16 Best Places to Live in New Jersey

Looking for the best places to live in New Jersey? For starters, it’s worth noting that living in New Jersey is more than being a stone's throw from opportunities in New York City. The state is filled with lucrative industries, beautiful beaches, green space, cuisine fit for a foodie, and plenty of diversity. You can even consider checking out the cheapest places in New Jersey.

The hard part about successfully moving to New Jersey is finding the best spot. So, if you’ve been wondering, “Is New Jersey a good place to live?” you’re in the right spot. Here are some of the best places in New Jersey to live. And if you need some extra insight, check out @AroundTheWorldInVideos thoughts on New Jersey's premier locations for prospective renters.

The 16 Best Places to Live in New Jersey

1. Newark

• Population: 282,011
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,417
• Median Household Income: $41,335
• Walk Score: 79
• Transit Score: 65
• Bike Score: 61

As the largest city in New Jersey, Newark has been a prominent location in the New Jersey area since 1666. Newark, located in North New Jersey, has job opportunities, and its central location in the New York City Metro area makes it an attractive option for college grads, millennials, and families looking for more reasonable rents. In addition, the expansive Prudential Center hosts hockey games, blockbuster musical performances, and a Grammy Museum Experience with iconic artists from the Garden State. To explore more of the arts, The Newark Museum offers exhibits through 80 galleries and collections.

2. Jersey City

• Population: 262,075
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,346
• Median Household Income: $81,390
• Walk Score: 87
• Transit Score: 71
• Bike Score: 70

Among the best places to live in New Jersey is Jersey City, the second-most populous city that features incredible views of Manhattan across the Hudson River. Of the best neighborhoods in New Jersey, Jersey City's waterfront location on the Hudson and a short commute to Manhattan make it ideal for young professionals, millennials, and college students alike. Of the Jersey City neighborhoods, Liberty State Park is a favorite for locals and tourists for its spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty.

3. Paterson

• Population: 145,233
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,882
• Median Household Income: $48,540
• Walk Score: 78
• Transit Score: 48
• Bike Score: 48

Paterson, another one of the best cities to live in New Jersey, is close to New York City and major highways and attracts businesses looking for a central business location. New Jersey living in Paterson, is surrounded by local companies that produce everything from garments to electronic components and cosmetics. Paterson is also a welcoming spot for families amongst the best cities in New Jersey thanks to its public schools and more affordable prices than nearby metro cities.

4. Elizabeth

• Population: 129,216
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,671
• Median Household Income: $54,415
• Walk Score: 81
• Transit Score: 43
• Bike Score: 56

With a rich history in industrial work, Elizabeth still serves as an economic epicenter of New Jersey and a hub for transportation, shipping, and retail. Elizabeth is among the best towns in New Jersey as it is attractive for businesses due to the reduced sales tax, corporate tax credits, and unemployment insurance rebates. Plus, the commute into Manhattan is just over 15 miles for more job opportunities, though you'll have to battle traffic or commute by bus or train.

5. Toms River

• Population: 94,108
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,500
• Median Household Income: $84,928
• Walk Score: 28
• Bike Score: 39

Toms River is among the parts of New Jersey that was once the site of a rural farming community, but today is known as one of the prettiest places to live in the US. Toms River is among the best cities in New Jersey as it caters to the community with the local library, which has an on-site coffee shop. Year-round kid-friendly events are available, along with seating areas to leaf through books and magazines.

6. Metuchen

• Population: 13,748
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,650
• Median Household Income: $141,915
• Walk Score: 66
• Transit Score: 40
• Bike Score: 53

Among the safest cities in New Jersey is Metuchen, a small suburban town located in Middlesex County. The town is known as one of the best New Jersey neighborhoods, offering its residents a peaceful and friendly lifestyle, with a strong sense of community and a thriving downtown area. Metuchen is known for its historic architecture, with many homes and buildings dating back to the 19th century.

7. Princeton

• Population: 31,006
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $4,296
• Median Household Income: $165,149
• Walk Score: 55
• Transit Score:33
• Bike Score: 75

If you’re looking for the best place to raise a family, check out Princeton, New Jersey. The charming college town in Mercer County is home to Princeton University, which gives the town a lively and intellectual atmosphere. In addition to being known as one of the best places to live in the northeast, Princeton is known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant downtown area, and highly-rated public schools.

8. Cherry Hill

• Population: 71,280
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,650
• Median Household Income: $107,341
• Walk Score: 41
• Transit Score: 32
• Bike Score: 35

Cherry Hill is one of the best parts of Jersey, known for its excellent schools, diverse population, and convenient location. In addition, Cherry Hill is a family-friendly community with numerous parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities. The town has a thriving downtown area with many shopping and dining options, including the popular Cherry Hill Mall. Cherry Hill is also home to Cooper River Park, which offers various activities such as kayaking, fishing, and cycling.

9. Edison

• Population: 101,201
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,150
• Median Household Income: $110,896
• Walk Score: 50
• Transit Score: 40
• Bike Score: 38

Edison, New Jersey, is a diverse and thriving suburban town in Middlesex County known for its excellent public schools, robust economy, and convenient location. Edison has a diverse population with a wide range of ethnic and cultural backgrounds, reflected in the town's many restaurants and shopping centers. In addition, the town has a strong economy, with many major companies and corporations located within its borders.

10. Mount Laurel

• Population: 42,278
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,850
• Median Household Income: $103,399
• Walk Score: 25
• Transit Score: 10
• Bike Score: 27

Mount Laurel, New Jersey, is a suburban town in Burlington County known for its excellent schools, beautiful parks, and convenient location. Mount Laurel has a strong sense of community, with many family-friendly events and activities throughout the year. The town has several parks and outdoor recreational facilities, including Laurel Acres Park, which offers hiking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds.

11. Ocean City

• Population: 10,719
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,995
• Median Household Income: $88,414
• Walk Score: 37
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: N/A

The small town on the Atlantic Ocean coast is known for its beautiful beaches, boardwalk, and family-friendly atmosphere. Ocean City has a strong sense of community, with many annual events and activities throughout the year, such as the Night in Venice boat and Christmas parades. The town has a thriving tourism industry, with many shops, restaurants, and entertainment options for visitors and residents alike.

12. Madison

• Population:16,096
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,850
• Median Household Income: $136,818
• Walk Score: 82
• Transit Score: 41
• Bike Score: 55

Madison, New Jersey, is a borough in Morris County with a vibrant downtown area featuring shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions such as the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey. The town is known for its historic homes and picturesque streets, and it boasts several parks and recreational facilities, including the expansive Loantaka Brook Reservation. Madison is also home to Drew University and Fairleigh Dickinson University's Florham Campus, which contribute to the town's academic and cultural vibrancy.

13. Paramus

• Population: 26,342
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,495
• Median Household Income: $130,446
• Walk Score: 56
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: N/A

Among the best suburbs in New Jersey to live in is Paramus, located in Bergen County. The suburban town is known for its shopping centers, including the Westfield Garden State Plaza. Ranking as one of the best suburbs in New Jersey, the town is also known for its excellent schools, making it an attractive option for families.

14. Livingston

• Population: 29,366
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $3,649
• Median Household Income: $176,991
• Walk Score: 36
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: N/A

Livingston is a suburban town in Essex County, New Jersey, offering a family-friendly community with excellent schools and recreational opportunities. In addition, Livingston is known for its abundance of green spaces, with several parks and nature reserves, including the South Mountain Reservation, which offers hiking trails and scenic views.

15. Cranford

• Population: 24,094
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,195
• Median Household Income: $139,394
• Walk Score: 68
• Transit Score: 35
• Bike Score: 46

Cranford is a charming town in Union County, New Jersey, that offers a tight-knit community with a strong history and culture. The town boasts several historic landmarks, including the Crane-Phillips House Museum, which showcases the town's rich history. The town is also well-connected to New York City and other parts of New Jersey, with several nearby train stations.

16. Summit

• Population: 22,071
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,950
• Median Household Income: $151,505
• Walk Score: 73
• Transit Score: 40
• Bike Score: 44

Summit, New Jersey, is a suburban town in Union County, approximately 20 miles west of New York City. Summit has several parks and recreational areas, including the Reeves-Reed Arboretum and the Summit Family Aquatic Center. The town also has a highly-rated public school system, with Summit High School consistently ranked among the top high schools in the state.

Make Your Move: Start Apartment Hunting

Ready to start living in New Jersey and ready to start looking for your new apartment? Whether you’re looking to move out of state or not, find the best places to Live in New Jersey by browsing Apartment List.