Affordable Living in Cranford: Budget-Friendly Areas
Finding a cheap place to live in Cranford can be tough. Housing costs in this New Jersey town tend to be higher than the national average. However, some neighborhoods and nearby areas offer more budget-friendly options for residents looking to save money while enjoying what Cranford has to offer.
The cost of living in Cranford is about 28% higher than the national average, with housing being the biggest expense. But don't worry - there are still ways to live here without breaking the bank.
Brookside Area
The Brookside neighborhood in Cranford offers some of the more reasonable housing options in town. This area features older homes and some apartment complexes that tend to be priced lower than properties in the center of town. Residents here enjoy the quiet atmosphere while still being close to Cranford's amenities.
Rental prices in Brookside typically run about 10-15% lower than downtown Cranford. The neighborhood has good access to public transportation and is within walking distance of several parks.
Winfield Township
Just outside Cranford proper, Winfield Township offers significantly lower housing costs. This small neighboring community has lower property taxes and more affordable homes. Many people choose to live here and commute to Cranford for work or to use its amenities.
Winfield Township is only about a 5-minute drive from downtown Cranford, making it a practical option for those wanting Cranford access without Cranford prices. The average home price here is approximately 20% lower than in central Cranford.
Garwood
Bordering Cranford to the east, Garwood is another budget-friendly option. This small borough offers lower-priced homes and apartments while providing easy access to Cranford. Many residents find that their housing dollars stretch further here.
Garwood has its own NJ Transit station on the same line as Cranford, making commuting simple. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Garwood is about $1,400 compared to $1,800 in central Cranford.
Roselle Park
Located just a short distance from Cranford, Roselle Park offers more affordable housing options. This neighboring town has lower property values and rental rates while still providing good access to Cranford's amenities.
Roselle Park has its own downtown area with shops and restaurants, plus good transportation links to Cranford. Housing costs here are typically 15-20% lower than in Cranford.
Money-Saving Tips for Cranford Living
No matter where you choose to live in or near Cranford, these tips can help you keep costs down:
- Look for older apartment buildings, which often have lower rents than newer complexes
- Consider sharing housing costs with roommates
- Use Cranford's public transportation system instead of owning a car
- Take advantage of free community events and parks for entertainment
- Shop at local farmers markets for fresh, affordable produce
Affordable Apartments in Cranford
If you're set on living in Cranford proper, these apartment complexes tend to offer more reasonable rates:
Parkway Village on Centennial Avenue has units that are typically priced below the town average. These garden-style apartments aren't luxury units, but they provide comfortable living at a more affordable price point.
Cranford Crossing offers some smaller units that are more budget-friendly. While still not "cheap" by national standards, they represent better value within the Cranford market.
Cost Comparison: Cranford vs. Surrounding Areas
To give you a better idea of how costs stack up, here's a simple comparison of average monthly rents for a one-bedroom apartment:
- Central Cranford: $1,800
- Brookside area: $1,600
- Garwood: $1,400
- Roselle Park: $1,350
- Winfield Township: $1,300
For home buyers, the median home price in Cranford is around $550,000, while in surrounding areas like Garwood and Roselle Park, you might find similar homes for $450,000-$500,000.
Why Consider Living Near Cranford Instead of In It
Living in a neighboring town can give you most of the benefits of Cranford at a lower cost. You'll still have access to Cranford's excellent downtown, restaurants, and parks, but with lower housing expenses.
Many of these surrounding communities have their own charm and amenities as well. You might find that you get the best of both worlds - affordable living plus access to all that Cranford has to offer.
Transportation Costs and Savings
Transportation is another factor in the cost of living. Cranford has good public transit options, including the NJ Transit rail line with direct service to Newark and New York City.
Living near the train station can actually save you money, even if housing costs are slightly higher. By avoiding car ownership (or reducing to one car for a family), you can save on car payments, insurance, gas, maintenance, and parking fees.
Final Thoughts on Affordable Living in Cranford
While Cranford isn't known for being a budget destination, smart choices can make living here more affordable. Whether you choose a more reasonably priced neighborhood within Cranford or opt for a nearby town with lower costs, you can enjoy this charming area without spending a fortune.
Remember that "affordable" is relative - what seems expensive to someone from a rural area might seem reasonable to someone moving from New York City. Consider your personal budget and priorities when making your decision about where to live in or near Cranford.
