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Upper Vailsburg, Newark,NJ

Neighborhood Data
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If you're considering a move to the northwestern part of Newark, NJ, Upper Vailsburg offers a welcoming community with a rich blend of urban charm and green spaces. This neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets and a diverse population that brings a vibrant cultural mix to the area. Residents often enjoy the neighborhood’s relaxed atmosphere, which provides a nice balance between city living and a close-knit community feel. Whether you're a young professional, a family, or someone looking for an affordable place to settle, Upper Vailsburg presents a friendly environment with access to essential amenities.

One of the standout attractions in Upper Vailsburg is the expansive West Side Park, a beautiful green oasis perfect for weekend picnics, jogging, or just unwinding outdoors. The park features playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails, making it a magnet for families and fitness enthusiasts alike. Additionally, the neighborhood hosts a variety of local businesses, restaurants, and community centers that contribute to a lively and supportive atmosphere. For those who appreciate cultural events, Upper Vailsburg often has neighborhood gatherings and seasonal festivals that strengthen the community bond and offer a chance to meet your neighbors.

Getting to Downtown Newark from Upper Vailsburg is quite convenient, typically just a short drive or bus ride away, which means you can easily access the city’s job centers, entertainment venues, and transportation hubs. The proximity to Downtown allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds: a quieter residential neighborhood with quick access to urban excitement. For people relocating to Newark, Upper Vailsburg provides an inviting, well-rounded neighborhood that combines community spirit, green space, and city accessibility, making it a great place to call home.

Community Snapshot

Population 16,768
Density (People/sqml.) 21,364
Median Age 36.4
Married Couples
33%
33% of the population of Upper Vailsburg aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
27%
27% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 33% of the Upper Vailsburg population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 27% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Upper Vailsburg neighborhood age breakdown chart

Exploring Upper Vailsburg demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. Upper Vailsburg has a population of 16,768, which is larger than many other Newark neighborhoods, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Its size brings an abundance of amenities, entertainment options, and community activities, while still offering spaces to unwind and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique character.

Boasting a population density of 21,364, Upper Vailsburg is more densely populated than many other Newark neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With an average age of 36, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

Crime in Upper Vailsburg

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Upper Vailsburg neighborhood age breakdown chart

Upper Vailsburg Crime Map

The Upper Vailsburg crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing

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Home Price $277,378
Median Rent $1,396
People/Household 2.9

Home Price Breakdown

Upper Vailsburg neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 55% Own 45%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 57% After 2010 43%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Upper Vailsburg, the median home price is about $277,378, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Upper Vailsburg have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $1,396, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Coffee Shop
Coffee Shop
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Tatiana Cafe
Coffee Shop
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Entertainment

Arts Center - Carriage House
Theatre Arts
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Theatre-in-the-Round
Theatre Arts
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Food & Drink

McDonald's
Fast Food
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University Wines & Spirits
Alcohol
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Groceries

C-Town
Grocery Store
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3 Sisters Grocery & Supermarket
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Parks

Park
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Playground
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Shops

Family Dollar
Discount Store
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More Than Perfect
Hairdresser
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

South Clinton Street at South Orange Avenue
Bus Stop
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South Clinton Street at South Orange Avenue
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

Ivy Hill Loop
Bus Station
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Irvington Bus Terminal
Bus Station
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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

VA New Jersey Health Care System
Hospital
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Health Services
Clinic
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Health Care

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Safety

Fire Station
Fire Station
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Engine 26 Ladder 12 BC6
Fire Station
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Cicely L. Tyson Community Middle/High School
35 Winans Street, East Orange, NJ
High School 6 - 12 School Score
Peoples Preparatory Charter School
321 Bergen Street, Newark, NJ
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Universiy Middle School
255 Myrtle Ave, Irvington, NJ
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
Independence High School
15 Smalley Place, Irvington, NJ
Elementary School M - M School Score
University Elementary School
1 University Place, Irvington, NJ
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Lincoln
87 Richelieu Ter, Newark, NJ
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
Bard Early College High School
321 Bergen Street, Newark, NJ
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Upper Vailsburg combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Upper Vailsburg can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $29,411
Household Income $66,402
Unemployment 10.1%

Income Breakdown

Upper Vailsburg Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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Local economic factors help define the character and opportunities within a neighborhood, shaping everything from lifestyle to overall accessibility. Household incomes in Upper Vailsburg average around $66,402, which is about on par with many surrounding neighborhoods. This balanced income level supports a diverse community and offers a stable, well-rounded environment for residents.

The employment landscape can reveal important details about the economic conditions of a neighborhood and the opportunities available to its residents. In Upper Vailsburg, the unemployment rate is 10%, which is higher than average. This elevated rate may point to a more competitive job market or transitional economic conditions, shaping the overall character and pace of the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of homes are common?

Upper Vailsburg primarily features a mix of single-family homes and multi-family residences. Many of the houses are classic brick row homes and detached houses built in the early to mid-20th century, reflecting the neighborhood's historic character. You will find well-maintained properties with front porches and tree-lined streets, giving the area a suburban feel within the city.

Are there any community events or local gatherings throughout the year?

Yes, Upper Vailsburg hosts several community events annually, often centered around the Vailsburg Park, a large green space popular for picnics, sports, and outdoor activities. The neighborhood organizes seasonal festivals, including summer movie nights in the park and holiday celebrations. Local churches and community centers also hold cultural events that bring residents together throughout the year.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Upper Vailsburg benefits from convenient access to major highways such as Interstate 78 and the Garden State Parkway, making travel to other parts of Newark and surrounding areas straightforward. Public transit options include several NJ Transit bus lines running along nearby McCarter Highway, providing connections to downtown Newark and New York City. The neighborhood’s proximity to the Newark Broad Street Station further enhances commuter accessibility.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

Location Overall Amenities Health Transit Schools Housing Economy Crime
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