Americans love New Jersey! And why wouldn’t you? From breathtaking mountain ranges and exciting boardwalks to charming small towns and world-class universities, the Garden State offers something for every lifestyle.
The median home price in New Jersey is $478,100. The state scores 74/100 in quality of life. The Garden State is considered the 3rd best state in the country to live and work. For a rich cultural experience, Jersey City, and Newark are some of the best places to live.
People are attracted to move here because of the strong job market, excellent schools, and diverse communities. Additionally, the state ranks 2nd in quality of education rankings. Let’s explore the best places to live in New Jersey!
Best Places to Live in New Jersey in 2024
Here’s our ranking of the top areas in New Jersey to live in. We’ve considered the community well-being score, median home price, monthly expenses, and the population of the cities.
| # | City | Population | Median Home Price | Monthly Expenses | Community Well-Being Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Gloucester City | 11,507 | $255,000 | $7,579 | 56/100 |
| 2. | Newark | 304,960 | $515,000 | $7,816 | 74/100 |
| 3. | Jersey City | 291,657 | $799,000 | $7,669 | 74/100 |
| 4. | Toms River | 99,091 | $535,000 | $7,825 | 58/100 |
| 5. | Paterson | 156,452 | $500,000 | $7,386 | 65/100 |
| 6. | Elizabeth | 135,829 | $620,000 | $7,820 | 72/100 |
| 7. | Princeton | 30,289 | $1,350,000 | $8,284 | 69/100 |
| 8 | Hoboken | 57,010 | $902,500 | $7,669 | 72/100 |
| 9 | Montclair | 39,797 | $1,370,000 | $7,309 | 74/100 |
| 10 | Cherry Hill | 77,317 | $435,000 | $7,516 | 65/100 |
10 Best Places to Live in New Jersey
Here’s our list of the top 10 cities that offer comfortable living options in the Garden State:
#1 Gloucester City
- Median Home Price: $255,000.[2]
- Median Household Income in Gloucester City: $71,756.[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 56/100.[6]
- Popular Zip Code in the Gloucester City, NJ: 08030
Gloucester City is known for its proximity to Philadelphia, just across the Delaware River. The city’s strategic location near major highways like I-76 and I-295 makes it convenient for commuters. Plus its waterfront location supports logistics, shipping, and construction, and is a major driver of the economy.
Key attractions of the Holy City include the scenic Gloucester City Marina and Proprietors Park. They offer scenic views and are popular for boating and fishing.
» Gloucester City Homes for Sale: View properties in one of the best places to live in New Jersey.
#2 Newark
- Median Home Price: $515,000.[2]
- Median Household Income in Newark: $46,460.[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 74/100.[6]
- 3 Popular Zip Codes in the Newark, NJ: 07103 | 07106 | 07105
Newark is New Jersey’s largest city. It’s a major transport hub, with Newark Liberty International Airport and Port Newark. Additionally, the city has a diverse job market with major employers including Prudential Financial, Audible, and Panasonic.
Newark is home to cultural landmarks such as the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) and the Newark Museum of Art. Besides this, the healthcare costs in the city are 1% lower than the national average.
» Newark Homes for Sale: Find your dream home in the Brick City.
#3 Jersey City
- Median Home Price: $799,000.[2]
- Median Household Income in Jersey City: $91,151.[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 74/100.[6]
- 3 Popular Zip Codes in the Jersey City, NJ: 07304 | 07306 | 07305
Jersey City, known as “Wall Street West,” is a major financial hub. It is home to key employers like Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, and Fidelity Investments. Furthermore, the city provides easy access to New York’s job hubs, like Battery Park and the West Village.
Despite the high cost of living, Jersey City has a strong job market and the average salary is $92,000. Moreover, the city’s diverse dining, Liberty State Park, and views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island attract residents and tourists. All this makes it one of the best cities in New Jersey to live in.
» Jersey City Homes for Sale: Explore your new home online.
#4 Toms River
- Median Home Price: $535,000.[2]
- Median Household Income in Toms River: $92,012.[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 58/100.[6]
- 3 Popular Zip Codes in the Toms River, NJ: 08753 | 08757 | 08755
Toms River is one of the many great places to live in NJ and is a popular destination for families and tourists. You can enjoy its boardwalks, water activities, and recreational areas. Also, the city is in proximity with the famous Seaside Heights.
Toms River is surrounded by the serene Ortley Beach. The beach is known for its boardwalk and games. Also, the city is famous for its connection with the movie Amityville Horror and hosts one of the world’s largest annual Halloween parade.
» Toms River Homes for Sale: Get your home in the best city to live in New Jersey.
#5 Paterson
- Median Home Price: $500,000.[2]
- Median Household Income in Paterson: $52,092.[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 65/100.[6]
- 2 Popular Zip Codes in the Paterson, NJ: 07501 | 07513
Paterson, the “Silk City,” was historically famous for its silk industry in the late 19th century. Today, it’s a diverse city with jobs in healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Key employers include St. Joseph’s Health and the Paterson Public School District.
Paterson is close to New York, major highways, and central markets. Also, the city is home to the Great Falls National Park. The park has a 77-foot-high waterfall, which attracts numerous visitors and nature lovers.
» Paterson Homes for Sale: Find your ideal home in one of the best places to live in New Jersey.
#6 Elizabeth
- Median Home Price: $620,000.[2]
- Median Household Income in Elizabeth: $96,776.[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 72/100.[6]
- 3 Popular Zip Codes in Elizabeth, NJ: 07201 | 07206 | 07202
Elizabeth, the “Industrial Epicenter” of New Jersey, has a diverse economy. Retail, transportation, and shipping are key sectors. The city’s proximity to the Port Newark-Elizabeth Marine Terminal makes it a shipping and logistics hub.
Attractions in Elizabeth include a 22-block historic district which includes attractions such as Elizabeth River. Moreover, the Center City area offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. The famous Jersey Gardens outlet mall has extensive shopping options.
» Elizabeth Homes for Sale: View the best properties in this Industrial Epicenter.
#7 Princeton
- Median Home Price: $1,350,000.[2]
- Median Household Income in Princeton: $176,695.[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 69/100.[6]
- 3 Popular Zip Codes in the Princeton, NJ: 08540 | 08550 | 08542
Princeton is renowned for its prestigious Princeton University. The university is a major employer and attracts students, and researchers, from around the globe. However, the living costs in the city are steep, at 18.2% higher than the national average.
Nevertheless, the city has some of the best areas to live in New Jersey filled with boutiques, restaurants, and cultural venues. Key attractions include the Princeton University Art Museum and the McCarter Theatre Center, and the nearby Grounds for Sculpture.
» Princeton Homes for Sale: Find your dream home in this college town.
#8 Hoboken
- Median Home Price: $902,500.[2]
- Median Household Income in Hoboken: $168,137.[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 72/100.[6]
- Popular Zip Code in the Hoboken, NJ: 07030
Hoboken is known for its proximity to Manhattan. It is well-connected by PATH trains and ferries. They make it convenient for easy access to New York City. Hoboken also has stunning waterfront views of the Manhattan skyline and a vibrant community.
The city is known for a strong education system. Several schools, like the Hoboken Public School District, rank above the state average. Hoboken offers a vibrant social scene, with various restaurants and parks along the Hudson River waterfront.
» Hoboken Homes for Sale: Explore properties in the Mile Square City.
#9 Montclair
- Median Home Price: $1,370,000.[2]
- Median Household Income in Montclair: $158,765.[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 74/100.[6]
- Popular Zip Code in the Montclair, NJ: 07043
Montclair is famous for its arts scene and Montclair State University which is the state’s second-largest university. The town has a strong sense of community and offers many cultural events. The top attractions are the Montclair Art Museum, the Wellmont Theater, and the Montclair Film Festival.
Despite the cost of living at 25.8% higher than the national average, Montclair offers safe neighborhoods, green spaces, and direct trains to NYC. All these make it one of the best cities to live in New Jersey.
» Montclair Homes for Sale: Get your home in Montclair.
#10 Cherry Hill
- Median Home Price: $435,000.[2]
- Median Household Income in Cherry Hill: $116,339.[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 65/100.[6]
- 3 Popular Zip Codes in the Cherry Hill, NJ: 08003 | 08002 | 08034
Cherry Hill is a suburb and has renowned schools and a family-friendly vibe. It is also home to big employers such as Cooper University Health Care and Campbell Soup Company.
Cherry Hill offers a mix of suburban peace and urban convenience. There are various shopping options, including the Cherry Hill Mall. Also, the city is home to the renowned Cherry Hill Public Library. The historic Croft Farm Arts Center is a cultural gem and hosts community events and art exhibits.
» Cherry Hill Homes for Sale: Explore properties available in one of the best areas in NJ to live in.
Best Places to Live in New Jersey Based on Demographics
We have researched the best places for single families, young professionals, and retirees. The cities are ranked on parameters like education, employment opportunities, and healthcare facilities.
| Demographic | #1 | #2 | #3 |
| Single Families | Roosevelt | Princeton | Haworth |
| Young Professionals | Morristown | Asbury Park | Jersey City |
| Retirees | Lambertville | Linwood | Fort Lee |
Is New Jersey the Right Place for Your Next Move?
New Jersey is one of the best places to live in the US due to its low cost of living and great climate. Other things that contribute are its cultural diversity and excellent city life. Moreover, the state is ranked 4th as the best healthcare state in the country.
With the current low mortgage rate of 6.25%, there is an increase in the home-buying demand in New Jersey. So, to make your offer stand out from the competition, you must get a mortgage pre-approval.
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Research Methodology for Best Places to Live in New Jersey
We considered different regions to rank the best places in New Jersey. Comparison criteria for the best cities to live in New Jersey and the information sources are as follows:
- Population: New Jersey Demographics Report [1]
- Median Home Price: Redfin[2]
- Median Household Income: United States Census Bureau[3]
- Monthly Expenses: Economic Policy Institute[4]
- Unemployment Rate: US Bureau of Labor Statistics[5]
- Community Well-Being Score: Community Well-Being Index by Sharecare[6]
Additionally, we have listed the good cities to live in New Jersey for varying demographics. These include the best places to live for families, young adults, and retirees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is New Jersey a good place to live?
Yes, the Garden State is a good place to live. It offers strong job market, excellent schools, and diverse communities. Gloucester City, Newark, and Jersey City are some of the best places in New Jersey.
Which is best city to live in New Jersey?
Newark is the best place to live in New Jersey. It is the largest city in New Jersey. It’s a major transport hub, with Newark Liberty International Airport and Port Newark.
What are the nicest parts of New Jersey to live in?
The best parts to live in New Jersey are the northern and southern regions. They include cities like Hoboken, Jersey City, Cherry Hill, and more.
What is the nicest but cheapest place to live in New Jersey?
Gloucester City is one of the nicest and cheapest places to live in New Jersey. It has a cost of living 5.8% below the national average.
