Apartments for rent in Plainfield, NJ

Overview of Plainfield

Plainfield, N.J., has a population of 49,808, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. This ethnically diverse and ever-changing city is home to people from all walks of live, giving it a sense of real and genuine character. The city's 10 historic districts, seven of which are listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places, keep Plainfield's rich traditions alive. Yet, the city's storied history has not inhibited businesses and residents from moving forward.

Formed as a township in 1847, Plainfield has reinvented itself many times throughout its history. Plainfield - also known as "The Queen City" - is a cultural hub for people from a variety of backgrounds. The city's recent measures to bring residents together and revitalize downtown spaces give it a well-deserved buzz, while its comparatively low housing costs make it a great place to live. Those looking for Plainfield apartments for rent will want to research the city's different historic districts, as they all offer different experiences.

Living in Plainfield, NJ

Plainfield is a city of many faces. Plainfield offers a one-hour commute to New York City, while acting as a separate and independent city. Plainfield's struggles through the past few decades have brought about restoration, revitalization and a wave of fresh-faced residents hoping to make a difference.

According to the city of Plainfield's website, about one-third of all Plainfield residents commute to work on a daily basis. New York City is a popular commute, but other residents make the trip to nearby towns like Piscataway, Elizabeth, Newark and Somerville.

Those searching for Plainfield apartments will be happy to note that an incredible 50 percent of all Plainfield residents live in renter-occupied homes, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Plainfield Work and Study

The duCret School of the Arts, and the Muhlenberg Harold B. & Dorothy A. Snyder Schools of Nursing and Imaging are located in Plainfield. Union County College, Middlesex County College and Rutgers University are all located within 10 miles of the city. Plainfield is also home to Barack Obama Green Charter High School, one of the first sustainability-oriented charter high schools in the United States.

Many Plainfield residents commute to nearby communities or New York City for employment. Other residents own local businesses, work for small companies in the area or work with the local government and school districts.

Rentals in Plainfield, NJ and Cost of Living

Because 50 percent of households in Plainfield are renter-occupied, those searching for Plainfield rentals should have no problem finding a beautiful apartment home. According to U.S. Census data, the median gross rent in Plainfield was $1,101 in 2010.

Plainfield's proximity to New York City gives it a slightly high cost of living, registering 116.4, or, 16.4 percent higher than the national average. However, Plainfield's up-and-coming nature makes it a great investment opportunity, as its living costs are lower than those of neighboring cities. The cost of living in nearby Westfield and South Plainfield are 121 and 123.4, respectively.

Plainfield Attractions and Special Events

Plainfield's historic Drake House Museum is the former home of the late Isaac Drake, an early patriot and Plainfield resident. Built in 1746, the home was the site of George Washington's personal meetings with his officers during and after the Battle of Short Hills. The museum displays colonial documents, historic artifacts and other Plainfield treasures.

The Plainfield Public Library is also a well-known attraction in the area. The library has won the Trustee Recognition Award, Gail Stern Award, Alice M. Leppert Award, Community Change Award and numerous public relations awards.

Thousands of people call this ever-evolving city home, and you can too. To find your perfect Plainfield apartment, check out thousands of listings on Rent.com®.