One of the best place to live in New Jersey and for good reason!

Cranford is consistently ranked one of the best places to live in New Jersey. As a matter of fact, Cranford was recently named NJ’s BEST DOWNTOWN by NJ.com! A quick drive through its nearly five square miles reveals many reasons why Cranford is so idyllic: beautiful architecture and historic buildings abound; 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. In fact, 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.

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.

With NJ Transit train and bus stops right in town, commuting to Manhattan for work or pleasure is easy. Cranford is also less than 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. 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)