What’s it like to live in Cranford, New Jersey?

Cranford is consistently ranked one of the best places to live in New Jersey — which 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 cape cods, to newer vintage split level 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! To sum it up, Cranford truly is the perfect place to call home, no matter what style home 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!

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, the community and the commercial district

With NJ Transit train and bus stops right in town, commuting to Manhattan for work or pleasure is easy. Cranford is within an hour from some of NJ’s best beaches, although Cranford itself was once considered a prime vacation spot. Nicknamed the Venice of New Jersey, Cranford is home to a beautiful section of the Rahway River that meanders through town, treasured by locals and visitors alike throughout its history.

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 it’s 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 bar! And Irish Pub lovers will feel right at home raising a pint at the perennial favorite  Kilkenny House!

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 so many more.

It’s no wonder why Cranford’s current slogan is: It’s Cooler in Cranford!

Download the Cranford
Community Guide (PDF)