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The Best Guide to Living in Elizabeth, NJ

The Complete Guide to Living in Elizabeth, NJ

As the fourth largest city in New Jersey, Elizabeth boasts plenty of amenities and easy access to public transportation that can take you to other locations in New Jersey or to New York City, which is only 35 minutes away. The close proximity to NYC makes Elizabeth one of the best neighborhoods in NJ for commuters and the excellent public schools make this the perfect NJ city for parents and families.

Before you plan on moving to Elizabeth, NJ, you should do a bit of research to see if this bustling city makes sense for you. Once you’ve decided to take the plunge, make sure to call up trusted NJ movers to help you get settled into your new home.

Know Everything About Elizabeth, NJ

One of the Busiest Ports in the World

Due to its location on the water, Elizabeth has always been a transportation hub. Since its founding in 1664, the city has seen its transportation facilities grow. It’s home to Port Newark-Elizabeth Marine Terminal, a container ship facility for goods entering and leaving the NYC metro area. It is the largest container port in the Eastern United States and the 2nd-largest in the country.

It’s part of the Urban Enterprise Zone

Portions of the city are part of the NJ Urban Enterprise Zone and was part of the initial group of 10 zones chosen to participate in the program when it was launched in 1992. As such the city encourages employment and investment in these areas and also has a 50% reduced sales tax.

Excellent Public Transportation in Elizabeth

You don’t need a car in Elizabeth if you want to get around. The New Jersey Transit Authority has bus routes that run through the city and takes you directly to the Port Authority Terminal. It’s also home to two train stations: Elizabeth Station and North Elizabeth Station. NJ transit is also planning a segment of the Newark-Elizabeth Rail Link (NERL) that will connect to Midtown Station and Newark Airport for even easier commuting.

However, if you do want to own a car there are two major highways you can hop onto: Highway 1 which will take you north and south through Elizabeth, NJ and the I-95 which will get you to NYC and Philadelphia. There are three smaller highways – Highway 27, 82, and 28 – which run north and south, northwest, and west respectively.

There are some amazing locations nearby the city that aren’t accessible by train, so having a car can come in handy. For example, one of the best places to check out the fall foliage is Cheesequake State Park which is only 35 minutes away from Elizabeth. The highways also provide easy access to Staten Island if you want to visit for whatever reason.

Princeton Was Founded in Elizabeth

It might now be located in Princeton, NJ, but the esteemed college was founded in Elizabeth back in 1746 as the College of New Jersey. It later moved to Newark in 1747 and then to Princeton in 1756 where it remains today.

Variety of Neighborhoods in Elizabeth

As a large city, Elizabeth boasts a variety of neighborhoods, each with their own look and feel. When choosing where to live you should take the time to explore each area to find the one that matches your needs.

  • Midtown/Uptown – this is the main commercial district and historic section. It’s home to the First Presbyterian Church which was a battleground during the American Revolution. It’s also home to many English type gardens.
  • Bayway – located in the southern portion of the city and between the Elizabeth River and Arthur Kill. The neighborhood has very strong Polish roots with plenty of ethnic restaurants and stores. Houses tend to be more affordable here with an emphasis on two to four-family housing units.
  • Downtown/Elizabethport – the oldest and most diverse location in Elizabeth. You can find old world Elizabethan houses right next to modern American colonial-style houses. Enjoy some amazing shops and then head to the marina for a nice stroll along the water.
  • Elmora and the West End – If you’re a foodie, then Elmora is the place to be. It boasts some of the best restaurants in the city and it’s a quick jaunt to the Elizabeth station.
  • Frog Hollow – this small neighborhood got its name due to the excellent frog catching in its marshes. Since its inception, the neighborhood has expanded and now includes the area known as Helltown which included many docks and shipyards. As such, it’s a great place for people who enjoy being on the water.
  • Keighry Head – Located close to Midtown, this neighborhood is more on the affordable side and is close to transportation and great shopping.
  • North Elizabeth – Next to Elmora, North Elizabeth is a great place for commuters as it is home to the North Elizabeth train station. You can find a nice apartment or a larger one or two-family home here.
  • Peterstown – This middle/working class neighborhood is located in the southeastern part of the city. Despite being part of Elizabeth, it delivers a more ‘small-town’ feel and contains the historic Union Square which is home to many food stands, meat markets, and poultry stores.
  • The Point – formerly known as the Crossroads, this area is close to Midtown and is going through a transformation as more two-family homes are being built here.
  • Quality Hill – Once the most fashionable place to live in Elizabeth, it has become a quiet residential area with new condos popping up.
  • Westminster – If you love nature, then Westminster is the place for you. It’s home to the Phil Rizzuto Park and provides easy access to the boardwalk along the Elizabeth River for excellent birdwatching.

Schools in Elizabeth, NJ

Elizabeth is one of the largest school districts in New Jersey. There are a total of 26 public elementary schools and six high schools with a total enrollment of 28,712 students. The schools have consistently received excellent ratings from parents and students alike. In fact, some schools have been recognized by the Department of Education by receiving the Blue Ribbon School Award of Excellence – the highest award an American school can receive – including William F Halloran Alternative School and Victor Mravlag Elementary School.

While Elizabeth might not be home to any universities, there is a branch of the Union County College located in the city as well as Drake College of Business. The city is also close to other major universities like Rutgers and Princeton.

Variety of Jobs in Elizabeth

As the fourth most populous city in New Jersey, Elizabeth boasts a variety of jobs. While most of the residents tend to commute to NYC for work, many more find local jobs. Some of the largest employers include:

  • Port Newark – the 2,000 acre marina terminal is the second largest container port in the US
  • Bayway Refinery – this refining facility supplies petroleum-based products to the NYC/NJ area producing around 230,000 barrels per day
  • Jersey Gardens Mall – if you enjoy working retail, then your best bet is to find one at the Jersey Gardens Mall, the largest outlet mall in NJ
  • Trinitas Regional Medical Center – the largest healthcare facility in the city and one of the largest healthcare employers in the area

If you don’t want to work for a large company, there are plenty of small businesses in a diverse set of sectors from food and beverage to manufacturing. Chances are you’ll find an employer that needs your skill sets!

Of course, if you can’t find anything in town that suits your needs, then you can find a job in NYC. And you wouldn’t be the only one. On average around 10,000 residents who live in or near Elizabeth commute to the city. While driving is certainly an option, you can also take the NJ Transit trains to Penn Station or one of the buses to Port Authority.

If you want to start your own business, Elizabeth, NJ is a great place! Residents can apply for small business grants and loans. The city itself supports small businesses by providing a network of partners such as the Elizabeth Development Company. Its recent growth in small businesses is due in no small part to the Urban Enterprise Zone which has brought billions of dollars in private investments.

Cost of Living in Elizabeth

Despite its proximity to NYC, the cost of living in Elizabeth is actually slightly lower than the rest of New Jersey. Of course, this all changes based on your living situation, but by and large Elizabeth residents spent around 6 percent less on food, housing, and personal spending than other New Jerseyians. Interestingly, the cost of healthcare, utilities, and transportation are 5 percent higher than the rest of the state.

When it comes to housing, the median home price is around $374,100 compared to the $397,900 for the rest of New Jersey. Renting an apartment is also cheaper with studios averaging around $1,200/month. Of course, as more people start flocking to Elizabeth, chances are rents and home prices will continue to increase.

Safety and Crime

As a large city, Elizabeth does suffer from crime with theft being the most common. Like any city, there are areas that are safer than others with the northeast part having fewer cases of crime. With that said, it’s important to remember when looking at a crime map that often the areas with the highest instances of crime tend to be in retail areas, parks, etc. due to the large concentration of people that visit these places.

If you’re worried about property crime, make sure to install cameras as your home is 300 percent more likely to be robbed with no home security system. From there, it’s really about getting to know your neighbors! The more people know you, the more they will look out for you.

Elizabeth Demographics

Elizabeth has a population of almost 140,000 people. Due to its roots in manufacturing, transportation, etc. Elizabeth is considered a blue-collar town though more white-collar workers have started to move to the area due to its affordable prices and quick commute to NYC. Still, around 40 percent of the workforce is employed in blue-collar occupations.

Thanks to its location along the water, Elizabeth is also quite diverse with around 59 percent of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino, 21 percent identifying as black, and 16 percent identifying as Pacific Islander. The city’s Hispanic population was the tenth-highest in New Jersey. The median income is $43,770 with the majority of residents being between 18-44.

Elizabeth Weather

Similar to other New Jersey cities, Elizabeth is characterized by hot, humid summers and cool to cold winters. Located in the Northeastern part of the United States, you’ll get to experience all four seasons. While the area generally doesn’t see too much in the way of extreme weather events, it can be affected by hurricanes and blizzards.

Fun Things to Do in ElizabethFun Things to Do in Elizabeth

There’s truly something for everyone in Elizabeth whether you’re going to brunch with your friends or enjoying the beautiful weather with your kids. Chances are there’s fun activity going on! Plus, if you get tired of Elizabeth, NYC is just a short train ride away.

  • Enjoy the outdoors – Want a little fun in the sun? There’s plenty of outdoor options. Walk along the Elizabeth River Trail and enjoy the city’s rich history. Join an intramural sports team and play at Mattano Park while enjoying views of the Elizabeth River. Or do some light hiking at the 200-acre Warinanco Park.
  • Eat great food – Thanks to its culturally diverse population, there’s plenty of interesting restaurants to visit. Go to Valencia restaurant for some of the best traditional Portuguese fare in New Jersey. If you’re looking for fusion cuisine, check out The Garden for a fusion of Latin American flavors.
  • Go shopping – Elizabeth is home to Jersey Garden Malls, the largest outlet mall in the state. It’s home to local and international brands. If you’re looking to support small businesses, visit Midtown or Elmora for more boutique options.
  • Find some weekend entertainment – Elizabeth offers a variety of entertainment options. If you’re looking for a more artsy experience, go to Barcode for some great food and ticketed events. If you’re in the mood to dance the night away, you can head over to Bamboleo Bar and Grill. Otherwise, enjoy a cold brew and the game at The LOBBY! There are also seasonal festivals and events throughout the year such as Portugal Day Parade, the Reenactment of the Battle of Elizabethtown, and more!
  • Watch some live performances – Built in 1926, the Ritz Theatre offers a wide variety of concerts and shows. There’s something happening almost every day of the week so check out the site and see if there’s anything that interests you. If you want to do something arty for free, check out the local street murals. These artworks were commissioned by the Elizabeth Renaissance Foundation and features murals by a local artist.

Moving to Elizabeth

Elizabeth, NJ boasts a combination of qualities that will appeal to people from different backgrounds from people looking for a quiet, residential area to those who want to be near the nightlife. There’s truly something for everyone. Plus, if you can’t find it in Elizabeth, you’re just a stone’s throw from NYC.

If you’ve decided to move to Elizabeth, make sure to reach out to movers NJ residents trust! They’ll be able to get you moved in without delay so you can start your new life on the right foot.

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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.
  • 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 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 way 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-teach ratio of 11:1. Princeton High School consistently ranks in the top 10 of best schools in New Jersey and 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 the St. Paul’s Catholic School, which is the oldest and only coeducational Catholic School. Other notable private schools include Hun Schools 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 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.

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 home.  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 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 Asiant and around 6 percent identifying as Black or African American. The majority, 72 percent, identify as white.

Moving in Princeton, NJ The Complete GuidePrinceton 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 that 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!
  • 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, 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

Prnceton’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 NJ like us! We can help make your move quick and easy! Reach out to ask for a free quote!

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The Best NJ Cities for Young Professionals in 2024

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 favorite among young professionals for a variety of reasons. Jersey City is the second most populated 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 Center. And if that’s not enough, you’re a short PATH ride away from NYC.

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 neighborhoods 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 they have a lively food scene, wonderful cultural establishments such as Montclair Art Museum and Wellmont Theater, 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 is 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, you can also expect an actual living room and 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 operate 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 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 traveling from some areas of the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens.

Just because you’re close to Manhattan doesn’t mean you have to travel there. In fact, there’s 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’s 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 is around $2,500 with the average size of an apartment coming in at just over 1,000 square feet. Home prices aren’t cheap, 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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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 overall cost of living is significantly higher than 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 beforehand.

Pros of living in New Jersey while working in NYC

There’s a lot to love about live 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 trains 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 rents 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 because 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.

Your salary also goes a lot further in New Jersey. The cost of everyday necessities such as food, gas, and utilities tend 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 school has 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 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 sunshines 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 it simply doesn’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 it adds up when you combine it 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.

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.