As I have said a million times, It’s hard not to love this place with its suburban charm, a plethora of things to do, a foodies paradise, and let’s not forget the tranquility that comes with living here. However, to be objective and give another perspective, Marlboro NJ has its perks, but it’s not for everyone. Here are my top 10 reasons that despite its charm it also has its flaws. I mean everywhere has its flaws right?
Commute
First off, let’s talk about the commute chaos, shall we? Sometimes you are stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic on Route 18, honking and swearing under your breath, while the clock ticks mercilessly toward your meeting time. Commuting from Marlboro NJ can be a nightmare, especially if you work in NYC and INSIST on driving. Trust me, public transportation is the way to go. I mean seriously sit on a train, read a book, meditate, and sleep. Do whatever you want, at least you are not the one sitting behind a wheel in traffic. Those long hours on the road or the train can drain the life out of anyone. If you’re not a fan of long commutes, Marlboro NJ might just be your personal hell. But, compared to other places in Monmouth County, I will also say that personally don’t think an hour’s commute by train is bad, and there’s also the bus and ferry option. I think Marlboro is worth the hour’s ride, but hey that’s my perspective.
Taxes
The property taxes will make you cry. Marlboro’s property taxes are high, like really high. Although in comparison to other towns in the Garden State, Marlboro NJ’s taxes are pretty reasonable, I mean you do get a lot for your money here and although it’s no bargain compared to the others I think it’s pretty normal for New Jersey. You might want to keep a box of tissues handy when you see your annual tax bill. If you’re dreaming of a budget-friendly suburban life, think again. Those hefty taxes can put a serious dent in your wallet, leaving you wondering why you didn’t pick a place with lower rates. But remember we have decent-sized homes, nice sized lots and a fabulous school district!
Nightlife
If you’re a night owl who loves hitting the town, Marlboro NJ might disappoint. The nightlife here is, well, practically non-existent. There are a few local spots, but if you’re looking for a vibrant scene with bars, clubs, and late-night eateries, you’ll have to trek to nearby cities. I can’t really dispute this subject at all. If you are looking for some action, you’ll need to head to the car and seek out some other local towns like Red Bank for example. But here in Marlboro, nightlife…. well not so much!
Transportation
Public transportation? Not here. Marlboro is the epitome of car culture. (or bicycle) You’ll need a car to do just about anything – grocery shopping, school runs, doctor visits. If you’re used to a walkable city life, this place will feel like you’ve landed on another planet. Marlboro gets a 33 out of 100 on the Walk Score. Marlboro is “close” to everything but you’ll lose your mind if you don’t have a car out here.
Marlboro’s demographic can feel pretty homogenous. While it’s a friendly community, it doesn’t offer the rich cultural diversity you might find in larger cities. If you thrive in multicultural environments and love experiencing different cultures and cuisines, you might find Marlboro a bit lacking in that department. That is an area you may want to do a bit of extra research!
Local Job Market
To work and live in Marlboro NJ may be impossible unless you’re in the healthcare, education, or local government sectors, job opportunities within Marlboro itself are limited. Most residents commute to larger job markets. So, if you’re hoping to find a great job close to home, you might be setting yourself up for disappointment. Marlboro is more of a residential haven than a professional paradise. There are many MANY residents that commute to nearby towns like Red Bank and Freehold but the vast majority hits the larger areas of Newark, Jersey City, Manhattan, and even Philadelphia!
Then, there’s the school frenzy. Yes, Marlboro NJ. has good schools. But with that comes the competitive edge. The pressure on kids to perform well academically can be intense. If you’re looking for a more relaxed educational environment for your children, the high expectations and rigorous demands of Marlboro’s school system might not be a good fit. If you are looking for a school system with excellent ratings then this may be the perfect spot for you. Do your own research. Determine if the early learning center, 5 elementary schools, 2 middle schools and a high school that is part of the Freehold Regional System!
The Weather
Weather ugh! New Jersey weather can be brutal and it’s no different in Marlboro. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be cold, snowy, and miserable. If you’re not a fan of extreme weather changes, Marlboro’s climate might be a deal-breaker. You can go from sunny and 71 one day, and the next a downpour and sometimes even snow. Prepare for sweaty summers, freezing winters, and the joys of shoveling snow from your driveway.
We can’t forget about suburban sprawl. Marlboro NJ is the epitome of suburban sprawl. Think endless rows of similar-looking houses, strip malls, and chain stores. If you’re craving the charm and character of a historic downtown or the buzz of a bustling city, Marlboro’s cookie-cutter vibe might leave you feeling uninspired. It’s like living in a scene from “Pleasantville” –
The social scene is not as easy as you would think. Making new friends as an adult is hard, and in a suburban setting like Marlboro, it can be even harder. People tend to be set in their ways and social circles. If you’re looking for a community with a thriving social scene, spontaneous meetups, and vibrant community events, you might find Marlboro NJ a bit isolating. Although, I moved here when my children were in 4th grade and Kindergarten and I didn’t find this problem at all, but maybe that’s because I’m an outgoing person. My kids ‘ parents became my friends. It was pretty simple for me.
I wouldn’t live anywhere else!
Now, don’t get me wrong – Marlboro NJ isn’t all bad. It has a lot more perks than it does downfalls but you also want to be aware of them before you pack your bags and call the moving company. Every town has its quirks, and what might be a deal-breaker for one person could be a minor inconvenience for another.
So, weigh your options, do your research, and reach out to me, I can answer any of your questions or concerns and I am not going to BS you, I will tell you my thoughts on the subject to help you settle into a place you can call home. Keep in mind I love living, working, and playing here in Marlboro NJ. Keep that in mind when we speak but I promise to always be honest!
