Author: Kevin Katz

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Moving Tips

How to Find the Best Reliable Movers in NJ

How to find Reliable Movers NJ

Moving requires a lot of planning and multitasking. You have to find the perfect home, consider your budget, potentially change schools for your kids, pack, and find the right professional movers in NJ. If you’re already dealing with all the other aspects of moving, searching for movers might be your last priority. After all, aren’t all movers the same? The answer to that is a resounding no!

While it might add one more item to your ever-increasing moving to-do list, it’s important to find reliable movers in NJ if you want to ensure all your items arrive at your new place intact. So, how can you find reliable movers in NJ? Check out the tips below.

First, Do Your Research

Thanks to the internet, you can easily do some vetting of companies before you even make a phone call. Your first line of defense is to do some research on your own on moving companies in your area. A quick search of ‘movers near me’ should provide you with a decent starting point. Narrow down to around 10-20 movers in the beginning and then look at reviews and complaints on places like Yelp, Google, and the Better Business Bureau. While business owners can challenge negative reviews and potentially have them removed, it would be hard to get rid of all of them. If you notice inconsistent reviews on multiple sites, you should cross these movers off the list.

 

Top 5 Questions to Ask NJ Movers (With Purpose Score)

Question Purpose / Importance Score (1–10) Average Customer Savings from Asking Risk Prevented (% Chance of Issues Avoided)
1. Are you licensed and insured? 10/10 $500–$2,000 (avoids scam losses) 75% risk prevented
2. Do you provide a binding or written estimate? 9/10 $150–$600 (prevents surprise fees) 60% risk prevented
3. Are your movers in-house employees or subcontracted? 8/10 $100–$400 (avoids liability issues) 55% risk prevented
4. What extra fees should I expect? 9/10 $75–$300 (stairs, long carry, supplies) 50% risk prevented
5. What is your cancellation/reschedule policy? 7/10 $50–$150 (avoids late-change penalties) 35% risk prevented

 

After you’ve narrowed down your list, look at their site to see if they list their department of transportation number. Some states, like New Jersey, also require movers to register with the state’s DOT. Registered moving companies will list their number directly on their website. You can then use this to look them up on the corresponding DOT sites to make sure they are still in good standing and properly registered.

Prepare Questions You Want to Know in Advance

Once you’ve narrowed down your options to around 5 companies, it’s time to start calling. Before you call, make sure to write down a list of questions as well as a general idea of what kind of service you would like to utilize. When you come prepared, you’ll be more likely to spot potential red flags and keep your cool if the movers on the phone try some hard-sell tactics.

If you’re not sure what questions to ask, here are some options:

  • Is the company licensed through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration? This government agency regulates commercial vehicle operations to guarantee safety for companies and consumers.
  • Is the company a broker or carrier? Brokers outsource their work to other companies, while carriers handle your moving services with in-house staff. In general, you want to hire carriers in case something gets lost or broken during a move.
  • Is the company insured? This is important in case the movers do any damage to your new or old building, as they will be held liable for the damage.
  • What is the cancellation/rescheduling policy? Life happens, so it’s important to know exactly what will happen if you have to cancel or reschedule, and the general timeframe. Most moving companies require around 2 days or so to cancel/reschedule without incurring a penalty.
  • Are there any hidden fees? Reputable moving companies will list out all the fees in the initial quote, so there are no surprises. However, you should always ask if there’s something you need to consider. For example, if the movers will be going up and down flights of stairs, they might charge a stair fee. Make sure to provide as much information as possible during the quote phase so you have an accurate picture of the total costs.
  • Does the company provide the services you need? Not all moving companies offer the same services. Some might have more options, while others only offer simple moving services. It’s important to know exactly what each company offers so you can make the most informed choice. Some services NJ moving companies might offer include:
    • Loading and unloading
    • Packing
    • Furniture disassembly/assembly
    • Specialty item transportation (piano, billiard table, etc.)
    • Storage
    • Moving supplies
    • Plastic bin rentals

Watch Out for Red Flags with Moving Companies

There are many horror stories of people using a moving company only to realize after moving that many of their precious items were broken during transit or, even worse, they aren’t able to even get their belongings because the moving company is holding them hostage. If you notice the representative on the phone is dodging your questions, seems unprofessional, or is pressuring you into other services you didn’t ask for, consider it a red flag. Reliable and reputable movers are more than happy to answer any questions and will do so in a simple, easy-to-understand manner. They also won’t pressure you with aggressive sales tactics.

 

Cost Red Flags: “Good vs Bad Movers” Price Comparison

Cost Factor Reliable Movers Red Flag / Scam Movers
Average NJ Moving Cost (per hour / per truck) $120 – $180/hr $60 – $90/hr (suspiciously low)
Normal Deposit Range $100 – $200 $500+ or 50% upfront
Typical Stair Fee Range $50 – $100 $150+ without explanation
Typical Long Carry Fee Range $75 – $150 $200+ or undisclosed fees added later
Lowball Quote Warning Threshold Within 10–20% of competitor quotes 30%+ cheaper than average (major red flag)

 

Speaking of red flags, a common one is asking for a large initial deposit. While most moving companies will ask for some form of a deposit in order to confirm your move date, it will generally be around $100-$200. If they ask for half of the quoted rate or more, it’s most likely a scam! Likewise, if a moving company quotes you a number significantly lower than that of other moving companies, it’s probably too good to be true, and they’ll tack on plenty of hidden fees at the end.

Finally, a good rule of thumb is to check the website for information on their address, company name, and how many years they have been in business. Not all new moving companies are bad, but many scam companies change their name often to avoid a trail of negative reviews and legal issues. While you’re at it, verify their address by looking it up online. Make sure the moving company’s address is properly listed and registered under the company name. Avoid any address listed under a residential name.

Prepare for an Easy NJ Move

Finding reliable movers in NJ takes some planning, time, and research, but it will be worth it at the end. Yes, it might be more expensive than using a ‘man with a van.’ However, when you hire professional movers, you can rest easy knowing that they will treat your belongings with the care they deserve. If you’re still in the research phase, why not give NJ Great Movers a call, and we can answer any of your questions.

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General

Why You Should Live in Princeton, NJ – The Complete Guide

Living in Princeton, NJ The Complete Guide

When most people hear Princeton, the first thing that pops into their head is Princeton University. While the renowned is a dominant feature of the city, there’s much more to see and do in the area. Ranked as one of the best places to live in New Jersey, it offers a nice suburban feel and provides easy access to both New York City and Philadelphia.

Important Things to Know About Princeton, NJ

It Has a Long History

Prior to European settlement in the 17th century, the Lenape Native Americans were the earliest identifiable inhabitants of the region. Princeton was named in 1724 upon the construction of the first house by James Leonard, who first referred to the community as Princeton. There are two theories as to why the town came to be named Princeton. The first suggests it was named after King William III, Prince William of Orange of the House of Nassau. The second theory is that the name came from a landowner named Henry Prince.

Great Job Prospects in New Jersey

Besides working at Princeton or the other nearby colleges, Princeton is also home to several multinational companies as well as hundreds of small businesses ranging from retail to health & wellness.

Easy Access to New York City and Philadelphia

Despite its relatively small size, there’s actually quite a lot to do in Princeton as it boasts several restaurants, locally owned retail stores, a world-class art museum, and much more. Of course, if you do get bored, you’re equidistant to both NYC and Philadelphia, whether you feel like taking the Amtrak or NJ Transit.

It’s Famous as a College Town

As you might expect, Princeton, NJ, is a college town. Princeton University is the most well-known and prestigious. A total of six presidents attended Princeton University, which is only two behind Harvard, which has the highest number of presidential alumni, with a total of eight.

Besides this, Princeton also has connections to more than 40 Nobel laureates, 17 winners of the National Medal of Science, and 5 recipients of the National Humanities Award. It’s no wonder that people from around the world apply to this illustrious college. As such, despite its relatively small population, it is very diverse with people from different countries and backgrounds coming together.

Besides Princeton University, the town is also home to Mercer Community College, Westminster Choir College, and Princeton Theological Seminary. As such, the population ebbs and flows with the school year.

Princeton Neighborhoods

Don’t be fooled by its small population; Princeton has several different neighborhoods that offer a variety of settings and house styles.

  • Western Section – extending west and north from the Princeton Battle Monument, this area includes many older and, in some cases, historic homes, complete with beautiful lawns. It is also close to the center of town, making it one of the most desirable neighborhoods.
  • The Institute & Hun Area – West and south of Elm Road, this area offers newer and more luxurious homes. There are several parks and open spaces that belong to Princeton University, as well as the Springdale golf course.

 

Princeton Neighborhood Comparison Scorecard

Neighborhood Walkability Score Average Home Price Commute to Downtown Safety Rating School Rating Lifestyle (Quiet, Urban, Family-Friendly)
Downtown Princeton 92 $1.1M 0–3 min A A+ Urban / Walkable
Princeton North 78 $900,000 5–7 min A A Family-Friendly
Princeton South (Near Poe Road & Riverside) 72 $1.25M 6–10 min A+ A+ Quiet / High-End Residential
Western Section / Elm Road Area 68 $1.4M 8–12 min A+ A Luxury / Private
Littlebrook Neighborhood 64 $1M 7–10 min A A+ Suburban / Family-Oriented
Princeton Junction (Nearby, but popular) 55 $750,000 10–15 min A A Commuter-Friendly

 

  • Rosedale – Bordering Rosedale Road, this section offers many stately homes that tend to have somewhat larger properties than those closer to town. You can enjoy rolling hills and beautiful hiking trails within the many preserved lands.
  • Ettl Farm – located west of Rosedale, and is one of the largest developments in Princeton, with more than 80 homes. You can enjoy a true ‘neighborhood’ feel and get to know your neighbors.
  • Pretty Brook – This gated area has some of the newest and most notable mansions in town. You can enjoy a varied landscape here, complete with hills, streams, ponds, and wooded spots. The area is quiet and offers much more privacy than other locations.
  • Princeton Center – In the heart of Princeton and located a short walk or bike ride to the center of town, Princeton University, or Westminster Choir College. It’s also convenient to many primary schools and the Princeton Shopping Center.
  • Riverside & Littlebrook – bounded on the south and east by Carnegie Lake, this mostly residential neighborhood is a relatively new development. While not as dense as Ettl Farm, there are more houses popping up, especially along the lake.
  • Town & Country – Located about 20 minutes away from Princeton Center, this area offers easy access to public parks, playing fields, various nature preserves, and more
  • Battlefield – On both sides of Mercer Road stretches the Battlefield site, a now picturesque area that is often the site of wedding parties. It’s a perfect place for hiking and, occasionally, cross-country skiing.

Schools in Princeton, NJ

Princeton, NJ, has a total of 6 public schools that serve students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The public schools have an enviable student-teacher ratio of 11:1. Princeton High School consistently ranks in the top 10 of the best schools in New Jersey and the top 50 best public high schools in America. The other public schools consistently receive high grades from the state as well as parents due to the excellent teachers and varied/challenging curriculum.

Besides public schools, Princeton is also home to several private schools, including St. Paul’s Catholic School, which is the oldest and only coeducational Catholic School. Other notable private schools include Hun School of Princeton and Princeton International School of Mathematics and Science. The city also has a Japanese Language School that teaches weekend Japanese classes for Japanese citizen children abroad to the standard of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT).

When it comes to higher education, Princeton is, of course, well known for being the home of Princeton University. Founded in 1746, it is the 4th oldest institution of higher education in the United States and is often ranked among the best and most prestigious universities in the world.

Jobs in Princeton, New Jersey

One of the largest employers of Princeton is, of course, Princeton University. Besides working as a professor, there are many administrative-level jobs throughout the university. If you don’t want to work for a university, there are plenty of other options. While the city might not have as many large corporations as places like Jersey City, you can find jobs at places like Johnson & Johnson, Black Rock, and Bristol Myers Squibb.

There are plenty of other opportunities if you prefer a smaller environment. There’s truly something for everyone. There are plenty of small shops you can work at if you are looking for something part-time. You can also find plenty of full-time work with the local companies that provide business services such as health and wellness, construction, education, and more.

If you want to start your own business, then Princeton, NJ, is a great location to move to. There is a chapter of Startup Grind, which is the world’s largest community of startups, founders, innovators, and creators. The community provides networking events, workshops, and promotes NJ and regional startups. And once you do start your business, there are plenty of talented college graduates to choose from!

Cost of Living in Princeton

Princeton, NJ, is considered one of the best places to live in New Jersey, and with that comes a hefty price tag. The average cost of a home is around $910,000, although the various mansions in the area drive up the price. In general, home prices cost around $400 per square foot. This is still significantly higher than the $184 per square foot median price for houses in the US. This doesn’t even include the average property tax bill of $19.388/year.

 

Princeton Cost of Living Breakdown vs. NJ & U.S. Averages

Category Princeton New Jersey Avg U.S. Avg
Housing Index 185 142 100
Median Home Price $910,000 $500,000 $412,000
Average Rent (1-BR) $2,000 $1,650 $1,324
Property Tax Average $19,388/yr $9,800/yr $3,900/yr
Utilities Cost $210/mo $185/mo $160/mo
Transportation Cost Index 125 112 100
Grocery Index 118 108 100
Healthcare Index 94 102 100

 

However, you get a lot for your money, including safe neighborhoods, an excellent school system, and proximity to two major cities. Despite the high prices, the majority of Princeton residents own their homes.  If you can’t afford to buy, there are some apartments available, but they tend to be on the more expensive side. You can expect to pay an average of $2,000 for a 1-bedroom apartment.

In general, living in Princeton, NJ, isn’t cheap. You’ll be paying more for groceries, utilities, transportation, and property taxes. The only area where you might save money is with healthcare. It’s no surprise that the median household income is over $130,000.

Safety and Crime

Princeton is a relatively safe town with a crime rate of around 10 per 10,000 residents. This makes the rate around average for other cities and towns in the US. If you live here, you don’t have to worry too much about violent crime. Instead, the most common type of crime is property crime. You can curb this by installing security cameras and having up signs saying that your property is under camera surveillance 24/7.

The southeast part of Princeton is widely considered the safest part of the city, while the southwest areas tend to have more crime. This can be attributed to many retail establishments in the western part of the city. In general, more crimes are committed on retail blocks where few people live. This isn’t an indictment of the western portion of Princeton. In fact, overall, the city is fairly safe.

Princeton Demographics

Princeton has a population of around 30,000 people. There are slightly more men than women, and around 55 percent of the population has a graduate degree. This isn’t a huge surprise considering the influence of Princeton University on the town.

While not as diverse as places like Jersey City or New York City, Princeton does have a sizable minority population with around 17 percent identifying as Asian and around 6 percent identifying as Black or African American. The majority, 72 percent, identify as white.

Princeton Weather

Princeton’s climate is considered a humid subtropical climate, similar to that of New York City. That means you get hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters. For the most part, Princeton doesn’t experience too many extreme weather events besides blizzards, thanks to its location. Unlike places like Jersey City or Atlantic City, Princeton did not suffer tremendous power outages or deaths from Hurricane Sandy in 2012.

Fun and Exciting Things to Do in Princeton

It might not be a big town, but Princeton still has a lot to offer if you’re looking for some fun activities for the family. It’s also a very walkable town, so if you’re visiting, then find a place to park and explore the town on foot. Yes, the entire town is around 18 square miles, but there are plenty of places where you can park and enjoy the scenery from the downtown area to the parks.

  • Experience the arts – Princeton is home to the Princeton University Art Museum, which houses over 92,000 works of art ranging from antiquity to the contemporary period. Even just walking around campus can be an excellent study in architecture and landscaping, as the grounds have beautiful buildings and gardens. If you’re more of a music or theater fan, Princeton is home to several performance arts centers, so you can enjoy amazing music, plays, or improv!

 

Things to Do in Princeton – Popularity & Ratings Table

Attraction Category Google Rating Annual Visitors Cost Walking Distance from Downtown
Princeton University Campus Arts / History ⭐ 4.8 800,000+ $0 5–10 min
Princeton University Art Museum Arts ⭐ 4.9 200,000+ $0 5 min
Palmer Square Food / Shopping ⭐ 4.7 1,000,000+ $–$$$ 0–3 min
Morven Museum & Garden History / Nature ⭐ 4.6 35,000+ $$ 12 min
Princeton Battlefield State Park Nature / History ⭐ 4.7 150,000+ $0 8 min (drive)
Lake Carnegie Walking Trails Nature ⭐ 4.8 300,000+ $0 10–15 min
Nassau Street Restaurants Food ⭐ 4.5–4.8 Millions $–$$$ 0–5 min

 

  • Take in the history – There are many historical locations in Princeton, including Albert Einstein’s house, Princeton Battlefield State Park, Jugtown Historic District, and Westland Mansion, to name a few.
  • Enjoy nature – if you love being outside, then Princeton is the place for you. There are many protected reserves and parks to enjoy, including: D&R Canal State Park, Mountain Lakes Preserve, Marquand Park, and Lake Carnegie
  • Visit the local eateries – you wouldn’t think a small town of 30,000 would have a lot of food options, but there are plenty of restaurants and small eateries to choose from. Enjoy a farm-to-table experience at Agricola or enjoy a cup of coffee at Small World Cafe.
  • Cheer on the local sports teams – if you’re a sports fan, then you’ll be happy to know that Princeton has one of the largest and most successful athletic programs in the NCAA division. They have the best-known men’s and women’s basketball teams within the Ivy League. On top of that, their football team has claimed 15 football championships!

Moving to Princeton

Princeton’s population has remained relatively steady, though demand seems to be increasing, as evidenced by the rise in development. If you’re looking for a place to start a family, then Princeton is an excellent choice. It might not be cheap, but it offers top-notch education and family activities.

Once you’re ready to move, make sure to hire local movers in NJ like us! We can help make your move quick and easy! Reach out to ask for a free quote!

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General

The Best NJ Cities for Young Professionals in 2026

Best NJ Cities for Young Professionals in 2022

You don’t have to move to NYC to have good job prospects. If you’re a young professional in NJ, you might want to look locally for jobs. Sure, you don’t have to limit yourself, but NJ is home to 15 Fortune 500 companies and over 750,000 small businesses. Of course, not all cities are created equal. If you’re a young professional, you’ll want a location that has plenty of great jobs, a decent nightlife, and affordable rents or home prices. While it’s getting harder to find all three things, it’s not impossible. If you’re looking to make a move, then below are some of the best NJ cities for young professionals.

Most Affordable and Popular City: Jersey City

Despite its negative reputation, Jersey City has quickly become a favourite among young professionals for a variety of reasons. Jersey City is the second most populous city in New Jersey, right behind Newark. Thanks to this, it offers plenty of amenities such as amazing restaurants, great nightlife, and cultural institutions such as the Liberty Science Centre. And if that’s not enough, you’re a short PATH ride away from NYC.

 

Cost of Living Comparison for Young Professionals (City vs NJ Average)

City Avg Rent (1BR) Avg Rent (2BR) Cost of Living Index Grocery Index Transportation Index Utilities Index
Jersey City $2,900 $3,800 128 112 135 118
Montclair $2,400 $3,300 122 109 120 115
North Bergen $2,000 $3,000 115 104 110 108
Hoboken $3,100 $4,400 130 115 138 120
Edgewater $2,500 $3,600 118 105 112 110
NJ State Average $1,950 $2,650 100 100 100 100

 

Compared to NYC, Jersey City’s rents are affordable. You might see similar prices, but you’re getting a lot more space than what you might find in the best neighbourhoods of Brooklyn or Manhattan. There’s also plenty of work in Jersey City. Nicknamed the Wall Street West, Jersey City is home to major financial institutions such as Citigroup, Fidelity Investments, and Depository Trust and Clearing Corporation.

If you like shopping, then you’re in luck! Jersey City has several shopping districts, including Newport Mall. Some portions of the city are part of the Urban Enterprise Zone, where you can pay reduced sales tax on your items.

Beautiful View from the City: Great Montclair

While technically a town, living in Montclair offers some stunning views of the surrounding area. If you manage to snag a home in higher locations, you can even get views of the NYC skyline. This quirky location offers the trappings of a quiet, suburban life, but also keeps it exciting as it has a lively food scene, wonderful cultural establishments such as Montclair Art Museum and Wellmont Theatre, and a bustling downtown. If you’re looking to connect with other young professionals, there are many networking groups dedicated to specific industries and businesses.

While it’s further away from NYC than Jersey City, you can still get there in under an hour via the NJ Transit. Of course, you could drive, but dealing with the traffic getting into NYC and then finding a parking spot might not be worth it. Average rent in Montclair tends to be a bit on the higher side, but you’re getting a lot more bang for your buck. Buying a home also isn’t cheap, but you might be able to find a decent starter home for around $500,000-$630,000.

Best Option to Start a Career: North Bergen

Much is great for people just getting started in their careers. Average rents in North Bergen are around $2,000, with 2+ bedrooms venturing into the $3,000 territory. While this might be high for single renters, it’s a great option if you plan on having a roommate. Not only do you get two actual bedrooms, but you can also expect an actual living room and a separate kitchen for these prices. That’s more than you can say for 2 bedrooms in Manhattan! And while you don’t have the PATH train taking you to Manhattan, North Bergen does have easy access to NYC thanks to both bus and light rail services. You can also hop on a Jitney commuter bus for access to the George Washington Bridge Bus Station, the Newport Centre, and other local stops.

Much like Jersey City, portions of North Bergen are part of the Urban Enterprise Zone, so you pay 50% less in sales tax in these areas. Job-wise, you can choose from a variety of companies, though the largest include Hudson News and Liz Claiborne. If you’re in the freight industry, you’ll be happy to know that the New York, Susquehanna and Western Railway operates five facilities in North Bergen. After a hard day at work, you can kick back at the New Jersey Beer Company.

Small but Best City for Young Professionals: Hoboken

It might be small in size, but Hoboken is one of the best NJ cities for young professionals for a variety of reasons. The first reason is competitive rents. While the rents in Hoboken are rising due to demand, it still remains cheaper than some areas in Manhattan and Brooklyn. For many, saving a couple of hundred dollars a month is definitely worth it. Plus, it’s a short 15-minute ride into Manhattan, making it a faster commute than if you were travelling from some areas of the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens.

 

Job Market Strength Index (Top Employers & Job Availability)

City # of Major Employers (5+ Employees) Top Industries Job Availability Score (1–10) Median Salary (Ages 25–34)
Princeton, NJ 65+ Education, Pharma, Tech, Finance 9/10 $72,000
New Brunswick, NJ 80+ Healthcare, Education, Biotech 8/10 $65,000
Jersey City, NJ 120+ Finance, Tech, Logistics 9/10 $78,000
Hoboken, NJ 45+ Tech, Startups, Finance 8/10 $82,000
Trenton, NJ 50+ Government, Logistics, Education 7/10 $58,000

 

Just because you’re close to Manhattan doesn’t mean you have to travel there. In fact, there are plenty of things to do in Hoboken. Despite its quaint, small-town vibe, Hoboken has a wide selection of bars and restaurants to visit, due in part to the local college in the area, Stevens Institute of Technology. You can enjoy a pint at Moran’s for a more chummy atmosphere or go clubbing at Wicked Wolf. Want to learn how to decorate cakes? Go to Butter Lane for some delicious pastries and baking classes.

Of course, since you’re so close to NYC, you pretty much have all the benefits of living in NYC without having to pay NYC taxes or prices! It’s the perfect happy medium for those who want the trappings of city life without the price tag.

Small Town with a Great View: Edgewater

This little town might not seem like much at first, but it offers pretty much everything you could want. Of course, there are the spectacular views of the Hudson, but it also offers fine dining, such as The River Palm Terrace, as well as affordable comfort options. On top of that, it’s a short bus ride to NYC, so you can head into the city if you’re tired of the Edgewater scene. While costs have risen over the years, Edgewater still remains affordable. Average rents for a one-bedroom are around $2,50,0, with the average size of an apartment coming in at just over 1,000 square feet. Home prices aren’t low, but you can find something for as low as $500,000.

What sets Edgewater apart from the other areas is its diversity. It is a very ethnically diverse area and boasts the largest Japanese-American concentration in New Jersey when combined with nearby Fort Lee. It’s home to Mitsuwa, a very large Japanese grocery store that offers Japanese produce, snacks, and pastries. There’s also a Whole Foods for organic produce and Trader Joe’s if you want something a bit more affordable. There are five other shopping areas where you can enjoy local restaurants, shops, and more.

Ready to Make Your NJ Move?

There are so many amazing places to live in NJ, but if you’re a young professional, you probably want to stay close to the action in NYC without having to live with 4+ roommates. In that case, these NJ city options are a great starting point.

If you’re ready to move, make sure to hire trusted NJ movers (like us). They’ll help get you settled into your new place as soon as possible.

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General

Pros and Cons of Living in NJ While Working in NYC

Pros and Cons of Living in NJ While Working in NYC

Many New Yorkers might consider NYC the best city in the world, but not everyone feels the same way. Sure, there are plenty of perks to living in The Big Apple, such as world-class restaurants, storied cultural institutions, and hard-to-beat convenience. However, access to everything New York City has to offer doesn’t come cheap. Renting in NYC is expensive for the size you get, and the overall cost of living is significantly higher than in other parts of the United States. On top of that, you have to pay extra tax for living in NYC!

Instead of staying in NYC, many people have opted to move to New Jersey for the cheaper rents and larger living spaces. In fact, around 320,000 people commute from NJ to NYC on a daily basis! Before you decide to take the plunge, you should first familiarize yourself with all the aspects of living in NJ and working in NYC.

Pros of living in New Jersey while working in NYC

There’s a lot to love about living in New Jersey, and more people are starting to leave the city for greener pastures. Here are some reasons why people are making the decision to live the commuter life.

Location

New Jersey has access to several large cities: New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C. No matter where you live, you’re not far from a major highway, and there’s also many public transportation options that can shuttle you between NYC and Philadelphia.

If you want more time in nature, New Jersey offers plenty of outdoor options, from hiking to skiing to camping. It’s also home to Wharton State Forest, which is the largest single tract of land within the NJ State Park System, with over 120,000 acres spread across three counties. During the summer, you can enjoy the many beaches New Jersey has to offer. While the Jersey shore might have gotten a bad rep due to the reality TV show, there are plenty of towns that boast beautiful beaches, such as Wildwood Crest, Cape May, Stone Harbor, and Ocean Grove.

If you plan on commuting to New York City for work, you’ll want to focus your search on the northern part of New Jersey. The popular locations in New Jersey tend to be those that have direct access to the PATH train, which can take you into Manhattan in about 15-20 minutes. Of course, due to its proximity to Manhattan, you can expect to pay higher rent, but it’s worth it if you don’t want to waste 30+ minutes on your morning and evening commute. In some cases, commuting from Hoboken or Jersey City might actually be faster than commuting from some of the outer boroughs, especially if you work in Midtown.

Speaking of location, New Jersey is also home to Newark International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world, just behind Kennedy International Airport in New York City. The airport is easily accessible by the NJ Transit system, and you can find a direct flight to almost anywhere in the world. It’s perfect for people who travel a lot, either for business or pleasure.

Lower Cost of Living

One of the biggest reasons why people choose to move to New Jersey while still working in NYC is that it’s cheaper. Sure, cities like Hoboken and Jersey City might see comparable prices, but you’re probably getting more indoor and, in some cases, outdoor space. Heck, it might even be feasible to buy an actual house in New Jersey for the price you would pay for a co-op or condo in NYC. With that said, New Jersey has some of the highest property taxes in the United States, so if you do choose to buy, make sure you know what you’re getting into.

 

Cost of Living Comparison: NJ Cities vs NYC (2025)

Location Avg 1BR Rent ($) Avg 2BR Rent ($) Food/Grocery Index Utilities Index Transportation Index Monthly Savings vs NYC ($)
New York City (Baseline) $3,950 $5,500 100 100 100 $0
Jersey City, NJ $3,200 $4,450 93 97 92 $700–$1,100
Hoboken, NJ $3,400 $4,700 94 98 94 $500–$900
Newark, NJ $1,750 $2,500 85 92 88 $2,000–$3,200
Elizabeth, NJ $1,900 $2,750 84 90 87 $1,900–$3,000
Weehawken, NJ $2,900 $4,000 91 96 91 $900–$1,700

 

Your salary also goes a long further in New Jersey. The cost of everyday necessities such as food, gas, and utilities tends to be lower. Plus, your paycheck will go further in New Jersey because you’re dealing with fewer taxes. Say goodbye to the New York City income tax and hello to a lower income tax. While you will need to file two tax returns if you live in New Jersey and work in NYC, you will receive a tax credit for any taxes that you paid for New York. That prevents you from being taxed on the same income by both states. Just make sure to file your New York State tax return first to receive the tax credit.

Speaking of taxes, you’re also paying less in sales tax overall. New York has a sales tax of 8.875% while New Jersey has a sales tax of 6.625%. If you shop in an area that is designated as an Urban Enterprise Zone, you will only have to pay half the standard sales tax rate. You’re saving money while you shop!

Great Quality of Life

If you have kids or plan on having them, one of the most important choices when choosing your home location is its school system. Luckily, New Jersey has some of the best schools in the nation. In fact, New Jersey has the second-highest high school graduation rate with around 90.6 percent of students graduating, and the state’s public schools have been named one of the best in the nation. Of course, that depends on where you live. If you have children, you might want to move to the following school districts:

  • Millburn Township
  • Princeton
  • Ridgewood
  • Tenafly
  • West Windsor-Plainsboro
  • Livingston

New Jersey is also home to the prestigious Princeton University, Stevens Institute of Technology, Rutgers University, and Seton Hall University.

You’re also not missing out on too much, even if you don’t live in the heart of NYC. New Jersey has plenty of cultural institutions, entertainment, restaurants, and other amenities to the point where there’s no reason to really go into NYC. If you’re a lover of the arts, then you’ll be thrilled to know that New Jersey is home to 700 arts organizations. Sports fans can head over to the MetLife Stadium to watch both the NJ Jets and the NYC Giants play. Afterwards, you can grab a bite at some of the delicious restaurants that dot the state. Speaking of which, if you’re looking for some of the best NY pizza slices, they’re in New Jersey!

Cons of living in New Jersey while working in NYC

Living in New Jersey isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. There are some downsides to consider before you decide to make your move.

It’s not New York

There’s something about New York City that is enticing to people from around the world. For some, it’s the possibility of making it big in their field, whether that’s as an actor, tech innovator, or investor. For others, the convenience of NYC is the biggest draw. Everything you could possibly want is at your fingertips and can probably be delivered to your door. And since the public transportation system is fairly reliable, you don’t need a car in NYC. In fact, about 50 percent of NYC residents don’t have a driver’s license.

While you can get a lot of those same benefits in certain areas of New Jersey, the further away you get from the city, the fewer amenities you can expect. Plus, places like Hoboken and New Jersey City might be busy, but even they simply don’t have the same energy as NYC. Some people thrive off that buzz. If that’s you, it can be hard to find that anywhere else.

Commuting

The PATH train might not be horrible, but if it goes down, you don’t have too many other transportation options to get into the city besides a ferry and maybe a bus. In the worst-case scenario, there might not even be any alternative transportation options. This issue becomes worse the further away from NYC you move, so if you have to depend on NJ Transit buses or trains, you might not be able to make it into work.

Unless you work directly off the PATH or NJ Transit stops in Manhattan, your commuting costs will be higher than if you live in NYC. Sure, the PATH train costs the same as a fare, but since you cannot use your monthly Metrocard for the PATH, you’re effectively paying double the price if you need to take the subway to your job. It’s the same for the NJ Transit trains and buses. The fares aren’t too expensive, but they add up when you combine them with your subway fare.

The unreliability of public transportation is one of the reasons why many New Jersey residents opt to drive to work. This comes with its own costs, of course. You’ll have to pay for insurance, gas, maintenance, and more. Plus, you’ll have to deal with horrible traffic during rush hour. What should be a 20-minute drive will often take over an hour during the morning and evening commute. You’ll also have to pay high tolls to get into NYC.

Property Taxes

In almost every other aspect, New Jersey is cheaper when it comes to taxes. That is, until you get into property taxes. New Jersey has some of the highest property taxes in the United States. If you plan on buying a home, you can end up paying a very high tax rate depending on the area. In most cases, the cities/towns with the best schools tend to have the highest property taxes.

Property Tax Comparison — Sample NJ Towns (2025)

Town / City Property Tax Rate (%) Median Home Price ($) Annual Property Tax ($) School District Rating (1–10) Commute Time to NYC (min)
Ridgewood, NJ ≈ 2.73% ≈ $600,000 ≈ $16,362 9 – 10 (A+ rating)* ≈ 35–55 min (train / car)**
Tenafly, NJ ≈ 2.71% ≈ $672,000 ≈ $18,167 9 – 10 (known for strong schools)* ≈ 40–50 min (train)**
Princeton, NJ ≈ 2.43% – 2.51%* ≈ $646,500 ≈ $16,500 8 – 10 (highly regarded district)* ≈ 70–90 min (commute to NYC; depends on route)**
Newark, NJ ≈ 3.73% (effective) ≈ $550,000 – $565,000 ≈ $6,500 – $7,200 5 – 7 (varies by neighborhood)* ≈ 20–35 min (PATH / NJ Transit)**
Hoboken, NJ (condo/townhome market) (varies widely — often high tax + HOA) ≈ $750,000 – $1,200,000* ≈ $15,000–$25,000+ (depending on unit & assessments) 7 – 9 (mixed school + private options)* ≈ 15–25 min (PATH to Manhattan)**

 

While property tax rates tend to change over the years, the average property tax for a home in New Jersey (2.42%) is nearly three times the amount as in New York City (0.88%). Of course, you might end up paying more in actual tax in NYC versus New Jersey, as your rate is calculated by multiplying the taxable value of your property by the current tax rate for your property’s tax class.

And while you have the benefit of owning your home instead of renting, it also comes with more costs. In general, when you rent, you don’t have to pay for heat or hot water. However, when you own your home, you have to pay for everything! That means extra bills on top of your mortgage, homeowner’s insurance, HOA fees, taxes, etc. This can really eat into your savings.

Moving to New Jersey

Once you’ve weighed the pros and cons of living in New Jersey and commuting to NYC, it’s up to you to decide whether you want to relocate or not. If you do decide to make a move, make sure to call up qualified NJ movers to help you out so you can get started on the right foot.