ESSEX COUNTY
County Offices
465 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard
Newark 973-621-4400
https://essexcountynj.org/
Chamber of Commerce
205 Route 46 West
Totowa 973-470-9300
Essex County is not only a scenic and friendly place to live, work, and play — this region is strategically located to offer easy access to a world of amenities and attractions. The indisputable focal point is Newark, the region’s center for transportation, business, education, healthcare, and culture. Within the region’s 22 municipalities, residents enjoy a lifestyle that is both comfortable and convenient. Nearly every type of store, restaurant, or amusement can be found within a 15-miles radius from most neighborhoods. At the same time, Midtown Manhattan with all of its glitter and gold is situated just a few miles away.
A major ingredient in the Essex County success story is the unparalleled transportation and infrastructure network available to residents in this region, from major highways like the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike to Newark International Airport and one of the world’s most essential and finest deep-water port facilities. Considering the region’s strategic location — Essex County enjoys one-day market access to nearly half of the nation’s population — the enviable track record for economic prosperity is understandable. Important financial institutions, international corporations, respected hospitals, high-tech companies, and countless smaller businesses enjoy a climate of steady growth and long-term stability.
Services
Striving for excellence in every educational phase, from preschool through the most advance of professional degrees, local educational institutions are committed to a philosophy of lifelong learning. A number of fine private and parochial schools serve the area, and institutes for vocational training and adult education are abundant. In addition to its own outstanding two-year Essex County College and the highly respected private institution of Seton Hall University, the area enjoys close proximity to a number of important four-year colleges and universities. Several of these institutions are ranked among the finest in the nation including the New Jersey Institute of Technology, Rutgers University, Princeton University, and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey.
State-of-the-art healthcare is ensured in Essex County through a network of leading hospitals and medical centers that are complemented by every imaginable support service. In fact, Essex County claims the highest concentration of leading healthcare facilities in the state. Newark alone boasts six acute-care hospitals, and other outstanding hospitals and medical centers are strategically located throughout the region to meet every need from routine to advance at a location close to home. Throughout the region, skilled professionals carry on private practice or work in association with other in groups and clinics, representing every major specialty and most subspecialties.
Lifestyle
Natural beauty and well-managed communities combine to offer newcomers an exhaustive list of recreational, entertainment, and cultural attractions in Essex County. County parks cover more than 5,600 acres of some of the most scenic terrain in the eastern United States, offering everything from tree-lined footpaths to tennis courts and ballfields. Boating enthusiasts are encouraged to explore the natural beauty of such recreational areas as Verona Park Lake. The South Mountain Reservation includes 20 miles of carriage roads for walking, jogging, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. Country clubs and private sports clubs, ice-skating and hockey rinks, hobby groups, golf courses, and league sports ensure quality leisure activities. For world-class sporting and special events, the Meadowlands Sports and Entertainment Complex is easily accessible.
Those who enjoy art, music, dance, or theater can chose from a kaleidoscope of off-Broadway shows, first-rate theater, symphonies, ballet performances, concerts, fine galleries, and wonderful museums. From local favorites like the Montclair Art Museum or the Paper Mill Playhouse to the internationally celebrated venues of Newark, Essex County is a cornerstone of cultural enrichment for the entire state. First-rate shopping is also available close to home, from quaint antique districts and Main Street shops to regional malls filled with today’s most popular retailers. Famous centers like Willowbrook, Livingston, and the Mall at Short Hills draw crowds from surrounding cities and even counties.
Newcomers will find an abundance of housing available in Essex County that provides a pleasing variety of architectural styles, sizes, and prices ranges. Home styles range from historic early Dutch brownstones to elegant mansions of handsome contemporaries. Multi-family developments that include apartments, townhomes, and condominiums offer low-maintenance lifestyle choices. Young families will be able to find starter homes, executives can “move up in the world,” and retirees or empty-nesters can enjoy a beautifully landscaped condominium community complete with recreational amenities for an active lifestyle. From the bustling urban metropolis of Newark to the quiet neighborhoods of small towns, Essex County is an ideal place to call home.
Belleville
Municipal Offices1
Belleville 973-450-3322
https://www.bellevillenj.org/
Chamber of Commerce
Bloomfield 973-748-2000
https://www.suburbanessexchamber.com/
A community rich in history, Belleville boasts a vital commercial sector and limited industrial activity as well as quiet residential areas. At one time, the area’s rolling river tied the town to the world and spurred development of significant manufacturing and industrial centers. Little evidence of yesterday’s bustling industrial center remains, and modern Belleville is characterized as a primarily residential community. However, important enterprises are still drawn to the area, including Northern New Jersey’s first cancer research facility. Recreational amenities include Branch Brook Park, playgrounds, summer programs, athletic fields, tennis courts, league sports for all ages, and a public golf course. The Garden State Parkway, bus service to New York City, and train service to Hoboken ensure transportation efficiencies.
Bloomfield
Municipal Offices
Bloomfield 973-680-4000
http://www.bloomfieldtwpnj.com/
Chamber of Commerce
Bloomfield 973-748-2000
https://www.suburbanessexchamber.com/
First settled in the 1600s, historic Bloomfield has evolved through the centuries from a textile center into a manufacturing hub for diverse products. Redevelopment of existing properties is revitalizing the appearance of the community and ensuring the necessary space and resources for additional economic expansion. In addition to tranquil residential neighborhoods along tree-lined streets, Bloomfield provides easy access to the performances and special events in the region’s cultural and civic centers. The Oktoberfest celebration is particularly popular, drawing crowds as large as 100,000 to a festival of ethnic food and family entertainment. Opportunities for outdoor recreation are abundant with 70 acres of municipal parks, 140 acres of county parks, and several golf courses. Transportation efficiencies include the Garden State Parkway, bus service to New York City, and train service to Hoboken.
Caldwell, North Caldwell, West Caldwell
Municipal Offices
Caldwell 973-226-6100
https://caldwell-nj.com/
North Caldwell 973-228-6410
https://www.northcaldwell.org/
West Caldwell 973-226-2300
https://www.westcaldwell.com/
Chamber of Commerce
West Caldwell 973-226-5500
https://www.northessexchamber.com/
Collectively referred to as “the Caldwells,” the three communities of Caldwell, North Caldwell, and West Caldwell are closely aligned yet distinct. Caldwell is a small, bustling community with convenient services and quiet neighborhoods. Newcomers will find a pleasing selection of housing from early Victorians to modern condominiums and townhouses. Neighboring North Caldwell is characterized as an upscale residential community with a unique location at the highest elevation in Essex County. Gracious single-family homes set into the rolling hills and woods blend with large estates and executive homes on winding tree-online streets. The township of West Caldwell offers another unique setting dominated by lovely single-family homes. Residential streets showcase colonials, split-levels, ranches, and Cape Cods. Recreational amenities are abundant and first-class, from private sports clubs to lush parks and sports facilities. In addition to local shops and services, this area offers easy access to Willowbrook and Livingston malls.
Cedar Grove
Municipal Offices
Cedar Grove 973-239-1410
https://cedargrovenj.org/
Chamber of Commerce
West Caldwell 973-226-5500
https://www.northessexchamber.com/
Located between the first and second chain of the Watchung Mountains, Cedar Grove shares a similar history with nearby Verona Township. Residents enjoy the atmosphere and friendliness of a small town, infused with all the energy and cultural excitement of nearby Montclair and New York City. Approximately two-thirds of Cedar Grove is devoted to residential development, blending colonials, ranch-style, and split-level homes with townhomes and condominiums. New construction in this area tends to be upscale, and the entire community is committed to a tree-planting program. Nearby Verona shares many of Cedar Grove’s demographics and supports a variety of manufacturers, including the producer of the flag that marked man’s first steps on the moon’s surface. Covering 545 acres, Verona Park is part of the county system and offers many recreational facilities including a 13-acre lake and a boat house. Transportation efficiencies include Interstates 80 and 280, Routes 24 and 46, the Garden State Parkway, the New Jersey Turnpike, and bus service to New York City.
City of Orange Township
Municipal Offices
Orange 973-266-4000
www.ci.orange.nj.us
Chamber of Commerce
Totowa 973-470-9300
The Orange community is home to diverse manufacturing companies that produce everything from clothing to hydraulics and dental products. Commercial activity thrives in Orange, designated as part of the New Jersey Urban Enterprise Zone. Residents enjoy an easy commute to Newark and New York City as well as access to Interstate 280, the Garden State Parkway, and the New Jersey Turnpike. Balancing local business and industry with quiet residential neighborhoods, Orange boasts a number of quality restaurants and entertainment venues for a convenient lifestyle. Commuters appreciate train service to surrounding cities including Newark and Manhattan. Recreational facilities are abundant and well-developed in this area, and a number civic and social organizations add to the quality of life, giving newcomers a chance to become immediately involved and acquainted.
East Orange City
Municipal Offices
East Orange 973-266-5100
http://www.eastorange-nj.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
Totowa 973-470-9300
Strategically located at the intersection of Interstate 280 and the Garden State Parkway, East Orange maintains a strong commercial and industrial base from light manufacturing to major employers. This area is also home to a number of respected healthcare centers like the Kessler Institute of Rehabilitation. Residents can enjoy an abundance of cultural and educational events from jazz concerts and ethnic festivals to children’s programming. The housing selection is rich in variety, allowing newcomers to choose from pleasing architectural styles as well as a wide spectrum of home sizes and price ranges. Access to major thoroughfares combines with commuter bus or train service to New York City for transportation efficiencies. Diverse recreational facilities and services include supervised programs for all ages from day camps to martial arts and cultural programs.
Essex Fells
Municipal Offices
Essex Fells 973-226-3400
https://www.essexfellsboro.com/
Chamber of Commerce
West Caldwell 973-226-5500
https://www.northessexchamber.com/
The small community of Essex Fells is considered to be one of the premier boroughs in New Jersey. Exclusively residential, this desirable community is home to a wide array of well-designed, attractive homes and magnificent estates on spacious lots. Winding rhododendron-lined streets and towering shade trees reflect the natural beauty for which the Garden State was named. Festivals and celebrations as well as school, church, and social programs add to the close-knit spirit of the community. Routes 46 and 10 to major thoroughfares and bus service to New York City and Livingston ensure a convenient lifestyle. Among the many recreational amenities that are close to home are lush county parks, tennis courts, athletic fields, the 16-acre Walter Kidde Dinosaur Park, a skating rink, and swimming pools.
Fairfield
Municipal Offices
Fairfield 973-882-2700
www.fairfieldnj.org
Chamber of Commerce
West Caldwell 973-226-5500
https://www.northessexchamber.com/
Bisected by Route 46 and bordered by Interstate 80 to the north, Fairfield Township is conveniently located for businesses and industries that serve the entire Northeast corridor. The community also provides a serene suburban haven of quiet neighborhoods for commuters to New York City and other regional employment centers. Careful planning has preserved the tranquility of residential areas in spite of the area’s economic development. Fairfield was established in 1964, one of the most recently incorporated of the region’s many municipalities. Close proximity to the Caldwell area adds to the amenities and services close to home, and commuter bus service is available to New York City. Regional malls, county parks, golf courses, swimming pools, tennis courts, private sports clubs, bridle trails, and miles of multi-purpose recreational trails are all available in close proximity to Fairfield.
Glen Ridge
Municipal Offices
Glen Ridge 973-748-8400
www.glenridgenj.org
Chamber of Commerce
Bloomfield 973-748-2000
https://www.suburbanessexchamber.com/
With a name derived from the mountain ridge and the glen associated with Toney’s Brook, the tranquil community of Glen Ridge Borough is almost entire residential. A small scattering of business and industry combines with Mountainside Hospital to give the community a good balance of services and economic activity The picturesque glen remains undeveloped, providing open space for hiking and other outdoor activities close to home. Freeman Gardens further graces the area with the beauty and fragrance of rose gardens. Interstate 280, the Garden State Parkway, and commuter bus service to New York City provide transportation efficiencies. Parks, playgrounds, athletic fields, league sports, tennis courts, paddle tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a golf course ensure quality leisure activities.
Irvington
Municipal Offices
Irvington 973-399-8111
https://irvington.net/
Chamber of Commerce
Irvington 973-676-8725
www.irvington-nj.com
Highly balanced in its development, Irvington Township is home to a significant number of commuters as well as residents who find local employment. The township supports abundant commercial activity and light industry including services, shops, and markets. Ideally situated for commuting convenience as well as economic activity, Irvington provides bus service to New York City and easy access to four major highways including the Garden State Parkway that passes directly through the town. Irvington has attracted considerable residential development, enhanced by a large downtown shopping area, industrial parks, and wide variety of professional offices. New residents will find a blend of well-kept older homes with some newer construction. Recreational amenities include well-equipped county parks, athletic fields, tennis courts, a senior citizen center, and sports leagues.
Livingston
Municipal Offices
Livingston 973-992-5000
https://www.livingstonnj.org/
Chamber of Commerce
Livingston 973-992-4343
www.livingstonchambernj.com
Offering a comfortable suburban lifestyle with easy access to New York City and other key destinations, Livingston Township offers a wide variety of housing choices and a highly rated public school system. The recreational amenities include community swimming pools, tennis courts, basketball courts, playgrounds, and athletic programs for all ages. Transportation efficiencies are guaranteed by close proximity to Interstates 80 and 280, the Garden State Parkway, the New Jersey Turnpike, and Route 24. From its industrial roots as a manufacturing center for brooms and hats, Livingston has evolved into a well-balanced residential community. Abundant office space and a number of large commercial areas have further encouraged economic growth. Two of the area’s attractions appeal to visitors as well as to residents. Livingston Mall is a regional shopping center and the Thomas Force Homestead serves as a public museum.
Maplewood
Municipal Offices
Maplewood 973-762-8120
https://www.maplewoodnj.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
Maplewood 973-761-4333
https://somachamber.org/
The quiet, residential haven of Maplewood Township is recognized for its charming neighborhood ambiance, a quaint town center, and tree-lined neighborhoods of well-kept older homes. Maplewood is also home to several business districts and limited light industry. Steeped in history, the town features many notable landmarks such as the Durand-Hedden House and Garden. Contemporary development includes revitalization of the Maplewood Country Club and expansion of the 36-acre Ward Homestead to include villas and apartments. Recreational amenities include county parks, nature centers, lakes, wilderness areas, multi-purpose trails, local parks, an outdoor ice-skating rink, playgrounds sports fields, league sports, tennis courts, swimming pools, and cultural and community centers. Access to Interstates 78 and 280, the Garden State Parkway, bus service, and commuter trains to Hoboken with transfer to New York City ensure transportation efficiencies.
Millburn, Short Hills
Municipal Offices
Millburn 973-564-7000
https://twp.millburn.nj.us/
Chamber of Commerce
Millburn 973-379-1198
www.millburnshorthillschamber.org
Located in the southwest corner of Essex County, Millburn Township covers 10 square miles just 20 miles west of New York City. The southern border, adjacent to Summit and Springfield, is partially defined by Morris Turnpike or Route 124. Approximately half of the county’s 2,000-acre South Mountain Reservation lies within the township. Other open space includes municipal parks, golf courses, and water reserves including a reservoir. Characterized as a residential suburb, the township is divided into two sections. The older area blends a commercial center with neighborhoods, while the Short Hills area to the north and west boasts its own post office and railroad station. Excellent schools, the upscale Mall at Short Hills, and more than 1,000 businesses and professionals are located in Millburn. Area highlights include the 16-acre Cora Hardshorn Arboretum and Bird Sanctuary and the Paper Mill Playhouse, one of the nation’s most outstanding nonprofit cultural venues.
Montclair
Municipal Offices
Montclair 973-744-1400
https://www.montclairnjusa.org/
Chamber of Commerce
West Caldwell 973-226-5500
https://www.northessexchamber.com/
The vibrant community of Montclair Township is home to hundreds of small shops, studios, restaurants, and professional services. Within easy reach of New York City via efficient transportation links, Montclair is viewed as the arts, entertainment, and cultural capital of Northern New Jersey. The community blends neighborhoods of well-preserved vintage colonial homes that have been called “quaint on a large scale” with contemporary development. The township also harmonizes an enviable mix of diverse cultures, commercial prosperity, and upscale residential living. Jazz clubs, theatrical companies, shops and boutiques, art galleries, and trendy restaurants are among the first-class amenities. The township is home to Montclair State University, a major hospital., the Montclair Art Museum, and the Yogi Berra Stadium and Museum. More than 350 acres of lush parks with nature trails crown the abundant recreational facilities and services.
Newark
Municipal Offices
Newark 973-733-6400
https://www.newarknj.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
Newark 973-522-0099
https://www.newarkrbp.org/
Redefining and revitalizing its image, Newark is a long-established urban center that is welcoming significant growth in residential areas. Vast numbers of upscale private townhouses and condominiums have sprung up, bringing new life to districts that are brimming over with cultural and employment advantages. Distinguished as the Essex County seat of government, Newark claims a rich history of economic activity through the centuries. Although a large manufacturing sector remains today, Newark is known for its vital business districts filled with banks, law firms, and leading corporations as well as prestigious universities and medical facilities. Cultural jewels like the Newark Museum, Newark Symphony Hall, and the spectacular new Jersey Performing Arts Center draw visitors from across the region. Recreational amenities include sports leagues, 40 lush parks, free concerts, recreation centers, Camp Watershed with 35,000 lush acres, athletic fields, tennis courts, and swimming pools.
Nutley
Municipal Offices
Nutley 973-284-4955
https://www.nutleynj.org/
Chamber of Commerce
Nutley 973-667-5300
https://nutleychamber.com/
Conveniently situated in the heart of the expansive New Jersey-New York metropolitan region, Nutley Township is just 20 miles west of Manhattan. The community is bordered by three major highways: Route 3 to the north, the Garden State Parkway to the west, and Route 21 to the east. Situated on the west banks of the Passaic River, Nutley offers a well-established community with a strong foundation of tranquil neighborhoods and primarily owner-occupied housing. Industry tends to be limited, although a convenient central shopping area is expanded by several smaller business districts. The presence of a 28-acre county park within the community ensures open space, scenic beauty, and expanded recreational opportunities and provides an ideal complement to well-managed sports and athletic facilities. Commuters can take advantage of bus service to New York City and Newark.
Roseland
Municipal Offices
Roseland 973-226-8080
https://www.roselandnj.org/
Chamber of Commerce
West Caldwell 973-226-5500
https://www.northessexchamber.com/
The borough of Roseland, originally known as the Centerville section of Livingston, covers nearly four square miles at the southern boundary near Interstate 280. Roseland offers a blend of residential areas and executive office parks. No history of the community would be complete without mentioning the Becker Dairy Farm, encompassing nearly half of Roseland during its operation from 1880 to 1964. In more recent decades, much of this beautiful property has formed the centerpiece of extensive and well-planned executive office complexes that boost the local economy without altering the underlying residential atmosphere. Home to some of New Jersey’s largest law firms, Roseland also boasts a number of major corporations. This well-balanced borough that manages to harmonize tree-lined neighborhoods with a flourishing economy provides a truly comfortable suburban lifestyle.
South Orange Village
Municipal Offices
South Orange 973-378-7715
https://www.southorange.org/
Chamber of Commerce
Totowa 973-470-9300
The township of South Orange Village is primarily residential in character, providing a variety of quality of housing that ranges from modest colonials to magnificent Tudors and elegant Victorian mansions. The thriving downtown commercial area encompasses unique shops, boutiques, and service establishments in addition to popular restaurants and lively pubs. South Orange is also home to the well-respected Seton Hall University, adding the intellectual stimulation and charm of a college town to its many attributes. Bordering on the heavily wooded South Mountain Reservation, this naturally panoramic area encompasses more than 60 acres of lush parkland that complement the well-developed municipal and private facilities. Offering quick access to the Garden State Parkway and Interstate 78, the community is ideal for commuters.
Verona
Municipal Offices
Verona 973-239-3220
https://www.veronanj.org/
Chamber of Commerce
West Caldwell 973-226-5500
www.northessexchamber.com
Located to the east of the communities that are collectively known as “the Caldwells,” Verona was also part of the legendary Horseneck Tract. Verona has continued to grow slowly and steadily over the centuries and decades, emerging as an upscale residential community for commuters to New York City and other regional industrial and commercial hubs. Scenic backdrops for residential development, quiet neighborhoods, a good mix of attractive housing, and opportunities for townhouses and garden apartments add to the appeal. Neighboring communities close to home expand the opportunities for quality shopping centers, sports and recreational attractions, and cultural treasures. In addition to offering easy access to Manhattan attractions, the community is convenient to Newark and the spectacular New Jersey Performing Arts Center.
West Orange
Municipal Offices
West Orange 973-325-4100
www.westorange.org
Chamber of Commerce
Totowa 973-470-9300
The highly residential township of West Orange also supports a thriving commercial district for a convenient yet tranquil lifestyle. Recent business expansion outside the downtown district includes other retail centers and some industrial development. West Orange encompasses Llewellyn Park, distinguished as the first private, planned residential community in the nation. Glenmont, Thomas Edison’s famous estate, is also one of the township treasures that attracts visitors and residents alike. The Essex County Park System provides such delights as the South Mountain Sports Arena, the Turtle Back Zoo, and the South Mountain Reservation that complement with other developed recreational facilities. Transportation efficiencies include access to Interstate 280 and bus service to New York City.