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The Joys of Living in New Jersey: A Life That Can Be Well-Balanced with Enough Perks
New Jersey, often referred to as the Garden State is a unique combination of urban convenience and natural beauty. For anyone considering a move to the East Coast, this state offers several compelling reasons to call it home. From its diverse population and rich history to its economic opportunities and excellent educational system, there are many reasons to consider New Jersey as a place to live. In the following sections, we will discuss some of the top benefits of residency in the state, complete with percentages and statistics that highlight why so many people choose to call New Jersey home.
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The Joys of Living in New Jersey: A Life That Can Be Well-Balanced with Enough Perks
Affordable Property Taxes
Among the many benefits of living in New Jersey, especially for homeowners, is that certain cities and municipalities have relatively low property taxes. While the state has a reputation for high property taxes, many towns provide some relief. For example, cities like Jersey City and Camden are a couple of cities known to have some of the lowest property tax rates in the state. In Camden, the property taxes are 1.85% of a home’s value on average, significantly lower than the state’s average of 2.21%, making some towns more affordable for homeowners.
Access to Top-Notch Education
New Jersey is home to some of the best schools in the country, both public and private. In fact, the state has consistently been ranked first in the quality of K-12 education. According to U.S. News & World Report, New Jersey schools rank #1 in the nation, with high graduation rates and above-average academic performance in math and reading. Over 90% of students graduate from high school, compared to the national average of 85%. The state also invests heavily in education, allocating 34% of its budget to public schools.
In addition to public schools, New Jersey boasts renowned higher learning institutions, including Princeton University, Rutgers University, and Stevens Institute of Technology, making it a hub for academic excellence.
Accessibility to Major Cities
New Jersey’s proximity to major metropolitan areas like New York City and Philadelphia is a significant advantage, offering residents access to world-class entertainment, dining, and employment opportunities without the high cost of living. About 15% of New Jersey’s workforce commutes to New York City, taking advantage of the state’s extensive transportation network. Many parts of New Jersey are just a short train ride away from Manhattan or Philadelphia, giving residents easy access to two major job markets.
Rich Cultural Diversity
New Jersey is one of the most culturally diverse states in the country, ranking 4th according to WalletHub. The state’s vibrant mix of cultures, ethnicities, and languages translates into a wide variety of festivals, cuisines, and cultural events. Cities like Edison and Jersey City, for example, take pride in their diversity, offering everything from authentic Indian cuisine to lively Latino festivals, enriching the quality of life for many residents.
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Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
Despite being the most densely populated state in the country, New Jersey offers plenty of opportunities to escape into nature. With 127 miles of coastline, the state boasts some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast, including popular destinations like the Jersey Shore, Cape May, and Long Beach Island, which offer everything from quiet retreats to bustling boardwalks.
New Jersey is also home to 50 state parks, including the famous Delaware Water Gap and the Pine Barrens. Whether it’s hiking, fishing, camping, or simply enjoying the outdoors, New Jersey’s natural landscapes provide the perfect setting for various activities.
A Thriving Job Market
New Jersey continues to experience economic growth, driven by industries such as pharmaceuticals, finance, information technology, and healthcare. In 2023, the state’s unemployment rate stood at 3.6%, slightly below the national average of 3.8%. Major companies like Johnson & Johnson, Merck, and Prudential Financial provide a wide range of career opportunities.
Additionally, New Jersey’s proximity to New York City gives residents access to some of the best jobs in the world while allowing them to maintain a more affordable lifestyle.
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Quality Healthcare System
New Jersey is home to one of the finest healthcare systems in the nation, with many of its hospitals and medical centers ranked among the best in the country. The state boasts over 100 hospitals, including Hackensack University Medical Center and Morristown Medical Center, both of which are consistently ranked in the top listings by U.S. News & World Report.
With over 25,000 practicing physicians, residents have access to high-quality care whenever needed. This excellent healthcare infrastructure contributes to the high quality of life in the state.
The Joys of Living in New Jersey: A Life That Can Be Well-Balanced with Enough Perks
Living in New Jersey offers numerous advantages, from affordable property taxes in certain areas to top-rated schools, thriving job markets, and proximity to major metropolitan areas. The state’s rich cultural diversity and natural beauty make it an ideal blend of urban and suburban living. Whether you’re looking to raise a family, advance your career, or simply enjoy life, New Jersey’s balanced way of life may be exactly what you’re seeking. With something for everyone, the Garden State truly lives up to its reputation.
