Apartments for Rent in Cranford and Westfield, NJ

Finding a good apartment in Cranford or Westfield, New Jersey can be exciting. These two towns offer many housing options for different budgets and needs. Both areas are known for their friendly neighborhoods, good schools, and easy access to New York City.

Why Choose Cranford?

Cranford is a charming town with a population of about 24,000 people. The downtown area has many shops, restaurants, and cafes. Residents enjoy the small-town feel while still having access to big city amenities.

The Rahway River runs through Cranford, creating beautiful parks and walking paths. Many apartments are within walking distance to the train station, making commuting to New York City simple and fast.

Apartment options in Cranford range from older buildings with character to newer developments with modern features. Prices vary based on size, location, and amenities.

Why Choose Westfield?

Westfield is known for its excellent schools and pretty downtown area. With about 30,000 residents, it's slightly larger than Cranford but still has a community feel. The town center has over 200 stores and restaurants, giving residents plenty of options.

Westfield has been named one of the best places to live in New Jersey several times. The train station offers direct service to New York City, making it popular with commuters.

Apartments in Westfield tend to be in smaller buildings or converted houses. Some newer options offer luxury features like fitness centers and outdoor spaces.

Types of Apartments Available

Both towns offer various apartment types:

Studio apartments: Perfect for singles or couples who want to save money.

One-bedroom apartments: Good for individuals or couples who want more space.

Two-bedroom apartments: Ideal for small families, roommates, or those who need a home office.

Three-bedroom apartments: Great for families or those who want extra space.

Garden apartments, high-rise buildings, and converted houses are all common housing styles in these areas.

What to Expect in Rental Prices

Rental prices in Cranford and Westfield are higher than the national average but lower than nearby New York City. Studios and one-bedroom apartments typically start around $1,500 per month. Two-bedroom units usually range from $1,800 to $2,500. Three-bedroom apartments can cost $2,500 or more.

Prices vary based on location, building age, and included amenities. Apartments near train stations or in the downtown areas often cost more due to their convenient location.

Common Amenities

Many apartments in these towns include:

Parking: Most buildings offer off-street parking, which is valuable in these busy towns.

Laundry: Either in-unit or shared facilities in the building.

Storage: Extra storage space for seasonal items.

Outdoor space: Some units have balconies, patios, or shared courtyards.

Newer buildings might also have fitness centers, package receiving services, and community rooms.

Transportation Options

Both Cranford and Westfield have NJ Transit train stations on the Raritan Valley Line. Trains run to Newark and New York City regularly. The trip to New York Penn Station takes about 45-60 minutes.

Bus service is also available in both towns. Major highways like the Garden State Parkway and Route 22 are easily accessible, making car travel simple.

Schools and Education

Both towns are known for excellent public schools. Westfield High School and Cranford High School both rank among the top schools in New Jersey.

For families with children, living in these towns provides access to quality education from elementary through high school.

Parks and Recreation

Cranford has several parks along the Rahway River, including Nomahegan Park and Cranford Canoe Club.

Westfield features Mindowaskin Park in the center of town and Tamaques Park with sports fields and walking paths.

Both towns have community pools, tennis courts, and recreation programs for residents of all ages.

Shopping and Dining

Downtown Cranford and Westfield both offer many shopping and dining options. From casual cafes to fine dining restaurants, there's something for every taste.

Westfield's downtown is larger, with national retailers and local boutiques. Cranford has a growing food scene with popular restaurants and coffee shops.

Finding Your Perfect Apartment

When looking for an apartment in these towns, start your search early. Good units rent quickly, especially those near train stations.

Consider what matters most to you: location, size, price, or amenities. Being clear about your needs will help narrow down your options.

Visit apartments in person whenever possible. This gives you a better feel for the space and neighborhood than photos alone.

Application Process

Most landlords in Cranford and Westfield require:

Proof of income (usually 3x the monthly rent)

Credit check

References from previous landlords

Security deposit (typically 1.5 month's rent)

Having these items ready when you find an apartment you like will speed up the application process.

Living in Cranford vs. Westfield: What's the Difference?

While these towns are neighbors with many similarities, they have different feels. Cranford is slightly more affordable and has a casual, relaxed atmosphere. Westfield tends to be more upscale with higher average home values.

Both towns host community events throughout the year, from summer concerts to holiday celebrations. These events help create the strong community spirit both towns are known for.

Best Time to Look for Apartments

The rental market in both towns is busiest in summer months when families want to move before the school year starts. Looking in fall or winter might give you more options and possibly better prices.

Many leases in these towns run for 12 months, though some landlords offer shorter or longer terms.

Why Residents Love These Towns

People who live in Cranford and Westfield often mention the strong sense of community, walkable downtowns, and good balance of urban and suburban living. The towns offer enough amenities to feel convenient while still maintaining a peaceful setting.

Both places are great for singles, couples, and families looking for a friendly community with good access to New York City and the rest of New Jersey.