is easy. The town is a charming suburban refuge, with easy access to the big city. As a matter of fact, Cranford was listed as one of the Top 8 Commuter Towns To NYC by PureWow! Additionally, Cranford is within an hour from some of NJ’s best beaches.  Cranford itself was once considered a prime vacation spot! Nicknamed the Venice of New Jersey, the town is home to a beautiful section of the Rahway River. The river meanders through town, treasured by locals and visitors alike throughout its history.

A Close-knit Community and Vibrant Downtown

A collection of unique shops, eateries, and a vintage movie theater make for a bustling business district. Folk from near and far love to visit Cranford for its shopping and dining. As a matter of fact, The Riverside Inn (AKA The Dive) was voted the NJ.com 2019  Readers’ Choice winner NJ’s of the title best dive bar! And foodies will find restaurant options to satisfy every craving! Due to these facts, Cranford was listed as one of NJ.com’s 23 Great NJ Food Towns That No One Knows About in 2019!

Throughout the year, Cranford hosts events downtown and beyond that draw patrons of all ages, including the Cranford Paint-Out; Scarecrow Stroll; Pumpkin Chucking; PorchFest; Cruiser Nights; Rubber Ducky Derby; Movies Under the Stars; Santa Trolley Rides; Music Fest; Memorial Day Parade; and many more.

It’s no wonder why Cranford’s current slogan is: It’s Cooler in Cranford! Living in Cranford, NJ is like living in a modern-day “Mayberry”!

Download the Cranford
Community Guide (PDF)