New Jersey is known for its boardwalk casinos, famous beaches, and thriving industries, but it’s also home to world-class universities and top technology and biological science firms. The state is also one of the most densely populated in the nation, and it has some of the busiest highways on the country’s East Coast.
New York City lies to the north, and Philadelphia is just across the Delaware River from the west. Because of its central location, New Jersey has long been a major transportation hub, with railways and roads funneling goods and people to and from the big cities.
The Garden State has some of the country’s most iconic foods and attractions, from finger-licking hoagies and classic Italian dishes to the best pizza in the United States and saltwater taffy. It’s also home to horticultural edens, geographical wonders, and some of the most famous historical sites in the nation.
With a booming economy, New Jersey is a popular place for businesses and families to relocate to. Its major industries include pharmaceutics, finance, and transportation, and the average private sector wage is higher than the national average. Many residents of the state also work in government, and there are a number of public universities and community colleges.
Living in New Jersey can be expensive, but it’s possible to make it manageable with some careful planning. Those who are looking for ways to cut costs should consider the state’s public transportation system, which can help reduce commute time and gas costs. In addition, shopping at local markets can be a great way to save money on groceries.
Home prices in New Jersey are on par with the national average, although it’s possible to find properties for less. Typically, a house in the state will cost around $430,000. In contrast, rentals are slightly cheaper, with the average apartment costing about $1,100 per month.
For those who prefer a less hectic lifestyle, there are plenty of opportunities to live in the state’s suburban and rural areas. While some parts of the state have reputations for being crime-prone, this is not true in most places, and common sense can be used to stay safe.
A large percentage of New Jersey residents rely on transportation to get to and from work, with 79.4% of commuters driving alone. The average motorist in the state drives 8,720 miles a year. With gas prices higher than the national average, this can add up to a considerable amount of money. However, there are other options for getting around, including buses and trains. Those who want to reduce their transportation costs should look for a job closer to home. This will reduce their mileage and allow them to use a carpool or rideshare with coworkers. This will also help lower their fuel and maintenance expenses. The state’s property taxes are also higher than the national average. In total, they stand at 2.4% of the state’s gross domestic product. This is the eighth highest rate in the country.