The Definitive Guide To
Moving To & Living In Montclair, NJ
Located thirteen miles from New York City is Montclair, NJ, whose name is derived from the French words for “clear mountain.” Living in Montclair has its perks. Often referred to as where the city meets the suburb, and described as one of the coolest suburbs in America, residents of this highly walkable suburb call home to an award-winning public school system, world-class art and music, along with excellent restaurants, the nation’s first countywide park system, and endless things to do.
If you live in Montclair, you don’t have to travel very far to go on an adventure. Montclair may be a small (just under 40,000 residents) and tight-knit community, but it has big-city amenities, which sets it apart from other New Jersey towns.
There’s something for everyone in Montclair, and there are many great reasons to relocate to this exciting community.
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chapter 1
Thinking of Moving To Montclair, NJ?
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chapter 2
Things To Know About Montclair, NJ
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chapter 3
Moving To Montclair For Work
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chapter 4
The Best Schools in Montclair, NJ
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chapter 5
Neighborhoods in Montclair, NJ
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chapter 6
Must-Try Places When Moving To Montclair, NJ
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chapter 7
Montclair Public Transportation
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chapter 8
Events in Montclair, NJ
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Chapter 1
Thinking of Moving To Montclair, NJ?
Where is Montclair NJ?
Moving to Montclair, NJ is a big decision, but it’s an easy one once you get to know a bit about the area. Established in 1868, Montclair is located in Essex County, New Jersey and sits on the east side of the Watchung Mountains. Montclair is about thirteen miles from Manhattan. It’s a thirty to forty-five minute commute via car, bus, or train. Nearby towns include Glen Ridge, Verona, Bloomfield, Cedar Grove and West Orange. Residents are about thirty minutes from Newark Liberty Intl. Airport. For those who have a property with a view, they can admire the New York City skyline.
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Chapter 2
Things To Know About Montclair, NJ
History and Famous Residents
There are around 40,000 people who call Montclair home. Past and present famous residents include baseball Hall-of-Famer Yogi Berra, astronaut Buzz Aldrin, writers David Carr and Ian Frazier, actresses Olympia Dukakis and Christina Ricci, cosmetics guru Bobbi Brown, TV personality Stephen Colbert, and dancer Savion Glover.
Montclair has a rich history, and the town boasts six historic districts with many preserved historical buildings among a variety of architecturally significant homes.
Living in Montclair, NJ offers a number of year-round cultural activities to partake in and learn about through a vibrant History Center among other organizations and events. Prior to settlers coming to the area, the Lenape indigenous lived in the area. In the 1700s, John Speer built a home near the border of the town that is still there today. Other settlers began to develop farms in the area, which is now called Speertown. The town grew quickly and experienced momentous economic development during the completion of the Morris Canal in 1831.
In 1856, the construction of the railroad fueled a demand for new housing for commuters. The separate township of Montclair was declared in 1868, and Montclair continued to grow.
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Yogi Berra
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Buzz Aldrin
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David Carr
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Christina Ricci
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Chapter 3
Moving To Montclair For Work
Business & Jobs in Montclair
Those who choose Montclair as their home have ample job opportunities at their disposal. With access to the thriving Montclair economy, and the commute to New York City short, there are endless choices when it comes to career options, whether in areas of finance, the arts, education or entrepreneurial.
The top employers with residents in Montclair, NJ, include Google, New York University, Apple, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, American Express, Montclair State University, Johnson & Johnson, Goldman Sachs, Reuters, and NBC Universal.
Six train stations take you directly into NYC, which is only about thirty to forty-five minutes away.
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Chapter 4
The Best Schools in Montclair, NJ
Montclair Schools Overview
Montclair students have access to some of the best schools in the area and Montclair has an award-winning magnet public school system. From kindergarten to post-secondary, parents can feel confident that their children’s education won’t be limited by the town’s size nor a limited curriculum. Montclair’s educational resources are top-rated and have an impressive reputation. With a focus on environmental studies, global studies, arts, university studies, and science and technology, parents can request which theme that best fits their children’s interests. Beyond the public schools, there are many private schools to choose from. With so many preferred educational options, purchasing a home in Montclair is a great choice.
Montclair, NJ Schools
Charles H. Bullock Primary School
Edgemont Elementary School
Hillside Elementary School
Nishuane Elementary School
Watchung Elementary School
Glenfield Middle School
Renaissance Middle School
Montclair High School
Northeast Elementary School
Bradford Elementary School
Buzz Aldrin Middle School
Montclair Private Schools
The Montclair Kimberley Academy
Lacordaire Academy
St. Cassian School
Montclair Cooperative School
For students who want to move on to post-secondary after their high school career, Montclair State University is located just north of Upper Montclair. It’s the perfect opportunity for students who want to continue living at home, or for anyone interested in relocating to Montclair. With programs from accounting to speech therapy to visual arts, whatever career you want to prepare for, Montclair State University can help get you there.
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Chapter 5
Neighborhoods in Montclair, NJ
Where to Live In Montclair, NJ
When you’re looking for a neighborhood that is a perfect fit for your lifestyle in Montclair, NJ, you will find a lot of options. There are many excellent Montclair neighborhoods to choose from. Within Montclair’s small boundaries, there are six historic districts, six business districts, walkable neighborhoods close to train and express bus, properties close to downtown or uptown, and so much more. Whether you’re looking for an estate home, townhome, single-family home, multi-family home, or condo, you can find it in your perfect Montclair neighborhood. The Montclair real estate market has a lot to offer.
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Upper Montclair
Upper Montclair village has restaurants, shopping, direct train station and bus. At its most northern tip is Montclair State University. Residents who work in New York or travel within the state, either by transit or by car, Upper Montclair is a convenient neighborhood to live in. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the nature reserves and parks in the immediate area. Yantacaw Brook Park, Anderson Park, Mountainside Park, Mills Reservation, Bonsal Nature Reserve, the Presby Memorial Iris Gardens, and Brookdale Park are all in Upper Montclair.
Montclair Center and Church Street
Named a “Great Place in New Jersey” by the American Planning Association-New Jersey Chapter, Church Street is located in Montclair’s town center. It has a warm and welcoming atmosphere while being exciting and vibrant. The streets are bustling with events, gatherings, and local music. Take a leisurely walk up and down the streets, check out the lovely boutiques, or grab a coffee at a local cafe. It’s all walkable, and if you live and work in Montclair Center, you likely don’t need a vehicle. The neighborhood is full of beautiful architecture to admire and is a popular place for friends and family to meet at any of the great restaurants in Montclair or visit the Wellmont or other venues for music or art.
Estate Section
The Estate Section is a quiet, friendly neighborhood filled with luxury homes. Some of the properties contain their own tennis courts, ice skating rinks and pools with water features. There are a number of homes with unobstructed skyline views of NYC. It’s a great neighborhood for a bike ride, walking or relaxing. With access to both outdoor activities and trendy downtown Montclair restaurants, businesses and services nearby, the Estate Section is convenient and desirable.
Frog Hollow
Located between Montclair High School and Bloomfield Ave, this neighborhood has been referred to as a “charming historic nabe.” Frog Hollow is rich with history with lovely neighbors who are tight-knit and trusting. The area is centrally located in Montclair and convenient to everything.
Erwin Park
Erwin Park is a Historic District and neighborhood of 50 homes built between 1897 and 1927. There are a wide variety of architectural styles – Colonial Revival, Craftsman Bungalow, American Foursquare – set on large properties on winding streets. Within walking distance to the Watchung Plaza train station, it was designed to attract prosperous homeowners during that time, and all of the homes in Erwin Park today, are luxury properties.
Working with a Montclair, NJ area specialist is one of the best decisions you can make when you’re looking for your new home. If you’re looking for a new Montclair home, although there is no preferred time of year to purchase, consider buying in the winter, or learning in advance what the Spring and Summer market will offer.
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Watchung Plaza
Watchung Plaza is one of Montclair’s business districts which also has a designated historic district. It has a train station, an independent bookstore, post office, hardware store, tea store and cafes, and is a stone’s throw from residential neighborhoods making the area very pedestrian friendly. Montclair High School, Watchung Elementary School, as well as Renaissance Middle School are all near the Watchung Plaza neighborhood.
South End
Another one of Montclair’s six business districts is located in the South End of Montclair, along Orange Road. The surrounding neighborhood is diverse and the types of homes vary, from single family homes which were built in the early 1900s, to new construction. Nishuane Park offers public tennis courts, a community pool, and playing fields. Every year this is where the Montclair Jazz Festival is held, among other events.
PaNaMa
The combination of Patton, Nassau, and Macopin Streets make up the name PaNaMa. This residential area is made up of smaller colonial homes and bungalows. It is located in the northern part of the town, in Upper Montclair. There are many gatherings in the nearby parks for neighbors to socialize, and have pizza and block parties.
Marlboro Park
One of the six historic districts in the town, Marlboro Park is home to Watchung Avenue, Grove Street, Christopher Court, Waterbury Road, Fairfield Street, the north ends of Montclair Avenue, and Christopher Street. Originally developed between 1898 and 1925, the district was always a convenient neighborhood for people to relocate, as it is nearby to Watchung Plaza train and shopping.
Yantacaw
The Yantacaw neighborhood is home to split-level homes, mid-century ranches built primarily in the 50s, as well as recently built custom and modern homes. Yantacaw Brook Park is home to 11.5 acres of land with a stream and a small bridge. Nearby is Brookdale Park with over 121 acres of playing fields, tennis, rose gardens, archery field, dog park, play grounds and running track.
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Chapter 6
Must-Try Places When Moving To Montclair, NJ
Nightlife & Popular Restaurants in Montclair, NJ
Montclair is home to many amazing restaurants owned by local entrepreneurs and chefs. Residents do not have a shortage of exciting food to choose from, whether it’s farm-to-table, international or good old comfort food.
Here’s a sampling:
Chopped star Chef Menny Vaknin offers several restaurants in Montclair.
Upper Montclair village has restaurants, shopping, direct train station and bus. At its most northern tip is Montclair State University. Residents who work in New York or travel within the state, either by transit or by car.
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Faubourg
Faubourg is a modern French brasserie in the heart of Montclair. They offer French-inspired dishes paired with unique wines, craft cocktails, craft beer, and attentive service in an elegant bi-level, indoor-outdoor space. It’s a perfect spot for cocktails and apps, plus dinner. Reservations a must.
SLA
SLA serves authentic northern Thai dishes in an airy contemporary space uptown, with outdoor seating available. They also offer a vegetarian and a special chef menu. Takeout, delivery, and dine-in are all available.
Laboratorio Kitchen
If you’re looking for homemade meals made with love, you’re in the right place. Inspired by his grandmother’s cooking, Chef James De Sito has created a fantastic spot for locals to enjoy seafood, steak, homemade pasta, and so much more. There are small plate options available during the week for those who can’t choose what to order and want to taste a little bit of everything. Takeout, delivery, and dine-in are all available.
Vesta Chocolate
This family-owned chocolate factory and cafe is what dreams are made of. The owners are Roger and Julia, who are a husband and wife team that makes baked goods, bonbons, spreads, bars, and more. The artisanal chocolate house is a truly unique spot to visit. They use French techniques to create an authentic Latin American chocolate experience. Snack on cacao salted brownies, sea salt chocolate chip cookies, ginger granola, chocolate spreads, truffles, bonbons, brownies, vegan chocolate bars, and so much more. They even sell The “Caffe Cacao Night-Time Scrub,” which you can work into your skincare routine.
Raymond’s
Raymond’s on Church Street offers inside and outside dining, is BYOB, and is very popular for kid-friendly dining and brunch. You’ll likely find a long line of people who are willing to wait each weekend for a great meal. Feast on the breakfast burritos, french toast, pancakes, or huevos rancheros. With fresh ingredients that are sourced from the surrounding areas, there’s something for everyone. Beyond brunch, there are excellent sandwiches, burgers, fish, steak, salads, and more. Takeout, delivery, and dine-in are all available.
Applegate Farm
Since 1848, Applegate Farm has been a staple in the community, and it’s one of the largest retailers for ice cream on the East Coast. Visiting the farm is an experience in itself. The original farmhouse is still available to tour, which has seen the freeing of slaves during Civil War times, and the original silo is still standing. Residents and people in the surrounding area know that Applegate Farm is home to some of the best and freshest ice cream around. There are so many flavors to choose from, and you can get it as soft-serve, ice cream sandwiches, sundaes, shakes, Italian ice, and a wide variety of toppings.
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De Novo
De Novo is styled after the family-oriented casual pubs in Europe with menus created by beloved Montclair restaurateur Demetri Malki. This festive spot located in the heart of Upper Montclair in the large renovated train station, offers food such as charcuterie, pasta dishes and elevated American entrees with indoor and outdoor seating.
Montclair Culinary Academy
The Montclair Culinary Academy offers a cooking or special dining experience for individuals, small groups and private parties. You can choose from any of the classes, or book a private event for a special occasion. MCA also offers Chef Nights where the Chef cooks in front of you and serves a four course farm-to-table evening in their gorgeous modern dining room, housed in a turn of the century Victorian in Upper Montclair. Reservations a must. Highly rated 5 star!
Cocina Candela
This Puerto Rican restaurant is a local favorite, and it’s the home of delicious traditional dishes and homemade salsa. It’s a truly authentic experience with the decor and artwork inside. Some of the best dishes include the buttermilk pancakes, jibarito plantain sandwich, and the Puerto Rican benedict, although everything is delectable. Portions are generous, and there’s something for everyone. Takeout, delivery, and dine-in are all available.
The Corner
The Corner is a trendy cafe and juice bar. The retro aesthetic features art deco wall art, neon signage reading “Good Vibes Only,” leather booths, and more. The charm is half of the experience, while the menu well makes up for the other half. Grab baguettes, biscuits, scones, and croissants. There are also crispy chicken, burgers, and street corn, among a full dinner menu. Takeout, delivery, and dine-in are all available.
Tostchu
If you’re looking for a great sandwich, Tostchu is the place to go. This spot specializes in meats like German sausage and pastrami, and the menu is filled with delicious melted sandwiches and fresh juices. The bread is made in-house, the meat is fresh, and the portions are enormous. There are so many popular menu options and something for everyone. Takeout, delivery, and dine-in are all available.
Tacoria
For authentic Mexican cuisine, Tacoria is a popular staple in Montclair. The menu is extensive, including eight different tacos, burritos, ten quesadillas, nachos, salads, burrito boxes, and veggie options. Takeout, delivery, and dine-in are all available.
Many popular spots give Montclair an exciting nightlife for those who want to have a night out on the town. Whether you want to spend your Sunday watching football, or you want to go dancing with your friends, there’s a spot in Montclair.
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Chapter 7
Montclair Public Transportation
Getting Around Montclair
While many small towns may not have a sophisticated transit system, Montclair is an exception. Living in Montclair is ideal for those who drive, take public transit, or walk to get around. The Montclair Public Transit system is highly developed and convenient for those who need to get to NYC. There are six train stations in the town, and it takes about thirty to fourty five minutes to get to Penn Station. There is also express bus service and park and ride locations just outside of town go to Port Authority in NYC.
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New Jersey Transit’s Montclair-Boonton Line has many stops throughout Montclair. From south to north, the stops are as follows:
Bay Street
Walnut Street
Watchung Ave
Upper Montclair
Mountain Avenue
Montclair Heights
Montclair State UniversityDepending on the schedule, this train ride can take anywhere from 35 to 50 minutes.
See NJ Transit’s train schedule.
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Chapter 8
Events in Montclair, NJ
Fun Things To Do In Montclair
Montclair may be small, but there are a large number of exciting activities always going on. Things to do in Montclair, NJ are plentiful, and no matter what you like to do, you can find something to do here.
For those who love to get out of the house and into nature, there are twenty public parks to enjoy and two nature preserves inside the town. Due to being located on the edge of the Watchung Mountains, Montclair is filled with ponds, streams, and woodlands, so there are many areas to explore.
Residents have access to 18 tennis courts, three public swimming pools, three indoor skating rinks, and skating on one outdoor pond when it freezes over! The Essex County Equestrian Center, two golf courses with country clubs, and Montclair's uptown and downtown area are filled with luxury stores, excelling dining options, local retailers, and other shops are all at the residents' finger tips.
Montclair has a rich history and thriving arts community, and if you’re interested in those things, there are several places to visit. The Montclair Art Museum, several art galleries, small spaces, Montclair State University’s Kasser Theater, The Montclair Operetta Company, the Wellmont Theatre, The Studio Playhouse, and Montclair State University’s theater in Life Hall are a few places to get your art fill.
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The Montclair Art Museum is home to Indigenous artwork, American artwork and has over 15,000 pieces in total to admire, along with revolving special exhibitions and the Yard School of Art. The Montclair Orchestra performs at the Wellmont Theatre and is a group of professional musicians, semi-professional musicians, and students from acclaimed academies. There is an art-house movie theatre where a variety of indie films are shown and the Montclair Film Festival.
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The Montclair Art Museum is home to Indigenous artwork, American artwork and has over 15,000 pieces in total to admire, along with revolving special exhibitions and the Yard School of Art. The Montclair Orchestra performs at the Wellmont Theatre and is a group of professional musicians, semi-professional musicians, and students from acclaimed academies. There is an art-house movie theatre where a variety of indie films are shown and the Montclair Film Festival.
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The Montclair Film Festival was established in 2012, and thousands of residents gather to appreciate and admire the work of filmmakers from all over the world. Many people come to Montclair for the festival each year. Film lovers flock from all over to attend the annual festival. Programming extends year-round in their permanent screening space, in addition to outdoor screenings and panels of filmmakers and actors.
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The Montclair Film Festival was established in 2012, and thousands of residents gather to appreciate and admire the work of filmmakers from all over the world. Many people come to Montclair for the festival each year. Film lovers flock from all over to attend the annual festival. Programming extends year round in their permanent screening space, in addition to outdoor screenings and panels of filmmakers and actors.
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In popular TV and film, Montclair has been featured in some ultra-popular shows. In HBO’s The Sopranos, filming took place in several stores along Bloomfield Avenue. NBC’s Ed, Analyze This, and The Devil’s Own was filmed at Montclair High School.
If you are looking to play organized sports to stay active and have fun, Montclair offers leagues for everything from soccer and volleyball to dodgeball and basketball. A popular site many Montclair residents use to find a sports league that fits their interests is Zogsports. To find more information on the leagues that are available in Montclair, visit their website. Website..
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In popular TV and film, Montclair has been featured in some ultra-popular shows. In HBO’s The Sopranos, filming took place in several stores along Bloomfield Avenue. NBC’s Ed, Analyze This, and The Devil’s Own was filmed at Montclair High School.
If you are looking to play organized sports to stay active and have fun, Montclair offers leagues for everything from soccer and volleyball to dodgeball and basketball. A popular site many Montclair residents use to find a sports league that fits their interests is Zogsports. To find more information on the leagues that are available in Montclair, visit their website.
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The Presby Memorial Iris Gardens attracts thousands of viewers each year as the largest iris flower garden that is non-commercial. Created in 1927 as a tribute to Frank Presby, the garden is a local favorite to explore and admire. In the nearby area, residents can also enjoy the Van Vleck House and Gardens, Yogi Berra Museum and Learning Center, Howard Van Vleck Arboretum, and the Crane House and Museum.
Whatever your passion, living in Montclair offers an endless variety of things to do!
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The Presby Memorial Iris Gardens attracts thousands of viewers each year as the largest iris flower garden that is non-commercial. Created in 1927 as a tribute to Frank Presby, the garden is a local favorite to explore and admire. In the nearby area, residents can also enjoy the Van Vleck House and Gardens, Yogi Berra Museum and Learning Center, Howard Van Vleck Arboretum, and the Crane House and Museum.
Whatever your passion, living in Montclair offers an endless variety of things to do!
