Church Street in downtown Montclair NJ on a late summer evening with warm golden-hour light, the historic Bellevue Theatre facade with its vintage marquee, outdoor restaurant tables with patrons, boutique storefronts, and string lights beginning to glow overhead

Montclair, New Jersey

The cultural hub of Essex County. Urban-style dining, a thriving arts scene, six train stations, nationally recognized magnet schools, and historic estates wrapped in tree-lined streets.

Median Sale Price $900K+ (Rec. $1.6M)

Manhattan Commute ~35-45 Mins

Transit Style 6 Train Stations + Bus

School System Magnet District

Key Takeaways

Cultural hub of Essex County – walkable downtown, magnet schools, six train stations, and a dining scene rivaling Manhattan.

Best transit in the county – six NJ Transit stations on the Montclair-Boonton Line, 35–45 min to Penn Station. 84% of residents support expanded weekend service. The Essex-Hudson Greenway broke ground July 2025.

Premium pricing – Single-family homes in good condition start at $900K+. A new record median of $1.66M was set in April 2026, building on the 2025 average of $1.42M. Redfin reports a May 2026 citywide median of $1,376,676, up 14.7% YoY. Montclair was named #2 Hottest ZIP Code in America by Realtor.com (released Aug 10, 2026) — homes spent just 18 days on market and drew 3.3x the national average views per listing. The Zillow Home Value Index stands at $1,179,806 (May 2026, up 8.1% YoY). Homes sell at a 121–123% sale-to-list ratio – individual sales routinely 18–31% over asking, with some 54%+ over list. Average days on market: 14–22 days (Realtor.com shows 18, Houzeo 14, Zillow shows pending in ~11 days). List price is a strategy, not a ceiling. Budget well above list price.

Ideal for – culture-seekers, families drawn to magnet schools, and NYC relocators wanting a seamless suburban transition. Check out the Montclair selling guide if you're thinking of selling, or get a home value estimate.

Explore the Full Montclair Guide

The Complete Guide to Montclair, NJ

Tree-lined street in Upper Montclair NJ with grand Victorian and Tudor revival homes, manicured lawns, mature shade trees, and warm golden-hour summer light

The perfect blend of a sophisticated Manhattan neighborhood and a lush garden suburb. Montclair is known for its progressive, civic-minded community, architectural splendor, and brilliant culinary outlets – with 30+ new businesses opening in 2025 alone and even more arriving in 2026: The Saint Clair (Top Chef alum Chef Leia Gaccione's new American restaurant on Church Street), Italiana by Zod (acclaimed chef Zod Arifai's Italian return on Bloomfield Avenue), Campofiore (farm-to-table Italian from the Amalfi Coast, opened spring 2026), Sardela (Greek-island-inspired, Bloomfield Ave, opened 2026), Hummus Republic (Mediterranean bowls, opened 2026), Toastique (Church Street, opened June 2026), Ju-Ichi Japanese Restaurant (512 Bloomfield Ave, opened June 2026), Clementina (modern Italian handmade pasta from Le Marche, 627 Valley Road, Upper Montclair – opened mid-July 2026 in a transformed hardware store), Farm House Fried Chicken (223 Bellevue Ave, Upper Montclair, summer 2026), Pig & Butter (NYC brunch concept, 401 Orange Road, opened August 7, 2026), Coast Café Montclair (Argentinian-style, 354 Bloomfield Ave, opened 2026), Silantro Lime Tacos (103 Forest St, opened March 24), Terra Modern Cuisine (modern Peruvian fusion, 300 Bloomfield Ave, opened 2026), Brick + Dough Slice Window (thin-crust pizza, 110 Walnut St, opened April 8, 2026), Blu Livingston (seafood and steak), plus Insomnia Cookies (332 Bloomfield Ave, opened April 2026), 3rd Joint (slice shop, 98 Walnut St, opened April 2026), Free People (retail, Bloomfield Ave, opened July 10, 2026), Middle Child Kids Consignment (42 Fairfield St, opened May 2026), Sparkle Grooming Co. (dog grooming, 15 Watchung Ave, July 2026), Maker Pizza (Detroit-style), O'Bagel, Oggi Gelato (40 Church St), Paper Lantern (Sichuan fusion), Sam's Table (vegetable-forward), Qahwah House (Yemeni coffee, Bloomfield Ave), Minoru (Japanese, 608 Valley Road), Tous les Jours (French-Asian bakery, 520 Bloomfield Ave), Bleu Coffee (8 Erie Street), and Pura Vida Miami (organic café, opened 2026). MM by Morimoto (world-class Japanese from Chef Masaharu Morimoto, opened July 2025) added a major dining destination. The Lackawanna Plaza redevelopment – now rebranded as Lackawanna Station – is thriving with 23+ local small businesses, including Yellow Rose Vegan Bakery & Cafe (opened July 2026), and a $326.7M long-term plan including 300 apartments and a new supermarket. The Watchung Plaza renovation entered its final phase with accessibility upgrades and modern improvements. The Essex-Hudson Greenway broke ground in July 2025. The market is intense: a new record median of $1.66M was set in April 2026, with homes selling 18–31% above asking on average.

For NYC relocators, it's a seamless transition – swap a cramped apartment for a beautiful Victorian, Tudor, or colonial while walking to indie bookstores, theaters, and a Saturday farmers market. Just know: the market is extremely competitive (2025 average sale price $1.42M, with homes selling in as few as 10 days), so come prepared and pre-approved.

Montclair's Neighborhoods

Downtown / Bloomfield Ave

The cultural and commercial heart. Independent restaurants, boutiques, galleries, and cafes. Wellmont Theater, Montclair Art Museum, genuine small-city energy. Stations: Bay Street & Walnut Street.

Watchung Plaza

A charming village node with boutiques, bakeries, and restaurants around the train station. Colonials, Tudors, and multi-family homes. Walkable, social, neighborhood-village feel.

Upper Montclair / Bellevue Ave

The estate district. Grand Victorians, sprawling colonials, stately Tudors on wide, tree-canopied streets. Upscale retail on Bellevue Avenue. Premium pricing for premium real estate.

South End

A favorite with young families and NYC transplants. Tree-lined streets, well-maintained colonials and craftsman homes. Strong neighborhood association. Where Montclair's community feel is strongest.

Frog Hollow & Walnut Street

Historic, slightly more affordable pocket with charming smaller homes. Walnut Street has restaurants, the famous Saturday Farmers Market, and craft breweries. Direct NYC train access.

Montclair Heights & Valley Road

Near Montclair State University. One of the more accessible price points – popular with first-time buyers and investors. Valley Road has its own shops and restaurants.

Mountain Avenue & Yantacaw

Quiet, leafy, and suburban. Larger lots, peaceful residential character. Yantacaw Brook Park with pond, stream, and walking paths. Montclair's schools without the downtown bustle.

Lackawanna Plaza in Montclair NJ with the historic train station building repurposed with modern glass storefronts, outdoor plaza seating, string lights, and people enjoying the mixed-use redevelopment on a summer afternoon

Lackawanna Plaza in Montclair NJ with historic train station building repurposed with modern retail storefronts and outdoor seating

Church Street pedestrian plaza in downtown Montclair NJ on a summer evening with red brick storefronts, string lights, café umbrellas,and planted flowers along the car-free street

Lackawanna Station redevelopment in Montclair NJ with the historic train station repurposed as a modern mixed-use hub with outdoor plaza seating, small businesses, and pedestrians enjoying the vibrant community space on a summer evening

What Homes Actually Sell For

Montclair's market operates at a premium level. A new record median of $1.66M was set in April 2026 (per Stanton Realtors), the second consecutive month where the median exceeded the average - indicating broad high-end strength rather than outlier-driven spikes. By June 2026, the median pulled back to approximately $1.49M (Stanton Realtors). The June 2026 market saw an average 27% premium over asking price, while May 2026 hit 34% over asking. The trailing 12-month average premium stands at 21% over asking. The 2025 average sale price reached $1.42M. The Zillow Home Value Index stands at $1,179,806 (May 2026, up 8.1% YoY). Homes sell at a 121-123% sale-to-list ratio, with individual properties selling 25-54% over list. Single-family homes in good condition start at $900K+ and can stretch into the millions for Upper Montclair estates. Average days on market sits at 14-22 days (Zillow shows pending in ~11 days; Realtor.com shows 18 days; Houzeo/Movoto reports 14 days). Homes receive an average of 5-6 offers. Inventory remains low at roughly a 1.6-month supply, firmly favoring sellers. Per Redfin's July-August ZIP reads, the 07042 median sits near ~$1.3M with a ~123.6% sale-to-list ratio and ~17 days on market, while the 07043 Upper Montclair median is ~$1.5M with ~126.9% sale-to-list,and ~14 days. RealtyTrac counts roughly161 active listings in 07042,and 109 in 07043. Budget well above list price.

The Montclair reality: Montclair was named #2 Hottest ZIP Code in America by Realtor.com (released Aug 10, 2026). A new record median of $1.66M was set in April 2026, with a 121-123% sale-to-list ratio. The June 2026 market saw an average 27% premium over asking, while May 2026 hit 34% over asking. The trailing 12-month average premium stands at 21% over asking. Approximately 85% of homes sell above asking price. The luxury segment - homes over $1.5M - has grown significantly, with a $9.5M sale making headlines. Average days on market sits at 15-22 days (Zillow shows pending in ~11 days). Homes receive 5-6 offers on average. Inventory is at roughly a 1.6-month supply, firmly favoring sellers. Prepare for multiple-offer situations, and budget based on the sale price, not the list price. Come pre-approved and ready to move quickly. Compete with confidence, not anxiety.

Data: 2025–2026 Essex County MLS, Redfin, Zillow, Realtor.com, Houzeo, Movoto, Stanton Realtors, Montclair Pod, Montclair Local, Public School Review, Niche & NJ Living Group · Last updated September 10, 2026

Six Train Stations – Best Transit in Essex County

Historic brick Bay Street NJ Transit station in downtown Montclair NJ with a vintage station sign, passengers on the platform, downtown storefronts and tree-lined streets beyond on a warm late-summer evening

Almost every neighborhood sits within walking distance of a direct midtown connection on the Montclair-Boonton Line. Peak-hour trains reach Penn Station in 35–45 minutes. A 2025 community survey of over 2,300 residents found 84% support expanded weekend service, and Montclair's NJ Transit Committee formally requested more frequent weekend trains from Bay Street. A December 2025 transit survey was launched to build the case for additional weekend service. A follow-up survey in May 2026 found 60% of residents want weekend bus service restored and 30% want Grove Street bus service brought back, following DeCamp's 2023 withdrawal from Montclair. NJ Transit made schedule adjustments effective May 31, 2026, and introduced new railcars to modernize its fleet. However, NJ Transit has indicated that expanding Montclair-Boonton weekend service is unlikely due to funding constraints. In early July 2026, the Montclair-Boonton and Morris & Essex lines experienced service disruptions due to storm repairs. ADA accessibility concerns remain – Montclair stations currently lack ADA-compliant platforms. The Township adopted a Complete Streets policy in May 2025 with a new director, and Vision Zero progress includes traffic signal reconstruction at Bellevue Avenue/Park Street and 4-way stops installed at several intersections, targeting zero traffic fatalities by 2028.

Bay Street Downtown workhorse

Walnut Street Farmers Market hub

Watchung Ave Plaza village

Mountain Ave Leafy suburban

Upper Montclair Estate district

Montclair Heights Near MSU

DeCamp and NJ Transit buses also run to Port Authority. See our NJ Transit & Commute Guide for the full breakdown.

Commute & Transit

Everything NYC relocators need to know

To Penn Station ~35–45 min

Drive to Manhattan ~30–35 min Off-peak

Nearest PATH Newark Penn PATH (~15–20 min drive)

NJ Transit Line

Montclair-Boonton Line

Train Stations

Montclair Heights – ~5–10 min walk from MSU area
Upper Montclair – ~5–10 min walk from Bellevue Ave
Watchung Ave – ~5–8 min walk from Watchung Plaza
Mountain Ave – ~8–12 min walk
Bay Street – ~5–10 min walk from downtown
Walnut Street – ~5–8 min walk from Frog Hollow

Bus Routes

NJ Transit Bus 29
NJ Transit Bus 71
DeCamp Bus to Port Authority

Drive to Manhattan

Off-peak hours ~30–35 min

Peak / rush hour ~45–55 min

Station Parking

Station parking varies by stop. Bay Street has a municipal lot (permit required for commuters). Walnut Street has metered street parking. Upper Montclair and Watchung Ave have limited permit lots. Non-permit street parking available near most stations – arrive early during peak hours.

Arts, Dining & Schools

Arts

Montclair Art Museum, Film Festival (October), Wellmont Theater live music, independent bookstores, and art galleries.

Dining

Cafe Giotto, Dutch's, Paper Plane Coffee, MM by Morimoto (world-class Japanese, opened July 2025), The Saint Clair (Top Chef alum on Church St), Italiana by Zod (Bloomfield Ave), Campofiore (farm-to-table Italian, opened spring 2026), Sardela (Greek seafood, Bloomfield Ave, opened 2026), Ju-Ichi Japanese (512 Bloomfield Ave, opened June 2026), Clementina (Adriatic Italian, 627 Valley Rd, Upper Montclair, opened June 5, 2026), Pig & Butter (NYC brunch concept, 401 Orange Rd, opened August 7, 2026), Coast Café Montclair (Argentinian-style, 354 Bloomfield Ave, opened 2026), Farm House Fried Chicken (223 Bellevue Ave, Upper Montclair, summer 2026), Hummus Republic (Mediterranean bowls, Bloomfield Ave), Toastique (Church St, opened June 2026), Silantro Lime Tacos (103 Forest St, opened March 24, 2026), Blu Livingston (seafood and steak), Insomnia Cookies (332 Bloomfield Ave, opened April 2026), 3rd Joint (slice shop, 98 Walnut St, opened April 2026), Free People (retail, Bloomfield Ave, opened July 10, 2026), Middle Child Kids Consignment (42 Fairfield St, opened May 2026), Sparkle Grooming Co. (dog grooming, 15 Watchung Ave, July 2026), O'Bagel, Maker Pizza (Detroit-style), Oggi Gelato (40 Church St), Paper Lantern (Sichuan fusion), Qahwah House (Yemeni coffee), Tous les Jours (French-Asian bakery), and Minoru (Japanese). Saturday Farmers Market at Walnut St station.

Schools

Nationally recognized magnet lottery system, rated A on Niche (3.93/5, #5 in Essex County). Seven thematic elementary schools – families choose based on their child's interests rather than home address. Montclair High School: #102 Best Public High Schools in NJ on Niche, 3.76/5 user rating, ranked #9 Best High School for the Arts in NJ and #17 Best Magnet High School in NJ on Niche 2026. Budget reality: The district faced a $19.6M budget deficit (potentially $25M over cap through 2029–2030). The March 2026 referendum passed Question 1 (a one-time $12.6M tax levy, passing by a 300-vote margin) by 51.4% to 48.6%, but Question 2 (a permanent $7.6M tax increase) failed by just 13 votes. The municipal government approved $6.3M in short-term borrowing to spread the one-time tax increase over multiple years. The 2026–27 budget ($179.4M) proposes cutting 32 teaching positions and ending freshman sports. Renaissance Middle School is being converted to a pre-K school. The magnet system remains intact, but long-term funding is still being addressed. State aid increased 6% for 2026–2027 ($10.47M). Nine Montclair public schools were named among the "Best Elementary and Middle Schools" in New Jersey by U.S. News & World Report's 2026 lists. School transportation cuts approved for 2026–27 raise the distance threshold for busing eligibility. Meanwhile, the district's $188M capital improvement plan has advanced through 2026, funding long-term facilities work even as operational budgets tighten.

Community events: Art Walk, outdoor summer concerts, holiday tree lightings on Church Street, community theater, and active block associations keep the community fabric tight. Summer 2026 highlights include the Montclair Pride Festival (August 1), Montclair Mile Block Party and Race (August 6), and the Montclair Jazz Festival Downtown Jamboree (August 15).

What's New (2025–2026)

Lackawanna Station (formerly Lackawanna Plaza) thriving: Rebranded and reopened in June 2025 with 23+ local small businesses, including Little Bear Poké, Burgers Doughnuts Potatoes (BDP), Boozie's Wine Shoppe, Chef Chen's Sushi, Ironbound Farm Market, and RecRoom (9,000 sq ft co-working space). Yellow Rose Vegan Bakery & Cafe (from Maplewood) is opening a second location here in July 2026. The $326.7M long-term redevelopment includes 300 apartments (20% affordable), a 40,000–65,000 sq ft supermarket, 75,000 sq ft of office space, and a retail incubator hall. The Township Council approved a 30-year PILOT in 2026. The project is planned in six phases over six to eight years. A judge backed the developer in an April 2026 lawsuit.
Record-breaking prices & national recognition: Montclair was named #2 Hottest ZIP Code in America by Realtor.com (released Aug 10, 2026), ranking second only to Peabody, MA. The 07042 ZIP code had a median listing price of $1.05M in the first half of 2026, with homes spending just 18 days on market and drawing 3.3x the national average views per listing. A new record median of $1.66M was set in April 2026. The 2025 average sale price reached $1.42M, with a previous record of $1.6M in May 2025 (shattering the $1.51M record from June 2024). Redfin reports a May 2026 citywide median of $1,376,676, up 14.7% YoY. Homes sell 18–31% above asking on average – some properties have sold $350K–$426K over list price, and 6 of 20 closings in May 2025 sold 50%+ over list. The luxury segment (homes over $1.5M) has grown significantly. The typical buyer in Montclair put down more than $300,000, and the township's household income runs 31% behind what's needed for the median price — a clear signal that home values have outpaced local earnings.
30+ new businesses in 2025, continued growth in 2026: The Saint Clair (Top Chef alum Chef Leia Gaccione's new American restaurant on Church St, opened July 2025), Italiana by Zod (acclaimed chef Zod Arifai's Italian return, Bloomfield Ave, Sept 2025), Campofiore (farm-to-table Italian from the Amalfi Coast, opened April 2026), Sardela (Greek-island-inspired restaurant, Bloomfield Ave, opened May 2026), Ju-Ichi Japanese Restaurant (512 Bloomfield Ave, BYOB, opened June 2026), Clementina (Adriatic-inspired Italian, 627 Valley Rd, Upper Montclair, opened June 2026), Farm House Fried Chicken (223 Bellevue Ave, Upper Montclair, summer 2026), Hummus Republic (Mediterranean bowls, Bloomfield Ave, opened 2026), Toastique (health-focused café, Church St, opened June 2026), Insomnia Cookies (Bloomfield Ave, opened April 2026), 3rd Joint (slice shop, 98 Walnut St, opened April 2026), Free People (retail, Bloomfield Ave, opened July 10, 2026), Middle Child Kids Consignment (42 Fairfield St, opened May 2026), Paper Lantern (Sichuan fusion), Sam's Table (vegetable-forward, Sept 2025), Maker Pizza (Detroit-style), O'Bagel, Tony Boy's Sandwich House (Italian deli, Dec 2025), Oggi Gelato (40 Church St), and Honey Brewed Cafe (crepes and coffee, Valley Road). Also new: Qahwah House (Yemeni coffee, 493 Bloomfield Ave), Tous les Jours (French-Asian bakery, 520 Bloomfield Ave), Minoru (Japanese, 608 Valley Road), El Gordo Peruvian Eatery (324B Orange Rd), GroundHouse (307 Bloomfield Ave), and Oso Felipe (Mexican, 2 Erie Street).
Nishuane Park inclusive playground: Montclair is planning a state-of-the-art completely inclusive playground at Nishuane Park (48 High St) with accessible equipment, safety surfacing, seating, and fencing. The township allocated $750,000 in its 2025 capital bond for the rebuild and applied for Green Acres Program funding in 2024. The pool will close for the season on August 16, 2026 due to ongoing construction. This follows $1.75M in earlier upgrades to pathways, tennis courts, basketball courts, and benches.
Canterbury Park $3M grant application: Montclair applied for a nearly $3 million Green Acres grant for playground renovations (public hearing held February 2026). Wood chip surfaces have already been replaced with poured-in-place safety surfacing, and pathways repaved.
Mountainside Park improvements proposed: Montclair applied for NJ Green Acres Program grants in January 2025 for Mountainside Park improvements, including a public hearing and resident survey. The Township Council proposed $1.65 million for Mountainside Pool complex upgrades, signaling continued investment in township recreation.
New park guide & pool updates (2026): Montclair's newest township park guide documents 23 parks (18 township-managed, 5 Essex County-managed, published July 2026(. The Essex Pool has been closed since late June 2026 for mechanical repairs, while the Nishuane Park pool closed August 16 as construction proceeds on the new all-inclusive playground.
Essex-Hudson Greenway groundbreaking: Governor Murphy broke ground on July 15, 2025, on the first phase of this nine-mile linear park converting an abandoned rail line into a recreational trail connecting Montclair to Jersey City through eight towns. The first ~1-mile stretch in Newark is expected to open by end of 2026. The full greenway will be 100 feet wide with paths for pedestrians and cyclists, green spaces, and community areas – expected to take 8–10 years to complete fully. A community visioning session for the Glen Ridge leg was held in April 2026.
Montclair designated Bee City USA affiliate (September 2025): Montclair was officially designated a Bee City USA affiliate, recognizing the township's commitment to creating sustainable habitats for pollinators through native plantings, reduced pesticide use, and community education.
Sustainability & Resilience Amendment to Master Plan: Montclair held a public hearing in December 2025 on a Sustainability and Resilience Amendment to the township's Master Plan, addressing climate adaptation, green infrastructure, and environmental sustainability goals.
Transit advocacy advancing: A 2025 survey of 2,300+ residents found 84% support for expanded weekend rail service. A December 2025 transit survey was launched to build the case for more weekend service, with results shared with NJ Transit. In May 2026, Montclair's NJ Transit Committee formally requested expanded weekend bus and rail service from NJ Transit. However, NJ Transit has indicated that expanding Montclair-Boonton weekend service is unlikely due to funding constraints. NJ Transit made schedule adjustments effective May 31, 2026, and introduced new railcars to modernize its fleet. In early July 2026, the Montclair-Boonton and Morris & Essex lines experienced service disruptions due to storm repairs. ADA accessibility concerns remain – Montclair stations currently lack ADA-compliant platforms.
Vision Zero progress: Traffic signal reconstruction at Bellevue Avenue/Park Street (expected completion Q2 2025). 4-way stops installed at several intersections. Targeting zero traffic fatalities by 2028.
Affordable housing: Montclair received a new affordable housing quota from the state. The Township plans to spend $4.6M in affordable housing funds, with proposals to increase the affordable set-aside to 25% for developments.
Transit village goals: Planning Board and Council members aim to develop Upper Montclair and Watchung business districts into transit villages.
School referendum results (March 10, 2026): Voters approved a one-time $12.6M tax increase (Question 1, passing by a 300-vote margin: 51.4% yes, 48.6% no) to cover the 2024–2025 deficit – resulting in a one-time tax payment of ~$1,117 on homes assessed at the township average of $639,630. A second question for an additional $7.6M (a permanent increase) was rejected by just 13 votes (5,227 yes to 5,240 no). In response, Montclair's municipal government approved $6.3M in short-term borrowing to spread the tax impact over multiple years. The 2026–27 budget ($179.4M) proposes cutting 32 teaching positions and ending freshman sports. Renaissance Middle School is being converted to a pre-K school beginning 2026–27. The district received a 6% increase in state aid ($10.47M) for 2026–2027. The magnet system remains intact, but the structural deficit (potentially $25M over cap through 2029–2030) is still being addressed, and the district is working to stave off potential state intervention. Nine Montclair schools were named among NJ's Best by U.S. News 2026, and Montclair High School ranks #9 Best for Arts and #17 Best Magnet in NJ on Niche.
Nine Montclair schools named among NJ's Best by U.S. News (2026): Nine Montclair public schools were named among the "Best Elementary and Middle Schools" in New Jersey by U.S. News & World Report's 2026 lists a testament to the district's strength despite financial challenges.
School transportation cuts: The Board of Education approved cuts to student transportation for the 2026–2027 academic year, raising the distance threshold families must live from their school to qualify for busing.
New restaurants continue arriving in 2026: Clementina (modern Italian handmade pasta from Le Marche, 627 Valley Road, Upper Montclair – opened mid-July 2026 in a transformed hardware store), Campofiore (farm-to-table Italian, 664 Bloomfield Ave, opened spring 2026), Sardela (Greek seafood, 571 Bloomfield Ave, opened 2026), Ju-Ichi (Japanese, 512 Bloomfield Ave, opened June 2026), Farm House Fried Chicken (223 Bellevue Ave, Upper Montclair, opening summer 2026), Pig & Butter (NYC brunch concept, 401 Orange Road, opened August 7, 2026), Coast Café Montclair (Argentinian-style, 354 Bloomfield Ave, opened 2026), Hummus Republic (Mediterranean bowls, 412 Bloomfield Ave, opened 2026), Silantro Lime Tacos (103 Forest St, opened March 24, 2026). Brick + Dough Slice Window (110 Walnut St, opened April 8, 2026) offers thin, crispy pizza slices for walk-up customers. Terra Modern Cuisine (300 Bloomfield Ave) opened in the former DLV Lounge space, serving modern Peruvian fusion for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Blu Livingston (seafood and steak) opened in the area and Jackie's Grillette expanded into a larger space at 612 Valley Road. Plus Ani Ramen added sushi to its menu, and the Montclair Local dining scene is thriving with more openings than closings.
Greenway park naming vote: Residents were invited to vote on the official name for New Jersey's newest state park the nine-mile Greenway from Montclair to Jersey City. Construction continues with the first ~1-mile stretch in Newark expected by end of 2026.
Transit committee pushes for weekend service: Montclair's NJ Transit Committee formally requested expanded weekend rail service from NJ Transit after a 2025 survey found 84% of ~2,300 respondents want more frequent weekend trains. The committee asked for hourly weekend service and trains extending to Montclair State University. NJ Transit introduced new railcars and made schedule adjustments effective May 31, 2026, but indicated that expanding weekend service is unlikely due to funding constraints. ADA accessibility concerns remain Montclair stations currently lack ADA-compliant platforms.
New retail and fitness openings: Free People (retail, Bloomfield Ave, opened July 10, 2026), True Ascend (handcrafted charm jewelry, opened June 2026 in Lackawanna Plaza), The DRIP Fitness Studio (opened May 26, 2026), Pilates Addiction (women's-only, opened March 2026), Dawn Til Dusk (makeup artist studio, opened April 2026), and Sparkle Grooming Co. (dog grooming, first NJ salon at 15 Watchung Ave, July 2026) added to Montclair's diverse business ecosystem.
Bellevue Theatre named among world's best: The historic Bellevue Theatre was named to Time Out's 2026 list of the 100 greatest cinemas in the world a cultural landmark worth celebrating.
Master Plan Reexamination Meetings (2026): The Planning Board announced community meetings in July-August 2026 for the 2026 Master Plan Reexamination Report, inviting public input on shaping Montclair's future development.
Wally Choice Community Center opens: Essex County completed the 10,000-square-foot Wally Choice Community Center with an adjacent turf field and parking lot an $11.1 million investment serving Montclair and surrounding communities.
World Cup transit preparations: NJ Transit began infrastructure and service preparations for the 2026 World Cup, which could increase ridership across the Montclair-Boonton and Morris & Essex lines.
Portal Bridge construction disruptions: Portal Bridge construction continued causing NJ Transit service disruptions on the Montclair-Boonton Line, with a second phase expected in Fall 2026. Commuters should plan for periodic schedule changes.
Watchung Plaza renovation in final phase: The Watchung Plaza renovation entered its final phase with accessibility upgrades and modern improvements. The project includes new crosswalks, curb ramps, seating, and streetscaping designed to make the plaza more pedestrian-friendly. Estimated completion by September 2026.
Canterbury Park $3M grant application advancing: Montclair applied for a nearly $3 million Green Acres grant for Canterbury Park renovations, including playground, basketball court, pathways, benches, and outdoor fitness equipment. A public hearing was held in February 2026.
Nishuane Park pool closure for construction: The Nishuane Park pool will close for the season on August 16, 2026 due to ongoing construction of the new inclusive playground. The township allocated $750,000 in its 2025 capital bond for the rebuild. A new state Green Acres policy went into effect: a May 19, 2026 ordinance opened pool sales to nonresidents on June 16, after a state compliance officer noted that resident-only access violated Green Acres terms. A trash-filled swamp issue at two local parks is also being addressed, with the council approving cleanup costs up to $50,000.
Montclair schools approve $158.9M budget: The Board of Education approved a $158.9M operating budget for 2026-27 after a 6% increase in state aid ($10.47M). The district is considering closing Renaissance Middle School and converting it into a standalone pre-K center for fall 2026. The structural deficit could reach $25M over cap through 2029-2030. Meanwhile, the township proposed borrowing $10.24 million for road paving, new garbage trucks, and municipal building repairs.
260 Park Street mixed-use development proposed: A three-story mixed-use building has been proposed at 260 Park Street, featuring a ground-floor pizzeria or bagel store and seven residential apartments (including one affordable unit). Traffic and density concerns have been raised at community meetings.
NJ Transit schedule changes (May 31, 2026): NJ Transit implemented schedule adjustments on the Montclair-Boonton line including modified departure times and added/removed stops. The Portal Bridge cutover (Feb 15 - Mar 15, 2026) caused significant service disruptions.
Church Street Pedestrian Plaza Pilot launches: Starting June 2026, Montclair is closing parts of Church Street to vehicle traffic one weekend a month through the summer, creating a car-free pedestrian plaza with outdoor dining, local vendors, and community gathering space. The pilot program is testing the concept of permanent pedestrianization for the downtown core.
Bagel Supreme opens at Lackawanna Station: A new bagel shop, Bagel Supreme, opened inside the Lackawanna Station redevelopment in summer 2026, adding to the 23+ small businesses now operating in the historic train station complex.
OddFellows ice cream opens in Montclair: The NYC-based artisanal ice cream shop OddFellows opened its 10th locationin Montclair, adding to the town's growing dessert and sweet-treat scene alongside Oggi Gelato(40 Church Street.
Jungle Juice opens at Upper Montclair Plaza: A fresh juice and acai bar, Jungle Juice, opened at 51 Upper Montclair Plaza in summer 2026, adding a quick, healthy grab-and-go option near the Watchung Plaza shops. Night Owl, a legal cannabis retailer, received approval for a Bloomfield Avenue storefront and is working toward a 2026 opening, with additional cannabis proposals also in the works.
New retail and fitness openings continue: Free People (retail, Bloomfield Ave, opened July 10, 2026), True Ascend (handcrafted charm jewelry, opened June 2026 in Lackawanna Plaza), The DRIP Fitness Studio (opened May 26, 2026), Pilates Addiction (women's-only, opened March 2026), Dawn Til Dusk (makeup artist studio, opened April 2026), and Sparkle Grooming Co. (dog grooming, first NJ salon at 15 Watchung Ave, July 2026) added to Montclair's diverse business ecosystem. A Hoboken fitness studio also opened at 6 Gates Avenue in May 2026.
Mid-2026 market update & Realtor.com #2 ranking: Montclair was named #2 Hottest ZIP Code in America by Realtor.com (released Aug 10, 2026), ranking second among all U.S. ZIP codes. The 07042 ZIP posted a median listing price of $1.05M, 18 days on market, and 3.3x the national average in listing views. Redfin reports a May 2026 citywide median of $1,376,676, up 14.7% YoY. The June 2026 market saw an average 27% premium over asking price, while May 2026 hit 34% over asking. The trailing 12-month average premium stands at 21% over asking. Approximately 85% of homes sell above asking price. The luxury segment -- homes over $1.5M -- has grown significantly, with a $9.5M sale making headlines. Average days on market sits at 15-22 days (Zillow shows pending in ~11 days). Homes receive 5-6 offers on average. Inventory is at roughly a 1.6-month supply, firmly favoring sellers. A July 2026 report noted Montclair is the hottest of the Essex/Union County suburbs, with buyers paying nearly 25% over asking on average and 10 out of 32 June closings at 40%+ above list price. The Montclair real estate market shows no signs of cooling heading into fall 2026.
September 2026 market update: As of September 2026, the Redfin ZIP snapshots show Montclair still firmly in seller's market territory: the 07042 median sale price sits near $1.3M with ~17 days on market and a ~123.6% sale-to-list ratio; the 07043 Upper Montclair median sits near $1.5M with ~14 days on market and a ~126.9% sale-to-list ratio. Monthly closings run roughly 83 (07042) and 50 (07043), with RealtyTrac counting roughly 161 active listings in the 07042 ZIP and 109 in 07043. Well-priced homes continue to draw multiple offers and exceed list price; budget for the sale price, not the list price.
Master Plan Reexamination Meetings (2026): The Planning Board announced community meetings in July-August 2026 for the 2026 Master Plan Reexamination Report, inviting public input on shaping Montclair's future development -- including zoning, transit villages, and affordable housing targets.
Tax bills delayed as referendum impacts loom: Montclair's August 2026 property tax bills were delayed as the township worked through the impact of the March school referendum and the one-time tax levy, a reminder for buyers to build in some flexibility around closing timelines and annual tax payments this year.
Nine Montclair schools named among NJ's Best by U.S. News (2026): Nine Montclair public schools were named among the "Best Elementary and Middle Schools" in New Jersey by U.S. News & World Report's 2026 lists, a testament to the district's strength despite ongoing financial challenges. Montclair Public Schools ranked #5 Best School District in Essex County and #47 in New Jersey on Niche 2026.
Greenway active construction continues: The Essex-Hudson Greenway construction is actively underway. The first ~1-mile stretch in Newark (Branch Brook Park Drive to Broadway) is expected to open by end of 2026. A public naming vote was held in June 2026. The Greenway will connect Montclair (as the northern terminus) through Glen Ridge, Bloomfield, and Belleville to Jersey City, providing a 100-foot-wide multi-use trail with green space, community areas, and improved regional connectivity. A community visioning session for the Glen Ridge leg was held in April 2026.
NJ Transit improved railcars and World Cup preparations: NJ Transit introduced new railcars to modernize its fleet and began infrastructure preparations for the 2026 World Cup, which could increase ridership across the Montclair-Boonton and Morris & Essex lines. However, NJ Transit has indicated that expanding Montclair-Boonton weekend service is unlikely due to funding constraints, and ADA accessibility concerns remain -- Montclair stations currently lack ADA-compliant platforms.
Montclair-Boonton line train derailment (December 2025): A train derailment on the Montclair-Boonton line on December 20, 2025 injured 17 people near Montclair. The incident prompted renewed safety reviews and service adjustments, though service was restored. It remains a point of discussion for commuters evaluating transit reliability.
Montclair explores bringing back a commuter shuttle: Following DeCamp's 2023 withdrawal from Montclair, the township began discussions in early 2026 about creating an internal commuter shuttle or jitney service to fill the gap for residents who previously relied on DeCamp bus connections to the Port Authority. The Township Council and NJ Transit Committee are evaluating feasibility and funding options.
Bleu Coffee opens at 8 Erie Street: A new specialty coffee shop, Bleu Coffee, opened in late 2024 / early 2025 at 8 Erie Street in Montclair, adding another quality coffee option to the downtown area.
Pura Vida Miami comes to Montclair: Pura Vida Miami, an organic, plant-based café and lifestyle brand, opened a Montclair location in 2026, adding to the town's growing health-conscious dining and wellness ecosystem.
Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan adopted: Montclair adopted its Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan in April 2026, securing over $2 million in grant funding for affordable housing. The plan outlines the township's strategy for meeting state-mandated affordable housing obligations through 2035 while managing growth.
Watchung Avenue gas station approved for convenience store: The Zoning Board approved plans in April 2026 for the existing Gulf gas station at 120 Watchung Avenue to add a convenience store, bringing a practical shopping option to the Watchung Plaza neighborhood.
ADU Development Project launched (August 2026): Montclair Gateway to Aging in Place (mGAP) and partners launched the 2026 Accessory Dwelling Unit Development Project, exploring the construction of accessory dwellings as affordable housing options, especially for seniors. The initiative aims to increase housing diversity while helping older residents age in place.
MSU Interdisciplinary Science Building breaks ground: Montclair State University broke ground in August 2026 on a $120 million Interdisciplinary Science Building, a major investment in the university's STEM programs that will strengthen Montclair's position as an education hub in Essex County.
New municipal complex explored at $50M: Montclair officials are evaluating plans for a new municipal building and police station that could cost up to $50 million, with public input sessions underway to shape the future of town facilities.
Triple-whammy tax hike for homeowners: Montclair homeowners face a combined municipal and school tax increase in 2026, though county taxes decreased by about $25 for the average homeowner. The tax picture reflects the broader financial pressures on the township as it navigates school funding challenges and infrastructure needs.
Montclair Pride Festival 2026 (August 1): The Montclair Pride Festival was postponed from June to August 1, 2026, featuring live music, drag performances, food trucks, and a street-dance party that drew the community together for a vibrant celebration.
Montclair Mile Block Party & Race (August 6, 2026): The third-annual Montclair Mile Block Party and Race brought a DJ, food trucks, and run/walk options to the streets, showcasing the community's active, family-friendly spirit.
Montclair Jazz Festival Downtown Jamboree (August 15, 2026): The Montclair Jazz Festival returns with a star-studded lineup and a Smithsonian collaboration, continuing Montclair's tradition as a cultural hub in Essex County.
Watchung Booksellers named 2026 Bookstore of the Year: The beloved independent local institution at 54 Fairfield Street was named 2026 Bookstore of the Year, a recognition that underscores Montclair's reading-and-Independent-Business culture and the strength of its downtown retail scene.
Montclair State University acquires NJ Spotlight assets: Montclair State University announced it will acquire NJ Spotlight assets from The WNET Group and integrate them with NJ PBS News, strengthening the university's role in New Jersey journalism and public affairs.
Brick + Dough Slice Window opens: A new walk-up pizza window, Brick + Dough Slice Window, opened at 110 Walnut Street on April 8, 2026, offering thin, crispy pizza slices for a quick downtown bite.
Terra Modern Cuisine opens: Modern Peruvian fusion restaurant Terra Modern Cuisine opened at 300 Bloomfield Avenue in the former DLV Lounge space, offering brunch, lunch, and dinner from a locally owned operation.
MM by Morimoto opens (July 31, 2025): World-class Japanese dining from acclaimed Chef Masaharu Morimoto opened at 12,779 sq ft on Bloomfield Avenue. The restaurant has become an instant destination, drawing food enthusiasts from across the region and cementing Montclair's status as a dining destination.
WOVEN Studio + Kitchen coming (fall 2026): Chef Meni Vaknin (formerly of Highlawn Pavilion and Restaurant Serenade) is opening WOVEN Studio + Kitchen, a unique concept blending cooking, art, and community gathering. The project reflects Montclair's continued appetite for chef-driven, experiential dining.
399 Orange Road Pocket Park coming: Montclair is transforming a former gas station site at 399 Orange Road into a new pocket park for public use. Soil remediation has been underway since 2008, and community redevelopment plans were unveiled in April 2025. The park will add valuable green space to the downtown fringe.
ROUTE advocacy group pushes for restored bus service: Restore Our Transit in Essex (ROUTE), a citizen advocacy group formed in 2025, is working to restore lost bus connections after DeCamp Bus Lines discontinued service to Montclair in 2023. The group has been a vocal force in the township's broader transit advocacy push.
August 2026 market snapshot: Montclair remains the hottest market in Essex County, recently named #2 Hottest ZIP Code in America by Realtor.com. The median listing price in 07042 hit $1.05M with homes spending just 18 days on market and drawing 3.3x the national average in listing views. The June 2026 market saw an average 27% premium over asking with some homes selling 40%+ above list. The luxury segment (homes over $1.5M) continues to grow. With a 1.6-month supply of inventory, the market firmly favors sellers. The dining scene keeps expanding -- Pig & Butter (NYC brunch concept) opened August 7 on Orange Road, Clementina opened in Upper Montclair in June, and the Church Street Pedestrian Plaza pilot launched for summer weekends. The Nishuane Park pool closed August 16 for construction of a new inclusive playground. The Watchung Plaza renovation is in its final phase with completion expected by September 2026. Montclair State University broke ground on a $120M Interdisciplinary Science Building. On the financial side, the township approved a $106.8M municipal budget with a 2.97% tax levy increase, and the total projected 2026 property tax bill on the average home (assessed at $641,700) is approximately $24,162 — up $1,673 from 2025, a "triple-whammy" increase driven largely by a $2.5M spike in healthcare costs. The municipal complex redevelopment plan was formally introduced in August 2026. If you are thinking of buying here, come pre-approved and ready to move fast.
$106.8M municipal budget & "triple-whammy" tax hike (2026): The Township Council approved a $106.8M municipal budget with a 2.97% tax levy increase. For a homeowner with property assessed at the updated average of $641,700, the municipal tax bill is $5,730.38 — an increase of $178.65 over the prior year. Combined with school and county taxes, the total projected 2026 property tax bill reaches roughly $24,162, up $1,673 from $22,489 in 2025. The primary cost driver was a $2.5M spike in health benefits costs after the township exited a state health plan. A formal redevelopment plan for the aging Claremont Avenue municipal complex (with documented mold, cracking walls, and deteriorating facade) was introduced by the Township Council in August 2026 and taken up by the planning board on August 18, 2026. The complex could cost up to $50M to replace. The Cornerstone House homeless shelter (23 beds) currently located on the complex could face relocation depending on the final plan.
Master Plan Reexamination enters final phase (August 2026): Montclair's Planning Board held four ward-based community meetings (July–August 2026) to gather resident input for the 2026 Master Plan Reexamination Report — required every 10 years under N.J.S.A. 40:55D-89. All four ward sessions (First Ward, Second Ward, Third Ward, Fourth Ward) have concluded with residents pushing for more input in the process. Key topics include land use, housing, transportation/parking, historic preservation, economic development, and environmental resilience. Merchants also raised concerns about the Upper Montclair Business District. A draft report is expected in fall 2026, followed by a formal public hearing before adoption. The last reexamination was adopted in 2016.
NJ Transit MetLife Transitway completed (mid-2026): NJ Transit completed its $100 million Transitway bus rapid transit system ahead of the FIFA World Cup at MetLife Stadium, with concept plans including a potential future line connecting Montclair to Newark. The system adds new express commuter options for Essex County residents.
Montclair Public Library wins $36.6M in state tax credits (June 2026): The library was awarded $36.6M in NJEDA transferable state tax credits for a comprehensive renovation of both its branches, ensuring the township's beloved public library system keeps pace with a growing, reading-loving community.
Montclair High's U.S. News ranking rises for 2026-27: Montclair High School's U.S. News & World Report ranking improved to #96 in New Jersey for 2026-27, driven largely by its college-readiness component, even as the district works through its budget and state test results remain mixed. Nine Montclair public schools were named among U.S. News' best elementary and middle schools in New Jersey.
CLAQ HAUS pole fitness opens: CLAQ HAUS, a pole fitness studio, opened at 356 Bloomfield Avenue, Suite 6 in summer 2026, joining a growing roster of boutique fitness options across town.

Who Buys in Montclair?

Culture Seekers

Genuine town center with restaurants, live theater, farmers market – not a strip mall with a Starbucks.

School-Oriented Buyers

Choose a thematic school matching your child's interests – STEM, arts, global studies – instead of address-based assignment.

NYC Relocators

Six train stations, walkable downtown, diverse progressive community. Like Brooklyn with more trees and space.

What I Love About Montclair

From Sorelle

"Montclair has this rare ability to feel both cosmopolitan and deeply neighborly. French bakery, art gallery, vintage shop, jazz venue, farmers market – all in the same morning. Victorian porches, Tudor archways, streets so canopied with trees it feels like a tunnel of green. And the community – people here care. They show up, they support local, they know their neighbors' names. You don't have to give up culture, walkability, or diversity to get space and a backyard. That's pretty special."

If You Liked...

Park Slope? South End feels like home – bigger homes, better parking, train that runs on time.

West Village? Church Street delivers the same independent-dining, sidewalk-cafe energy.

Prospect Heights? Magnet schools, art museum, film festival, and multicultural dining.

Nearby

Brookdale Park – 121 acres, rose garden, tennis, running paths

Mills Reservation – 157 acres, wooded hiking and jogging

Eagle Rock Reservation – Manhattan skyline views, 10 min away

Bloomfield & Glen Ridge – neighboring dining, parks, charm

Montclair Spotlight

County	Essex
School System	A Magnet (#5 Essex)
Train Stations	6 Stations
Transit Line	Montclair-Boonton
Commute to Penn	~35-45 min
Culture Anchor	Film Fest / Art Museum
Market Day	Sat Farmers Market
Vibe	Urban-Suburban Chic

Sorelle's Montclair Tip

"When buying in Montclair, understanding the magnet school application timeline, parking permits near your closest train station, and the school funding landscape are key first steps. The March 2026 referendum kept the magnet system intact, but the long-term funding picture is still evolving – the 2026–27 budget proposes cutting 32 teaching positions and Renaissance Middle is becoming a pre-K school. On the bright side, nine Montclair schools were named among NJ's Best by U.S. News 2026. I walk every client through what that means for their family. Lackawanna Station (formerly Lackawanna Plaza) has been a game-changer with 23+ small businesses and a $326.7M redevelopment plan approved with a 30-year PILOT. Yellow Rose Vegan Bakery opened there in July 2026. The Watchung Plaza renovation is in its final phase with new accessibility upgrades. The Essex-Hudson Greenway broke ground in July 2025 – a nine-mile linear park connecting Montclair to Jersey City that will transform recreation access. Residents voted on the park's official name in June 2026. The dining scene keeps growing – Clementina (Adriatic Italian, Upper Montclair, opened June 5), Campofiore (farm-to-table Italian, April 2026), Sardela (Greek seafood, May 2026), Ju-Ichi Japanese (June 2026), Pig & Butter (NYC brunch concept, opened August 7), Coast Café (Argentinian-style), Silantro Lime Tacos (103 Forest St, opened March 24), Brick + Dough Slice Window (thin-crust pizza, 110 Walnut St, opened April 8), Terra Modern Cuisine (modern Peruvian fusion, 300 Bloomfield Ave, opened 2026), and Farm House Fried Chicken (Bellevue Ave, summer 2026) are all recent additions worth trying. Free People retail opened on Bloomfield Ave July 10, True Ascend (handcrafted charm jewelry) opened in Lackawanna Plaza in June 2026, and Sparkle Grooming Co. (dog grooming, first NJ salon) opened on Watchung Ave in July 2026. The Bellevue Theatre was named to Time Out's 2026 list of the 100 greatest cinemas in the world. The Wally Choice Community Center opened an $11.1M Essex County investment. The township proposed borrowing $10.24M for road paving, new garbage trucks, and municipal building repairs. The ADU Development Project (August 2026) is exploring accessory dwelling units as affordable housing for seniors through Montclair Gateway to Aging in Place. Montclair State University broke ground on a $120M Interdisciplinary Science Building in August 2026, and the township is exploring a new $50M municipal complex. The Montclair Pride Festival returned on August 1, the Montclair Mile Block Party ran August 6, and the Montclair Jazz Festival Downtown Jamboree is set for August 15 — summer community events are thriving. With a new record median of $1.66M set in April 2026 and a 121–123% sale-to-list ratio, with homes pending in ~11 days, come pre-approved and ready to move quickly. Every situation is different – let's talk through what makes sense for yours."

Let's Walk Through It

Pricing Reality in Essex County

What every buyer needs to know

In Essex County, homes routinely sell above asking price. The county-wide average sale-to-list ratio is 109.1% – the highest of any county in New Jersey. The average buyer pays about $68,000 over asking on a $750K median. This is especially true in Bloomfield, West Orange, and Montclair. List prices are a strategy, not a ceiling.

Bloomfield~$700K median · 113% sale-to-list · 7 offers avg

West Orange~$697K median · 85% sell over ask · 10.7% premium

Montclair~$1.2M SFH median · 126% sale-to-list · 12 days

Don't let the list price fool you. Budget for what the home will actually sell for. I want you to feel informed and comfortable – not caught off guard during the offer process. Let's talk through realistic numbers before you fall in love with a listing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Montclair

What is the median home price in Montclair NJ?

Montclair was named <strong>#2 Hottest ZIP Code in America</strong> by Realtor.com (Aug 2026), with a median listing price of $1.05M, 18 days on market, and 3.3x the national average in listing views. A new record median sale price of $1.66M was set in April 2026 (Stanton Realtors), building on the 2025 average of $1.42M. By June 2026, the median pulled back to approximately $1.49M (Stanton Realtors). The June 2026 market saw an average 27% premium over asking price, while May 2026 hit 34% over asking. The trailing 12-month average is 21% over asking. The Zillow Home Value Index stands at $1,179,806 (May 2026, up 8.1% YoY). Single-family homes in good condition start at $900K+. Homes sell at a 121–123% sale-to-list ratio approximately 85% of homes sell above asking, with individual properties routinely selling 18–31% above asking and some 54%+ over list.

How long is the commute from Montclair to NYC?

Montclair has six NJ Transit stations on the Montclair-Boonton Line. Peak-hour trains reach Penn Station in 35–45 minutes. Almost every neighborhood sits within walking distance of a direct Midtown connection.

What NJ Transit lines serve Montclair NJ?

Montclair is served by the Montclair-Boonton Line with six stations: Montclair Heights, Upper Montclair, Watchung Ave, Mountain Ave, Bay Street, and Walnut Street. DeCamp and NJ Transit buses also run to Port Authority.

What are the property taxes in Montclair NJ?

Property taxes in Montclair vary by assessed home value. The March 2026 school referendum passed a one-time $12.6M tax increase (a one-time payment of ~$1,117 on homes assessed at the township average of $639,630), while a second question for additional funding failed by just 13 votes. The long-term funding picture is still evolving. I'll walk you through the full picture for your price range.

Is Montclair NJ walkable?

Yes Montclair is one of the most walkable towns in Essex County. The downtown along Bloomfield Avenue and Church Street features independent restaurants, boutiques, galleries, and cafes. Most train stations are walkable from their surrounding neighborhoods.

What is the real estate market like in Montclair NJ?

Montclair's market is extremely competitive. With a 121-123% sale-to-list ratio and homes selling in 15-22 days on average (Zillow shows pending in ~11 days), well-priced properties attract multiple offers almost immediately. The June 2026 market saw an average 27% premium over asking price, with May 2026 hitting 34% over asking. Homes receive 5-6 offers on average. Inventory is at roughly a 1.6-month supply, firmly favoring sellers. The luxury segment has grown significantly, with homes over $3M becoming more common.

What types of homes are in Montclair NJ?

Montclair features a rich mix of Victorian estates, Tudor homes, center-hall colonials, craftsman bungalows, and multi-family properties. Upper Montclair has grand estates on wide, tree-canopied streets. The architectural diversity is one of the town's defining characteristics.

How competitive is the housing market in Montclair NJ?

Montclair is one of the most competitive markets in Essex County. With 14–17 days on average (Zillow shows pending in ~11 days) and a 121–123% sale-to-list ratio, homes sell fast and well above asking. Approximately 85% of homes sell above asking price. Some properties have sold for $350K–$426K above list price, and in May 2025, 6 of 20 closings sold 50%+ over list. Inventory is at roughly 1.6 months supply. Come pre-approved and ready to move quickly.

Have a question not listed here? I'm happy to help.

Ask Sorelle