Here are 13 reasons why living in New Jersey might not be for everyone, with clear headings for each point:
1. High Cost of Living
New Jersey is one of the most expensive states in the U.S., with high costs for housing, utilities, groceries, and healthcare, making it tough for many to live comfortably.
2. Highest Property Taxes in the Nation
The state has the highest property tax rates in the country, which can be a significant financial burden on homeowners, especially retirees and those on fixed incomes.
3. Traffic Congestion and Commute Times
Traffic congestion is a daily frustration, especially near New York City and Philadelphia, with major highways like the Garden State Parkway often gridlocked during rush hours.
4. High State Income Taxes
New Jersey’s progressive income tax rates are among the highest nationally, particularly impacting high earners, reducing take-home pay notably.
5. Overcrowded Public Transportation
While extensive, New Jersey’s public transit systems are often crowded and suffer from delays, making commutes stressful for many riders.
6. Environmental Pollution in Urban Areas
Parts of New Jersey, particularly around industrial zones like Newark, experience significant air and water pollution, posing health concerns.
7. Dense Population and Crowded Living Conditions
As the most densely populated state, New Jersey can feel crowded with less personal space, noise, and busy urban environments.
8. Limited Public Beach Access
Despite having beautiful shorelines, much of New Jersey’s beach access is private or requires costly fees, limiting free recreational opportunities.
9. Expensive and Competitive Housing Market
Housing prices are high, particularly near cities and the shore, making homeownership challenging for many, with some facing long commutes as a result.
10. High Tolls on Major Highways
Commuters face frequent tolls on major routes like the New Jersey Turnpike, adding ongoing expenses to daily travel.
11. Strict Alcohol Laws
Regulations on alcohol sales and expensive liquor licenses in many municipalities make access more restrictive than in other states.
12. Higher Crime Rates in Some Cities
Certain cities, including Camden and Newark, have higher crime rates, impacting residents’ safety perceptions and quality of life.
13. Weather Extremes
New Jersey experiences hot, humid summers, cold and snowy winters, and occasional storms, which can disrupt daily life and increase costs.
These factors contribute to why some may find living in New Jersey challenging despite its benefits and amenities.
Sources
(https://www.sroa.com/blog/local-guides/pros-and-cons-of-living-in-new-jersey)
(https://homeia.com/city-living-guide/the-pros-and-cons-of-living-in-new-jersey/)
(https://unitsstorage.com/northern-nj/the-pros-and-cons-of-living-in-new-jersey/)
(https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-living-new-jersey-moving/)
(https://www.redfin.com/blog/pros-and-cons-of-living-in-new-jersey/)
