Are you thinking about making a move, planning a trip, or just curious about the long-standing rivalry between New Jersey and New York? Whether you’re comparing housing costs, commute options, or quality of life, this guide is your complete breakdown of what it’s like to live, visit, and explore both. Each has its pros and cons, and depending on your priorities, one might come out clearly on top.
Let’s dive into everything that sets these neighboring states apart, from cost of living and culture to transportation and lifestyle, before you decide to move from NY to NJ.
What’s the Difference Between New Jersey and New York?
First things first: New Jersey is a separate state, not a part of New York. It was admitted into the Union on December 18, 1787, as the third official state. With over 9.5 million residents, New Jersey is the 11th most populous state in the U.S. It’s also the most densely populated, even though it only covers around 7,354 square miles.
On the other hand, New York is much larger geographically and has roughly twice the population. It is home to around 19.9 million people and spans a much broader area, from the bustling boroughs of New York City to the tranquil Adirondacks and Finger Lakes.
Population of New Jersey vs New York
- New Jersey: ~9.5 million residents
- New York: ~19.9 million residents
New Jersey has about half the population of New York, but don’t let that fool you. It ranks first in population density in the United States, especially in areas close to New York City like Hudson and Bergen Counties.
Is New Jersey Better Than New York?
That really depends on what you’re looking for, but by some metrics, the answer is yes.
According to WalletHub’s recent rankings, New Jersey placed third in the country for best states to live in. It scored high in categories like income, healthcare, education, and safety. New York came in ninth, largely due to its high cost of living and limited affordability.
If affordability and access to great schools and services are high on your list, New Jersey may be the winner – but if you’re considering a bigger change, here’s our guide on moving to Florida from New Jersey for a full breakdown..
Living in New Jersey vs Living in New York
This is where things get really interesting, especially if you’re choosing between the two for a long-term move.
Affordability
New York City is one of the most expensive places to live in the United States. Housing, groceries, and even a cup of coffee will cost you significantly more than in most parts of New Jersey. Rent in NYC is roughly 58% higher than in comparable parts of NJ. Dining out and basic goods are also more expensive.
Taxes and Housing
New York City residents pay a city income tax of up to 3.876%, on top of state income tax. New Jersey residents avoid that extra city tax and benefit from a slightly lower sales tax (6.625% compared to NYC’s 8.875%).
However, property taxes in New Jersey are higher, averaging around 2.13%, compared to NYC’s average of 0.88%. That said, housing prices in NJ are often significantly lower, so you may still come out ahead.
Commuting and Transportation
Living in New Jersey doesn’t mean giving up access to New York City. With NJ Transit, PATH trains, buses, and ferries, many NJ residents enjoy a faster or comparable commute than people who live in outer NYC boroughs. Plus, owning a car is more manageable in NJ, with less congestion and more available parking.
Is New Jersey Close to New York?
Yes, incredibly so. Many New Jersey towns are just minutes away from Manhattan and other NYC boroughs. This proximity is a major advantage for commuters and tourists alike.
Some NJ cities are even more walkable than parts of New York, offering a more relaxed pace without sacrificing convenience. Areas like Hoboken, Weehawken, and Jersey City are so close that many people work in NYC while enjoying the calmer residential vibes of NJ.
Is It Better to Stay in New Jersey When Visiting NYC?
If you want to save money, yes. Hotels, Airbnb rentals, and even restaurants tend to be more affordable across the river. You’ll also find it easier to park, move around, and relax without the overwhelming crowds.
Places like Hoboken, Jersey City, and Weehawken offer scenic views of the Manhattan skyline, trendy eateries, and easy transit access into Midtown and Downtown Manhattan. You can enjoy the best of both worlds: the thrill of the city and the comfort of a quieter stay.
Best Places to Visit in New Jersey
here’s much more to New Jersey than its proximity to New York City. It’s filled with history, parks, beaches, and family-friendly attractions.
- Hoboken: A riverside city with a boho vibe, brownstones, and some of the best nightlife in the area. It’s also home to beautiful parks and waterfront paths.
- Liberty State Park: Offers unobstructed views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, with lots of green space and bike trails.
- Jersey Shore: Think boardwalks, beach towns, and summer fun. Places like Asbury Park, Cape May, and Point Pleasant are beloved weekend escapes.
- Princeton: A charming college town with culture, coffee shops, and colonial architecture.
- For more, check out our guide on the best places in New Jersey to visit.
Is New Jersey Nice?
Absolutely. Often underrated, New Jersey is full of beautiful landscapes, cultural diversity, and economic opportunity. From hiking in the mountains to relaxing at the shore, NJ offers something for everyone.
It’s also one of the wealthiest and best-educated states in the country. In fact, it boasts one of the highest median household incomes in the U.S., along with some of the best public schools and healthcare access.
And yes, it has amazing shorelines too. Explore the best free beaches in New Jersey if you’re planning a trip.
New Jersey Cities Close to NYC
If you’re commuting or visiting, these cities should be on your radar:
- Jersey City: Diverse, vibrant, and packed with restaurants, nightlife, and cultural events.
- Hoboken: Great walkability and public schools, with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.
- Trenton: Prefer a central-NJ base with easy access to both metros? Consider Trenton—and when it’s time to relocate, our movers in Trenton can help you plan the logistics end-to-end.
- Weehawken: Known for waterfront parks and a short ferry ride into Manhattan.
- Union City and Guttenberg: Densely populated with great ethnic food and fast transit options.
- Cliffside Park: A residential favorite with quick NYC access and more living space.
Benefits of Living in Jersey City
Jersey City deserves its own spotlight. It’s consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the state, and for good reason.
- Diversity: Over half of households are multilingual or foreign-born, making it one of the most culturally rich places in the country.
- Walkability and Transit: It scores a walkability rating of 87 and has the third-highest public transit usage in the U.S., just behind NYC and D.C.
- Parks and Recreation: Liberty State Park, Lincoln Park, and riverfront walkways offer green spaces and waterfront views.
- Community and Culture: With art galleries, live music venues, and farmer’s markets, there’s always something to explore.
And if you’re moving with kids, make sure to check out what’s allowed legally with school absences when moving in New Jersey.
Final Thoughts: Which One Wins?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing between New Jersey and New York. It all comes down to what you value most. If you’re drawn to fast-paced city life, towering skylines, and cultural landmarks on every corner, New York might be your perfect fit. But if you’re looking for a more affordable, spacious, and commuter-friendly lifestyle that still keeps you close to the city, New Jersey could be the better move.
Whatever your decision, both states have a lot to offer – and making that transition smoothly is key.
If you’re planning a move anywhere across New Jersey, including the NYC metro area, get in touch with our moving experts in Neptune Township, NJ. At SETT Movers, we make relocation stress-free, efficient, and tailored to your needs.