Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Orange, NJ
Considering a move to South Orange, NJ? This vibrant community of 17,103 residents boasts top-rated schools, a highly educated population, and easy access to NYC via public transit. While the median home price is $671,000 and average rent for a 2-bedroom is $2,000, you'll find a charming neighborhood with low violent crime (98 per 100K) and a strong local economy. With 73.8% of adults holding bachelor’s degrees or higher, great healthcare options, and four-season weather, South Orange is ideal for families and professionals seeking suburban comfort just outside the city.
Demographics - South Orange, NJ
Demographics - South Orange, NJ
South Orange is home to approximately 17,100 residents with a median age of 36.4, reflecting a diverse and youthful population. The community features a balanced gender ratio and notable diversity, with significant White and Black populations and 11.5% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. High population density creates a vibrant, walkable suburban atmosphere.
Population:
17,103
Density:
6,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.4
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
11.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
62.0%
Black:
27.5%
Asian:
4.8%
Others:
5.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South Orange, NJ?
The cost of living in South Orange is notably higher than the national average, with a median home value of $671,000 and average rent around $2,000. Everyday expenses such as utilities, groceries, and healthcare are also above average, making this area ideal for those with higher incomes or established careers. State income tax rates range from 1.4% to 10.75%, further impacting overall affordability.
Median House Value:
$671,000
Gross Rent:
$2,000
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,780
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,450
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,200
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
10.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
146.0
Grocery:
126.0
Housing:
185.0
Utilities:
111.0
Transportation:
132.0
Health Care:
116.0
Miscellaneous:
112.0
Crime
Is South Orange, NJ a safe place to live?
South Orange maintains a relatively low violent crime rate of 98 incidents per 100,000 residents, contributing to a strong sense of safety. The chance of experiencing property crime is about 1 in 79, which is moderate for suburban communities. Overall, residents enjoy a secure environment, especially compared to larger urban areas.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
98
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,265
Crime Index:
1,363
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,020
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 79
Weather
What is the weather like in South Orange, NJ year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 26°F and warm summers reaching highs around 85°F. The area receives about 50.8 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine 54% of the year. This climate supports a variety of outdoor activities year-round.

Winter
Min:
26°F
Max:
38°F

Spring
Min:
46°F
Max:
67°F

Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
50.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
The neighborhood is affluent, with a median household income of $163,000 and a low poverty rate of 6.8%. Nearly 74% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and almost a third of residents commute via public transportation, reflecting the area's educated and professionally oriented community. Commute times average about 38 minutes, supporting easy access to nearby employment hubs.
Median Income:
$61,000
Household Income:
$163,000
Family Income:
$184,500
Per Capita Income:
$65,000
Income Male:
$74,000
Income Female:
$60,000
Poverty Rate:
6.8%
Non English Speakers:
11.5%
Rent:
$2,000
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
29.2%
Commute Time:
38.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
97.3%
Bachelors or More:
73.8%
Education
How are the schools in South Orange, NJ?
South Orange boasts highly regarded public and private schools, featuring low student-to-teacher ratios and strong academic performance. The presence of Seton Hall University within the city adds to the educational opportunities, offering a vibrant college-town atmosphere. With 73.8% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, the area is ideal for families prioritizing education.

Public Schools
Name:
South Orange Middle School
Street:
70 N Ridgewood Rd
Phone:
973-378-2772
Students:
780
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.8
Name:
Marshall Elementary School
Street:
262 Grove Rd
Phone:
973-378-7698
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.0

Private Schools
Name:
Our Lady of Sorrows School
Street:
172 Academy St
Phone:
973-762-5169
Students:
220

Colleges
Name:
Seton Hall University
City:
South Orange
State:
NJ
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
9,800
Name:
Kean University
City:
Union
State:
NJ
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
14,000
Healthcare
Healthcare in South Orange is robust, with major hospitals like Saint Barnabas Medical Center and East Orange General Hospital nearby. The community benefits from high health insurance coverage rates at 94.6% and an above-average number of physicians per capita. Residents have convenient access to both general and emergency medical services.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Saint Barnabas Medical Center
Address:
94 Old Short Hills Rd, Livingston, NJ 07039
Phone:
(973) 322-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
East Orange General Hospital
Address:
300 Central Ave, East Orange, NJ 07018
Phone:
(973) 672-8400
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.6%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South Orange, NJ?
The housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $671,000 and owner-occupied homes making up over 70% of the market. Rental options are available, with a 2-bedroom averaging $2,000 per month and a low rental vacancy rate of 4.7%. Home values have appreciated by 7.1% over the past year, making South Orange attractive for both buyers and investors.
Median Home Price:
$671,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,000
Owner Occupied Rate:
71.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
South Orange residents are served by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, located in Trenton, with comprehensive services available online and by phone. The DMV provides essential services such as licensing, registration, and title transfers. Access to state motor vehicle resources is straightforward for new and existing residents.
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.