With a lively downtown, convenient transportation network, ample green space, and exceptional schools, it’s no surprise Summit consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in New Jersey.
About 25 miles west of New York City, this Union County community has long been a choice destination for young professionals and families alike seeking a charming—and culturally dynamic—alternative to city living. There are truly countless reasons Summit should be on your radar, but we’ll still try to enumerate them in this complete guide to one of New Jersey’s gems.
Overview of Summit, NJ
Modern-day Summit dates back to the early nineteenth century when railroads were built over “The Summit Hill” on a ridge in the Watchung Mountains, attracting vacationers and real estate developers to what had previously been a small agrarian village.
The City of Summit was officially incorporated in 1899 and throughout the twentieth century the community grew significantly in the woodland areas near the Watchung Reservation, the largest nature preserve in Union County.
Today, the community is home to about 22,000 residents reflecting a diverse population (according to the city’s website, 39 languages are spoken in Summit) and because two rail lines—the Morristown Line “Midtown Direct” and the Gladstone Line—offer service from Summit Station, commuters can reach New York City in less than an hour, making Summit an ideal landing spot for those who still work in the city.
Summit, NJ Neighborhoods and Real Estate Options
Summit’s history is evident throughout town, but perhaps nowhere more so than in the architecture dating back to the 1800s. While there are a variety of building styles in Summit—tudors, colonials, victorians, and new builds, to name a few—the community is home to grand estates built by the first wave of New Yorkers who settled in town. You’ll see these in the Northside neighborhood within walking distance to the downtown corridor.
New residents and families often land in the Woodland Park neighborhood, a densely wooded area with a variety of building styles. Brushing up against the Watchung Reservation, the neighborhood is home to a highly-rated elementary school as well as several swim and tennis clubs. And while it’s quiet, Woodland Park is just a mile from the heart of the community.
Downtown Summit—a tree-lined commercial district—is a serious attraction for all of Summit’s residents. Those interested in real estate are drawn to luxury condos, townhomes, and a variety of historic buildings, while those who live farther out are attracted to the 200 boutiques, restaurants, and community event spaces along Springfield Avenue.
Community Events and Culture
Along its downtown corridor, a constant pulse can be felt in Summit by way of art, music, theater, and community festivals. In fact, thanks to initiatives like Summit Public Art, there are numerous murals, modern installations, and other creative displays scattered across town. Moreover, Summit is home to the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey, a renowned gallery that also houses an art school.
Live theater is a pillar in the Summit community. The Summit Playhouse is one of the oldest continually operating amateur theaters in the country, while the Dreamcatcher Repertory Theater is home to a professional ensemble of local talent. The Stony Hill Players, which perform at the Oakes Memorial Center, have held a residency there since 2007.
Music, too, is never far from the streets. The Summit Symphony each summer hosts a concert series at the Reeves-Reed Arboretum, while Summit Street Sounds brings live music to the streets on Thursday and Friday nights in June and July.
The Summit Free Public Library also keeps a robust event calendar during the year, and community members flock to the Summit Farmers Market which runs from April through December.
Park Space and Recreation
Open spaces have been an essential aspect of Summit’s identity since the city was founded more than 100 years ago. One of the area’s primary attractions, the nearly 2,000-acre Watchung Reservation, offers residents access to a 6-mile history trail for hikers and horseback riders, while the 30-acre Briant Park is home to a picnic area and a nature trail and connects to Hidden Valley Park, a mostly undeveloped woodland area. The centrally located Wilson Park features two lighted tennis and paddleboard courts, a baseball field, a basketball court, and a playground.
Around the city, there are several sports complexes. The Summit Family Aquatic Center features an outdoor pool and a variety of programs for families throughout the summer including kayak and paddleboard instruction, water polo, and group swim lessons. The Summit YMCA offers a variety of health and wellness programs, while the nonprofit Connection helps engage residents of all ages. Summit is also home to Canoe Brook Country Club, a private 36-hole course founded at the turn of the century.
The Schools in Summit, New Jersey
The Summit Public School District is highly rated, with five elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school—all of which top rankings within the state of New Jersey. The district also operates two primary centers for pre-K and Kindergarten students. According to U.S. News and World Report, the district serves 3,895 students with an 11:1 student-teacher ratio and according to Niche, it is the best school district in Union County for 2024 and 2025.
Additionally, families have several options for private schooling. Kent Place School is a pre-k through twelfth grade college prep academy for girls, while Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child is co-ed through sixth grade and an all girls school for grades seven through twelve. Oratory Prep is the Catholic school for boys grades seven through twelve.
Dining and Shopping Activities in Summit, NJ
The culinary and shopping opportunities in Summit have attracted people from all over the globe—so, it’s no surprise many cultures influence its restaurants and boutiques. For taco lovers, you won’t want to miss Barbacoa, a beloved Mexican Smokehouse, or Fiorino for those looking for a Tuscan-inspired pasta dish. Looking to connect with the city’s history? The Summit Diner, one of the oldest such establishments in the state, dates back to the 1930s, while the Summit House occupies space in one of the city’s most historic buildings and offers high-end American fare.
For those looking to swipe a little plastic, the collection of boutiques in Summit is extraordinary. Among the highlights are Dor L’Dor, a European-style women’s fashion boutique and Bandawang Art, which features hand-made goods, jewelry, and a variety of gifts. Of course, no trip to Springfield Avenue is complete without visiting MONDO Summit, a multi-story mall with a dozen boutiques and dining establishments.
Transportation and Commute
While Summit is far enough from the city to feel like a real refuge, New York City is still very accessible—especially for commuters. Thanks to the Morristown Line “Midtown Direct” and the Gladstone Line, operated by NJ Transit, you can reach Penn Station via a 40-minute express train on weekdays.
Moreover, Summit is situated alongside Interstate 78, meaning residents can reach the city by car in about 35 minutes and drive to Newark Liberty International Airport in about 25 minutes, making it an excellent basecamp with convenient commutes, whether domestic or international travel.
Time to Make the Move to Summit, NJ?
Life in Summit offers the best of suburban life with easy access to urban amenities—not to mention a downtown core that will keep you engaged all year round. With its beautiful homes, strong community, top-ranked schools, and extensive recreational opportunities, Summit is a fantastic place to call home.
So, if you’re ready to explore a move to Summit—whether you’re a young professional or you have a family—our Local Expert Strategists are here to help guide your decision-making process.
