If you’re moving to New Jersey, count yourself lucky. The Garden State consistently makes it to the top of lists of the best places to live in the United States. And it’s easy to see why.
New Jersey is surrounded by some of the country’s major states, including New York, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania. Six of its biggest cities and their vicinity are part of the New York metropolitan area, the largest metropolitan area in the US. Living in New Jersey puts you just a short ferry or subway ride from the iconic attractions and economic opportunities in the metro, including those within its own territory.
The state is also bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and boasts miles of beautiful beaches. It features acres of parks, gardens, and outdoor destinations that provide wonderful oases amid the congestion of the surrounding urban communities.
New Jersey has its own quirks that make it unique and distinct from any other state. Just like in any other place, living here has its pros and cons, but ask any local and they’ll tell you that there’s no better place to call home.
Here are a few more things you should know about the Garden State:
- It has an excellent healthcare system
New Jersey’s healthcare system has consistently been one of the reasons for its high rankings in lists of the best states. It is home to many of the top medical professionals in the country, as well as 113 hospitals, including 72 acute care hospitals. Hospitals like Morristown Medical Center, Hackensack University Medical Center, Robert Wood Johnson University Hotel, and others have been ranked nationally by US News And World Report, which also ranked the state 3rd nationally in healthcare quality.
- It offers great educational opportunities
US News and World Report has also ranked New Jersey as the second top state for education, just behind Massachusetts. The report took into account the state’s graduation rate and tuition costs for higher education, as well as the test scores and high school graduation rates of Grades K to 12 students.
New Jersey is home to numerous award-winning elementary and high schools, and the state’s school system is often recognized as one of the best in the country. In 2015, it spent more on education than any other state except New York and Connecticut.
NJ is home to Princeton University, acknowledged as one of the top universities in the world, as well as Rutgers University, Rowan University, New Jersey Institute of Technology, and other universities and colleges.
- It has been called “America in Miniature” by National Geographic
New Jersey’s geographical diversity encapsulates the country’s historical and natural features, giving residents and guests plenty of options for indoor and outdoor activities. The state is officially divided into six regions, and each one comes with its own distinct attractions.
- Skylands Region
Covering the northwest portion, this region features the highest peaks in New Jersey, as well as rolling hills, forests, and river valleys. Hiking and snowboarding are the top activities in this area. - Gateway Region
The state’s northeast region is home to many of its cultural and cosmopolitan attractions, including the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, Thomas Edison’s home and laboratory, the New Jersey Botanical Gardens, and Westfield Garden State Plaza. From the area, you can get wonderful views and easy access to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. - Delaware River Region
This historical region offers quaint and picturesque main streets, award winning restaurants, waterfront attractions, and water activities on the Delaware River. - Shore Region
Comprising the state’s eastern region, the famous Jersey Shore features 90 miles of white sand beaches where you’ll find historic boardwalks and lighthouses, museums, restaurants, shops, and more. - Greater Atlantic City Region
Found just south of the Shore Region, Greater Atlantic City is a coastal gaming town celebrated for its nightlife, shopping and dining, and outdoor activities. - Southern Shore Region
Covering the southernmost portion of the state, this region features 14 beaches, including some of the best ones in the state — Ocean City, Cape May, and Wildwoods. Seven of the beaches here are open to the public while the rest are private.
- Skylands Region
- The weather can get extreme
New Jersey experiences hot and humid summers with temperatures ranging from the 60s to the 80s. Winters can get extremely cold, with lows of around 16 degrees. Blizzards are also fairly common in the winter and spring, and summers bring thunderstorms as well. Be prepared for power outages, which can happen several times a year due to the extreme weather conditions.
Learn more about living in beautiful New Jersey
We at David DePaola & Company will be happy to provide you with everything you need to know about living in The Garden State. Whether you’re searching houses for sale in Ewing, NJ, homes for sale in Pennington, NJ, or a house for sale in Lawrence, NJ, we will be happy to guide you to the perfect home.
Call us today at 609.883.4161 or send us an email at david(at)depaola(dotted)com to get started.