The city's oldest standing structure dates back to 1710!
Kenilworth is a borough in Union County, NJ
The city's oldest standing structure dates back to 1710!
Kenilworth is a borough in Union County, NJ. It was officially incorporated in 1907. The town has enjoyed a very slow, yet steady increase in population over the years, and is expected to continue growing. A short ride on the bus or train takes residents right into the heart of New York City. The town does have many residents that make that commute every day for work, however many are lucky enough to have jobs closer to home.
New York City is where the excitement happens, but it's expensive and so fast paced that it can be an exhausting place when you want to take a step back from the hustle and bustle. Millions of people move to New Jersey to get more housing for the money and a bit more comfortable pace of life.
If finding a rental property in a small town is what you crave, yet can't stand the thought of being too far away from the excitement of the big city, then Kenilworth is the ideal choice. With New York City just thirty minutes away, you get the best of both worlds. From fabulous golfing, luscious parks and beautiful homes to historic museums and a high class public education system, this town has something for everyone -- and the Big Apple is practically within spitting distance!
To Buy or Rent?
Being so close to New York City does have one major disadvantage. The cost of living in Kenilworth is significantly higher than other parts of the country, especially housing costs. However, whether you rent or buy is a matter of personal preference and needs. You have to weigh all factors very carefully before you decide.
Finding homes for sale near the city center is nearly impossible, so renting might be the only option if downtown living is more to your pace. Those commuting to the Big Apple every day for work will want to be close to the Garden State Parkway on-ramp. Single family or semi-detached homes are mainly located near schools and recreational facilities. Another consideration is lot size. How much outdoor space do you need? On the other hand, with so many lush parks sprinkled throughout the town, you might not need much of a lawn around your home. This saves a lot of time and expense on lawn care and still allows you to enjoy the green grass and luscious trees!
Searching For Your New Home
Whether you decide to rent or buy, you should start your search well in advance of your planned move. Vacancy rates are quite low, so it could be a while before you land the apartment or home of your dreams, and at a price you can afford. An internet search is a good place to start, but you should also get in touch with a local realtor. Local realtors have inside information you might not be able to find anywhere else. In many cases in these small communities, they also know the owners personally, which means they can tell you more about the property and the owner than anyone else.
You could learn many interesting things about the town and places for rent by talking to the locals, as well. Kenilworth is drenched in history. By spending a little time with the locals you may be able to learn things you might not read about in the history books. Many historians have spend a good part of their lives researching and writing the history of this unique community, but you can always find more interesting stories from the people that have actually lived here.
Being a small borough, Kenilworth isn't really divided into "neighborhoods" but rather more of a close knit community. Of course, some parts of town are more commercial while others are more residential, but there really aren't any distinct neighborhoods.
The biggest advantage of living in Kenilworth is the close proximity to New York City. You get all of the benefits of small town living along with all of the glitz and glamour of the Big Apple just down the road! What more could you ask for? A cozy community event on Tuesday and a Broadway show Saturday night!
In town, transportation is basically limited to car, foot or bike. However, there are train and bus stations nearby for out of town excursions. In as little as thirty minutes, you can be at Penn Station or downtown Manhattan. On the downside, being so close to New York City prevents Kenilworth from being a big time venue of choice.
That doesn't mean the borough is boring! Within a few steps of your home, you can enjoy all sorts of entertainment. Parks, pools and golf are the main attractions, but aside from that there is also a great night life. Just don't expect the Rolling Stones to show up anytime soon!
From quaint boutiques to remarkable historical museums and landmarks, Kenilworth provides hours of fun for people of all ages.
Kenilworth has one of the lowest crime rates in the country. Being so close to New York City, you may be a bit wary, but no worries, this sleepy little town is very safe, fun and a great choice for anyone!
