The 30 Best Places To Live In New Jersey 2024
Looking for the best place to settle in New Jersey? Explore our top 30 picks for quality, community, and convenience in the Garden State.
Aug 25, 2024518 Shares32.3K Views
New Jersey, a state known for its diverse communities and proximity to major metropolitan areas, offers a range of residential options that cater to various lifestyles. Whether you prefer the bustling streets of a busy city or the quiet breezes of the suburbs, New Jersey has a place that can feel like home.
Hoboken
Overview:This vibrant city right across the Hudson River from Manhattan is a magnet for young professionals and families looking for quick commutes and a lively social scene.
Key Benefits:
- Extensive public transit systems
- Wide array of restaurants and bars
- Family-friendly parks and community events
Jersey City
Overview:As one of New Jersey’s fastest-growing areas, Jersey Citycombines urban convenience with surprising pockets of tranquility.
Key Benefits:
- Rapidly expanding job market
- Rich cultural diversity
- Excellent views of the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor
Montclair
Overview:This township is known for its cultural vibrancy, featuring numerous art galleries, theaters, and live music venues.
Key Benefits:
- Strong public schools
- Regular cultural festivals
- Direct train routes to NYC
Princeton
Overview:Beyond hosting the world-renowned university, Princeton offers a picturesque setting that boasts both historic landmarks and modern conveniences.
Key Benefits:
- Top-notch educational facilities
- Quiet, well-maintained neighborhoods
- Thriving local economy with various small businesses
Ridgewood
Overview:Ridgewoodcombines a small-town feel with high-quality amenities. Known for its excellent school system and family-friendly environment, it’s a top choice for families.
Key Benefits:
- Highly ranked public schools
- Vibrant downtown area with shops and restaurants
- Active community groups and events
Morristown
Overview:Rich in history and modern conveniences, Morristown offers a unique blend of past and present, making it attractive for both young professionals and families.
Key Benefits:
- Cultural and historical sites, including museums and theaters
- Diverse dining and shopping options
- Access to major highways and public transportation
Cherry Hill
Overview:Just a short commute from Philadelphia, Cherry Hill is known for its shopping centers, dining options, and excellent schools, making it ideal for commuters and families.
Key Benefits:
- Extensive shopping destinations like Cherry Hill Mall
- Proximity to Philadelphia
- Well-maintained parks and recreational facilities
Ocean City
Overview:Known for its beachesand boardwalk, Ocean City is a popular summer destination that also offers a wonderful living experience year-round.
Key Benefits:
- Family-oriented boardwalk with amusement parks
- Strong sense of community
- Numerous water-related activities and events
Summit
Overview:This affluent city offers a high standard of living with a strong focus on community, excellent schools, and plenty of green spaces.
Key Benefits:
- Quiet, safe neighborhoods
- Direct train access to Manhattan
- Thriving local arts scene
Westfield
Overview:Westfield is favored for its charming downtown, strong community vibe, and excellent education system, appealing to families looking for a balanced suburban life.
Key Benefits:
- Wide variety of local boutiques and dining options
- Active local community with festivals and markets
- Proximity to NYC and Newark
Maplewood
Overview:Maplewood is renowned for its diverse and inclusive community, artistic vibe, and proximity to Manhattan. It’s a favorite among creatives and families.
Key Benefits:
- Diverse cultural events and community organizations
- Charming, walkable downtown area
- Strong public transportation links
South Orange
Overview:Adjacent to Maplewood, South Orange shares many of the same qualities but adds its own unique charm with a vibrant downtown and active community life.
Key Benefits:
- Home to Seton Hall University, enriching the local culture and economy
- Vibrant performing arts scene
- Access to South Mountain Reservation for outdoor activities
Edison
Overview:Edison offers a strategic location in central New Jersey, with excellent schools, diverse communities, and a robust economy.
Key Benefits:
- Strong job market with several corporate headquarters
- Cultural diversity
- Extensive parks and recreation facilities
Parsippany-Troy Hills
Overview:Known for its business environment and high quality of life, Parsippany-Troy Hills features beautiful landscapes and a variety of recreational opportunities.
Key Benefits:
- Consistently ranked among the best places to live in the United States
- Proximity to major highways and business centers
- Active local community with many cultural and outdoor activities
Clifton
Overview:Clifton strikes a balance between urban and suburban living, offering diverse housing options and excellent cultural facilities.
Key Benefits:
- Diverse population leading to a rich array of cultural restaurants and shops
- Easy access to major highways and public transit
- Strong local schools and community services
Asbury Park
Overview:Revitalized in recent years, Asbury Park is now known for its vibrant boardwalk, musical heritage, and active nightlife.
Key Benefits:
- Strong arts and music community
- Beachfront living with a historic boardwalk
- Growing number of restaurants and entertainment venues
New Brunswick
Overview:Home to Rutgers University, New Brunswick offers a youthful energy and is a hub for education, healthcare, and the arts.
Key Benefits:
- Diverse cultural and educational opportunities due to Rutgers University
- Significant healthcare and research institutions
- Vibrant downtown with numerous dining and entertainment options
Teaneck
Overview:Teaneck is a suburban town with a close-knit community, offering a mix of residential comfort and convenient access to New York City.
Key Benefits:
- Strong local education system
- Diverse religious and cultural communities
- Numerous parks and community centers
Montville
Overview:Known for its picturesque landscapes and top-rated schools, Montville offers a peaceful residential setting with modern conveniences.
Key Benefits:
- Quiet, family-friendly neighborhoods
- Excellent public schools
- Proximity to natural reserves and outdoor recreation areas
Livingston
Overview:Livingston is favored for its excellent education system, safe neighborhoods, and active community life, making it ideal for families.
Key Benefits:
- Strong focus on education and community services
- Spacious parks and sports facilities
- Vibrant local business community
Berkeley Heights
Overview:Known for its excellent schools and community spirit, Berkeley Heights offers a peaceful suburban lifestyle with plenty of green space and family-friendly activities.
Key Benefits:
- Highly ranked public school system
- Regular community events and festivals
- Proximity to nature parks and reserves
Basking Ridge
Overview:Basking Ridge is part of Bernards Township and is famous for its historical sites, beautiful landscapes, and affluent residential areas.
Key Benefits:
- Excellent educational facilities
- Rich historical context with well-preserved colonial buildings
- Strong sense of community and high safety ratings
Scotch Plains
Overview:Scotch Plains combines rural charm with suburban convenience, offering residents a quiet, family-oriented environment.
Key Benefits:
- Diverse housing options from historic homes to modern developments
- Active local arts scene and cultural institutions
- Numerous parks and recreational facilities
Cranford
Overview:Cranford features a picturesque downtown area, excellent schools, and a strong community vibe, making it one of New Jersey’s most charming towns.
Key Benefits:
- Walkable, vibrant downtown with shops and cafes
- Well-regarded public schools
- Extensive community programs and events
Old Bridge
Overview:Old Bridgeis known for its excellent location, affordable housing, and strong community services, appealing to families and professionals alike.
Key Benefits:
- Strategic location with easy access to major highways
- A mix of suburban peace and commercial convenience
- Diverse recreational programs and facilities
Highland Park
Overview:This small borough offers a tight-knit community feel with an emphasis on sustainability and local arts, attracting those who value environmental consciousness and cultural richness.
Key Benefits:
- Strong environmental initiatives and green living
- Diverse cultural and arts activities
- Excellent access to public transportation
Fair Lawn
Overview:Fair Lawn balances suburban comfort with easy access to New York City, providing a great setting for commuters who enjoy a community-oriented lifestyle.
Key Benefits:
- Highly rated public schools
- Rich array of community services and facilities
- Strong local economy and job opportunities
West Orange
Overview:Known for its beautiful landscapes and rich history, West Orange offers a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities, including the famous Thomas Edison National Historical Park.
Key Benefits:
- Diverse community with a wide range of cultural backgrounds
- Multiple parks and recreational areas
- Vibrant local arts and culture scene
Secaucus
Overview:Positioned as a quieter alternative to the bustling nearby cities, Secaucusoffers tranquility alongside modern conveniences, making it a hidden gem for those working in Manhattan.
Key Benefits:
- Quiet residential areas with modern amenities
- Excellent transportation links to NYC
- Strong local business community
Paramus
Overview:Paramus is known for its substantial retail offerings, including several large shopping malls, and its low property taxes, which attract shoppers and residents alike.
Key Benefits:
- One of the region's biggest shopping destinations
- Low residential property taxes
- Proximity to several large parks and nature reserves
FAQs
What Are The Safest Neighborhoods In New Jersey?
Towns like Berkeley Heights, Summit, and Ridgewood consistently rank among the safest due to their low crime rates and active community engagement.
Which New Jersey Towns Have The Best Nightlife?
Cities like Hoboken, Jersey City, and Asbury Park are renowned for their vibrant nightlife scenes with numerous bars, restaurants, and clubs.
What Are The Best Towns In New Jersey For Retirees?
Places like Ocean City and Princeton offer quiet, community-focused environments with plenty of amenities geared toward retirees.
Conclusion
From bustling city scenes to serene suburban landscapes, New Jersey offers a rich array of living environments. The 30 communities highlighted in this guide represent the best of what the state has to offer, each bringing unique qualities that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Whether you're a young professional, growing family, or retiree, New Jersey has a place that can meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Jump to
Hoboken
Jersey City
Montclair
Princeton
Ridgewood
Morristown
Cherry Hill
Ocean City
Summit
Westfield
Maplewood
South Orange
Edison
Parsippany-Troy Hills
Clifton
Asbury Park
New Brunswick
Teaneck
Montville
Livingston
Berkeley Heights
Basking Ridge
Scotch Plains
Cranford
Old Bridge
Highland Park
Fair Lawn
West Orange
Secaucus
Paramus
FAQs
Conclusion
Latest Articles
Popular Articles