Located in the northeastern region of the United States, New Jersey is characterized by its cities, coastlines, and past. From Jersey City‘s skyscrapers to Cape May’s charming seaside towns, there’s plenty to experience. In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of living in New Jersey to provide valuable insights for those considering a move or wanting to learn more about the state. Whether you’re interested in renting, or ready to explore, read on to discover if New Jersey is a good place to live.
Renting in New Jersey snapshot
| Population | 9,500,851 |
| Avg. studio rent | $1,771 per month |
| Avg. one-bedroom rent | $1,865 per month |
| Avg. two-bedroom rent | $2,317 per month |
| Most affordable cities to rent in New Jersey | Camden, Vineland, Trenton |
| Most walkable cities in New Jersey | Hoboken, Union City, West New York |
1. Pro: Historic landmarks that define the past
New Jersey’s history comes to life through its remarkable landmarks. Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, gateways for millions of immigrants, sit right off Jersey City’s shores. Revolutionary War sites, like the Princeton Battlefield, stand as reminders of the state’s pivotal role in American independence. In Morristown, Washington’s Headquarters offers a glimpse into the winter encampments of the Continental Army. From Cape May’s preserved Victorian homes to Paterson’s Great Falls, a key site of America’s industrial revolution, every corner of New Jersey holds stories waiting to be explored.
2. Con: High price for calling New Jersey home
Housing costs in New Jersey are among the highest in the nation, especially in areas close to New York City. In Hoboken, the median home price hits $947,000, with rent for a one-bedroom apartment averaging $3,425. Even suburban areas like Montclair see steep prices due to their proximity to transit hubs and schools. While these costs strain many residents’ budgets, they reflect the demand for New Jersey’s location and amenities, making affordability a key challenge for both renters and buyers.
3. Pro: Access to NYC and Philadelphia
New Jersey’s location puts residents within easy reach of two major metropolitan hubs. Commuters can hop on a PATH train in Newark and arrive in Manhattan in under 30 minutes. South Jersey residents can take a short drive or train ride to Philadelphia, enjoying the perks of city life without the cost of living there. This centrality makes New Jersey a practical choice for commuters while allowing for quieter suburban living.
4. Con: Most densely populated state in the U.S.
Navigating New Jersey’s roads often requires patience, especially during rush hours. Highways like the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike see heavy congestion, particularly near urban centers like Jersey City and Newark. For commuters heading into Manhattan, bottlenecks at bridges and tunnels are daily headaches. Public transit options exist but are not always reliable, adding to the frustration of getting around. Planning extra travel time becomes second nature for those who live here.
5. Pro: The food scene is amazing
New Jersey’s food scene reflects its cultural diversity and deep-rooted traditions. Diners, a state hallmark, serve classics like disco fries and pork roll sandwiches (or Taylor Ham, depending on where you’re from). Italian delis in North Jersey showcase homemade mozzarella and stuffed bread, while cities like Paterson and Atlantic City are home to thriving Middle Eastern and Vietnamese restaurants. The state also lays claim to the best bagels and pizza outside New York, making it a foodie’s dream.
6. Con: Heatwaves and Nor’easters
Living in New Jersey means preparing for a range of weather extremes. Summers bring humid days and the occasional heatwave, with temperatures often soaring into the 90s. Winter delivers icy roads and heavy snowstorms, especially in the northern counties. Spring and fall may feel mild, but they come with the unpredictability of hailstorms or flooding rains. Hurricanes and Nor’easters add to the mix, testing the resilience of homes and infrastructure.
7. Pro: Well-known education programs
New Jersey’s commitment to education is evident in its universities. Princeton University anchors the state’s academic reputation, but Rutgers, The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), and Stevens Institute of Technology also attract students from across the country. Public schools consistently rank among the best in the nation, providing quality education from kindergarten through university.
8. Con: Property taxes are very high here
New Jersey homeowners shoulder the highest property taxes in the country, with an average effective rate of 2.33%, more than double the national average. For a $500,000 home, that translates to an annual tax bill of over $11,000. Towns with excellent schools and amenities, see even higher rates. This financial burden can be a significant challenge for homeowners and those making a jump to homeownership.
9. Pro: Various housing options
Housing in New Jersey comes in all shapes and sizes, catering to varied tastes and budgets. In Major cities, you can find luxury high-rises along Jersey City’s waterfront with views of Manhattan, while suburbanites may prefer historic brownstones in Montclair or Maplewood. Beach towns like Asbury Park mix modern condos with beach bungalows, and rural areas provide sprawling farmhouses. This range allows residents to find homes that align with their lifestyles, though affordability remains a key consideration.
10. Con: Tourists take over summer shorelines
Summers in New Jersey bring an influx of tourists eager to enjoy the state’s beaches and boardwalks. Towns like Seaside Heights and Wildwood see their populations swell, making parking scarce and traffic heavy. Attractions such as the casinos in Atlantic City or Cape May’s historic district draw crowds, particularly on holiday weekends. While the tourism industry supports the local economy, it can also test the patience of year-round residents.
11. Pro: Some of the best beaches to relax at
12. Con: Sales tax are very high
At 6.625%, New Jersey’s sales tax adds to the cost of living, especially for larger purchases. While items like groceries and clothing are exempt, big-ticket buys such as electronics or furniture feel the pinch. For comparison, neighboring Delaware has no sales tax, tempting some New Jersey residents to cross state lines for shopping sprees.
Methodology : The population data is from the United States Census Bureau, walkable cities are from Walk Score, and rental data is from ApartmentGuide.
