Located between New Jersey’s bustling New York City and historic Philadelphia, New Jersey offers easy access to two major cities, mixed urban, suburban and coastal towns. It is a densely populated state with a wide range of communities and lifestyles. Many people enjoy the convenience and opportunities that New Jersey offers, but it also has drawbacks, such as high housing costs and high traffic. Whether you’re looking for a home for sale in Newark or a Trenton apartment, please read the pros and cons of living in New Jersey and help you determine if you live here or not.
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Quick Facts About New Jersey
Population 9,288,994 Central Home Selling Prices Average Rent in New Jersey 547,500 $2,310 New Jersey Newark, Jersey City, Patterson
Is New Jersey a good place to live?
For many, the answer is yes. New Jersey offers a lot, especially for those who want to access amenities in big cities who don’t live directly in New York or Philadelphia. The state’s location is one of the greatest benefits of reliable transportation systems and short commutes entering both metros. Many districts also have strong public schools, diverse cultural scenes, and a variety of neighbourhoods, from quiet suburbs to busy urban areas.
However, the cost of living is high. Home prices and property taxes rank the highest in the country, and daily costs can increase quickly. Traffic congestion is common in densely populated areas, and not all regions maintain their pace from an infrastructure perspective. Yet for many, advantages (residential, opportunities, lifestyle) place emphasis on the drawbacks.
1. Pro: Proximity to major cities
One of the main benefits of living in New Jersey is its unparalleled proximity to major cities such as New York and Philadelphia. This geographical advantage is often seen as a great advantage for residents as it opens up a world of work, entertainment and cultural opportunities. Commuting to New York City, for example, is a common practice for many New Jerseys, providing access to bustling job markets, world-class food and iconic landmarks without sacrificing the comforts of suburban life. Additionally, residents can quickly take part in a Broadway show, explore famous museums, and enjoy professional sporting events at nearby city hubs.
2. CON: There are many traffic jams
One of the notable drawbacks of living in New Jersey is the ongoing problem of traffic congestion. Strategic locations in states near major metropolitan areas such as New York and Philadelphia often cause populous roads and long commutes. The wide network of highways and densely populated urban areas, coupled with a lack of efficient public transport in some areas, can lead to daily burglaries and time-consuming commutes.
3. Pro: Beautiful beach
The New Jersey coastline has a treasure trove of beautiful beaches that are attractive destinations for anyone considering moving to New Jersey. With more than 130 miles of untouched coastline along the Atlantic, the state offers its residents the perfect escape from everyday life. The state’s beaches, such as the Jersey Shore, Wildwood, Cape May, and Long Beach Island, are great for sunbathing, swimming and water sports, and are renowned for their stunning vast sandy stretches.
4. Con: High living expenses
Living in New Jersey comes with a warning as the nation is known for its high cost of living. The median sale price for a New Jersey home is particularly high at $547,500 compared to the national median of $438,000, making home affordability a major challenge for residents. Additionally, the cost of living in Newark, one of New Jersey’s major cities, is 14% higher than the national average. While the state offers many opportunities and amenities, the rising costs of housing, utilities and everyday necessities can pose a financial burden for many. Despite these high costs, there are affordable locations to live in New Jersey outside the popular metro.
5. Pro: Various Outdoor Recreation Activities
New Jersey’s diverse landscape offers a wealth of outdoor recreational activities and makes it an ideal place for nature lovers and adventure seekers. From the stunning Appalachian highlands in the north to the gentle pine valens in the south, the state offers a wide range of options for outdoor fun. Hiking and camping opportunities are found in numerous state parks and forests in the state, including High Point State Parks and Wharton State Forest, allowing you to explore the scenic trails and escape to the centre of nature.
6. CON: Freezing winter
Winters in New Jersey can be characterized by their harsh and unpredictable nature, and are often considered a downside of life in the state. With temperatures frequently dropping below freezing and potentially significant snowfall, residents must contest cold weather conditions and the challenges that come with them. Snow and ice can lead to slippery roads, traffic disruptions, and the need for large-scale snow removal efforts. Additionally, winter weather can limit outdoor activities and affect daily life.
7. Pro: Great public transport options
New Jersey’s transit system offers large train and bus services that connect different parts of the state, making daily commutes and weekend weekend getaways to the city centre easier. Pastrain connects New Jersey to Manhattan and provides a quick and efficient way to travel to the heart of New York City. Additionally, the state’s ferry service offers a scenic and fun way to cross the Hudson River. The presence of reliable public transport not only reduces ownership of cars, but also helps to reduce congestion and contribute to environmental sustainability.
8. CON: The highest asset tax in the country
New Jersey has the highest property tax in the country, which is often considered an important drawback of living in the state. The effective property tax rate in New Jersey is an astounding 2.33%, more than twice the national average of 0.90%. This property tax burden places a significant financial burden on residents, affecting their living costs and affordability. High property taxes can increase homeownership and make it even more expensive. It is a factor that individuals and families must consider when considering financial stability and long-term planning in their garden conditions.
9. Pro: A strong job market
Strategically located in the Northeast Corridor, New Jersey’s dynamic job market offers a wide range of employment opportunities in areas such as headquarters, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, technology, finance, logistics and academia. The state’s economic development, well-developed infrastructure and commitment to skilled workforce make New Jersey an attractive destination for job seekers.
10. CON: Coastal storms and flood vulnerability
New Jersey’s vulnerability to coastal storms and flooding is of great concern for the state, particularly in coastal and lowland areas like Cape May. New Jersey, located along the Atlantic, faces an increasing risk of hurricanes, Nor Easter and severe storms, which can lead to catastrophic flooding, property damage and disruptions in daily life. Sea level rise and aging infrastructure further exacerbate the state’s susceptibility to these natural disasters. Coastal communities often find themselves at the forefront of these challenges, requiring costly mitigation efforts and premiums.
Methodology: Population data is from the US Census Bureau, median home sales prices and average rental data are from Redfin data centers.
