The New Jersey Towns Millennials Are Moving to in 2026

Millennials are now one of the largest groups of homebuyers in New Jersey. As they enter their prime earning and family-building years, their preferences are reshaping housing demand across Essex, Union, and Morris Counties. This generation values community, walkability, and access to public transportation, choosing towns that offer both convenience and character. Several New Jersey communities stand out for attracting millennial buyers seeking vibrant neighborhoods with long-term value.

What’s Driving Millennial Home Trends in New Jersey

According to NJ Future, millennials in New Jersey are more likely to live in “smart-growth” municipalities—places designed for walkability, compact development, and proximity to schools, jobs, and amenities. Hybrid and remote work options have reinforced this preference, giving buyers more flexibility to live farther from major cities without giving up connectivity or culture.

For many millennial households, priorities now center on lifestyle and local engagement. Strong schools, downtown districts, and mixed-use zoning have become major draws. Towns that invest in transit-oriented development and downtown revitalization are leading the way in attracting long-term residents from across the New York metropolitan area.

The Towns Millennials Are Choosing in 2026

• Maplewood and South Orange, NJ – Community and Connectivity Combined

Maplewood and South Orange, often referred to as SOMA, remain highly sought after for their sense of community, walkable downtowns, and access to the South Orange–Maplewood School District. Both towns offer direct train service to New York City and an active calendar of local events, markets, and festivals. The combination of inclusivity, architectural variety, and small-town warmth keeps demand steady among younger buyers leaving urban centers.

• Jersey City, NJ – Urban Access and Expanding Opportunity

Jersey City remains one of the most popular destinations for millennial homebuyers. The city’s continued investment in housing, business districts, and public amenities supports steady population growth. With the PATH train and light-rail system providing direct access to Manhattan, many buyers find the area ideal for combining work convenience with community life. Redevelopment along the waterfront and neighborhoods such as Hamilton Park and Bergen-Lafayette have added significant residential appeal.

• Hoboken, NJ – Compact, Walkable, and Connected

According to Niche, Hoboken ranks among the top places in New Jersey for young professionals. Its mix of historic brownstones, high-rise condos, and active restaurant and retail scene keeps it one of the most desirable cities in the state. The dense, pedestrian-friendly environment and reliable transit options make Hoboken a model of modern urban living.

• Montclair, Bloomfield, and Glen Ridge – Essex County’s Cultural Core

Montclair continues to anchor Northern New Jersey’s cultural and creative scene, while nearby Bloomfield and Glen Ridge offer similar advantages with different price points. The area’s appeal comes from its downtown arts venues, restaurants, and easy rail access to New York Penn Station. For millennial buyers balancing careers and family life, these towns provide a strong mix of diversity, community, and property value growth potential.

Shared Traits Among High-Demand Towns

The towns drawing the most millennial attention share several common features that align with modern buyer priorities:

Transit Access: Reliable train or bus connections to New York City, Newark, or major employment centers.

Walkable Downtowns: Concentrated areas with restaurants, shops, and cultural venues.

Strong Schools: Districts that add long-term property value and attract young families.

Housing Diversity: A mix of condos, townhomes, and single-family homes that provide flexible entry points.

Community Engagement: Farmers markets, parks, and local festivals that build connection and quality of life.

These factors combine to create a sense of place that goes beyond real estate value, which is exactly what millennial buyers are seeking.

What It Means for Homeowners and Sellers

Rising demand among millennial buyers is shaping pricing patterns across northern New Jersey. In towns such as Maplewood, Montclair, and Summit, well-located homes close to downtown amenities and transit continue to sell quickly. Homeowners considering selling in 2026 can benefit by emphasizing energy efficiency, outdoor living space, and flexible layouts that accommodate home offices or multi-purpose rooms.

Buyers are willing to pay a premium for homes that support modern lifestyles. Sellers who highlight community access, design updates, and proximity to key amenities are best positioned to capture this growing market.

The Takeaway

Millennial buyers are redefining the Northern New Jersey market by favoring walkable, connected, and community-oriented towns. These preferences are influencing home values, development priorities, and even local policy decisions.

For anyone planning to buy or sell in Maplewood, South Orange, Montclair, Summit, or surrounding towns, understanding these generational patterns can make all the difference. The next phase of New Jersey real estate will be shaped by how well communities continue to meet the expectations of this dynamic and influential group of buyers.

Whether you’re a millennial buyer searching for your perfect New Jersey town or a homeowner ready to sell in one of these in-demand communities, our team can help you move strategically. Connect with the Allison Ziefert Real Estate Group at [email protected] to plan your next step.