Apartments in Essex, Hudson, Union or Morris Counties (Newark, Montclair: apartment complex, rentals)

[GossipMag]

Hi everyone - My spouse and I are interested in relocating to an apartment in Northern NJ - specifically in the counties mentioned in the title. Essex or Morris counties are our preferred locations. Commute to NYC preferably not longer than 1 hour on the train or bus. Just looking for a nice, safe, and possibly modern apartment - a little skeptical about 2 or 3 family homes, so we prefer an apartment complex, townhouses or tiny single family homes. Is it just me or does it seem like a lot of luxury highrises that are affordable in Northern NJ are in questionable areas?! I'd greatly appreciate any suggestions.

Where are you coming from? Newark, NJ (Eleven80), but very unfamiliar with NJ - used to live in NYC
Why are you moving? Do not want to live in Newark
Where will you be working ? If NYC, what part of NYC? Spouse works in Morris Plains, I work in Midtown East NYC

Will you buy or rent? Rent
What is your budget ? $1900 max, preferably lower
What kind of place are you looking for ? One-two bedroom apartment with at least 750 sq. ft. of space

Will anyone (spouse, children, pets) be moving with you ? Spouse
Do you need/want good public schools? No

Briefly describe the kind of neighborhood you'd like to live in: Safe, near restaurants and/or parks, walkable

List three things that are important to you in order of importance: Walking distance to train/express bus to NYC, convenient parking, updated interior (no old carpets, W/D in unit, modern appliances if possible)

[nybbler]

I'd say look first at the train towns on the Morris & Essex line between South Orange and Summit (inclusive), and also Montclair. All are safe and have restaurants and parks (some more than others). Anything further out and train service to NYC becomes less frequent and longer, and Bergen County makes the commute to Morris Plains bad. The southern part of Union doesn't have direct train service and is also further from Morris Plains. I don't have advice about specific rentals though.