Top Neighborhoods and Towns to Call Home in Union County

Because the region is so beautifully varied, homebuyers have the incredible opportunity to find a town that perfectly aligns with their personal vision of home. Here is a deep dive into some of the most sought-after communities capturing the attention of today's homebuyers.

Summit: The Commuter's Gold Standard

The city of Summit is universally celebrated as the gold standard for Union County living. Situated near the peak of the Watchung Mountains, Summit features an incredibly fast 39- to 40-minute direct express commute into New York Penn Station. The town is famous for its vibrant food and arts scene, highly walkable downtown, and access to elite shopping at The Mall at Short Hills. With a top-ranked school district and stunning luxury homes, it is the ultimate destination for established professionals and families seeking premium suburban living.

Westfield: Classic Suburban Perfection

For homebuyers seeking traditional suburban perfection, Westfield is a spectacular choice. The town is highly sought-after for its beautiful tree-lined streets, strong sense of community, and top-ranked school system. Westfield boasts an incredibly dynamic downtown area featuring over 200 retail locations and 40 restaurants, providing a rich, vibrant local culture. With beautiful green spaces like Mindowaskin Park and Lenape Park, Westfield offers a classic, deeply fulfilling lifestyle for growing families.

Cranford: The Venice of New Jersey

Cranford Township, affectionately known as the Venice of New Jersey due to the beautiful Rahway River running through its center, offers a highly picturesque living experience. Cranford is officially designated as an NJ Transit Village, meaning it is recognized as one of the best walkable, transit-centered communities in the state. The town delivers fantastic value, a highly engaging downtown area, and beautiful historic architecture, making it an incredibly smart choice for budget-conscious commuters and first-time buyers.

Rahway: Revitalized Energy and Convenience

Rahway is a dynamic city of about 30,000 residents that offers incredible value and seamless connectivity. The city has undergone a major downtown revitalization, transforming into a vibrant hub of arts, culture, and local entertainment. Because Rahway is situated on the Northeast Corridor line, residents enjoy a direct, transfer-free commute into Penn Station. It is the perfect fit for buyers who want an up-and-coming community, urban energy, and highly accessible home prices.

Scotch Plains: Space, Value, and History

Scotch Plains Township offers a wonderful blend of spacious suburban living, natural beauty, and rich local history. Originating as a farming community, the township provides excellent recreational facilities and maintains high-quality municipal services. Residents enjoy fantastic access to the Watchung Reservation and historic landmarks like the Stage House Tavern, which has been operating since the American Revolutionary War. With a diverse range of homes, Scotch Plains is a highly desirable community for active families.