Known for its Jersey Shore beaches, east coast metropolitan hubs, and acres of farmland in between, New Jersey offers remarkable diversity within a small geographic footprint. With urban excitements, rural retreats, and endless entertainment options, the Garden State provides an exceptional quality of life for residents. Here are just some of the key reasons New Jersey is an amazing place to call home.
Easy Access To Major Cities
New Jersey’s prime location along the northeast corridor provides simple access to major cities like New York and Philadelphia. Commuters can reach Manhattan business centers in under an hour by rail or bus. Newark Liberty International Airport connects New Jersey to destinations worldwide. For urban employment opportunities without big city costs, the state is ideally positioned. Sports and entertainment in neighboring metropolises are enjoyed conveniently.
A Hub of Higher Education Excellence
New Jersey is home to over 70 colleges and universities including globally recognized names like Princeton, Rutgers, Stevens Institute of Technology, and Seton Hall. Top public and private institutions attract hundreds of thousands of students. This concentration of prestigious academia drives innovation provides a pipeline of skilled graduates, and offers enriching continuing education options for residents. Options abound for earning a world-class degree in the Garden State.
Plentiful Suburban Communities
For those seeking quintessential American suburbia, New Jersey delivers. Peaceful communities like Summit, Westfield, Maplewood, Montclair, and Ridgewood offer tree-lined streets, vibrant downtowns, excellent schools, and family-friendly amenities. Neighbors know one another and come together for block parties and town events. New Jersey allows raising a family in neighborhoods where kids can safely ride bikes and play freely.
Elizabeth Is A Great Neighborhood
From its beginnings as a hub of industry, Elizabeth, NJ has transformed into a diverse urban community with thriving businesses, arts, and culture. Neighborhoods like Peterstown and Midtown offer affordable housing near public transit links to Manhattan and other cities. The historic Hersh Tower serves as a community landmark, while the city’s universities power economic revitalization. For an urban lifestyle at a reasonable cost, Elizabeth appeals. There are plenty of great apartments to rent in Elizabeth, NJ for a range of prices. You can browse some of the best Elizabeth apartments at Rent. They make it easy for renters to find their perfect property, and their app streamlines the whole process.
A Hub of Pharmaceutical and Technology Innovation
New Jersey serves as the global headquarters for over 15 Fortune 500 companies including Johnson & Johnson, Prudential, Merck, and Verizon. Numerous biopharmaceutical and life sciences companies drive leading research and development. High-tech and financial firms continue migrating into New Jersey, bringing employment, and raising the state’s profile as a business hub.
Delicious Local Produce and Seafood
Fertile New Jersey farmland located outside major cities allows easy access to fresh fruit, vegetables, dairy, and other harvests at farmers markets, farm stands, and “u pick” orchards and berry patches. Additionally, seafood like fresh scallops, clams, crab, and ocean fish are easily obtained from Jersey Shore ports and restaurants. The state’s agricultural and fishing industries serve up incredible local flavors.
The Famed Jersey Shore
Miles of boardwalks, beaches, arcades, and waterparks have made the Jersey Shore a premier East Coast vacation destination for decades. Iconic spots like Asbury Park (which will be familiar to Bruce Springsteen fans), Wildwood, Seaside Heights, Atlantic City, and Cape May draw happy crowds all summer long. Whether seeking peaceful natural ocean views or lively carnival atmospheres, the Shore has it all. Locals enjoy easy escapes to sand and surf all season.
A Leader in Arts, Culture and Diversity
Home to Broadway stars and breakthrough artists, New Jersey boasts a thriving creative scene. The Newark Museum, Montclair Art Museum, and Princeton University Art Museum showcase world-class works. Countless music venues, theaters, and cultural festivals occur year-round. Cities like Asbury Park, Jersey City, and New Brunswick pride themselves on inclusiveness, diversity, and artistic expression. Creativity flourishes in the Garden State.
Top-Notch Sports Scene
Sporting events shine in New Jersey through pro teams like the Devils, Giants, Jets, and Red Bulls playing home games here. It’s a great time to be a Devils fan too, as their young team led by Jack Hughes looks set to be a serious challenger for the Stanley Cup this year. College powerhouses like Rutgers and Seton Hall draw spirited fans. AT&T Stadium has hosted the World Cup. Top golf courses like Baltusrol, Plainfield, and Pine Valley challenge pros. With endless sports entertainment options from little league to major league, New Jersey scores big.
A Wine Region To Be Reckoned With
With over 50 wineries now established in New Jersey, a thriving wine country has developed along the East Coast. Utilizing expert viticultural practices, New Jersey wineries consistently earn accolades for their fine vintages. The state’s wine trail passes through scenic landscapes in Cape May, Warren, Hunterdon, and Atlantic counties. Stop for tastings at leisurely weekends in wine country.
Quaint Main Streets And Downtowns
From Morristown to Red Bank to Haddonfield (not to be confused with the fictional town from Halloween!), New Jersey is filled with charming downtown districts exemplifying small-town pride. Families flock to main streets to dine al fresco, browse boutiques, admire historic architecture, and relax in quiet public spaces. Scenic strolls for ice cream through picturesque pedestrian centers make New Jersey special. You won’t be short on places to enjoy outside.
A Leader in Education
It’s not just about the colleges and universities in the Garden State. New Jersey public schools consistently rank among the top in the nation, with high graduation rates and standardized test scores. The state devotes abundant resources to maintaining educational excellence. This commitment to learning fosters rising achievement across urban, suburban, and rural districts. Opportunities for first-class education at all academic levels make New Jersey a great choice for families.
With incredible natural assets, strong communities, thriving industry, and endless attractions, the Garden State provides exceptional living. New Jersey insiders know not to believe unfair stereotypes. Rather, they focus on the beauty and possibilities this diverse state offers.
