Considering a move or investment in Essex County, New Jersey? Both Short Hills and Millburn offer distinctive suburban charm, attractive amenities, and access to New York City. This detailed comparison delves into everything from commute convenience and housing styles to schools and community vibe, empowering you to make the best decision for your family or portfolio in 2025.
Introduction to Short Hills NJ and Millburn NJ
Short Hills and Millburn are neighboring communities nestled within Essex County, known for their affluent residential areas and strong sense of community. Short Hills is an unincorporated community within Millburn Township and often recognized for its upscale estates and exclusive neighborhoods. Millburn, the larger township, blends suburban living with vibrant commercial areas and cultural attractions.
Both towns benefit from exceptional municipal services and a reputation as top-tier locations for families, professionals, and investors seeking suburban luxury near NYC. Their proximity to major transportation corridors and emphasis on education and lifestyle amenities make them highly sought after throughout New Jersey.
Location and Proximity
Located approximately 20 miles west of Manhattan, both Short Hills and Millburn boast excellent proximity to New York City, appealing to daily commuters and weekend travelers alike. Short Hills is slightly closer to the Garden State Parkway, offering convenient highway access for drivers, while Millburn provides additional routes via local roads.
Commute and Transportation Options
- NJ Transit Train: Both Short Hills and Millburn stations are served by NJ Transit’s Morris & Essex Line, providing quick access to NYC’s Penn Station. Typical commute times range between 30 to 40 minutes, with direct trains and frequent service during peak hours. Public Transportation: Beyond trains, regional bus lines connect residents to neighboring towns and shopping centers. Accessibility: Short Hills benefits from nearby interstates and park-and-ride facilities that support flexible commuting options.
These transportation assets underscore why both towns attract professionals seeking balanced suburban living combined with straightforward urban connectivity.
Demographics and Community Profile
Short Hills and Millburn both maintain populations around 14,000 to 20,000 residents, characterized primarily by affluent families and professionals. The communities emphasize safety, stability, and a family-friendly environment.
Lifestyle and Atmosphere
- Short Hills: Exhibits a tranquil, upscale feel marked by sprawling properties, manicured landscapes, and a quieter suburban character perfect for those valuing privacy and exclusivity. Millburn: Offers a livelier, diverse atmosphere with bustling downtown shopping districts, cultural venues, and regular community events fostering neighborly interaction.
Both towns prioritize walkability in their downtown areas, parks, and recreation spaces, supporting active lifestyles and social engagement.
Housing and Real Estate Market
The real estate markets in Short Hills and Millburn stand out for their variety and luxury offerings, though there are subtle distinctions between them.
Architectural Styles and Development
- Short Hills: Home styles mostly feature traditional and colonial designs, large estates, and historic mansions. Recent years have seen selective modern developments emphasizing spacious lots and privacy. Millburn: Combines classic suburban homes with newer single-family residences and some modern townhouses, balancing older charm with contemporary construction.
Prices in Short Hills tend to be higher on average due to the size and exclusivity of properties, often commanding multi-million dollar listings. Millburn offers more affordable gutter king near me options while still maintaining an upscale market appealing to families and first-time luxury buyers.
Investment Potential
Both neighborhoods demonstrate stable appreciation trends, supported by high demand and limited land availability. Rental properties, especially in Millburn, cater to professionals and families unable or preferring not to buy immediately.
Education and Schools
Education stands as a major draw for families choosing between these two towns.
- Short Hills: Falls under the Millburn Township School District, known for exceptional public schools consistently ranked among the best in New Jersey. Millburn: Shares the same school district, featuring highly rated elementary, middle, and Millburn High School, with accolades for academic performance, extracurricular opportunities, and college readiness. Private Schools: Both communities host a range of reputable private and parochial schools, offering alternative educational paths.
The district’s strong reputation significantly boosts the appeal of both neighborhoods for parents prioritizing quality education.
Amenities and Local Attractions
Both Short Hills and Millburn provide rich local experiences and convenient amenities for residents.
Parks and Recreation
- South Mountain Reservation nearby offers extensive trails, picnic areas, and nature programs accessible to residents of both towns. Millburn features numerous small parks and playgrounds scattered throughout the township, encouraging outdoor activity for all ages.
Dining and Shopping Options
- Short Hills: Anchored by The Mall at Short Hills, a premier luxury shopping destination featuring designer boutiques and upscale dining. Millburn: Boasts a charming downtown with independently owned shops, art galleries, cafes, and varied restaurants, creating a vibrant town center atmosphere.
Seasonal farmers markets, community festivals, and cultural events enhance the vibrant lifestyle and foster community ties.
Cost of Living and Taxes
Both towns register high property taxes typical for Essex County but offer corresponding municipal services and quality infrastructure.
- Property taxes in Short Hills generally surpass those in Millburn due to the higher assessed home values. Utility costs and general living expenses align closely between the two, influenced by similar local providers and service fees.
While the cost of living is considerable compared to other New Jersey areas, many residents find value in the quality of life, education, and access to NYC these towns provide.
Safety and Crime Rates
Short Hills and Millburn maintain commendable safety records with low crime rates relative to national and state averages.
- Active community watch programs, responsive local police departments, and neighborhood vigilance contribute to overall security. Both towns rank consistently high in residents’ perceptions of safety, an important factor for families and retirees alike.
These factors reinforce their status as desirable, secure suburbs within Essex County.
Final Comparison Summary and Decision Factors
Feature Short Hills Millburn Proximity to NYC Slightly better highway access Convenient train and road access Commute Time 30-35 mins via NJ Transit 30-40 mins via NJ Transit Population ~14,000 ~20,000 Housing Price Range $1M to $5M+ (luxury estates) $700K to $2M (mix of styles) School Rating Top-ranked public schools Same excellent school district Amenities Luxury mall, quiet neighborhoods Lively downtown, cultural hubs Safety Very low crime rate Very low crime rate Property Taxes Higher (reflecting home values) Slightly lowerChoosing between Short Hills and Millburn ultimately depends on your lifestyle preferences:
- Opt for Short Hills if you prioritize privacy, larger estates, and proximity to luxury shopping. Select Millburn for a vibrant, walkable downtown atmosphere with more varied housing and lively community events.
Both communities excel in education, commute convenience, and safety, making either a smart choice for affluent families and professionals relocating to Essex County.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for families: Short Hills or Millburn?
Both towns are excellent for families with outstanding schools and safe neighborhoods; Millburn may gutter services nj edge out for those wanting a more active downtown area, while Short Hills appeals to those desiring seclusion.
How do housing prices compare between Short Hills and Millburn?
Short Hills homes typically command higher prices due to larger lot sizes and luxury estates, whereas Millburn offers more diverse pricing with new jersey gutters a broader range of home styles.
What are the school options in Short Hills vs Millburn?
Both fall under the highly rated Millburn Township School District, featuring top public schools and several private options nearby.
How long is the commute to NYC from each town?
Average train commutes range from 30 to 40 gutter replacement new jersey minutes, with Short Hills slightly advantaged by proximity to expressway access.
Are there luxury homes available in both towns?
Yes, Short Hills boasts more expansive luxury estates, but Millburn also has upscale homes and newer constructions that appeal to higher-end buyers.
What amenities and recreational opportunities exist in these neighborhoods?
From upscale shopping malls and boutique downtowns to scenic parks and cultural institutions, both towns offer extensive amenities tailored to diverse lifestyles.
How safe are Short Hills and Millburn compared to other Essex County towns?
Both are among the safest communities in the county, benefiting from proactive law enforcement and engaged residents.
What is the tax rate difference between Short Hills and Millburn?
Property tax rates are comparable, but due to valuation differences, Short Hills homeowners tend to pay more annually.
Whether you choose the exclusive tranquility of Short Hills or the dynamic charm of Millburn, both neighborhoods promise a superb blend of comfort, education, and convenience. Explore local listings today and experience firsthand what makes these Essex County towns standout choices for 2025 and beyond.