Why Clifton, NJ?
Clifton is Passaic County's largest city at 90,000 residents with distinct neighborhoods each having their own character — Allwood, Richfield, Styertowne, Delawanna, and Athenia. Main Avenue is the commercial spine. At $500K with excellent highway access (Routes 3, 46, and the GSP), Clifton offers diverse, affordable living with strong appreciation.
Clifton Real Estate Market in 2026
Clifton homes sell in 22 days at a $500K median. Wide range of housing from $350K condos to $800K colonials. Each neighborhood has its own market dynamics.
Best Neighborhoods in Clifton
4 distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and price range
Allwood
$500,000 to $700,000Upper-middle-class section. Larger colonials and split-levels. Best schools.
Richfield / Styertowne
$425,000 to $575,000Mixed residential and commercial. Diverse community.
Delawanna
$450,000 to $600,000Near Passaic River. Established neighborhoods.
Main Avenue
$375,000 to $500,000Commercial corridor with diverse dining and shopping.
Commuting from Clifton to NYC
Source: NJ Transit schedules, June 2026. Peak hour commute times.
Walkability and Livability in Clifton
How easy is it to live car-free or car-light in Clifton?
Clifton Schools and Ratings
Clifton Public Schools serves approximately 11,000 students. Clifton High School (the Mustangs) is one of the largest in NJ.
Source: NCES CCD 2023 to 2024, NJDOE NJSLA 2024 to 2025
School #9
School #16
School #2
Classical Academy Charter School of Clifton
School #5
Woodrow Wilson Middle School
School #14
Christopher Columbus Middle School
Clifton vs Neighboring Towns: Cost Comparison
| City | Median Price | Tax Rate | Annual Tax | NYC Commute |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clifton | $500,000 | 2.78% | $9,456 | 30 min |
| Passaic | $420,000 | 3.12% | $7,234 | 30 min |
| Little Falls | $520,000 | 2.45% | $10,567 | 35 min |
Where to Eat in Clifton
Main Avenue
One of the most diverse dining corridors in Passaic County. Turkish, Italian, Latin American, and Asian restaurants. Rutt's Hut (legendary deep-fried hot dogs since 1928).
Parks and Recreation in Clifton
Garret Mountain Reservation
568 acres at Clifton's border with hiking, Lambert Castle, and Manhattan views.
Weasel Brook Park
Linear park with walking paths.
New Development and Growth in Clifton
Main Avenue Improvements
Commercial corridor enhancements.
History of Clifton, NJ
Incorporated in 1917 from Acquackanonk Township.
Rutt's Hut has served deep-fried hot dogs (rippers) since 1928 — a NJ culinary landmark.
Clifton's diverse neighborhoods each developed distinct identities from different immigrant waves.
Safety in Clifton
Clifton is a generally safe community with crime rates below state averages.
Notable Residents
Annual Events and Festivals
Frequently Asked Questions About Clifton, NJ
What is the median home price in Clifton, NJ?
The median home price is $500,000 as of 2026, with 6.8% year-over-year appreciation. Average $310/sqft, selling in 22 days.
How long is the commute from Clifton to NYC?
30 minutes via NJ Transit from on the Bus to Port Authority. Transfer required.
What are property taxes in Clifton, NJ?
Tax rate is 2.78%. Average homeowner pays $9,456/year. At the median price of $500,000, expect about $13,900/year.
What are the best neighborhoods in Clifton?
Allwood ($500,000 to $700,000). Richfield / Styertowne ($425,000 to $575,000). Delawanna ($450,000 to $600,000). Main Avenue ($375,000 to $500,000). See the full guide above for all 4 neighborhoods.
Is Clifton safe?
Clifton is a generally safe community with crime rates below state averages.
How walkable is Clifton, NJ?
Walk Score of 58, rated "Somewhat Walkable." Median income $72,000, median age 38.8. 38% renter-occupied.
Ready to Find Your Home in Clifton?
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