Moving day tips unique to NJ

Crucial Things to Know When Moving to New Jersey for the First Time

New Jersey holds its own with a distinct character, though sometimes overshadowed by its neighboring giant New York. It is a state of contrasts, where the urban and the suburban, the historic and the modern, and the natural and the developed coexist in harmony.

New Jersey is filled with a blend of opportunities and lifestyles beyond the skyline of Newark and the boardwalks of the Jersey Shore. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or someone in pursuit of a quieter sanctuary from urban life, New Jersey welcomes you with a plethora of choices.

Here’s a guide to help you navigate through some of the early decisions and to make your move to New Jersey a little smoother.

Table of Contents

1. Choosing Your Town
2. Embracing New Jersey’s Unique Pace
3. Garden State Living Costs
4. Home Hunting
5. New Jersey Rental Process
6. Diving into the Community Spirit
7. Navigating Around Town

1. Choosing Your Town 

Selecting the right neighborhood is crucial in determining how enjoyable and convenient your life in New Jersey will be. The state is a diverse collection of towns and small cities, each with its own unique character and lifestyle offerings.

Some towns like Hoboken and Jersey City have a more urban feel due to their proximity to Manhattan and offer a bustling lifestyle with a mix of young professionals and families. On the other hand, towns like Montclair or Summit offer a more suburban, laid-back ambiance ideal for families or those seeking quieter surroundings.

Here are additional popular areas in New Jersey that you might want to consider:

• Princeton: Known for its prestigious university, Princeton offers a quaint, intellectual environment with beautiful neighborhoods and a historic downtown.
• Morristown: It’s a lively area with a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities.
• Cherry Hill: It’s perfect for those who prefer a quieter residential area but still want access to big-city amenities.

If you’re planning on working or studying in New York City or Philadelphia, consider the proximity to transit lines. Towns along the NJ Transit lines such as Metuchen or Westfield are popular among commuters for their relatively easier commute to NYC, or towns along PATCO lines for access to Philly, are popular cities for commuters.

In New Jersey, each town has its own school district, and the quality of schools can significantly vary from one town to another. If you have kids, researching school districts might heavily influence your neighborhood choice.

Here are other factors to consider when comparing neighborhoods:

• Community Vibe: Each area has its own community culture. Some towns are more conservative, while others are known for their progressive values.
• Cost of Living: Living costs can vary greatly from one town to another. Make sure to budget accordingly.
• Local Amenities: Look for nearby parks, shopping centers, gyms, and other amenities that are important to you.

Unlike the grid-like layout of NYC, New Jersey’s towns and cities have a more varied layout. They also have their own centers of activity, whether it’s a downtown area filled with shops and restaurants or a central park where community events are held.

New Jersey is often referred to as the “Garden State,” known for its lush green suburbs, and each town has its own community garden or local parks where residents can enjoy nature.

When choosing your neighborhood, it’s also recommended to visit at different times of the day to get a feel for the local vibe – the morning rush, afternoon ease, and evening activities will give you a rounded view of what living there might be like.

2. Embracing New Jersey’s Unique Pace

Living in New Jersey offers a unique blend of professional opportunities, community connections, and tranquil spaces that create a distinctive and appealing pace of life. The Garden State hosts a thriving job market, especially in sectors like pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, and finance. The work culture here strikes a balance between professionalism and a sense of community that fosters an environment conducive to career advancement.

Residents take immense pride in their local communities across New Jersey. From the bustling farmers’ markets in Montclair to the lively cultural festivals in Jersey City, there’s a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that nurtures a strong sense of belonging. Amid the hustle of daily life, the state offers an abundance of parks, beaches, and picturesque towns, providing plenty of spots to unwind. Whether it’s a weekend getaway to the Jersey Shore or a tranquil afternoon in a quaint Princeton coffee shop, you’ll find numerous spaces to relax and rejuvenate, wherever you live.

Jersey has a mix of long-term residents and newcomers. It’s also a state with a significant number of immigrants which contributes to its cultural diversity. The vibe in many New Jersey communities is generally warm and welcoming. It’s a place where neighbors often know each other, and striking up friendly conversations with locals at the grocery store or community events is a common occurrence. New Jersey often provides a more reasonable cost of living compared to its neighboring states, with many towns boasting excellent public schools and lower crime rates. From housing to groceries, you may find your budget stretches further here, making it an attractive place for both individuals and families.

Embracing the calm, community-focused lifestyle of New Jersey while also exploring the diverse professional and social opportunities available can lead to a fulfilling and balanced life here. New Jersey offers a wide range of living experiences, from the quiet, tree-lined streets of suburban towns to the lively waterfronts of cities like Hoboken and Jersey City. Each area has its own unique charm and lifestyle, allowing you to find a place that resonates with your personal and professional aspirations.

3. Garden State Living Costs

Living in New Jersey offers a blend of affordability and quality of life, making it a desirable location for many.  New Jersey provides a more moderate cost of living compared to the neighboring areas of New York City and Philadelphia. The state has affluent areas like Summit and Ridgewood, where the cost of housing and amenities reflect a premium lifestyle. Likewise, there are also more budget-friendly areas like South Amboy or Kearny, where residents find a more affordable cost of living while still enjoying the benefits of the Garden State.

Homeownership is more attainable in New Jersey compared to its neighboring states, with a higher percentage of residents owning their homes. The housing market offers a mix of single-family homes, condos, apartments, and rentals.

Grocery shopping in New Jersey can be a mixed bag. Major chains like ShopRite, Aldi, or Lidl offer budget-friendly options while more premium stores like Whole Foods or Kings have a higher price point. The state also prides itself on its local farmers’ markets, which provide fresh produce and local goods.

Dining out in New Jersey offers a rich culinary scene ranging from cozy diners and food trucks to high-end restaurants. The state’s diversity reflects in its food offerings, with a range of ethnic restaurants that offer delicious meals without breaking the bank. However, for those special occasions, fine dining establishments like Nicholas in Red Bank or Restaurant Latour in Hamburg offer more upscale culinary experiences.

New Jersey has progressive state tax rates, and while there’s no city tax like in New York, residents still need to budget for federal and state tax obligations.

4. Home Hunting 

The peak rental season in New Jersey tends to be during the summer months, right from Memorial Day through to Labor Day. This period sees a spike in rental activities as college students and others look to secure housing. The atmosphere, although busy, is usually more relaxed and you may find landlords and property managers to be more flexible.

The rental scene in New Jersey is diverse, with options ranging from apartment complexes to family homes. Tenant laws in the state are designed to protect renters. For example, landlords can only charge up to 1.5 times the monthly rent for a security deposit. Familiarizing yourself with the New Jersey Renters’ Rights guide is recommended to understand your rights and the rental process.

If you’re considering buying a home, New Jersey offers a variety of residential properties including condos, townhouses, and family estates. The state’s housing market can be competitive, especially in desirable areas close to transit hubs and good schools. It’s essential to budget for additional costs like property taxes, homeowners’ insurance, and homeowner association (HOA) fees, which are common in condo communities and neighborhood developments. Property taxes in New Jersey are also among the highest in the nation as well, which is an important consideration for those looking to buy a home.

5. New Jersey Rental Process

When diving into the rental market, it’s beneficial to understand that the income requirements may vary from one landlord to another. Unlike the 40-times-the-rent rule of thumb in NYC, New Jersey landlords might be more flexible, sometimes requiring only 30 to 35 times the monthly rent as the annual income criteria. This slight flexibility might offer a bit more room when searching for a place within your budget.

Broker fees are less common in New Jersey compared to New York, which can lead to savings during your rental process. The application process also tends to be more streamlined with quicker approval times and less competition.

New Jersey’s rental laws also favor tenants to a certain extent. For example, the state has regulations protecting renters from unjustifiable evictions and ensuring the return of security deposits within 30 days of vacating. You can familiarize yourself with New Jersey’s tenant laws to fully understand your rights and responsibilities.

In terms of rental choices, New Jersey’s housing options cater to a variety of preferences, whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of a Victorian home or the modern amenities of a newly built apartment complex.

The cost of living, while high, is generally lower than in neighboring New York City, which can offer a more affordable lifestyle while still maintaining proximity to major urban hubs.

6. Diving into the Community Spirit

When you step into the diverse and vibrant locale of New Jersey, you’re not just moving to a new place, but becoming part of a thriving community. The Garden State has its own unique charm and a sense of community. Whether it’s by participating in local events, joining a town sports league, or spending time doing volunteer work, integrating into the local culture is notable compared to other areas.

New Jersey is dotted with a variety of towns that each have its own set of cultural and community-driven events. The local fairs, farmers’ markets, and town hall meetings provide an excellent opportunity for newcomers to mingle with the locals and understand the town’s ethos.

The state’s rich history and diverse cultural backdrop offer a plethora of museums, theaters, and galleries to explore. Every town has its share of cultural festivities, be it the local theater productions, music festivals or historical re-enactments. The community-centric lifestyle encourages residents to partake in these events to embrace the overall New Jersey living experience.

Unlike the transient nature of bigger cities, many residents in New Jersey towns tend to stick around for the long haul, which contributes to the strong sense of community.

7. Navigating Around Town

Having a car in New Jersey is more of a norm than it is in nearby New York City, and it can significantly widen your access to different parts of the state. With a car at your disposal, you’re not only able to explore the picturesque landscapes New Jersey has to offer but also manage daily errands and commutes with greater convenience. However, bear in mind the cost of maintaining a car including insurance, fuel, and parking.

Despite the convenience of cars, New Jersey also boasts a well-connected public transit system. NJ Transit operates extensive rail and bus services that can get you around the state as well as into New York City and Philadelphia. The train service is often used by commuters working in NYC, and it’s a practical route if you prefer not to drive to work every day. Various monthly and weekly passes are available which can be a cost-effective way to commute.

If you have children, the school bus system within your local school district is typically reliable and efficient. You can have more time in your regular schedule without the daily school drop-offs and pick-ups.

On weekends or days off, you might find joy in taking a scenic drive along the coastline or through the picturesque countryside that New Jersey offers. The state’s geographic diversity is one of its unsung charms, and having a car allows you to experience this at your own pace.

Adapting to the laid-back pace of New Jersey can offer a refreshing change. The blend of accessible tranquility and robust professional opportunities makes New Jersey a place where you can truly carve out your own niche.

With its proximity to major cities, diverse communities, and a variety of lifestyle options, New Jersey is a state that requires a bit of exploration to find where you fit in. It offers a different pace of life with the benefit of having the urban jungles of New York and Philadelphia within easy reach. Over time, you’ll discover the unique charms that make New Jersey a special place to call home.