Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Garfield, NJ
Considering a move to Garfield, NJ? This vibrant city of 32,265 offers a dense, diverse community with a median home price of $405,000 and average rents around $1,550. Residents enjoy a convenient location with average commutes of 29.7 minutes, access to regional healthcare, and schools like Garfield High. Crime rates are moderate for the area, while cost of living is slightly above the national average. Garfield’s strong transportation links and multicultural atmosphere make it a practical choice for commuters and families alike.
Demographics - Garfield, NJ
Demographics - Garfield, NJ
Garfield, NJ is home to about 32,265 residents, offering a densely populated and diverse community where over a third speak a language other than English. The median age is 38.2, and the city features a mix of ethnic backgrounds, creating a vibrant multicultural environment. This diversity supports a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers and long-time residents alike.
Population:
32,265
Density:
12,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.2
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
34.0%

Ethnic Composition
White:
61.8%
Black:
6.2%
Asian:
3.6%
Others:
28.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Garfield, NJ?
The cost of living in Garfield is moderately higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 122.5 and median home values around $405,000. Renters can expect average monthly rents of about $1,550, and expenses like utilities and groceries also trend above national norms. While state taxes vary, overall affordability may be a consideration for new residents.
Median House Value:
$405,000
Gross Rent:
$1,550
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,900
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,060
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$690
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
10.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
122.5
Grocery:
118.0
Housing:
130.0
Utilities:
110.0
Transportation:
121.0
Health Care:
109.5
Miscellaneous:
108.0
Crime
Is Garfield, NJ a safe place to live?
Garfield experiences moderate crime rates compared to similar urban areas, with about 192 violent crimes and 1,430 property crimes per 100,000 residents. The odds of experiencing violent crime are roughly 1 in 520, and property crime is 1 in 70. Community safety is generally reasonable, though residents should stay aware of their surroundings.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
192
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,430
Crime Index:
1,622
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 520
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 70
Weather
What is the weather like in Garfield, NJ year-round?
Residents of Garfield enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 85°F and cold winters averaging lows around 24°F. The city receives about 48 inches of annual rainfall and sees sunshine just over half the year. This climate supports outdoor activities throughout much of the year.

Winter
Min:
24°F
Max:
38°F

Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
66°F

Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Garfield's neighborhoods are characterized by a median household income of $75,000 and a family income of $80,000, with an unemployment rate of 5.3%. About 12% of residents live below the poverty line, and public transportation is used by 11% of commuters, who typically spend nearly 30 minutes getting to work. The area supports a mix of renters and homeowners, fostering a dynamic community.
Median Income:
$41,000
Household Income:
$75,000
Family Income:
$80,000
Per Capita Income:
$34,800
Income Male:
$45,500
Income Female:
$39,500
Poverty Rate:
11.7%
Non English Speakers:
34.0%
Rent:
$1,550
Unemployment Rate:
5.3%
Public Transport Usage:
11.0%
Commute Time:
29.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
84.2%
Bachelors or More:
20.3%
Education
How are the schools in Garfield, NJ?
Garfield offers a range of educational options, including public schools like Garfield High School and Thomas Jefferson Elementary, as well as private institutions such as Our Lady of Mount Virgin School. Students benefit from manageable class sizes and proximity to higher education, with Bergen Community College and Montclair State University both within 10 miles. The city supports a strong foundation for learners of all ages.

Public Schools
Name:
Garfield High School
Street:
500 Palisade Ave
Phone:
973-340-5010
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Thomas Jefferson Elementary School
Street:
125 Outwater Ln
Phone:
973-340-5031
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.1

Private Schools
Name:
Our Lady of Mount Virgin School
Street:
450 Lincoln Ave
Phone:
973-772-7200
Students:
210

Colleges
Name:
Bergen Community College
City:
Paramus
State:
NJ
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
13,000
Name:
Montclair State University
City:
Montclair
State:
NJ
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
21,000
Healthcare
Garfield residents have convenient access to major hospitals like Hackensack University Medical Center and St. Joseph's University Medical Center nearby. The area boasts a strong healthcare network, with 2.7 physicians per 1,000 people and over 91% health insurance coverage. Emergency services and general care are readily accessible for families and individuals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Hackensack University Medical Center
Address:
30 Prospect Ave, Hackensack, NJ 07601
Phone:
(551) 996-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
St. Joseph's University Medical Center
Address:
703 Main St, Paterson, NJ 07503
Phone:
(973) 754-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.0%
Health Care Index:
73.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Garfield, NJ?
The housing market in Garfield features a median home price of $405,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,550. Owner occupancy is relatively low at 37.5%, indicating a strong rental market, and home values appreciated by 6.2% over the past year. Vacancy and foreclosure rates remain modest, reflecting steady demand.
Median Home Price:
$405,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,550
Owner Occupied Rate:
37.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Garfield residents are served by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, located in Trenton, with services accessible both in-person and online. The DMV provides essential licensing and registration services for drivers throughout the state. Helpful resources and support are available by phone or on the official website.
State:
New Jersey
Department:
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
Address:
225 E. State Street, Trenton, NJ 08666
Phone:
1-609-292-6500
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.