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Caldwell, NJ vs Essex Fells, NJ

Two popular NJ suburbs of New York City, side by side. Here's how they compare on the metrics that matter most to families.

School rating
8/10
10/10
Commute to New York City
57 min
54 min
Median home price
$560K
$1.1M
Annual property tax
$13K
$19K
Walk score
65
20
Density
suburban
suburban

Summary: Caldwell, NJ leads in 3 of 6 metrics. It edges out on median home price, annual property tax, walk score. The best choice depends on your family's priorities.

Character & vibe

Caldwell, NJ

Essex County's best small town — a genuine walkable main street, top-rated schools, and mid-century Colonials at reasonable prices. Short drive to direct Midtown trains.

walkablecommunity

Essex Fells, NJ

One of NJ's smallest and most distinctive municipalities — only 2,100 residents, no commercial zones, large estates, and a top-10 school district. Pure residential sanctuary.

communitynature

Who should pick which?

Pick Caldwell, NJ if you...

  • ·Need to keep your home budget in check
  • ·Value walkability and a pedestrian-friendly downtown
  • ·Want lower annual property taxes

Pick Essex Fells, NJ if you...

  • ·Prioritize top-rated schools above all else
  • ·Want the shortest commute to New York City

Still deciding?

Burbia scores both Caldwell, NJ and Essex Fells, NJ — and every other town in the New York City Area — based on your specific commute, budget, and priorities. Not a generic list.

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