Where do I buy: Union, Kenilworth or Springfield? (Westfield, Cranford: renters, crime)

[skunj]

My wife and I want to buy a home in a great neighborhood, on a quiet street. I want to be within 10 minute driving distance of Union, NJ.
Our top priority is a really safe, family-oriented neighborhood.

What are the differences between Union, Springfield and Kenilworth, or any other town that fit the above criteria?

Any advice on where to find gourmet supermarkets (a la Wegmans) in the area?

We are also looking for information on types of general shopping available in each town because we were in the walmart on rt 22 in union once and were a little scared for our safety. What are good shopping centers/options?

[Lusitan]

Originally Posted by skunj

we were in the walmart on rt 22 in union once and were a little scared for our safety.

LOL - is that a joke? The most dangerous part of your trip to Walmart on rt 22 was driving on rt 22.

I believe Union has a Wholefoods supermarket.

Springfield is a nice town.

[captne76]

Union itself seems a little crowded for my taste but it has some nice sections still. Kenilworth or Cranford is very close by as is Springfield and Summit.

[brookdaleresident]

I wouldn't buy in Union. Of the 3 towns, I like Kenilworth.

[bababua]

Not to knock Kenilworth but I have looked into a few towns in Union County include Cranford,Kenilworth and Springfield. My conclusion is I would tend to stay away from Kenilworth. Though it is by no means a bad town, it just seems as if it has too many renters for my liking. I would also stay away from Union as I have heard horror stories about the High School. So if you have kids and plan on sending them to Public schools Union is not a good choice.

[ansky]

Union looks bad in my opinion. I drove from the Lowes on Route 82 up to Springfield and most of the buildings in that district looked abandoned or run down. I know a cop in Union and he says nothing ever happens there, so I don't think you would have to worry about crime if you decide to live there.

[midagegirl]

Clark is nice too.

[moogyboy]

Originally Posted by Lusitan

LOL - is that a joke? The most dangerous part of your trip to Walmart on rt 22 was driving on rt 22.

I believe Union has a Wholefoods supermarket.

Yes, on Springfield Ave. I work there. :-)

[njerzygrl]

Originally Posted by skunj

My wife and I want to buy a home in a great neighborhood, on a quiet street. I want to be within 10 minute driving distance of Union, NJ.
Our top priority is a really safe, family-oriented neighborhood.

What are the differences between Union, Springfield and Kenilworth, or any other town that fit the above criteria?

Any advice on where to find gourmet supermarkets (a la Wegmans) in the area?

We are also looking for information on types of general shopping available in each town because we were in the walmart on rt 22 in union once and were a little scared for our safety. What are good shopping centers/options?

I would stay away from Union...the area is going downhill.

Clark, Cranford, Westfield and Garwood are great little towns in Union County...if you can afford the pricetag and high property taxes. Not sure what your price range is???