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Let’s say you already live and work in New York City (NYC), or you recently landed a job there, you’re on a tight budget and want to keep expenses down. As a result, you’re trying to figure out the best places to live in New Jersey (NJ) close to NYC, from where you can commute into the city each day for work.
In this piece, we have narrowed it down to the five best options and will take you on a virtual tour as we go over some of the factors people consider when picking where to live in NJ close to NYC. For example, commuting time to NYC, safety, housing costs, and aesthetics are essential considerations.
The prospect of commuting to work every day may appear daunting at first. But you will eventually become accustomed to the routine and discover that it is relatively simple in the end.
Now let’s talk about New Jersey.
New Jersey (NJ), is one of the states of the United States of America. It is bounded by New York to the north and northeast, the Atlantic Ocean to the east and south, and Delaware and Pennsylvania to the west.
We chose NJ because in recent years, this state has become the ultimate choice for in-commuters due to its proximity to Manhattan. To get to NYC, all you have to do is hop across the Hudson River which is the boundary between NJ and NYC.
But, this state has so many towns or cities and it could be confusing which to choose when considering where to live across the Hudson.
Where are the best places to live in NJ close to NYC?
1. Jersey City, NJ
Average rent: $2998/mo
Average apartment size: 815 sq. ft.
Average Commute time: 21 min.
Safety walking alone during daylight: High
Safety walking alone at night: Moderate
Just over the Hudson River from New York City sits Jersey City. We are looking at this location first because of its proximity and easy access to Manhattan plus its waterfront neighbourhoods offer a spectacular view of the Manhattan skyline. Here, you are not exactly in NYC but not far off either.
Take note that if you have lived in Manhattan before, Jersey City will feel a little different to you. It has a more laid-back atmosphere than New York City.
However, those who choose to make this city their home gain numerous advantages. For example, you’ll benefit from a more tranquil setting while still being close to New York City’s many attractions and amenities at a lower cost.
Several factors influence the cost of renting a home in Jersey City, including the property’s location, size, and overall condition and quality.
However, the flats in this area are typically larger and less expensive than those in Manhattan. The average rent in this area is approximately US$2998 per month, according to the most recent data.
Most importantly, you have to understand that not all Jersey City neighbourhoods are ideal and as is true of most cities, the level of safety and affordability in Jersey City varies depending on which part of town you are located in.
Jersey City has some desirable neighbourhoods. Let’s now look at a couple of them which I believe you will love.
1.1 Newport
Newport is a neighbourhood of Jersey City on the Hudson River Waterfront that is home to several restaurants and shops. This neighbourhood boasts an unrivalled vista of the New York City skyline from every direction.
This portion of the town is one of the best places to live in NJ close to NYC. This neighbourhood is well-known for its friendliness, comfort, accessibility, nice atmosphere and sense of community.
Let us now turn our attention to the issue of safety. Living in Newport is a worry-free experience. Newport receives a B+ overall from Crimegrade.org. Compared to the national average, the B+ grade indicates a lower crime rate in the city.
In other words, only 26% of cities are safer than Newport, and 74% are more dangerous.
How To Commute From Newport To NYC
There are several ways to get from Newport to New York City. These are:
- PATH train, which takes about 16m to midtown Manhattan and costs between US$2-US$3. The train arrives every 10 minutes during off-peak hours and runs for 24 hours a day.
- Train, subway via W 4 St-Wash Sq. This will take you about 30m and cost US$2-US$6.
- Line 126 bus. This is the cheapest mode of transport between Newport and New York City, but it is also the longest (aside from walking).
- The bus departs Washington Blvd At Path Station every four hours. The transit to Port Authority Bus Terminal takes approximately 26 minutes and costs between$1 and$4.
- Taxi. This is the fastest way to commute to NYC. It takes about 12m and will cost you between$40-$50.
1.2. Exchange Place
Exchange Place serves as the financial heart of the city. It comprises a small cluster of office buildings and apartment complexes.
Exchange Place’s waterfront is spectacular. It is the ideal place to see the skyline of lower Manhattan. It also features a beautiful boardwalk with chairs facing the water where you can relax and enjoy the scenery at any time of day.
How do you commute from Exchange Place to Manhattan?
- Tram: This is the least expensive means of transit, taking approximately 21 minutes and costing between $1-$3. It leaves EXCHANGE PLACE station to Port Imperial Hblr Station every 20 minutes.
- Line 1 Subway: This is a two-leg trip. The first is to WTC. It will cost you between $2 and $3 and takes 4 minutes. Then a transfer at WTC Cortlandt takes about 24 minutes to 86 St and costs another $2-$3. Every 10 minutes, a train departs.
- Train, line 126 bus. This is another two-leg transit. First, the PATH train takes you from Exchange Place to Hoboken. This train arrives every 20 minutes and costs between $2-$3. The trip lasts for about 7 min.
- From Hoboken Terminal, you board the line Bus 126, which takes you to Port Authority Bus Terminal. This takes 24 minutes. The bus arrives every 15 min and costs between $1-$4.
- Taxi: This is the fastest means to get to Manhattan from Exchange Place (Station), about 16 min. Expect to pay between $50-$65.
Take a virtual tour of Jersey City.
Just click and follow the arrow. If you encounter any problem navigating the tour on mobile, click on view on Google map.
Living in Jersey City: Pros
- Housing that is more affordable when compared to NYC boroughs
- You pay less in taxes
- Access to great transit systems
- Very close to NYC/short commute time
Living in Jersey City: Cons
- Traffic congestion
- Some neighbourhoods are not safe
- High population density
2. Hoboken, NJ
Average rent: $3,600/mo
Average apartment size: 970 sq. ft.
Average Commute time: 13 min.
Safety walking alone during daylight: High
Safety walking alone at night: Moderate
Hoboken, a thriving, walkable small town, is one of the best places to live in New Jersey close to NYC.
On the Hudson River, Hoboken is just across from Manhattan and is connected to it by train, ferry, highways, tunnels, and the subway system.
60,417 people call this New Jersey city home, and nearly two-thirds of them live in rentals.
Compared to Manhattan, the cost of a home in Hoboken is 42.3 percent less expensive. Also, the cost of living in Hoboken is 32.1 percent less expensive than the cost of living in Manhattan.
Hoboken is a popular choice for young professionals, urbanites, and families in their twenties and early thirties. This town has more attractions, bars, cafes, restaurants, parks, and events packed into its small square mile.
For example, when the weather is clear enough, one of these attractions is the Waterfront Walkway, which affords visitors great views of the Hudson River and the metropolis of New York.
Also, taking a picnic, going for a stroll, or going on a fishing expedition on the water are all possibilities at Pier A Park, located right on the water.
Looking for a place to eat? No problem. From quick-service pizzerias to fine-dining restaurants and pubs, Washington Street in Hoboken offers an almost endless variety of dining options.
Okay, maybe you are not in the mood for fine dining, boutique shopping, or breathtaking views. What about nightlife? Hoboken has some of the best nightlife on the East Coast. It is regarded as the party town on this side of the Hudson.
The nightlife scene in Hoboken is comparable to that of NYC boroughs. These are the best clubs, party bars and nightlife in Hoboken.
Is it safe to live in Hoboken? The answer to that is yes! For the most part, it is a safe city, yet, as with any urban location, some neighbourhoods are safer than others.
There are numerous people out and about at night especially on weekends, partying in bars and pubs, so you will never feel unsafe even late at night.
How do you commute from Hoboken to NYC?
- The PATH is the most convenient mode of transportation between Hoboken and New York City. The PATH is accessible seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day.
- There are four lines available during the week and two lines on weekends and late evenings. The train arrives every 15 minutes, and the journey takes approximately 13 minutes in total. You could expect to pay between $2 and $3.
- Take the green line of the PATH system to get from Hoboken to downtown Manhattan. Commuters going midtown or higher can take the blue line to 33rd street to get to their destinations.
- Line 126 Bus to NYC is another option. It runs from Hoboken and ends at the Port Authority Bus Terminal in western midtown. The commute takes about 13 minutes and will cost between $1-$4.
Take a virtual tour of Hoboken. Follow the arrow and explore the town.
Living in Hoboken: Pros
- Excellent transport system.
- Short commute to NYC.
- Overall lower cost of living.
- Walkable town.
Living in Hoboken: Cons
- Parking is very tight.
- Food may be unhealthy depending on where you eat.
- It’s not New York.
3. Weehawken, NJ
Average rent: $3,020/mo
Average apartment size: 810 sq. ft.
Average Commute time: 15 min.
Safety walking alone during daylight: High
Safety walking alone at night: Moderate
New Jersey’s town of Weehawken is located in the northern portion of Hudson County. It is situated on the sheer cliffs that line the west side of the lower Hudson River.
Located on 1.4 square miles of land, this family-friendly community that boasts beautiful surroundings and spectacular views is one of the best places to live in NJ.
The town has a population of about 14,000 residents and is divided into distinct neighbourhoods that include the Heights, situated above the Lincoln Tunnel entrance and contains many two – or three-family houses; Uptown, where the majority of the commercial activity takes place along Park Avenue.
Other neighbourhoods in Weehawken are King’s Bluff, which is located at the edge of the cliffs and the Shades, on the southern waterfront where you will find the beautiful Hudson River Waterfront Walkway. This walkway stretches 18.5 miles from Bayonne to the George Washington Bridge.
Weehawken is a small, quiet, and very diverse residential neighbourhood. It’s hard to beat the waterfront’s new residential complexes. Here, you will find buildings with swimming pools (both indoor and outdoor), barbecues, hot tubs, indoor theatres, indoor parking, pet facilities, gyms, and coffee shops, for example.
How do you commute from Weehawken to NYC?
People who live in Weehawken can get to New York City with these options:
- For $9, you can take the New York Waterway ferry, which has terminals at Port Imperial and Lincoln Harbour. It takes 6 to 8 minutes and costs $9 for a single ticket.
- New Jersey Transit bus No. 128 or the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail Line (with two stops in Weehawken) is another option. The bus takes 11 minutes and costs $3.50 one way.
- Taking the light rail line to Hoboken takes 7 minutes and costs $2.25 one way. Transfer to the PATH train at Hoboken to Midtown Manhattan adds 14 minutes and costs another $2.75 one way.
Take a virtual tour of Weehawken
Living in Weehawken: Pros
- Quieter with bigger apartments
- Easy commute to NYC
- Quite underrated but worth looking into.
Living in Weehawken: Cons
- No direct PATH train to NYC
- Housing could be pricey
4. Harrison, NJ
Average rent: $2,164/mo
Average apartment size: 756 sq. ft.
Average Commute time: 20 min.
Safety walking alone during daylight: High
Safety walking alone at night: Moderate
Harrison is a small town in Hudson County, New Jersey, and is a suburb of the city of Newark. It is located in the western part of the county and lies along the banks of the Passaic River, just north of the city of Newark.
This 1.33 square mile town, with a population of 19,450, is one of the best places to live in NJ close to NYC. It has beautiful residential neighbourhoods with well-kept, tree-lined streets.
In Harrison, you will find a beautiful, blossoming town with a very diverse culture and a thriving neighbourhood with plenty of promise and new residences and businesses. It is simply an excellent place to live, whether you’re single or with a family.
The fact that Harrison is so close to everything is one of its many advantages.
A short stroll from Harrison will take you to all of Newark’s colleges, as well as to the shops and restaurants of the Ironbound District.
It’s close to other parts of New Jersey, such as Jersey City and Hoboken, while being only a 15-minute drive to the airport and a 10-minute drive to the Newark Bus Hub, which provides transportation to other parts of the country.
There are also several parks, playgrounds, and green areas within walking distance.
How do you commute from Harrison to NYC?
The PATH train makes it simple to get to New York City because the PATH station is within walking distance of many residential areas.
The PATH train runs every 15 minutes and is available 24 hours a day. It takes 20 minutes to get to the World Trade Center; those going to Midtown Manhattan can change trains at Journal Square and go to 33rd Street, in around 28 minutes. The cost of a single PATH ticket is between $2 and $3.
Take a virtual tour of Harrison.
Living in Harrison: Pros
- Close to NYC
- Short commute into the city
- Very walkable
Living in Harrison: Cons
- Parking is tight
- Bad traffic on game day at Red Bull stadium.
- No nightlife
5. West New York, NJ
Average rent: $2,556/mo
Average apartment size: 832 sq. ft.
Average Commute time: 18 min.
Safety walking alone during daylight: High
Safety walking alone at night: Moderate
West New York is a town in Hudson County, New Jersey. It lies along the Hudson River and adjacent to Weehawken. It is situated about 4 miles north of Jersey City and directly west of Manhattan Island.
With a diversified cultural landscape, West New York is a great town with a strong sense of community. This town is simply one of the best places to live in NJ close to NYC.
Is West New York a safe town to live in? The answer is yes. It is safer than most towns and cities in the United States! According to recent statistics, its crime rate is lower than the national average.
Here, you will find multiple parks and other beautiful sites to visit, as well as a wide variety of food options. There are also various Latino, Asian, and more cuisines to select from.
West New York’s inexpensive housing and diversity make it one of the best places to raise a family.
How do you commute from West New York to NYC?
There are two ways to get from West New York to Manhattan; by bus/subway and taxi.
The bus/subway is the recommended and cheapest mode of transport. The line 128 bus costs between $1 and $4 for a single ticket and takes about 18 minutes to reach the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan.
You can transfer to the Metro train at 42 St-Port Authority Bus Terminal and ride it to 86th St in about 8 minutes. This would add another $2-$3 to the bill.
The second option is by taxi. This takes about 11 minutes to get to NYC and will cost between $40-$55.
Take a virtual tour of West New York
Living in West New York: Pros
- Great diversity
- Close to NYC
- Amazing food options
Living in West New York: Cons
- Some West New York businesses and restaurants may be difficult to communicate with if you don’t speak Spanish.
- Dirt on some part of town
- High population density
Final Thoughts
So, you may be wondering if it’s worthwhile to live in NJ and commute to NYC.
The answer to that is YES! Living in New Jersey and commuting to NYC for work is totally worth it for the following reasons and more:
Firstly, when you return from work, you will be in a different physical space and will be able to quickly find your life-work balance.
Secondly, in NJ, you will get more bang for your buck in housing and other facilities while still being close to New York City.
FAQs On Best Places To Live In NJ Close To NYC
Q: How long should a commute to NYC be?
NYC commute time under 1 hour is considered good.
Q: What is the average commute to work in NYC?
The average commute in NYC is 33.3 minutes.
Q: What are the PATH trains peak hours
Between 7:00 am to 10:00 am and from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm.
Q: Are PATH trains congested?
PATH trains can be congested during peak hours.
Q: How do you pay for PATH tickets?
SmartLink is the primary fare card of the PATH system. PATH also accepts PATH SingleRide Ticket and Pay-Per-Ride MetroCard.
Q: What does the PATH train stand for?
Port Authority Trans-Hudson Corporation
Q: Is the PATH system hard to use?
No. You can use the PATH system by just installing a mobile app. RidePATH is available for ios and Android.
Q: Where can I find information about affordable housing in New Jersey on the web?
You can find housing assistance information here.
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