Commuter town for Rutherford, NJ (Montclair, Nutley: homes, good schools, taxes)

[CommuterMan]

Looking at a job oppotunity in Rutherford, NJ. This job would require me to move from the Phila area.

I have two children (3 and 1).

I am looking for a commuter town with good schools and decent homes (3 beds, 1.5 baths < $350,000).

Home could be in NJ or NY state so long as the commute is < 1hr each way.

Would be even better if my citeria could be met for a NYC job as well.

Thanks,
CM

[CommuterMan]

After looking around Montclair looks like it might fill the bill?

-CM

[brook2ga]

I don't think you'll find much in the way of housing in Montclair for under $350; at least nothing you'll want to live in. I'm sure someone will suggest a town in your range. good luck!

[IntheBurbs]

Rutherford is great - blue ribbon schools for the kids in a few years, ideal location for your new job - but you will have difficulty finding something under the $350K range. Maybe consider Lyndhurst. It's only one town over so your commute would be only a few minutes. You should be able to come up with a few options in your price range. Good town overall, there has been some recent development in the area - newer shops. The downtown area (Ridge Road) and Riverside County Park in town are great. It could be a great option for you. Good luck!

[lizzytish]

Avoid Essex County....the taxes are high.

[Alex07860]

Rutherford is your best choice, Taxes are high everywhere not just Essex, their schools are above average and you have access to both train & buses, their downtown is "cute" w/ some restaurants and shops but the big question is what can you get for 350k and the answer is not much, I mean is possible, but it won't be a huge place w/ a big yard, you may also try wood ridge or even Nutley. Montclair would be ideal but as someone else noted, for 350k that would be impossible.