Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Garwood, NJ
Considering Garwood, NJ for your next move? This charming small town of 4,454 residents sits at the heart of Union County, offering a cozy community feel and a median home price of $480,000. Local rents average $1,650, with a cost of living a bit above the U.S. average, and a low violent crime rate of just 67 per 100k. With excellent local schools, quick 31-minute commutes, and easy access to vibrant neighboring towns, Garwood is a great pick for those seeking suburban comfort close to big-city amenities.
Demographics - Garwood, NJ
Demographics - Garwood, NJ
Garwood, NJ is a close-knit community of about 4,454 people, with a high population density and a median age just over 40. The town is predominantly White, but also features growing diversity and around 12% of residents speaking languages other than English at home. Its balanced gender ratio and varied backgrounds contribute to a welcoming suburban atmosphere.
Population:
4,454
Density:
7,500 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.2
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
12.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
83.7%
Black:
3.2%
Asian:
4.6%
Others:
8.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Garwood, NJ?
Garwood’s cost of living is approximately 28% higher than the national average, reflecting its desirable suburban location. With a median home value of $480,000 and typical rents around $1,650 per month, residents benefit from competitive housing options compared to nearby areas. Utility and transportation costs are also above average, but the quality of life and local amenities offer great value.
Median House Value:
$480,000
Gross Rent:
$1,650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,900
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$720
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
10.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
128
Grocery:
119
Housing:
137
Utilities:
113
Transportation:
122
Health Care:
112
Miscellaneous:
110
Crime
Is Garwood, NJ a safe place to live?
Garwood boasts a very low violent crime rate of just 67 incidents per 100,000 people, making it a safe option for families and individuals alike. Property crime rates are moderate, but the overall crime index remains well below national averages. Residents can feel secure in this peaceful suburban environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
67
Property Crimes Per 100k:
955
Crime Index:
1,022
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,493
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 105
Weather
What is the weather like in Garwood, NJ year-round?
Garwood experiences all four seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 85°F and chilly winters dipping to 24°F. The area enjoys about 54% sunny days annually and receives roughly 47 inches of rainfall each year. Residents can expect a classic Northeastern climate, ideal for those who appreciate seasonal variety.
Winter
Min:
24°F
Max:
39°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
66°F
Summer
Min:
64°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Local households in Garwood enjoy a strong median income of $98,750 and a low poverty rate of just 4.2%. The community is well-educated, with nearly 95% holding at least a high school diploma and 44.5% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Commute times average 31 minutes, reflecting its convenient access to surrounding employment centers.
Median Income:
$49,500
Household Income:
$98,750
Family Income:
$112,500
Per Capita Income:
$48,200
Income Male:
$56,000
Income Female:
$47,500
Poverty Rate:
4.2%
Non English Speakers:
12.1%
Rent:
$1,650
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
9.6%
Commute Time:
31 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.6%
Bachelors or More:
44.5%
Education
How are the schools in Garwood, NJ?
Garwood offers strong educational opportunities, with Lincoln School serving as the main public institution and several private and nursery options available locally. Higher education is easily accessible, with institutions like Union College just 2 miles away and Kean University within a short drive. The town’s schools maintain favorable student-teacher ratios, supporting a quality learning environment.
Public Schools
Name:
Lincoln School
Street:
400 Second Ave
Phone:
908-789-0331
Students:
640
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5
Private Schools
Name:
Garwood Presbyterian Nursery School
Street:
341 Spruce Ave
Phone:
908-789-1067
Students:
70
Colleges
Name:
Union College of Union County, NJ
City:
Cranford
State:
NJ
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
9,000
Name:
Kean University
City:
Union
State:
NJ
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
16,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to top regional hospitals like Overlook Medical Center and Trinitas Regional Medical Center, both offering emergency and general care services. Healthcare coverage is high, with over 94% of locals insured, and there are about three physicians per 1,000 residents. This ensures comprehensive medical support close to home.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Overlook Medical Center
Address:
99 Beauvoir Ave, Summit, NJ 07901
Phone:
(908) 522-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Trinitas Regional Medical Center
Address:
225 Williamson St, Elizabeth, NJ 07202
Phone:
(908) 994-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.1%
Health Care Index:
75
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Garwood, NJ?
Garwood’s housing market is stable, featuring a median home price of $480,000 and an owner-occupancy rate above 60%. Home values have appreciated by 6.2% over the past year, reflecting steady demand. Rental options are available with average two-bedroom rents at $1,650 and a low foreclosure rate, making it accessible for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$480,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,650
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents can access all vehicle and licensing services through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, located in Trenton. The DMV offers comprehensive online and in-person resources, making it convenient to handle registrations, renewals, and licensing needs. For more information, visit their official website or call the main office.
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.