Before moving to Morristown, NJ, it’s important to get a clear picture of what living there is actually like. So, we’ll provide you with a quick overview—from housing costs and job market trends to the best neighborhoods!
Although the cost of living is higher than the national average, especially for housing, the area offers strong job opportunities, great schools, and a convenient commute to New York City.
Cost of Living in Morristown, NJ
Living in Morristown comes with higher costs, especially in housing, which is about 24% more expensive than the national average. Utilities balance out since they are in line with the national norm. Food costs are higher, while healthcare and transportation are more affordable.
Compared to other parts of New Jersey, housing is slightly cheaper here, but overall, living expenses still run higher than in many other places across the country.
Housing Costs
The average Morristown, NJ home value is $831,901, while the property tax rate is relatively high compared to national averages, averaging about 2.0% of the property value.
Renting isn’t cheap either, with the average rent at around $3,143 a month, depending on the location and amenities.
Utility Costs
Utility costs are about 10% lower than the state average.
- Energy: $199.01
- Phone: $187.17
Food Prices
For a single person, the daily recommended minimum amount for food is about $17.33, roughly $537.16 monthly if you’re budgeting for groceries. Here’s what you can expect to pay for common food items:
- Milk (1 gallon): $4.71
- Loaf of fresh white bread (500g): $4.13
- Eggs (dozen): $4.00
- Local cheese (1kg): $5.09
- Chicken fillets (1kg): $6.61
- Beef round (1kg): $14.38
- Potatoes (1kg): $5.31
- Apples (1kg): Prices may vary, generally around $7.35
- Bananas (1kg): $0.66
- Oranges (1kg): Generally around $5.33
- Tomatoes (1kg): Approximately $11.57
- Lettuce (1 head): $1.88
Healthcare Costs
Healthcare costs in Morristown are 3% higher compared to other areas. A visit to the doctor can cost around $129.41, seeing a dentist is about $124.43, and going to the eye doctor costs around $104.71.
Transportation Costs
The average monthly cost of transportation, including public transit and gas, is about $264.40.
Job Market and Employment Opportunities
When weighing the pros and cons of living in Morristown, you should know there are lots of jobs in healthcare, technology, and finance. Plus, it’s close to New York City, which is a big perk.
A lot of people in Morristown take the train to work in NYC, giving them even more job options and a chance to earn good money.
But there are a few things to consider. The commute to New York takes around 60 minutes, which might feel too long for some. Also, while there are plenty of jobs, getting the top ones can be competitive.
Therefore, moving to Morristown might be a good choice because of the local jobs and easy train connection to NYC.
What is a Livable Salary in Morristown?
A good salary should allow you to meet your basic needs, cover housing costs, and provide some financial flexibility to live comfortably in Morristown, NJ. Given that the median household income in Morristown is around $113,926, a salary at or above this level is advisable for a sustainable lifestyle.
Consider the 28% rule for housing affordability, suggesting that your monthly housing costs—rent or mortgage—should not exceed 28% of your gross income. This principle, combined with the 50-30-20 rule for budgeting, indicates that half of your net income should cover essential needs while a portion goes towards discretionary spending and savings.
Education and Schools
Is Morristown a good place to live with a family? Absolutely! Especially when it comes to education. Morristown has highly-rated public schools, including Morristown High School, which offers many after-school activities. There are also top-notch elementary and middle schools, making it a great fit for families with children of all ages.
If you are looking for private options, you will find great private schools, such as the Delbarton School and The Peck School, offering personalized and specialized programs.
Higher Education
Nearby colleges like the College of Saint Elizabeth and Drew University offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. For those looking for more college options, Fairleigh Dickinson University and Seton Hall University are both within commuting distance and offer a variety of degrees and continuing education courses.
What does higher education cost in NJ?
Tuition in New Jersey varies a lot depending on where you go. Public universities usually start around $13,000 yearly, while private schools can go as high as $60,000 or more. And don’t forget about other costs like housing, books, and living expenses that add to the overall price of attending college.
Child Care
Child care in Morristown can be a considerable expense, with center-based daycare in New Jersey typically costing between $300 and $500 per week. This price range often varies based on the location, age of the child, and the specific services provided by the daycare centers.
In addition to the weekly fees, parents may encounter additional costs such as registration fees or deposits when enrolling their children.
Weather and Climate
When relocating to Morristown, prepare for a seasonal climate—cold winters and mild summers. Winters can get pretty chilly, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and sometimes bringing snow. In contrast, summers are nice, typically hitting the mid-80s°F (around 29°C), perfect for outdoor activities.
Entertainment and Amenities
If you love art or history, this town has a lot to offer, which are some of the benefits of living in Morristown. If you’re an art lover, visit the Morris Museum to explore all kinds of exhibits.
Check out historic sites like Morristown National Historical Park to learn about the area’s role in the American Revolution. Loantaka Brook Reservation is a great spot for families; you’ll love the walking trails, picnic areas, and sports activities! Many local events are free to attend.
Events
Some great things about Morristown include popular events like the Morristown Festival of Books and the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which brings neighbors together to celebrate culture and friendship.
The nightlife scene offers something for everyone, from fun places to catch live music to theaters featuring local artists. Whether you’re looking for a fun night with friends or a family day out, you’ll find a bunch of local festivals and events happening throughout the year.
Many local events are free to attend. However, some might charge a small admission fee, usually between $5 and $15.
- Concerts and shows: Tickets for concerts or shows at venues like the Mayo Performing Arts Center can range from $30 to $100, depending on the artist and seating choice.
- Community Events: Events hosted by local organizations may have minimal fees, often between $10 and $25 for activities like workshops or classes.
Dining
If you’re in the mood for comfort food, check out The Committed Pig, known for its delicious pancakes and creative sandwiches. If Italian is more your style, Pasta Pesto serves some of the best homemade pasta and classic dishes around. And for fans of Asian cuisine, Sushi Lounge offers incredibly fresh sushi that’s hard to resist!
Expect to pay about $15 to $25 per person for a meal at casual restaurants like these, but fine dining may charge $30 to $70 per person for a meal, not including drinks. Cocktails at local bars can range from $8 to $15, while a glass of wine typically costs between $7 and $15.
Transportation and Commute
Getting around Morristown is pretty easy because of its good public transit system. The Morristown Train Station offers direct train services to New York City, and the ride usually takes about an hour.
Besides the trains, several local bus routes cover the area well, making it simple to reach nearby neighborhoods, shopping centers, and parks. If you prefer to drive, the roads are generally well-kept, with easy access to major highways like Route 287 and Interstate 80.
Additionally, local initiatives have been put in place to improve bike lanes and pedestrian pathways, encouraging environmentally friendly transportation options. So, whether taking the train, catching a bus, or driving your car, getting around and commuting to NYC is straightforward and efficient.
Cost of Transportation
For those commuting to New York City via the Morristown Train Station, a one-way ticket typically costs around $10 to $15, depending on the time of day and destination. Monthly commuter passes, generally ranging from $250 to $300, can save regular riders money.
For local travel, NJ Transit bus fares are affordable. A one-way trip costs between $1.60 and $3.50, depending on the distance traveled. Gas prices in Morristown hover around the national average. If you prefer rideshare options like Uber or Lyft, expect to pay approximately $15 to $25 for a trip within the town, while longer rides to NYC may cost $50 or more, depending on traffic.
Neighborhoods in Morristown
If you like being in the middle of things, the Downtown area is the place to be. It’s lively, with lots of shops, restaurants, and activities happening all around.
On the West Side, you’ll find a more suburban atmosphere. It’s quieter, with nice parks and friendly streets, making it a great spot for families. The houses here are often bigger and come in different styles, from classic Colonials to modern homes.
Check out the South Street area if you’re looking for a peaceful place. It has a cozy feel, with plenty of green spaces and a tight-knit community. The area has a mix of single-family homes and townhouses.
Here’s a closer look at some neighborhoods so you can pick the one that feels right for you:
- Convent Station: $750,000, a great spot for families, with spacious homes and easy access to trains.
- Cedar Knolls: $550,000, lots of parks for kids to play.
- New Vernon: $1.5 million, larger homes, and a luxurious lifestyle.
- Green Village: $600,000, a mix of older and newer homes.
- Budd Lake: $400,000, with a lake for swimming and fishing.
- Lake Telemark: $350,000, lakefront views.
- White Meadow Lake: $375,000, with easy access to the lake for kayaking and fishing.
Ready to Relocate to Morristown, NJ?
Deciding to move is a big step, and Morristown has a lot to offer if you’re considering it. From the cost of living and neighborhoods to job opportunities, schools, and local events, there are plenty of factors to consider to ensure it’s the right fit for you and your family.
Take the time to explore and check out the detailed guides linked throughout this post for more insights into what life in Morristown is really like. If you’re ready to make the move or just want to learn more, reach out to Monroe Moving Pro for assistance with your moving needs!