Wayne will be expensive. Haledon and Totowa should be where you are looking, though definitely drive around neighborhoods before signing anything. There are decent parts of Haledon and Totowa, and there are BAD parts of each.

WPU alum here, the above advice is pretty solid. Also avoid Paterson. Not sure if it's gotten better since I attended but it wasn't a great place to be once the sun went down.

There's a big new development called The Hedges about to finish construction in Hawthorne. I don't know the details of the build itself but Hawthorne is a transition town between Paterson and Ridgewood which is super wealthy.

Thank you!!

What would you expect a studio or one bed to run at The Hedges?

Have you been in/near Irvington or East Orange? Kinda far but seems to be the cheapest

I couldn't tell you rents as I've bene out of the renting game for a few years now but here is a website for Hawthorne Square which is on the other side of town: https://bestrentnj.com/Communities/Hawthorne-Square/?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=organic

Hawthorne Square was built in the past five years so it's as comparable as you're going to get until the Hedges announces its pricing. I don't think Hawthorne Square has as many amenities as the Hedges will so it won't be an exact match but I think it's a good guide.

I couldn't tell you rents as I've been out of the renting game for a few years now but here is a website for Hawthorne Square which is on the other side of town:

Honestly, you’re better off looking at certain sections of Paterson over East Orange and Irvington.

Also seems like you should be looking for a roommate to save money.

Can I ask why you say that about Paterson? Safety, price, etc? Found this building that looked great in Irvington. Gated and great amenities and was in my price range, so was gonna keep that one in mind.