Roseland NJ

Nestled at the foot of the picturesque First Watchung Mountain, Roseland radiates small-town charm just minutes from major urban conveniences.

This hidden gem combines natural beauty, community spirit, and easy accessibility for an unbeatable quality of life.

Population

Roseland has a population of around 5,800 residents occupying just over 2 square miles. Population density is approximately 2,700 people per square mile.

The population trended younger in the 1980s as young families moved in but has aged somewhat as those homeowners remained. Today the population includes an almost even mix of ages from young children to seniors.

Racial diversity has increased in recent years. The population is now approximately 70% white, 15% Asian, 8% Hispanic/Latino and 5% black.

History

Roseland traces its earliest roots to 1688 when Dutch settlers colonized the area. It operated as a close-knit farming community until the late 1800s when railroads connected it to Newark and New York City.

Immigrant groups like Italians were drawn by work building the railroads. Roseland incorporated as an independent borough in 1908.

Historic sites today include the 1875 Roseland Cottage, once a boardinghouse for immigrant railroad workers, and the 18th century Deacon Andrew Hetfield House. The Roseland Free Public Library opened in 1924.

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Quality of Life

Roseland earns consistent praise as one of New Jersey’s best places to live thanks to its low crime, beautiful surroundings, and family-friendly vibe.

The borough provides activities for all ages – summer concerts in the park, a skate park for kids, senior wellness programs, and adult sport leagues. Holiday events like the Easter egg hunt foster community.

Outdoorsy residents take full advantage of the nearby South Mountain Reservation for hiking, biking, and appreciating nature. They also enjoy the amenities of the nearby Turtle Back Zoo.

Newcomers appreciate Roseland’s welcoming hospitality. Neighbors know each other by name and willingly lend a hand to those in need.

Healthcare

Roseland offers convenient access to top-notch healthcare services.

Medical facilities close by include Saint Barnabas Medical Center, a full-service hospital in Livingston, and Affinity Medical Group offices. For emergencies, ambulances can reach any location in town within 8 minutes.

The Roseland Health Department provides important services such as free blood pressure screenings, health education programs, and flu vaccination clinics.

Thanks to quality care options, residents report lower rates of chronic illness compared to state/national levels. The population is physically active with some of the county’s highest rates of frequent exercise.

Safety

Low crime rates contribute to an overriding sense of safety among Roseland residents.

On average, Roseland sees less than 40 incidents of violent crime and fewer than 150 reports of property crime annually. Around-the-clock patrols by the 20-officer police force deter criminal activity.

Neighborhood watch groups and a strong sense of community where people look out for one another further enhance security. Bright street lighting, video surveillance, and emergency call boxes provide additional safeguards.

Overall, Roseland’s safe streets and engaged citizenry make this a secure environment to live and work.

Transportation

Roseland enjoys quick connectivity to major transportation networks. It’s adjacent to Route 280 and near the Garden State Parkway, Route 3, and Route 21.

For public transit, residents can access NJ Transit bus routes within town limits as well as the Montclair-Boonton Line train station in neighboring Little Falls.

Newark Liberty International Airport can be reached in under 30 minutes by car. Many Manhattan-bound commuters take advantage of NJ Transit express buses for fast rides into Port Authority.

Within town, the road network allows for smooth driving while sidewalks provide walkability. Ample parking exists at shops, restaurants, and recreation facilities.

Shopping and Dining

While small, Roseland packs a surprising range of quality shops and dining choices into its compact downtown. Popular local businesses mix effortlessly with national brands.

Shoppers flock to Kings Supermarket, CVS, and Starbucks along Eagle Rock Avenue. Trendy boutiques like Tribe Vibe Wellness draw fashionistas.

Diners tout Roseland favorites like Roseland Tavern, Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza, and Holsten’s Brookdale Confectionery made famous by The Sopranos. Global offerings range from sushi to tacos.

Major malls, department stores, and big box stores are minutes away in neighboring West Orange, Livingston, and Parsippany.

Education

Roseland belongs to the high-performing West Essex Regional School District, sharing a quality K-12 education system with several neighboring towns.

Public school students attend Roseland Elementary School, West Essex Middle School, and West Essex High School. Student outcomes consistently exceed state averages.

Private education alternatives include Saint Aloysius School for K-8 Catholic schooling and the Cooke Center for Learning and Development serving children with special needs.

Points of Interest

Turtle Back Zoo – This regional zoo in neighboring West Orange provides family-friendly animal encounters from giraffes to sea lions.
South Mountain Reservation – Nature lovers enjoy 2,100 acres of woodlands perfect for hiking, biking, fishing, and horseback riding just minutes away.
Roseland Free Public Library – The local library serves the community with books, movies, children’s programs, computer access, and event space.
Deacon Andrew Hetfield House – This historic home built circa 1760 allows visitors to glimpse colonial life in Roseland.
Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza – Hailed as one of NJ’s top pizzerias, this beloved local spot bakes delicious thin-crust pies in a coal-fired oven.
Hatfield Swim Club – Local families have flocked to this private swim club offering recreation, swim teams, and summer fun since 1958.

By blending modern convenience with retro appeal, Roseland has crafted an idyllic hometown atmosphere its loyal residents cherish.