Immediately surrounding the campus: This area is largely comprised of:
* Princeton University itself: The campus is beautiful and historic, with iconic buildings and green spaces. It's a significant part of the town's identity.
* High-end residential neighborhoods: These neighborhoods are characterized by large, often historic homes, manicured lawns, and a very high cost of living. Expect to see stately homes and tree-lined streets.
Slightly further out (within walking/biking distance of campus or a short drive):
* Mixed residential areas: A mix of housing styles, from older homes to newer townhouses and apartments. The cost of living is still relatively high, but potentially less so than the immediately surrounding areas.
* Some commercial areas: Small businesses, restaurants, and shops catering to both students and residents.
Further afield (a short drive or bus ride):
* More affordable housing options: As you move further from the university, you'll find more affordable housing, though it's still likely more expensive than many other areas of New Jersey. This is where you'll find a greater diversity in terms of housing types and income levels.
* Towns like Lawrenceville and Plainsboro: These towns offer more suburban living with larger homes, shopping centers, and a different feel than the immediate Princeton area.
Overall Character:
* Affluent: Princeton and its surrounding areas are generally considered to be affluent communities. The cost of living is high, especially for housing.
* Safe: Princeton is known for being a very safe town.
* Walkable (in parts): The area immediately around the university is very walkable, but car ownership is generally necessary to access areas further out.
* Academic atmosphere: The presence of Princeton University strongly influences the culture of the area, creating a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment.
* Prestigious: Princeton's reputation adds to the area's overall prestigious image.
To get a more precise idea of the area you're interested in, it's helpful to specify which part of Princeton you're curious about (e.g., near Palmer Square, along Route 1, in the neighborhoods west of campus). Using online map tools and looking at real estate listings can also provide a good visual sense of the different neighborhoods.