Cranford, NJ, United States

With a population just shy of 24,000, Cranford is a well-to-do suburban enclave that offers idyllic parks and a quaint downtown, but one burdened by heavy bureaucracy. The median household income tops $107,000, and the crime rate is a strikingly low 28.47 per 100,000 residents, making it one of the safest municipalities in New Jersey. However, navigating the township's 78.6 miles of roads and parkways requires patience, as Cranford's local government body oversees a dizzying array of committees and administrative roles. Those seeking a peaceful, affluent community with abundant greenery may find Cranford an appealing option, but the constant hum of local politics is a persistent headache.