Safe, pedestrian friendly towns... (Newark, Jersey City: school, places to live, price)

[Alexithematic]

I'm moving to NJ from Toronto next January to start grad school (in Newark). Any suggestions on good places to live for someone who doesn't drive and wants to live somewhere reasonably affordable (say under $700 for something shared or $900 or so for something self-contained)? Hoboken's been suggested if I can find anything there... Anywhere to avoid?

[EANJ]

Originally Posted by Alexithematic

I'm moving to NJ from Toronto next January to start grad school (in Newark). Any suggestions on good places to live for someone who doesn't drive and wants to live somewhere reasonably affordable (say under $700 for something shared or $900 or so for something self-contained)? Hoboken's been suggested if I can find anything there... Anywhere to avoid?

Interesting question. I don't know if you can get into Hoboken at that price point . . . under $1400 for a 2BR (you and a roomate), or $900 (self-contained?). There are several towns around that can work for non-drivers -- Jersey City, maybe parts of Bayonne, West New York, North Bergen, maybe Union City. Some people consider Fort Lee non-driver friendly. I've had friends move from NYC to Fairview, Cliffside Park and Fort Lee -- all without cars. They take buses, cabs, jitneys, etc.

I think Newark itself might fit the build, but I am not sure where you would end up in that price range. I am sure there are others and you'll get some good info here. Good luck. By the way -- being that you'll be in Newark . . . you might want to take a look at the NJ Devils the next time the Leafs come to town.

[veuvegirl]

Check out Maplewood/SO, great towns, and a short train ride from Newark.

[jerseypro]

There are parts of West Orange, Montclair and Bloomfield that may work for you. (btw, I went to grad school in Newark too, but I had a car)