Living in New Jersey is not for everyone. Here are thirteen reasons why some people may choose to avoid making the Garden State their home.
1. High Cost of Living
New Jersey consistently ranks as one of the most expensive states in America for everyday expenses, including groceries, utilities, and healthcare, with costs notably higher in cities and along the coast.
2. Steep Property Taxes
Homeowners face the highest property tax rates in the U.S., routinely resulting in thousands of dollars in annual costs that can make even modest homes a financial burden.
3. Expensive Housing Market
Both buying and renting homes in New Jersey is costly, especially near New York City, with median home prices significantly above national averages, making homeownership difficult for many.
4. High State Income Taxes
The progressive income tax system, which scales up to nearly 11% for top earners, can impact take-home pay and challenges professionals seeking to maximize their earnings.
5. Traffic Congestion
Major highways such as the Garden State Parkway and I-95 are infamous for traffic jams, causing commuters to spend hours stuck in gridlock, sometimes averaging 86 hours per year.
6. Crowded Public Transportation
While public transit is available, it is often overcrowded and unreliable—especially for those commuting to New York City—resulting in packed trains, frequent delays, and stressful daily commutes.
7. Population Density
New Jersey is the most densely populated state, translating to crowded neighborhoods, limited privacy, frequent noise, and intense competition for resources and services.
8. Pollution Concerns
Urban and industrial regions, particularly near Newark, can experience significant air and water quality issues, compromising public health and outdoor enjoyment.
9. Extreme Weather
Residents must cope with summer heatwaves, humid conditions, and harsh winter snowstorms, with up to 50 inches of snow in northern regions, causing disruptions and costly heating bills.
10. High Tolls and Fees
Commuters face regular tolls on major highways and bridges, which quickly add up, increasing the overall cost of living and daily travel expenses.
11. Strict Alcohol Laws
Liquor licenses are limited and expensive. There are restrictions on when and where alcohol can be sold, reducing consumer choices and adding inconvenience.
12. Limited Public Beach Access
Despite the famed Jersey Shore, residents may pay fees for beach access due to private ownership of many beaches, limiting the public’s enjoyment of the coastline.
Considering these factors, living in New Jersey may not suit those sensitive to cost, congestion, climate, or crowded environments.
Sources
(https://www.redfin.com/blog/pros-and-cons-of-living-in-new-jersey/)
(https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-new-jersey-moving/)
(https://www.reddit.com/r/AskAnAmerican/comments/drhv3k/what_are_pros_and_cons_of_living_in_new_jersey/)
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6nZV5-ammk8)
(https://www.sroa.com/blog/local-guides/pros-and-cons-of-living-in-new-jersey)
