Pros and Cons of Living in Chester

Chester's core trade-off pairs a real, affluent equestrian and historic-mill identity, a strongly rated regional high school, and top-ranked hospital access nearby against a genuinely elevated property-tax rate and a car-dependent commute.

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Pro: a real, affluent equestrian and historic-mill identity

Chester's median household income (above $209,000) is the highest in this four-market batch, backed by a real equestrian economy and the National Historic Register-listed 1826 Cooper Gristmill.

Pro: a strong regional high school and top-ranked hospital access

West Morris Central High School (Niche 'A') and nearby Morristown Medical Center (New Jersey's top-ranked hospital, 2018-2022) are real, substantial community assets.

Con: a genuinely elevated property-tax rate

Chester's effective property tax rate (2.535%-2.628% depending on municipality) runs above both Morris County's own average and New Jersey's nation-leading statewide average.

Con: no in-town hospital and a car-dependent commute

Chester has no full-service hospital or NJ Transit rail station within its own limits, requiring a drive to Morristown or Pequannock Township for hospital care or rail access.

Key takeaways

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Last reviewed: 2026-08-25. Independent research; not financial, tax, or legal advice -- confirm current figures with a local professional before making a decision.