Cost of Living in West Orange
Summary: If you are thinking about moving to West Orange, here is an overview of the cost of living there.
West Orange, is a suburban township in Essex County, known for its diverse community and proximity to New York City. The cost of living in West Orange is generally higher than the national average, reflecting the overall cost of living in the Northeastern United States, particularly in areas within commuting distance to NYC. Housing costs in West Orange vary depending on the neighborhood, property size, and amenities.
As of my knowledge cutoff in early 2023, the median home price in West Orange for a 3-bedroom home is roughly between $400,000 and $500,000, while a 4-bedroom home may range from $500,000 to $700,000 or more, depending on the location and condition of the property. These prices can fluctuate based on market conditions and specific neighborhood characteristics. For those interested in renting, a 1-bedroom apartment might cost between $1,500 and $2,000 per month, while a 3-bedroom apartment could range from $2,500 to $3,500 per month. Apartment purchases vary widely, with condos and townhomes starting in the $200,000s and going up to $500,000 or more for luxury units with more space and amenities.
When it comes to dining out, West Orange offers a variety of restaurants ranging from casual eateries to upscale dining experiences. A typical meal at an inexpensive restaurant might cost around $15 to $25 per person, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant could be between $50 and $75 per person, excluding drinks and gratuity. Utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, for a standard 85m² apartment, can range from $150 to $250 per month, depending on usage and the time of year.
Private school tuition in West Orange varies widely based on the institution and the level of education. Preschool costs can range from $10,000 to $20,000 per year. Elementary and middle schools might charge between $15,000 and $30,000 annually, while private high schools can cost upwards of $20,000 to $40,000 per year. These figures are approximate and can vary significantly based on the school's reputation, facilities, and the specific programs they offer.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| 3-Bedroom Home Purchase | $400,000 - $500,000 |
| 4-Bedroom Home Purchase | $500,000 - $700,000+ |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment Rental | $1,500 - $2,000/month |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment Rental | $2,500 - $3,500/month |
| Apartment Purchase | $200,000 - $500,000+ |
| Inexpensive Restaurant Meal | $15 - $25/person |
| Mid-Range Restaurant 3-Course Meal | $50 - $75/person |
| Monthly Utilities | $150 - $250 |
| Private Preschool Tuition | $10,000 - $20,000/year |
| Private Elementary/Middle School Tuition | $15,000 - $30,000/year |
| Private High School Tuition | $20,000 - $40,000/year |
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of BlueBurbia and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and BlueBurbia, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
New Jersey Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in New Jersey on our New Jersey forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
Contribute
Help others in New Jersey by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in New Jersey.
