Welcome to Union County, New Jersey

Union County is a vibrant and diverse region in North Jersey, known for its charming suburban communities, bustling downtowns, excellent schools, expansive parks and convenient access to New York City. With a mix of historic neighborhoods, modern development, cultural institutions and transportation hubs, Union County offers a highly desirable lifestyle for commuters, families and professionals seeking both comfort and convenience.

What to Love

Union County stands out for its strong community identity, green spaces and location advantages.

Residents love:

• Easy commuting via NJ Transit rail lines, major highways and bus routes

• Beautiful parks including Watchung Reservation, Warinanco Park and Echo Lake Park

• Walkable downtowns with restaurants, boutiques and cultural venues

• Top rated schools in several municipalities

• A wide range of suburban housing options

• Proximity to Newark Liberty International Airport

• A rich blend of historic charm and modern amenities

Union County offers the perfect balance of suburban living and metropolitan access.

Local Lifestyle in Union County

Life in Union County feels friendly, connected and active. Many residents begin their day with a commute to New York City, Newark or nearby employment corridors, while others work locally at hospitals, schools, universities or corporate centers. Afternoons and weekends are often spent exploring town centers, attending community events, relaxing at parks or enjoying the county’s strong dining and cultural scene.

Each town has its own identity—from the lively energy of Elizabeth to the charming villages of Westfield, Summit and Cranford—but all share a welcoming, community oriented feel.

Suburban Metro Living

Suburban Metro Living best defines Union County’s lifestyle. Residents enjoy the quiet comfort of suburban neighborhoods while having unparalleled access to major urban centers.

Lifestyle highlights include:

• Reliable train service to NYC via the Northeast Corridor, Raritan Valley and Gladstone lines

• Spacious parks and reservation land for hiking, cycling and recreation

• Vibrant downtowns with cafés, salons, markets and family friendly festivals

• Mix of historic homes, mid century neighborhoods and new construction

• Strong local services including libraries, recreation centers and sports leagues

Union County offers suburban tranquility paired with metropolitan convenience.

Things to Do in Union County

Union County provides a diverse range of cultural, recreational and entertainment options.

Popular attractions include:

• Watchung Reservation – miles of trails, lakes, horseback riding and scenic overlooks

• Warinanco Park – ice rink, athletic fields, gardens and picnic areas

• The Union County Performing Arts Center in Rahway – shows, concerts and film

• Liberty Hall Museum in Union – historic estate and gardens

• Hyatt Hills Golf Complex – driving range and 9 hole course

• Trailside Nature & Science Center – interactive exhibits and educational programs

• Downtown Westfield – premier shopping and dining hub

Residents enjoy access to everything from nature to arts to family recreation.

Schools in Union County

Union County is home to numerous high performing schools across its many municipalities.

School advantages include:

• Public school districts in towns like Westfield, Summit, Cranford, New Providence and Scotch Plains-Fanwood consistently rank among New Jersey’s best

• Specialty academies within the Union County Vocational Technical Schools, including the nationally ranked Academy for Performing Arts, Magnet High School and Academy for Allied Health Sciences

• Access to private school options across the county and nearby regions

• Walkable neighborhoods supporting easy commutes to schools

• Strong emphasis on academics, arts, athletics and extracurriculars

Families are drawn to Union County for its exceptional educational opportunities.

History & Culture

Union County has deep roots in American history, industry and transportation. Many towns developed along early railroad corridors and retain historic architecture and preserved districts.

Cultural highlights include:

• Revolutionary War landmarks such as Battle of Short Hills sites

• Historic estates, including Liberty Hall and Reeves-Reed Arboretum

• A rich legacy of immigrant influence shaping local culture and cuisine

• Arts and music programming throughout Cranford, Rahway, Westfield and Summit

• Strong civic pride supported by festivals, parades and community organizations

Union County blends history with modern vibrancy.

Homes in Union County

Union County offers an impressive array of housing styles and environments, appealing to a wide range of buyers.

Common home types include:

• Colonial, Tudor and Victorian homes in historic districts

• Mid century Cape Cods, ranches and split levels

• Luxury estates in areas like Summit, Westfield and Mountainside

• New construction townhomes and modern single family homes

• Condos and apartments near train stations for easy commuting

• Multifamily investment properties in urban centers like Elizabeth

Homes vary from charming starter properties to expansive luxury residences.

Housing Market Trends

Union County’s real estate market is strong and competitive due to its prime commuter location and high quality amenities.

Current trends include:

• High demand for homes near train stations (“walk to train” neighborhoods)

• Competitive bidding in top school districts

• Increasing popularity of mixed use downtowns with condos and townhomes

• Strong rental market driven by proximity to NYC and major job centers

• Continued appreciation and low inventory in desirable suburbs

Union County remains one of North Jersey’s most stable and high value markets.

Popular Neighborhoods in Union County

Union County features many thriving and desirable municipalities, each with its own charm.

Notable areas include:

• Westfield – premier downtown, excellent schools and historic charm

• Summit – upscale homes, top schools and a major train hub

• Cranford – walkable downtown, river views and family friendly appeal

• Scotch Plains & Fanwood – suburban comfort with great schools and parks

• Mountainside – quiet wooded residential neighborhoods with large lots

• Union – diverse community with excellent access to major roads and the university

• Rahway – revitalized arts district and transit oriented development

• Elizabeth – urban living, historic architecture and a bustling economic center

Each area offers unique advantages depending on lifestyle and budget.

Buying or Selling in Union County

Union County’s proximity to New York City, excellent schools and strong sense of community create a competitive and rewarding real estate environment. Buyers often prioritize schools, transit access and downtown walkability, while sellers benefit from high demand and limited inventory.

Understanding micro markets, pricing dynamics and neighborhood strengths ensures successful outcomes in Union County’s diverse and fast moving market.