545 Livingston Ave Shopping Town Center

Discover Livingston, NJ: A Local’s Guide to One of Essex County’s Most Desirable Towns

Date: May 5, 2026

A closer look at one of Essex County’s most desirable communities

If you’re thinking about moving to Livingston, New Jersey, you’re not alone—and once you get to know the town, it’s easy to see why.

Having raised my family here for over two decades, Livingston holds a truly special place in my heart. While my address may have changed, my connection to this community—and my understanding of what makes it so exceptional—has never left.

This is your introduction to Livingston: what it feels like to live here, where to explore, and why so many people are proud to call it home.

Why Livingston?

Discover Livingston, NJ — A Local’s Guide

Livingston offers that rare combination buyers are always searching for:

  • Top-rated public schools
  • Beautiful homes on tree-lined streets
  • A true suburban feel just 30 miles from NYC
  • A strong, welcoming community
  • Fantastic dining, shopping, and recreation

It’s an upscale, well-established town that continues to attract families, professionals, and downsizers alike.

What I Love About Livingston ❤️

There’s a reason people move here—and stay.

Livingston blends suburban comfort with real lifestyle value—great schools, strong community programming, and access to everything you need.

👉 Things to do locally:
🔗 Top Things to Do in Livingston

Riker Hill Art Park Livingston New Jersey

Exploring Livingston’s Neighborhoods

Livingston’s neighborhoods each offer a different feel—from luxury estates to classic suburban charm.

Bel Air / Bel Air Woods

This distinguished luxury community was developed in the late 1990s on the historic

300-acre Kean Estate.

It attracts executives and professionals seeking tranquility, privacy, and opulence.

The neighborhood is characterized by lush landscapes and meticulously maintained properties, making it a highly desirable place to live.

Town Center

This neighborhood serves as the commercial and civic heart of Livingston, offering a more walkable, mixed-use living experience. The area is anchored by the Livingston Town Center, a vibrant development that blends retail, restaurants, and a variety of residential units, including condos, townhouses, and some single-family homes.

Residents enjoy the convenience of being within close proximity to shops, dining, the public library, and the Memorial Oval.

Northfield Area/Northfield Center

This neighborhood features a mix of bustling commercial areas and quiet residential streets, offering residents the best of both worlds.

The primary commercial corridor is located around the intersection of South Livingston Avenue and Northfield Road, providing convenient access to a wide array of everyday shops and services.

Laurel Hills

Laurel Hills, located in the eastern part of Livingston and adjacent to West Orange, is a prestigious residential neighborhood.

It falls under the R-1 Residence District zoning, which features single-family homes on spacious lots of at least 35,250 square feet. The area offers a mix of classic and contemporary architectural styles, with properties that are generally large and private.

Some of the homes, often referred to as “Laurel Hills Mansions,” are quite grand, boasting impressive features such as two-story entries, gourmet kitchens, and a variety of luxurious amenities.

Coventry

A gem in Livingston’s luxury real estate, this highly sought-after neighborhood features opulent homes on expansive, flat lots. Its location is a major draw, bordering Short Hills and offering exceptional convenience.

Chestnut Hill

Chestnut Hill is a well-established and highly desirable residential area, celebrated for its classic suburban charm and variety of homes.

Mature trees line the quiet streets, giving the neighborhood a serene and settled atmosphere. The housing stock is diverse, featuring a mix of traditional colonials and larger, more contemporary homes on beautifully maintained lots.

Collins

The Collins neighborhood is a family-friendly community centered around Collins Elementary School. It’s known for its strong community feel and convenient location, making it a popular choice for families.

The residential streets feature a diverse mix of housing styles, including ranch, colonial, and split-level homes. Its central location and close proximity to a highly-rated school are major draws for those seeking a welcoming and well-situated place to live.

Riker Hill

Located on a 42-acre former Nike missile tracking base, this creative haven transforms repurposed Cold War radar bunkers into vibrant art studios. The eclectic community features 38 studios across various mediums, including ceramics, glass-blowing, painting, and metalwork.

The space is further enhanced by winding sculpture trails and iconic outdoor pieces like the “Whale Tail” sculptures. Hilltop overlooks provide panoramic western views and serve as a backdrop for community-driven events, such as regular open-studio events, classes, and performances like “Jazz Under the Stars.”

Broadlawn / Cherry Hill

Both Broadlawn and Cherry Hill are serene residential areas known for their single-family homes. Quiet streets, mature trees, and meticulously maintained landscaping are common throughout these neighborhoods.

They also offer easy access to the Town Center and various Houses of Worship.


Condominium Communities

For buyers looking for low-maintenance living, Livingston offers upscale condo and townhome communities with amenities like pools, courtyards, and fitness spaces.

The Fairways at Livingston

Fairways is a condo community that offers a luxurious, maintenance-free lifestyle. It is known for its spacious units, which often include amenities like high ceilings, open floor plans, and private terraces. Residents enjoy exclusive access to on-site facilities, such as a clubhouse, swimming pool, and tennis courts, all set within beautifully landscaped grounds.

The Regency Club at Livingston

The Regency Club is a prestigious townhouse and condominium community designed for sophisticated, low-maintenance living. It features a variety of elegant home designs and provides a host of premium amenities. Residents benefit from a private clubhouse, fitness center, outdoor pool, and tennis courts, fostering an active and social community. Its quiet setting and upscale offerings make it a desirable choice for those seeking a tranquil and amenity-rich lifestyle.

The Pointe at Livingston

The Pointe is upscale, refined, and convenient 55+ community. Residents often value the private, secure, and well-maintained environment. There’s a strong sense of community, fostered by shared amenities and social activities. Luxury living at its best.

Ready to Explore Livingston?

Thinking about making a move to Livingston—or just starting to explore your options?

I’d love to help you navigate the process and give you a true insider perspective on the town, its neighborhoods, and the current market.

Whether you’re just beginning your search or ready to take the next step, feel free to reach out anytime—no pressure, just guidance.

Lisa Lang
Licensed Real Estate Agent
📞 973-951-5729
📧 lisa.lang@compass.com
🌐 lisalang.co
📱 @lisalanghomes

👉 Coming next week in Part 2:
Schools, commuting, healthcare, and everything buyers need to know before making a move.


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