Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Wantage, NJ
Considering a move to Wantage, NJ? This peaceful rural town of about 11,300 offers affordable living with a median home price of $362,000 and average rents around $1,350. Residents enjoy very low crime rates, abundant green space, and top-rated local schools, plus a strong owner-occupied housing rate. Commute times average about 40 minutes, and the area boasts a close-knit community atmosphere with easy access to healthcare and outdoor recreation. Discover Wantage’s welcoming charm and natural beauty as you plan your next chapter.
Demographics - Wantage, NJ
Demographics - Wantage, NJ
Wantage, NJ is a small, close-knit community with a population of approximately 11,300 and a median age of 45.2, reflecting a balanced mix of families and mature residents. The town is predominantly White, with a modest level of diversity and about 8% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. With a population density of 220 people per square mile, Wantage offers a relaxed, rural atmosphere.
Population:
11,300
Density:
220 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.2
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.8%
Black:
1.5%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
3.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Wantage, NJ?
Living in Wantage is moderately affordable, with a median home value of $362,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,350. The overall cost of living index is 112.4, just slightly above the national average, mainly due to higher utilities and housing costs. Residents benefit from reasonable property taxes and essential expenses, making it an appealing choice for families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$362,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$150
Auto Insurance:
$1,630
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$775
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
10.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
112.4
Grocery:
108.9
Housing:
104.7
Utilities:
116.1
Transportation:
108.0
Health Care:
109.8
Miscellaneous:
105.3
Crime
Is Wantage, NJ a safe place to live?
Wantage boasts a low crime rate, with only 69 violent crimes and 451 property crimes per 100,000 residents, offering a high sense of safety and security. The chance of experiencing violent crime is just 1 in 1,449, making it one of the safer communities in the region. This peaceful environment is ideal for those seeking a quiet, family-friendly town.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
69
Property Crimes Per 100k:
451
Crime Index:
520
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,449
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 222
Weather
What is the weather like in Wantage, NJ year-round?
Wantage experiences all four seasons with cold winters averaging lows around 19°F and warm summers reaching highs near 83°F. The area receives about 51 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys 54% sunny days, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The climate supports both lush greenery and vibrant fall foliage, adding to the town’s scenic appeal.
Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
51.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Wantage residents enjoy a strong sense of community, with a household median income of $105,000 and a low poverty rate of 4.2%. Most adults are well-educated, with over 95% having completed high school and nearly 36% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average commute is about 40 minutes, and public transportation usage is minimal, reflecting the town’s rural character.
Median Income:
$43,000
Household Income:
$105,000
Family Income:
$115,200
Per Capita Income:
$41,800
Income Male:
$54,500
Income Female:
$46,300
Poverty Rate:
4.2%
Non English Speakers:
8.1%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
39.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
95.1%
Bachelors or More:
35.7%
Education
How are the schools in Wantage, NJ?
Families in Wantage benefit from strong educational resources, including well-rated public schools with low student-teacher ratios and access to nearby private schools. Higher education is easily accessible, with Sussex County Community College just 11 miles away and Centenary University within a 21-mile drive. The town’s commitment to education makes it a great choice for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Wantage Elementary School
Street:
815 Route 23, Wantage, NJ 07461
Phone:
973-875-4589
Students:
730
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.2
Name:
Sussex Middle School
Street:
10 Loomis Ave, Sussex, NJ 07461
Phone:
973-875-4138
Students:
425
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.0
Private Schools
Name:
Immaculate Conception School
Street:
75 Church St, Franklin, NJ 07416
Phone:
973-827-3777
Students:
210
Colleges
Name:
Sussex County Community College
City:
Newton
State:
NJ
Distance:
11 miles
Students:
2,800
Name:
Centenary University
City:
Hackettstown
State:
NJ
Distance:
21 miles
Students:
2,000
Healthcare
Healthcare options in Wantage are robust, with two major hospitals—Newton Medical Center and Saint Clare's Hospital—offering emergency services nearby. The community has a solid ratio of physicians and 94% of residents are covered by health insurance, ensuring accessible care. The local health care index of 72.8 reflects reliable medical resources for families and seniors alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Newton Medical Center
Address:
175 High St, Newton, NJ 07860
Phone:
(973) 383-2121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Saint Clare's Hospital - Sussex Campus
Address:
20 Walnut St, Sussex, NJ 07461
Phone:
(973) 702-2600
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.1%
Health Care Index:
72.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Wantage, NJ?
The Wantage housing market is stable and attractive, with a median home price of $362,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 88%. Home values have appreciated by over 4% in the past year, and rental vacancies remain low, reflecting steady demand. This market supports both homebuyers and renters seeking long-term community roots.
Median Home Price:
$362,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
88.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Wantage residents can access vehicle services through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, conveniently located in Trenton and accessible online. The DMV offers comprehensive licensing and registration services for drivers and vehicle owners. For more information or to schedule appointments, residents can visit the 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.