Best Family towns in Middlesex County (Edison, Union: best towns, renting, credit)

[Isabella]

I've been renting in Woodbridge for 3 years now. I am finally ready to buy a house and wouldn't mind staying in Woodbridge but if anyone has any suggestions about other neighborhoods, I would greatly appreciate it.

I know that there are better areas in NJ (I started the Best towns in NJ thread) but the reason why I am looking in Middlesex is because of taxes and the cost of homes. Bergen County has great neighborhoods but the taxes are ridiculous.

I'm looking in the range of $350,000 to $400,000. In that range, I'm not going to find a house in good shape in counties like, Bergen, Union or Essex County. I have two kids so school district is important and I also commute to NYC.

Besides Woodbridge, I am also going to look in Colonia and Fords. I know Spotswood and East Brunswick are supposed to be nice towns but I'm concerned about my commute to NYC.

[Lusitan]

Metuchen (you won't get as nice of a house for the money as you would in Woodbridge, though).

What about South Amboy?

[skapur]

for schools
west windsor, plainsboro, princeton, north edison

[DodgeViper01]

You have lots of choices in Middlesex County but best towns and schools in the county are East Brunswick and South Brunswick. Closely behind are Edison and North Brunswick. Personally I would highly recommend East or South Brunswick. They are great towns with a lot to offer. Personally between the two you have to choose what you want. If you are looking for more central location go with East Brunswick. If you are looking more south and more open land then South Brunswick will work.

Good luck with your search!

[DodgeViper01]

Originally Posted by Lusitan

Metuchen (you won't get as nice of a house for the money as you would in Woodbridge, though).

What about South Amboy?

I would highly advise against South Amboy. The schools are lacking plus South Amboy is VERY blue collar except for the waterfront district but that is too expensive in this case.

[NORMGLO]

If you can accept a commute to NYC (depending on lower or midtown) of 45 min to 1 hour train ride then you should consider South Brunswick. The schools come highly recommended, you will have a nice suburban environment for your children, and in this housing market you should be able to find some good bargains to fit your house-hunting budget.

Don't forget the $8000 tax credit (that now may be used toward closing costs) if you are a First Time Homebuyer.

[bdpop]

Originally Posted by NORMGLO

If you can accept a commute to NYC (depending on lower or midtown) of 45 min to 1 hour train ride then you should consider South Brunswick. The schools come highly recommended, you will have a nice suburban environment for your children, and in this housing market you should be able to find some good bargains to fit your house-hunting budget.

Don't forget the $8000 tax credit (that now may be used toward closing costs) if you are a First Time Homebuyer.

I second this. I lived in the Dayton section of South Brunswick. The area is very laid back and the schools are excellent.

[Isabella]

I love this website. Your responses are excellant. I had no idea about South Brunswick. Thanks!!! You guys are the best!!!

[DodgeViper01]

Glad we could help. I would recommend taking a weekend and driving around the various towns and seeing which one or ones catch your interest. Good luck!!

[skapur]

Originally Posted by NORMGLO

If you can accept a commute to NYC (depending on lower or midtown) of 45 min to 1 hour train ride then you should consider South Brunswick. The schools come highly recommended, you will have a nice suburban environment for your children, and in this housing market you should be able to find some good bargains to fit your house-hunting budget.

Don't forget the $8000 tax credit (that now may be used toward closing costs) if you are a First Time Homebuyer.

south brunswick is a good choice for schools. Most of the folks living in SB take bus though.