East Orange, NJ, United States

With a population of 69,612, East Orange is a gritty urban enclave known for its heavy tax burden and persistent bureaucratic headaches. The city has seen its share of demographic shifts, with the African American and Caribbean American population comprising over 88% of residents as of the 2010 census. While the tree-lined streets and historic homes offer some charm, the construction of major highways like I-280 has disrupted the urban fabric. Those seeking an affordable, well-connected suburb of New York City may find East Orange a practical, if imperfect, option.