Montclair and Upper Montclair are located about 15 miles west of New York City in Essex County, making it a most advantageous locale for commuters. With a population of about 39,000 people, Montclair is an established community with a decidedly artistic side. Several galleries, a renowned art museum, eclectic restaurants and theatrical events enhance life here.

In recent years, Montclair has gained a reputation for embracing involved residents who take an active part in their community. From Wall Street bankers to artists and entertainers, people from all walks of life are drawn to the township. Century-old Victorians and well-tended homes from the mid-century are enhanced by several shopping districts, giving neighborhoods a small-town feel. All age groups will find their niche in this diverse, lively and welcoming town.

Community Life

Whether you get your news from the Internet or prefer a newspaper, Montclair has every aspect of local life covered. The Montclair Times, several websites exclusively focused on Montclair, and even a radio station broadcasting from Montclair State University keep residents well informed.

The township maintains over 150 acres of land in 18 parks, while an additional 123 acres are found in county parks. Other recreational amenities include two indoor and two outdoor skating rinks, three public swimming pools and 18 public tennis courts.

Several distinct shopping areas in Montclair include chain stores like Williams-Sonoma, the Gap and Starbucks, but the majority of the stores are privately owned and operated, adding to the area's charm and uniqueness. A plethora of restaurants representing cuisine from around the world can be found in Montclair.

Education

With seven public elementary schools, three middle schools and a high school, Montclair serves thousands of students in kindergarten through grade 12. Elementary schools are Bradford, Edgemont, Hillside, Nishuane, Northeast, Rand, Charles H. Bullock and Watchung. The three middle schools are Glenfield, Mount Hebron and Renaissance. Montclair High School on Chestnut Street covers grades 9-12.

There are a number of private and parochial schools in town including Montclair Kimberley Academy, Lacordaire Academy, Immaculate Conception High School, Saint Cassian's School, Virginia Harkness Sawtelle Learning, Maria Montessori Early Learning, Montclair Cooperative School, Trinity Academy and Deron School II.

The campus of Montclair State University is situated in both Montclair and Upper Montclair.

Transportation

New Jersey Transit's Montclair-Boonton line operates seven train stations in and around Montclair for service to Hoboken or New York City eastbound, and Hackettstown to the west. Bay Street, Walnut Street, Watchung Avenue, Upper Montclair, Mountain Avenue and Montclair Heights are located in Montclair, and the Montclair State University station is in the Great Notch area of Little Falls. There is also bus service to Manhattan and local destinations by DeCamp Bus Lines and New Jersey Transit.

A network of local highways includes the Garden State Parkway and Routes 46 and 3. Montclair is about a half hour drive from Newark Liberty International Airport.

Real Estate

There are certain parts of town that have skyline views of Manhattan since Montclair is situated on the first ridge of the Watchung Mountain range. The township has a full spectrum of housing in every size, architectural style and price range. Historic mansions on large parcels of land are a reminder of a more gracious time period. Condominium complexes, garden apartments and sleek new rental properties abound within Montclair's borders, many in pedestrian-friendly village settings near shops, restaurants and public transportation. There are countless styles of single-family homes on quiet or bustling streets throughout the township, and owners take great pride in their homes and gardens.

Local Attractions

A vibrant cultural life appeals to many Montclair residents who take advantage of its vast artistic, theatrical and cultural offerings. The Montclair Art Museum features constantly-changing exhibitions as well as permanent collections from the 1800s to today. Two movie theaters include the Bellevue Cinema in Upper Montclair for the latest releases and the Clairidge Cinema on Bloomfield Avenue which showcases mainly independent films and documentaries. Live musical performances from some of today's most-recognized bands regularly appear at the Wellmont Theater. Outpost in the Burbs and Trumpets Jazz Club are also known for their eclectic acts. Performances on the stages of the Studio Playhouse, Montclair State University's Kasser Theater and Life Hall theater, and the Montclair Operetta Company are options for the lively arts. In the summer, free concerts take place at an outdoor stage in downtown Montclair at the corner of Bloomfield Avenue and Church Street. One of the most famous botanical attractions in the state is located at the Presby Memorial Iris Gardens on Upper Mountain Avenue, where colorful blooms burst on the scene from mid-May to early June.