Norman W. Edmund, amateur photographer, helped to put Barrington on the map when he and his family-owned business, Edmund Scientific, relocated there in 1948. This company, renamed Edmund Optics, now has offices worldwide and even made a debut into American pop culture on an episode of The Simpsons.
Barrington, like most of the rest of the state of New Jersey, has an interesting history that can be traced back over 300 years
Norman W. Edmund, amateur photographer, helped to put Barrington on the map when he and his family-owned business, Edmund Scientific, relocated there in 1948. This company, renamed Edmund Optics, now has offices worldwide and even made a debut into American pop culture on an episode of The Simpsons.
Barrington, like most of the rest of the state of New Jersey, has an interesting history that can be traced back over 300 years. There is much to learn about this town of just 6,983 residents (2010 U.S. Census data) -- from its early beginnings as a farming community back in 1703, to its implementation of the railroad in 1890, and its subsequent displacement just 30 years later. With the emergence of buses and cars in the 1920s, new community systems and programs were established, and the very first Barrington firehouse was constructed. The actual town of Barrington was given its name in 1880, when it was bought by a syndicate for the purpose of development. Although Barrington is now a suburb, rather than a rural community, this little town continues to reinvent itself with the ever-changing times.
Moving to Barrington
The city of Barrington is located in Camden County, with easy access to several major routes, including Interstate Route 295, the New Jersey Turnpike, Clements Bridge Road and the White Horse Pike. There is a pretty even mix of both renters and owners in the area, but the availability of houses and apartments for rent is scarce.
Scavenger Hunt
Don't be discouraged by the low percentage of available rentals, but do be prepared to wait and perhaps be a little less selective than you might otherwise be in a larger area. If you're searching for an apartment for rent, The Willows Apartments is one area where you could begin the hunt. This apartment complex is conveniently located on Clements Bridge Road, and you can check the availability of their one to three bedroom units. If you're really more interested in a house rental in Barrington, check with the local real estate agents in the area.
Things to Know
Barrington is a well-established neighborhood, so most of the housing was built somewhere between 1940 and 1979. This can mean charming or older, depending on whether your glass is half full or half empty. Whether you choose a house or an apartment rental, be sure to check that everything is working as expected, and take the time to read and understand the type of maintenance offered. This includes how long you may have to wait for assistance and what you may or may not be responsible for financially.
Signing Away Your Life
Okay, that's a bit dramatic and much less serious than it sounds! Before you even begin your search, however, get your paperwork together so you are ready to move at a moment's notice. Specifically, make sure you have a current credit history, proof of employment, at least two references and money. It is unfortunate, but you do have to cough up the cash if you want a lease. Try not to choke, but the amount needed usually is one full month's rent plus whatever the landlord requires for a security deposit.
Barrington Neighborhoods
There aren't really any distinct neighborhoods in Barrington. It's worth mentioning again that Barrington has fewer than 7,000 residents! But even so, you will want to get to know the area. If you already have a job lined up, lucky you. Now, find out which part of town gets you to work the fastest, and focus your rental search there. For those who don't like noisy streets, talk with a local realtor to find out which part of town is the sleepiest. In short, do your homework. If you don't, the only person who will care that you aren't prepared -- or that the dog supposedly ate it -- is you.
Living in Barrington
Barrington may be small, but you will still need a car to get around. Even if you choose to use public transportation, you will probably have to drive for part of the journey.
If you feel like walking, don't let that stop you from exploring the 13 walking trails that loop throughout the town. When you've had enough exploring for one day, drop in on the Barrington Coffeehouse on Clements Bridge Road for a bagel and a cup of joe. If you time it right, you might even get to listen to some really good local music while you happily munch away.
Barrington is a cozy town, but you don't have to be too adventurous to find plenty to do nearby. And hey, if you're looking for a great local park to get in a daily jog, Haddon Heights Park is as close as Atlantic Avenue. Happy trails!