Perth Amboy, NJ Apartment Renter's Guide

I'm empty and aching and I don't know why /Counting the cars on the New Jersey Turnpike /They've all come to look for America -- From "America" by Simon & Garfunkel

Located just a short mile or so from the famous New Jersey Turnpike, Perth Amboy is a city in Middlesex County, New Jersey. However, it's actually part of the New York City metropolitan area, so there's plenty of cars to count from the street-level view of Perth Amboy. Often called the City by the Bay, as it sits on Raritan Bay, this small town has a beautiful and historic waterfront district that was one of the first settled areas in the state. The area is known for its laid-back vibe and its wonderful seafood restaurants, of which there are many. The terrain varies from the flat boardwalk to steep inclines into the hills, so you can get your hike on within city limits.

Once you've decided to take the plunge, there are a few things to consider when moving to Perth Amboy. The first is location. Do you want to be closer to the waterfront or up in the hills where it's a little sleepier? Second, what is your budget for rent? Although there are some very affordable housing options here, keep in mind that they are affordable for a reason--it might mean they are built for low-income residents. Check them out, regardless, and see what you think--some of them are kept in better shape than others. Or, rather, some have let themselves go faster than others.

Regardless of what you decide, remember that you will need to bring all your relevant information and paperwork with you to sign on a place. Most leases run for one year, but if you find a spot you really love you might be able to negotiate a two- or three-year lease if you come across as professional and responsible. Ahem, big IF. Offering a little more money upfront never hurt anybody. Regardless, though, you will probably need to pay first month, last month, and security deposit upfront, so make sure you have at least that to offer or else have a guarantor on board who is willing to sign onto your lease with you. Aside from that, you should have no trouble finding a beautiful and spacious apartment rental here in Perth Amboy. Happy hunting!

Perth Amboy has a number of thriving neighborhoods, all vastly different in feel and aesthetic. Because the city has undergone so many transformations and revamps, the different areas can seem like positively different cities! Here are some of the main neighborhoods within the community.

Waterfront District:The most well-known area is the waterfront district, where the city was initially settled. The marina culture is alive and well, unlike most of the rest of New Jersey. There are a couple museums and lots of outdoor concerts here in the summertime. The redbrick promenade is a lovely place to stroll and take in some of the sights and sounds of this Jersey treasure. The large homes are gorgeous and have huge yards with beautiful views, but finding one to buy or rent is nearly impossible some are even on the National Register of Historic Places. It's like the ancient times, over here! There are quite a few old churches and synagogues nearby, too.$$$$

Harbortown:This is a fairly new development of townhouses built along the waterfront along the guidelines of the affordable housing act. This means you can find very affordable apartments for rent and condos for rent along with more expensive homes right nearby. It has easy and walkable access to many close shops and restaurants.$$$

State Street:This neighborhood is just south of Harbortown and is a working-class area with a few large apartment complexes such as Fayette Gardens and The Landings at Harborside.$$

Chickentown:Fowl play is not so prevalent in this area, near Route 35 on the western part and south of Route 440. The proximity to these highways--and thus the New Jersey Turnpike--makes it convenient for folks who commute to nearby towns or to New York City for work. Its home to the citys largest park, Washington Park, and it's a very pretty and quiet, middle-class area with a lot of older residents. Its a great place to retire to if youre looking for homes for rent or 3- or 4-bedroom apartments.$$$

Amboy Avenue:Hospitals and high schools dominate this area, and for this reason: A lot of people who work in the two industries live here. So you can learn algebra and get your blood pressure taken quite easily in this district. It's also home to quite a few city commuters, giving it a very suburban feel. Youll find everything from quiet homes with big lawns to high-rise apartments here.$$$

Hall Avenue:This area is centered around the New Jersey Transit train tracks that run through it and the newish strip mall called Firehouse Plaza. Its mostly residential now, however, and there are both older apartment complexes as well as newly built homes. It hosts the annual Puerto Rican Day Festival and has a nice, big park and baseball field.$$

Downtown:The downtown area is a revitalized version of the old city, settled in 1683. That's like the days or yore, right? The city has planted new trees since then, put in lovely Victorian streetlights and red-brick sidewalks, giving it an old-timey feel. There are both large apartment buildings and office buildings and old department stores that either sit empty or have been converted into smaller office or living spaces. Check it out its one of the most interesting areas in Perth Amboy.$$

There are a lot of perks to living in this city. For one, youre only a quick drive or public transit ride to Manhattan, where you can find pretty much everything you could ever want in the world. Second, you dont have to live in Manhattan, so you can avoid all the things you would never want in the world, like crime, smelly subway rides, huge crowds and noise. Thirdly, youre right on the beautiful waterfront, and you can take advantage of the gorgeous scenic views. Last but not least, you will feel like you live in a sweet little fishing village because the people are friendly, the boardwalk is old and pleasant and the air smells like fresh, salty seawater.

Additionally, this town has its own sights, sounds, and personality. The Perth Amboy Ferry Slip is of particular interest, with two small museums, a lovely marina, and a yacht club with a band shell that has lots of summer concerts. There are some gorgeous Victorian homes with a beachfront vibe and some homes tucked up into the hills overlooking the bay. The school systems are great and the houses are not terribly expensivemuch less than the rest of New Jersey. There are countless reasons--if you can count that high--to love it here. You ought to visit and find out for yourself!