Mountainside FAQs

Thinking about living in Mountainside, NJ, or curious about why this Union County suburb is so highly regarded? Mountainside offers small-town charm with big advantages: great schools, quick access to New York City, and beautiful parks like Echo Lake and Watchung Reservation right in your backyard. This guide covers the most common questions we hear about life in Mountainside  from schools and neighborhoods to commuting, recreation, and real estate trends.

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As one of New Jersey’s top real estate teams in New Jersey, we’ve guided many families in buying and selling homes in Mountainside. If you’re considering a move, we can provide expert advice, market data, and the strategy you need for success.

Lifestyle and Neighborhood FAQs

Is Mountainside a good place to live?

Yes. Mountainside consistently ranks among Union County’s most desirable suburbs thanks to its community feel, well-regarded schools, and location just 25 miles from Manhattan. Residents appreciate the quiet, residential character combined with easy access to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions in nearby Westfield, Summit, New Providence and Cranford.

How far is Mountainside from New York City and what is the commute like?

Mountainside is about 25 miles from Manhattan. While the town does not have its own train station, commuters often use nearby Westfield, Summit, or Cranford NJ Transit stations for service to Penn Station in 45–55 minutes. NJ Transit bus service also runs through town, and Routes 22, 24, and I-78 provide quick highway access into New York City and across New Jersey. For added convenience, Boxcar offers premium commuter bus service from Mountainside, providing reserved seating, WiFi, and direct routes into Midtown Manhattan.

How are the schools in Mountainside, NJ?

Mountainside operates its own K-8 school district, with Beechwood Elementary (PreK–2) and Deerfield School (grades 3–8). For high school, students attend Governor Livingston High School in neighboring Berkeley Heights, a highly rated school recognized for academics, AP courses, and athletics. Families consistently cite the strong school system as one of the main reasons they choose to live in Mountainside.

What neighborhoods make up Mountainside?
Mountainside is a small town (fewer than 8,000 residents), but its neighborhoods range from cozy tree-lined streets to homes bordering expansive parkland. Highlights include:

Deerfield Area – Centered around Deerfield School, popular with families for convenience and community feel.

Beechwood Area – Close to Beechwood Elementary, with a mix of colonials, ranches, and split-levels.

Park-Side Homes – Properties near Echo Lake Park and Watchung Reservation that offer scenic views and privacy.

What are the main attractions and things to do in Short Hills and Millburn?

Echo Lake Park and Watchung Reservation anchor the town’s outdoor life, offering hiking, boating, horseback riding, and picnic areas. The Mountainside Community Pool is a summer favorite, while the Trailside Nature & Science Center offers year-round programs for kids and families. Shopping and dining in downtown Westfield and Summit are minutes away.

Real Estate FAQs- Mountainside

What is the average home price in Mountainside?

As of August 2025, the average sale price in Mountainside is $1.18M, up 17.6% year-over-year from $1.00M in 2024. Looking back over the past decade, the average home price has risen from about $609K in 2014 to $990K in 2024, reflecting steady long-term appreciation.

What types of homes are available in Mountainside?

Mountainside offers a mix of ranches, split-levels, cape-cod and colonials, along with newer custom builds. Many homes sit on larger lots, often a half-acre or more, with tree-lined streets and some properties backing up to Echo Lake Park or the reservation. Luxury new construction has also introduced modern layouts and high-end finishes to the market.

How competitive is the real estate market in Mountainside right now?

The market remains very competitive. In 2025, homes are selling in an average of 24 days. Inventory is tight, and multiple offers are common — year to date, homes are closing at 109% of list price.

What are property taxes like in Mountainside?

Mountainside’s effective property tax rate averages about 2.0%. On an average home price of $1.18M, annual property tax bills typically range between $21K and $24K, supporting local schools, parks, and town services.

How much is my home worth in Mountainside?

Home values are appreciating, with the average sale price up more than 17% year over year. Each property is unique — location, lot size, and updates matter greatly. A professional market analysis is the best way to know your home’s exact value.

How long does it take to sell a home in Mountainside?

In 2025, the average days on market is 24. Move-in ready homes in desirable locations often receive offers within the first two weeks.

Do homes in Mountainside sell above asking price?

Yes. In 2025, homes are averaging 109% of list price, with many properties closing 5–15% over asking due to multiple-offer competition.

What is the best time of year to sell a home in Mountainside?

Spring is traditionally the busiest season, but demand is consistent year-round. Limited inventory means serious buyers are always active, particularly for updated and move-in ready homes.