Clifton, NJ
Why You’ll Love Living in Clifton, New Jersey
Clifton, New Jersey, boasts a culturally diverse community of close-knit neighbors that is reflected in the city’s thriving restaurants, vibrant arts scene and bustling roster of festivals. Clifton also is praised for its family-friendly atmosphere, charming neighborhoods and exceptional schools. Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty of parks, trails and gardens to explore. Clifton is a place where young professionals can find satisfying careers in both startups and established companies in manufacturing, health care and retail industries. Plus, it’s an easy commute to the Big Apple!
Thinking of moving to Clifton, NJ? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Clifton, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Clifton, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Clifton, NJ, a Best Place to Live in 2024
As a suburb of New York City, Clifton, NJ, of course, attracts residents who commute to the Big Apple. However, the city of nearly 90,000 has its own noteworthy amenities. Those include 39 parks with all kinds of courts, fields and playgrounds — even bocce ball and shuffleboard courts.
Clifton has secured a spot as one of the best places to live in the U.S. for its educational offerings, too. Several top-notch schools, both public and private, make it an excellent place for families to put down roots. Furthermore, the city hosts various annual events and festivals that parents and kids love. The city is diverse, too, so everyone feels welcome.
The arts and culture scene is alive in Clifton, with the Clifton Arts Center offering art exhibits and outreach programs and the historic Hamilton House Museum providing a glimpse of the past. Then, there’s the legendary Brighton Asylum, a haunted asylum complex that has gained national notoriety — so beware!
In addition, Clifton’s economy is healthy, with manufacturing, health care and retail being the most prominent industries. Fans of “The Sopranos” know that Clifton was used as a filming location, but its crime rates are well below the national average. In other words, it is a safe place to live, work and play.
Clifton, NJ Quality of Life LivScore
Clifton, NJ Top Categories
Amenities
Economy
Education
Clifton ranks highest for amenities, economy and education.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Clifton, NJ
Clifton is cloudy (pensive, like most of the Northeast) for a large portion of the year, with snowy winters and mild summers. The average highs and lows are 83°F and 62°F (summer) and 41°F and 23°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Clifton is around 31 inches, and snow is often the heaviest from December to February.
The average annual rainfall in Clifton is around 49 inches, and July is the month that averages the wettest days.
Clifton averages 205 sunny days a year.
The awe-inspiring Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park is located about 10 minutes outside Clifton. Take in some breathtaking scenes and hike around for a quick getaway from the city.
Things To Do in Clifton, NJ
Stroll outside the Clifton Arts Center, and you’ll happen upon Sculpture Park, which features 30 unique sculptures. Free to visitors, you can come to see these masterpieces from dawn until dusk every day.
Explore Weasel Brook Park, a 19-acre park with plenty of meadows, winding paths and, of course, a large play structure for the littles.
Clifton is considered one of the region’s most diverse places to live, and that diversity extends to its food scene. From local ethnic eateries to family-owned restaurants, you can find everything from European bakeries to Latin American and Middle Eastern cuisine tucked away in this pocket of New Jersey.
Locals often frequent the Main Avenue district, a popular spot featuring a mix of small businesses, local boutiques and specialty shops.
Grab casual fare at Rutt’s Hut. This Clifton institution is a beloved walk-up hotdog stand that has served fried dogs since 1928.
Clifton’s convenient location gives residents access to a wealth of music and performing arts. The historic Wellmont Theater, in nearby Montclair, hosts comedy and musical acts. Plus, in nearby New York City, residents can take in everything from a Broadway show to indie bands in underground venues and even an epic performance at Madison Square Garden.
With rankings for the best sports bar in New Jersey and the best wings, you can’t really go wrong stopping by Sharky’s for an after-work brew.
The Local and State Economy in Clifton, NJ
Health care, retail and manufacturing are the three key industries in Clifton. Some of the major employers include St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, Clifton Public Schools and QuickChek.
In 2024, the sales tax rate in Clifton is 6.625%.
Yes, New Jersey has a state income tax.
Several health care providers are in Clifton, including St. Joseph’s University Medical Center and the Clifton Health Center. St. Mary’s General Hospital is in nearby Passaic, NJ.
Although there aren’t any major colleges or universities in Clifton, several higher education institutions are within driving distance.
Weather in Clifton, NJ
Average Temperatures
63 high / 43 low
Average Annual Rainfall
49 in
Average Annual Snowfall
31 in
Quick Facts about Clifton, New Jersey
- Median Home Value
- $402,133
- Median Property Tax
- $3,335
- Total Population
- 87,460
- Average Commute
- 23 min
- Median Household Income
- $98,279
- Median Monthly Rent
- $1,266
Map of Clifton, NJ
Clifton, NJ: Where to Live Now
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