Living in Jersey City provides the rare experience of city living, strong local culture, and easy accessibility to the Big Apple. Located right across the Hudson River from Manhattan, it’s a popular choice for those seeking proximity to the action without the stresses that come with living in New York City.
That said, as with any city, there are both upsides and downsides to consider before making the move. Let’s dive into 11 of the most prominent pros and cons of living in Jersey City to see if it’s the place for you.
Jersey City at a glance
Walk Score: 87 | Bike Score: 64 | Transit Score: 70
Median Sale Price: $635,000 | Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $3,811
Jersey City neighborhoods | Houses for rent in Jersey City | Apartments for rent in Jersey City | Homes for sale in Jersey City
1. Pro: Proximity to Manhattan
Jersey City has unbeatable access to Manhattan. The PATH train and ferries provide quick commutes into the heart of NYC, making it a great location for professionals working in the city. Beyond that, residents enjoy stunning views of the Manhattan skyline from many parts of Jersey City.
2. Con: High cost of living
While Jersey City is cheaper than Manhattan, it’s still quite expensive. Median home sale prices are well above the national median of $427,496. Apartments in Jersey City follow a similar trend, going for around $3,942 on average.
3. Pro: Waterfront and green spaces
Jersey City is a walkable city with a beautiful waterfront. Liberty State Park accompanies this waterfront with green spaces, walking trails, and shaded areas. The park also benefits from breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the New York City skyline, giving residents access to some of the best outdoor spots in the region.
4. Con: Limited parking
If you own a car, parking can be a headache in Jersey City. Street parking is scarce, and parking garages can be expensive. Even residential areas often have restrictions, meaning a car might be more of a hassle than a convenience.
5. Pro: Stellar dining and entertainment
Jersey City is home to a strong food scene, with cuisines from all over the world. Whether you’re craving Indian, Latin American, or Italian, there’s a restaurant for every palate. The nightlife is lively too, with plenty of bars, rooftop lounges, and live music venues to explore.
6. Con: Crowded public transportation
Though Jersey City has excellent public transit options, they can be crowded, especially during rush hour. PATH trains and buses are often packed, leading to longer wait times and an uncomfortable commuting experience for many locals.
7. Pro: Thriving arts scene
The city’s art scene is thriving, with local galleries, street art, and food festivals taking place year-round. The Jersey City Art & Studio Tour, for example, showcases the city’s creative talent and attracts art lovers from across the region. Needless to say, there’s always something to do in Jersey City.
8. Con: Property taxes
If you’re looking to buy a home in Jersey City, beware of the high property taxes. New Jersey already has some of the highest property taxes in the country, and Jersey City is no exception. This can be a significant factor for those considering purchasing a home.
9. Pro: Accessible public schools and universities
Jersey City is home to several respected public schools. Jersey City is also home to universities like New Jersey City University and St. Peter’s University, cementing the city’s status as a solid New Jersey college town.
10. Con: Traffic congestion
Traffic congestion can be a common issue in Jersey City, especially during peak hours. With limited bridges and tunnels into Manhattan, commuters often find themselves stuck in long lines of traffic, particularly if you drive into the city for work.
11. Pro: Job opportunities
Jersey City has become a financial hotspot, offering plenty of job opportunities, particularly in finance, tech, and healthcare. Large corporations, including Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan Chase, have offices here, meaning you can find excellent career opportunities without having to commute into Manhattan.
