Pros and Cons of Living in New Jersey highlight just how diverse and dynamic life in the Garden State can be.
Though small in size, New Jersey offers a little bit of everything—from the fast-paced, commuter-friendly lifestyle of North Jersey to the quieter, more relaxed vibe of South Jersey’s suburban towns and scenic landscapes.
Whether you're drawn to its proximity to major cities, top-rated schools, or iconic shorelines, or you're weighing the cost of living and traffic, this post will walk you through the real perks and drawbacks to help you decide if New Jersey is the right fit for you.
Whether you are looking at Hoboken, NJ apartments or places in Vineland, there is much to consider in the way of positives and negatives for the Garden State.
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Commuting Is a Pain
North Jersey’s traffic is impacted by commuters eschewing public transport to get into the city areas, causing slower trips at peak hours.
Overall, the state average for travel is around 30 minutes per trip, with some of the bigger cities taking longer to get around.
Crime Rates Are Low
New Jersey’s property and violent crime rates sit below the national average, and according to a SafeWise report, the violent crime rate barely moved compared to last year while property crimes were down.
Though the metro areas along the northern border have higher crime rates, most of New Jersey is dotted with small towns in rural areas and medium-sized cities that rank high in terms of safety.
Tax Burdens Are High
New Jersey has one of the highest overall tax burdens in the nation according to the Tax Foundation. Personal income tax rates range from 1.4% to 8.97% as of 2021, and sales tax is 6.625%.
Property taxes are estimated to be higher than in any other US state at over 2% of the property value due each year.
Vibrant Scene of Things to Do
Whether you are north, south, or in between, there is a lot to do in the Garden State.
The Camden Aquarium is a big draw, as is MetLife Stadium. You can stroll along the streets of charming small towns like Morristown and Princeton, and or visit one of the many huge shopping malls like Westfield Garden State Plaza.
There is also much to do for outdoor enthusiasts, from hiking, fishing, and beach life during the warm months to skiing and snowmobiling during the colder times of the year.
Cost of Living Leaves Something to Be Desired
Much like most of the East Coast, the cost of living in New Jersey is much higher than the national average. In particular, housing is 69 percent more expensive than elsewhere in the country.
It is notable that the cost of living varies dependent on where you are in the state.
Typically North Jersey is more expensive, while South Jersey is often estimated to be roughly 30 percent cheaper.
5 Pros and Cons of Living in New Jersey (From a Mom Who’s Been There, Done That)
PROS
1. You're Close to Everything
Need a beach day? Boom—Atlantic City. Want a Broadway fix? NYC is right there. Craving cheesesteak? Philly’s calling. Living in Jersey means you can dip your toes in city life without paying city rent (well…most of the time!).
2. Public Schools Can Be Top-Notch
There are some amazing school districts in NJ (shoutout to towns like Princeton and Ridgewood). As a mom, knowing your kiddos are getting a solid education without private school tuition is a big win.
3. Seasons That Actually Show Up
You’ll get spring blooms, summer beach days, pumpkin patches in fall, and snow for the holidays. If you love a bit of seasonal magic (and yes, a seasonal wardrobe swap), Jersey delivers.
4. Food Scene = Underrated Gem
Diners on every corner, Italian bakeries that’ll ruin store-bought cookies forever, and the best bagels outside of New York. If you’re a foodie family, you'll eat well here—no question.
5. Strong Community Vibes
Whether it's block parties, school fundraisers, or Fourth of July parades, Jersey towns know how to show up for each other. It really does feel like home once you're settled.
CONS
1. Property Taxes Are No Joke
Like, brace-yourself level. Owning a home in NJ means shelling out serious money in taxes—even if you bought modest. It’s the trade-off for those great schools and local services.
2. Traffic Will Test Your Patience (and Snacks)
Whether it’s the Turnpike, Route 1, or just your average school run, Jersey traffic can be a beast. Always have a car snack stash and a playlist ready!
3. It’s Pricey—Even Outside the Big Cities
Cost of living isn’t exactly cheap, even if you're not in a fancy zip code. Groceries, gas, childcare—it all adds up fast. Budgeting here is a skill I’ve definitely had to sharpen.
4. Weather Mood Swings
Yes, you get all four seasons, but sometimes you get them all in one week. One day it’s sunny, the next it’s snowing sideways. Dress in layers, mama!
5. The Reputation Thing
Let’s be honest—Jersey gets a bit of a bad rap thanks to TV shows and old stereotypes. But once you live here, you realize it’s full of heart, hustle, and a lot more charm than people give it credit for.
Final Word?
Living in New Jersey has its quirks, but it’s a fantastic place to raise a family if you can handle a little fast-paced energy with your morning coffee. And hey—where else can you grab a Taylor ham, egg, and cheese on the way to a sandy beach or a school concert?
Let me know if you want a printable moving checklist or a list of NJ family-friendly towns—I’ve got plenty of mom-tested tips!
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