Choosing Your Home in New Jersey: Where to Live in the Garden State

In my extensive experience, I have mainly resided in several key towns in New Jersey, from Fort Lee and Somerset to Franklin Township and Mahwah, and even ventured into visitations of Alpine, Tenafly, Edgewater, Hoboken, and South Brunswick. Given my multifaceted journey within New Jersey, and considering its diverse neighborhoods, I offer a guide on where to live based on your work situation and commuting preferences.

Commute to Manhattan for Work?

If your work involves commuting to Manhattan, Aldine is an excellent choice. The quietness of the town and the relatively low real estate tax rate make it a great alternative. However, living in Alpine comes with the caveat of expensive homes; my sister, for instance, pays a staggering $30,000 in taxes for her $5 million home, whereas I pay around $20,000 for my home in Hillsborough, valued at $1 million. For those needing to balance a quiet environment with budget considerations, Alpine is a worthwhile option.

Commute via Public Transportation?

For those who rely on public transportation, Fort Lee, Edgewater, and Secaucus provide decent alternatives. These towns are economically efficient and offer a pleasant lifestyle without compromising on the ability to reach the city easily. Fort Lee, for example, is a mere stone’s throw from the Hudson River, making it an ideal town for those who value direct access to the New York City transit network.

When Commuting Is Not a Concern

For those who wish to live closer to their place of work, Hillsborough stands out as a perfect choice with a great blend of suburban living and convenience. Our 100-home community in Hillsborough features spacious homes ranging from 3800 to 5500 square feet, situated on 0.5 to 1.0-acre lots, offering a rural feel without sacrificing access to the city. We are conveniently located within 5 minutes from the library and 8 minutes from supermarkets, drug stores, and theaters.
Moreover, the vicinity of popular restaurants and fast-food chains such as Taco Bell, BK, Mac, Pizza Hut, Papa Johns, and multiple pizza and Asian restaurants within an 8 to 12-minute drive, makes Hillsborough an ideal location for those who value both suburban living and the convenience of city amenities.

Exploring Other I-78 Corridor Towns

Other towns along the I-78 corridor such as Bernards, Green Brook, and Berkeley Heights offer easy access to highways yet provide pleasant residential communities. These towns are perfect for those who require quick access to major pathways while still enjoying suburban living. They offer a unique blend of convenience and quality living, making them worth considering for homeowners and residents.

Living in New Jersey: Challenges and Solutions

Despite the many benefits that New Jersey offers, it also presents several challenges. Some of the main issues cited include:
1. Dependence on a car: It's nearly impossible to live almost anywhere in NJ without a vehicle. Public transportation options are limited and often expensive, underserved, and underperforming.
2. Crowded living without the benefits: Despite being densely populated, the state lacks the services and amenities that would make living conditions more bearable. Most business, shopping, and entertainment are far from where one lives.
3. Urban Safety Concerns: Many cities and towns are unsafe, with high crime rates and underfunded services. This is a significant issue for those seeking a safe and family-friendly environment.
4. Overlapping Governments: Every city, town, borough, and even neighborhood often want their own government. This leads to excessively high taxes, an excessive police presence, and wasteful spending. Examples like East Newark, and the numerous towns found in Bergen and Camden counties illustrate this issue.

However, despite these challenges, there are still towns that offer a balance of convenience, transportation, safety, and access to the city. These towns include:
- Jersey City: It has areas like Downtown and Newport that are now considered good to live in. However, it can be as expensive as NYC with additional expenses for NJ Transit and MTA fees.
- Hoboken: Similar to Jersey City, Hoboken is also expensive and overpriced, but with safer neighborhoods.
- Weehawken: Great for those who can afford the ferry to NYC and work near the dock.
- Newark: It's getting better, with various access methods to different parts of the city.
- Bayonne: A decent alternative costing less than Jersey City while still providing safety and access to the city.

By carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can find a perfect balance of convenience and livability in New Jersey.