New Jersey Neighborhood Guide

Quick insights

• New Jersey can be an appealing place for first-time homebuyers, young families and working professionals looking for affordable housing, convenience, quality education and community.
• The unique blend of culture, history and natural beauty of New Jersey make it a fascinating state to explore. Popular destinations include the ever-popular Jersey Shore, MetLife Stadium and Washington Crossing State Park.
• There are many different neighborhoods and homes in New Jersey, from quiet suburban communities to bustling areas. The various housing options and unique lifestyles can make it easier to find a home and community where you can create a fulfilling life.

Introduction to New Jersey neighborhoods

New Jersey, often referred to as the Garden State, can be a desirable location for first-time homebuyers due to many factors. One of the key advantages of living in a New Jersey neighborhood is its proximity to large cities like New York City and Philadelphia. Living in a New Jersey neighborhood can be a great option because of the affordability, suburban lifestyle and access to city amenities without all the general noise and congestion that comes with city living.

Job market

The robust state economy, job market and proximity to major business hubs can be compelling reasons to reside in New Jersey. The state is home to a wide range of industries including finance, technology and pharmaceuticals. The extensive transportation infrastructure provides easy access to the dense metropolitan areas of New York and Philadelphia where many top employers are located.

Community engagement

New Jersey has a strong sense of community spirit and engagement. The tight-knit neighborhoods and active community organizations create a welcoming environment for first-time homebuyers. Many towns host events like festivals, concerts in the park, farmers markets, local sports leagues and more. There are many opportunities for you to engage and get involved in local activities.

Natural beauty

New Jersey boasts incredible natural beauty, from its picturesque coastlines to its lush forests and scenic mountains. You can explore the pristine wetlands and forests via hiking trails and boardwalks at the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. The Appalachian Trail offers nature lovers a range of activities like hiking, scenic views, wildlife viewing and designated campsites for hikers looking to spend the night to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the wilderness.

Whether you’re looking for a suburban neighborhood, beachfront property with breathtaking views or a rural retreat, New Jersey has a variety of options for everyone. Understanding the different neighborhoods in New Jersey can empower first-time homebuyers to make confident decisions that align with their lifestyle, priorities and goals.

How many neighborhoods are in New Jersey?

According to Homes.com Neighborhood Search, there are approximately 589 neighborhoods in New Jerseyftn-1. New Jersey is home to a wide range of neighborhoods varying in terms of size, amenities and housing options. Some of the different neighborhoods include Princeton Junction, Ho-Ho-Kus, Ridgewood and Upper Montclair. Let’s explore below:

• Princeton embodies a welcoming academic and cultural community, thanks to Princeton University’s influence. The town hosts many events, lectures, enrichment opportunities and performances. Although Princeton is not as close to New York City as other towns, it still offers convenient access via train or car (about an hour-long train ride away from both New York and Philadelphia).
• Ho-Ho-Kus is a picturesque and tight-knit community known for its small-town charm, great public school system and opportunities to get involved with local events. Ho-Ho-Kus offers convenient access to New York City via New Jersey Transit trains.
• Ridgewood is a vibrant and family-friendly community with a charming downtown area, tree-lined streets and welcoming vibe. You can check out boutique shops, restaurants and community events. The schools in the area offer rigorous academic programs and extracurricular activities. Ridgewood offers convenient access to New York City via New Jersey Transit trains and buses.
• Upper Montclair is an affluent suburb known for its family-friendly atmosphere, historic homes, greenery parks and proximity to the city. There are many great public and private schools in the area with a focus on enrichment opportunities. Upper Montclair offers convenient access to New York City via New Jersey Transit trains and buses.

Living in one of the New Jersey neighborhoods offers a combination of great schools, strong community bonds and convenient proximity to major metro areas like New York City. As a first-time homebuyer, finding a home and community that fits your needs and preferences can positively impact your quality of life.

Major towns in New Jersey

The notable towns in New Jersey include Jersey City, Newark, Princeton, Hoboken and Morristown.

• Jersey City provides spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline along the Hudson River waterfront. The cultural diversity is reflected in its vibrant neighborhoods, events and culinary scene. You can consider Jersey City a transportation hub because of its convenient access to public transit such as PATH trains and ferries to Manhattan.
• Newark is a cultural hub filled with rich history like the Newark Musuem and New Jersey Performing Arts Center. There are ongoing development projects in place to revitalize the downtown and arts district. You are also close to the Newark Liberty International Airport, Amtrak, PATH trains and New Jersey Transit trains.
• Princeton is home to the prestigious Ivy League, Princeton University. This quaint downtown area has historic charm, boutiques and cafes. You are surrounded by natural beauty including Princeton Battlefield State Park and the Delaware and Raritan Canal.
• Hoboken offers a desirable waterfront location with magnificent views of the Manhattan skyline. This area is known for its young professional population and high energy nightlife. You have easy access to Manhattan via PATH trains, ferries and buses. Fun fact: It is also the birthplace of one of the most popular entertainers of the 20^th century — Frank Sinatra.
• Morristown has a strong historical significance with landmarks like the Morristown National Historical Park and Ford Mansion. The bustling downtown area features diverse dining options, retail shops and cultural attractions. You have convenient access to major highways and New Jersey Transit trains for commuting to New York City.

Each New Jersey town offers its own distinct blend of amenities, culture and community catering to a wide range of residents.

Factors to consider when choosing a town

Each town has its own unique characteristics from vibrant cultural scenes and historical landmarks to thriving business districts and employment opportunities. When choosing a neighborhood to call home, consider the following factors:

• Career opportunities: Look for towns with a thriving job market and economy. Research the local job market, major employers and industries that are prevalent in the neighborhood.
• Transportation: Consider the availability and convenience of transportation options for commuting to work, dropping your kids off at school or getting around town.
• Education: If you have young children or plan on start a family, look at the quality of schools and educational programs in the area.
• Community: Evaluate the sense of community and quality of life in the town. Check out areas with active local organizations, good schools, quality healthcare facilities and shopping centers.

By doing your own research, you can choose a town in New Jersey that aligns with your lifestyle preferences, providing a comfortable place to call home.

What is New Jersey known for?

New Jersey is known for its beautiful beaches and natural landscape — hence the name “Garden State.” Some of the notable things about New Jersey are its beachfront and coastal towns like Jersey Shore, proximity to major cities, diverse cuisine and natural beauty.

The proximity to major metro areas like New York City and Philadelphia provides New Jerseyans easy access to cultural events, entertainment and job opportunities. New Jersey is recognized for its culinary scene from diners and delis to fine dining and ethnic eateries. New Jersey has numerous parks, forests and recreational areas for nature lovers. You can take a relaxing walk or have a family picnic at Cape May in South Jersey or take a stroll on the boardwalk at Atlantic City.

Popular attractions in New Jersey neighborhoods

There are many popular attractions in New Jersey such as Six Flags Great Adventure, Atlantic City, Liberty State Park, Jersey Shore and Adventure Aquarium. If you’re looking to snap a photo of iconic landmarks, pay a visit to The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

The beach towns along the Jersey Shore offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing and enjoying boardwalks with various shops and restaurants. New Jersey neighborhoods also provide access to cultural institutions, museums, theaters, and sports arenas, catering to various interests.

• Sport fans can cheer on the New York Jets or New York Giants football team at MetLife Stadium or motorsports enthusiasts can watch professional drag racing competitions at Raceway Park.
• Theater aficionados can watch live performances from Broadway musicals to pop concerts at the State Theatre New Jersey.
• History buffs can explore exhibits showcasing the wonders of the natural world at the Newark Museum or journey through the cosmos and learn about the planets at the museum’s Alice and Leonard Dreyfuss Planetarium.

Overall, New Jersey offers a rich and rewarding cultural experience for everyone. From the diverse collection of art to the educational programs and community engagement, you can participate in many different attractions in New Jersey.

Additional information for first-time homebuyers

Navigating the homebuying process involves setting a budget, assessing your financial situation, understanding mortgage options and working with a team of trusted professionals. As you begin to evaluate different neighborhoods, consider the daycare options, school districts, proximity to amenities, commute times and community atmosphere. It might be a good idea to visit neighborhoods in person, attend open houses and engage with local residents to get a better sense of the community. Working with a local real estate agent and New Jersey mortgage lender can help you navigate the market and identify properties that match your criteria, ultimately saving you time and effort in your home search.

Conclusion

It can be beneficial to assess the neighborhood, transportation, community involvement and proximity to amenities when choosing a town. New Jersey’s proximity to world-class cities like New York City and Philadelphia offer residents convenient access to many top employers in a wide range of industries, making it a great choice for young professionals and working parents seeking career advancement. Additionally, the state's reputation for strong public school systems is another encouraging factor for young families looking to provide their kids with a quality education.

Overall, New Jersey offers a combination of affordability, convenience and family-friendly communities for different types of homebuyers. Partnering with a local real estate agent and mortgage lender can help you navigate the complexities of buying a home and possibly ensure a smooth homebuying experience.