Most Affordable Places to Live in Cranford
Cranford, New Jersey offers several affordable housing options for those looking to settle in this charming township. Located in Union County, Cranford combines small-town charm with convenient access to New York City, making it an attractive place for many to call home.
Housing costs in Cranford can vary significantly depending on the neighborhood. This guide highlights the most budget-friendly areas where you can find reasonable housing without breaking the bank.
North Cranford
North Cranford stands out as one of the more affordable sections of the township. This area features a mix of older homes and some apartment complexes that offer lower prices compared to the township center.
Many residents appreciate the quiet streets and the proximity to Nomahegan Park. You can find modest single-family homes starting around $400,000, which is considered entry-level for this desirable township.
The area also has several apartment buildings with units renting for less than other parts of Cranford. Two-bedroom apartments typically range from $1,500 to $1,800 per month, making them accessible for young professionals and small families.
Cranford Arms and Surrounding Area
The neighborhood surrounding the Cranford Arms apartment complex offers reasonable rental options. These apartments provide basic amenities at lower price points than newer developments in town.
One-bedroom units in this area generally start around $1,300 per month, while two-bedroom apartments range from $1,600 to $1,900. The buildings are typically well-maintained and offer good value for the location.
This area is within walking distance of the Cranford train station, making it popular among commuters who want to save on both housing and transportation costs.
South Avenue Corridor
The South Avenue corridor has several older apartment buildings and multi-family homes that offer more affordable living options. This area has seen some revitalization but still maintains lower price points than the downtown district.
Renters can find one-bedroom apartments starting around $1,200 to $1,400, with two-bedroom units ranging from $1,500 to $1,800. Some of the multi-family homes offer apartments with character features like hardwood floors and unique layouts.
The area provides easy access to shops and restaurants along South Avenue, plus it's convenient to the Garden State Parkway for commuters.
Centennial Avenue Area
The neighborhoods around Centennial Avenue offer some of Cranford's more affordable single-family homes. These tend to be smaller Cape Cod and Ranch-style houses built in the 1950s and 1960s.
Homes in this area typically start in the mid-$300,000s for properties that may need updates, while renovated homes can reach the mid-$400,000s. This represents a significant savings compared to Cranford's downtown historic district.
The area is family-friendly with access to Orange Avenue Pool and several parks. It's slightly farther from the train station but still within a short drive to all of Cranford's amenities.
Brookside Place
The Brookside Place neighborhood has a mix of housing options, including some more affordable condominiums and smaller single-family homes. This area is popular with first-time homebuyers looking to enter the Cranford market.
Condos in this area typically start around $250,000 for one-bedroom units and $300,000 for two-bedroom units. Small single-family homes start in the high $300,000s, depending on condition.
Residents enjoy the tree-lined streets and proximity to Brookside Place School, making this a good option for young families on a budget.
Affordable Housing Programs in Cranford
Cranford has several affordable housing initiatives that can help lower-income residents find suitable housing. The township participates in New Jersey's Mount Laurel housing program, which requires communities to provide a fair share of affordable housing.
Several newer developments in town include affordable units set aside for qualified buyers or renters. These units are priced significantly below market rates but have income restrictions and waiting lists.
The Cranford Housing Board manages applications for these programs. Interested residents should contact the township offices for current availability and qualification requirements.
Cost-Saving Tips for Cranford Living
Beyond choosing an affordable neighborhood, there are other ways to reduce your living costs in Cranford:
Consider sharing housing costs with roommates, especially in larger apartments or rental homes. This can cut your housing expenses significantly.
Look for older buildings or homes, which typically have lower prices than new construction. While they may lack some modern amenities, they often offer more space for the money.
Explore multi-family homes where you can rent one unit while living in another. Some Cranford residents have purchased two-family homes and offset their mortgage by renting out the second unit.
Take advantage of Cranford's walkability to reduce transportation costs. Living near the downtown area or train station can eliminate the need for a second car or reduce commuting expenses.
Why Cranford Remains a Good Value
Despite being a desirable suburb, Cranford still offers good value compared to neighboring towns like Westfield or Summit. The excellent school system, charming downtown, and direct train service to Manhattan make it worth considering even with its housing costs.
Property taxes in Cranford, while high by national standards, are actually moderate for the area and the quality of services provided. This helps make the overall cost of living more manageable.
The township's strong sense of community and numerous free events and activities also help residents enjoy a good quality of life without spending a fortune on entertainment.
With careful planning and knowledge of the more affordable areas, Cranford can be an accessible option for those wanting to enjoy suburban New Jersey living without the premium prices of some neighboring communities.
