Summit, NJ Utility & Living Guide

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Summit, NJ Utility & Living Guide

Summit is the northernmost city of Union County, in the U.S. state of New Jersey, located within the New York metropolitan area. Situated on a ridge in northern–central New Jersey, the city is located within the Raritan Valley and Rahway Valley regions, and also borders both Essex and Morris countie

Last updated: June 30, 2026
Total Utilities$305/mo
1BR Rent$1999/mo
Sales Tax7.5%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score6/10
Median Home$907,900
📷 Live Cameras — Summit
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🌤️ Live Weather — Summit
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🚨 City In The News
The recent town hall meeting in Summit, where residents and a state senator gathered to discuss New Jersey's housing mandates, highlights the evolving landscape of suburban development in the area. As the state's affordable housing requirements continue to shape the community, potential residents considering a move to Summit should take note of the ongoing conversation. The discussion centered around the impact of these mandates on local development, sparking important questions about the future of the town's character and growth. For those thinking of relocating to Summit, understanding the nuances of the state's housing policies can help inform their decision, particularly in terms of cost of living and quality of life. Summit's desirable schools, charming downtown, and convenient commute to New York City make it an attractive option, but the evolving housing landscape may affect the town's affordability and demographics. As Summit navigates these changes, it remains a community worth watching for its unique blend of small-town charm and urban accessibility.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Summit
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$120/mo

PSE&G
🔥 Gas

$50/mo

PSE&G
💧 Water

$45/mo

Summit Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$25/mo

Summit Department of Public Works
📶 Internet

$65/mo

Combined Average Overhead$305/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1999/mo
2 Bedrooms$2222/mo
3 Bedrooms$2777/mo
Median Home Price$907,900
Property Tax Rate1.2%
Avg Childcare/mo$1000

Summit’s housing market is competitive, with high demand for single-family homes. Prices have risen steadily due to the town’s excellent schools and proximity to NYC.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

98

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$1000

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax7.5%
Property Tax Rate1.2%
<p>State 6.625% + County 0% + City 0.875%</p>

New Jersey has a progressive income tax ranging from 1.4% to 10.75%.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
6/10
Safety Index

50

Higher = safer
School Rating

6.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1000/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+3% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
High with key industries in finance, healthcare, and professional services
Top Local Concerns
Property taxes, traffic congestion, school funding
🚌 Transit for Families

Summit's NJ Transit station is accessible but crowded during peak hours. Downtown sidewalks are stroller-friendly.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Reeves-Reed Arboretum
  • 🎯
    Summit Family Aquatic Center
  • 🎯
    Watchung Reservation

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area is popular for its walkability, while the Hilltop section offers larger homes and quieter streets. Both areas have excellent access to schools and parks.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Summit based on your household profile.

Financial Tools

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📊 Summit — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

💰 Median Household Income
$176,702
👤 Median Age
39.7
🏠 Homeownership Rate
70.7%
🔑 Renter Rate
29.3%
📉 Poverty Rate
5.0%
💼 Unemployment Rate
5.7%
📡 Internet Access
94.6%
🎓 College Educated
56.3%

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs peak in winter due to heating needs and in summer due to air conditioning. Spring and fall typically see lower utility bills.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rates, any local surtaxes specific to Summit county

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 1-10 with explanation: sidewalk quality, park access, elevator access in transit, family infrastructure in Summit

📍 Summit City Stories

Summit, New Jersey — World leaders snub $20m taxpayer-funded climate summit

As Summit residents watch the news of a $20 million taxpayer-funded climate summit failing to attract any major...

Read more →

Summit, New Jersey — Residents Press State Senator On Affordable Housing At Town

The recent town hall meeting in Summit, where residents and a state senator gathered to discuss New Jersey's...

Read more →
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