If you have boldly traded the skyscrapers, yellow cabs, and insanely boisterous economy of New York City for the suburban charm of Wayne, NJ, well it’s congratulations to you.
Why, you ask?
You just saved agonizing minutes (if not hours) of commute time and traffic jams.
Then, talk about the exorbitant cost of housing? That’s right, you escaped that as well!
Moving to Wayne is a great decision for those who value peaceful neighborhoods yet quick access to the Big Apple whenever they need a city fix. The city is just about 20 miles from the bustling heart of New York City.
But, besides cost and time savings, what else do you need to know about Wayne before moving here?
Let’s unpack the hidden mysteries about Wayne before making the move.
You are Choosing Suburban Bliss Near the City That Never Sleeps
One of Wayne’s biggest perks is its prime location.
You are close enough to NYC for a quick commute yet distanced enough to escape the constant honking horns.
For many, Wayne is the sweet spot. It offers excellent schools, sprawling parks like the Laurelwood Arboretum, and endless shopping options, including the renowned Willowbrook Mall.
However, proximity to NYC does influence life here. For morning commutes, expect traffic on Route 23 and I-80. But, still, you could miss it — timing is everything.
The local whisperer’s tip is that your golden ticket to avoid parking headaches here is to embrace NJ Transit. This is also why you are better off using the services of movers in Wayne, NJ, when planning your move.
Local movers know and understand all the rigors of parking in Wayne more than an outsider would.
Don’t Be a Stranger to Life in Wayne: Key Considerations Before Your Move
Wayne is more than just a spot on the map; it’s a community.
As with any community, there are some peculiarities that will vary from any other place you have ever lived.
So, before moving straight ahead, ask yourself, What are the key considerations when planning a move to Wayne?’
These key areas to factor in before moving include:
- Housing options
From cozy apartments near Packanack Lake to single-family homes, Wayne has various housing options to suit your needs.
Are you a family person?
Areas like Pines Lake offer quiet streets and excellent schools. If you’re a young professional starting your career, look at rentals near the transit hubs for a shorter commute.
However, you should prepare yourself for the cost of housing in Wayne, which is higher than the national average.
- Average House Rent: $2,695
- Median Home Value: $741,000
- Cost of living — How deep is your pocket?
Living near NYC comes with a price tag, no doubt.
While moving to Wayne is a more affordable option than NYC, it’s still pricier than other parts of New Jersey.
Your cost of living in Wayne will be about 51% lower than it would be in NYC. This cost shoots up to about 60.7% more in San Francisco, California.
Regardless of the relative affordability, you will have to budget for everything, from property taxes to those weekend Target splurges.
Expense Category Compared to the National Average Housing 24% higher Energy 10% higher Food 10% higher Transportation 22% higher Healthcare 18% higher
Note:
A single person can rack up monthly expenses of about $6,100. Meanwhile, a family should expect their expenses to hit the $9,000 mark.
- The economy and its income potential
The good news is that with over 58% of Wayne’s resident population within the active workforce age group, productivity, social stability, and economic growth have increased.
You are likely to make well above your expenses here. A low unemployment rate, an abundance of job opportunities, and a stable yet growing economy solve financial distress in Wayne.
Education industry, in particular, professional and technical services, healthcare, and retail are some of the biggest employers in Wayne.
So, you’d strike gold when moving to Wayne if you work in any of these industries.
- Median Household Income: $147,740
- Unemployment Rate: 3.4%
- Poverty Rate: 2.8%
- Schools: The genius bunch
Perhaps you are moving with kids, you will love Wayne’s highly rated schools.
Wayne Township Public School District’s school quality rating is among the best in the country, rating better than 96.6% of all U.S. school districts.
Some of the best schools in Wayne include:
- Diana C. Lobosco STEM Academy
- Wayne Hills High School
- Albert Payson Terhune Elementary
- Schuyler Colfax Middle School
- Wayne Valley High School
- Packanack Elementary School
- Crime and security
Given Wayne’s proximity to NYC, it’s natural to worry about the possibility of high crime rate there seeping into Wayne. Luckily, you don’t have much to worry about (yes, you will worry a little).
The crime rate for things like murder, robbery, and rape (violent crimes) is lower than the national average.
There is a 1 in 981 chance you will be a victim of a violent crime in Wayne. These are better odds than the state and national averages.
However, you may want to hold on tightly to your possessions here. The rate of property crime is more than the national average.
per 1,000 residents Wayne Median New Jersey Median National Median Violent Crime 1.02 2.03 4.0 Property Crime 20.92 14.17 20.0
Planning Your Big Move — Timing is Everything
For a seamless transition, you have to plan your move without a single flaw.
If you are probably wondering, “How far in advance should I book moving services for a seamless transition to Wayne?” Then, you are asking the right question.
Ideally, three to four months ahead of your move day is adequate. Moving companies get booked quickly, especially during peak seasons like spring and summer.
Note: Always check if your preferred mover handles parking permits for moving trucks. Depending on where in Wayne you are moving to, you will likely need one.
Also, as you plan your move, take weather matters seriously!
Suppose you’re planning a move during winter, prepare for potential snowstorms. Those picturesque snowy landscapes can turn into moving-day chaos if you are not careful.
Making the Most of Your Move to Wayne as a Traveler
Moving is more than unpacking boxes; it’s about finding your groove in a new place as much as it is about transitioning seamlessly.
So, what are some insider tips for making the most of my move to Wayne as a traveler?
A smooth move to Wayne starts with smart planning.
- Declutter before you pack. There’s no need to haul those college textbooks you will never open again.
- Label everything. You will thank yourself when you find your coffee maker on Day 1.
- Hire local movers. They know the ins and outs of Wayne. Those annoying parking dilemmas? Only local movers can handle them like professionals, saving time and money.
Endnote: Transitioning with Ease
Take my word for it: moving to Wayne is worth the hassle.
With top-notch schools, many recreational activities, relatively affordable living costs, a good economy, and proximity to NYC, Wayne offers a lifestyle that’s hard to beat.
So, pack those bags and prepare to fall in love with the Bedroom Suburb of New York City. You aren’t just moving; you are starting an adventure.
Wayne is ready for you. Are you ready for Wayne?
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.