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Things to Do in New Jersey
If you’re looking to move to a new state but are unsure of where to go, consider making the move to New Jersey. Despite some of the less-than-stellar impressions people outside of the state may tend to have towards it, it’s one of the best places to live in the United States today—and this article is going to explain why. From its overall size and population to the many attractions that dot it, there’s a lot to love about the Garden State. We hope that you enjoy this Things to Do in New Jersey USA post.
Photo by Seva Kruhlov on Pexels
Things to Do in New Jersey USA
Size and Population
Did you know that New Jersey is the fourth-smallest state in the United States? For those who love to travel, this is great news, as it means less time needed to travel from one town or city to another.
While it will still take time to get around, exploring everything New Jersey has to offer will be quicker compared to larger states like Texas or even Illinois. The state's smaller size is also an advantage for those who prefer a cozy living environment. It allows for manageable and comfortable travel without feeling claustrophobic, which can be an issue in some smaller states, like Vermont.
Despite its small size, New Jersey has one of the highest populations in the country. This is exciting for extroverts, as there are plenty of opportunities to meet new people and make friends. However, for introverts or those who value their quiet time, this may feel overwhelming at times.
Fortunately, while the bustling city streets can be a bit hectic initially, you'll likely find greater appreciation for the comfort of your cozy, quiet home. Additionally, the state's large population means that public transportation and other amenities, which might be less common in other states, are abundant here, making life more convenient.
Happiness Ranking in New Jersey
It may surprise you to learn that a study is conducted periodically to identify the happiest states in the country. Even more surprising is the fact that New Jersey was ranked as the fifth happiest state in the most recent study. To assess happiness, the researchers relied on previous research that explores various aspects of happiness, including the correlation between happiness and longevity, as well as the joy derived from different experiences.
The researchers analyzed several metrics based on this prior work, focusing on three main categories: emotional and physical well-being, work environment, and community and environment. Each of these broader categories is subdivided into smaller components, and the better a state performs in these specific areas, the higher its overall happiness score.
So, how did New Jersey achieve such a high ranking? Its success is attributed to particularly strong performance in certain areas. Overall, New Jersey ranked third in emotional and physical well-being, fourteenth in work environment, and twenty-ninth in community and environmental factors.
The maximum possible score for the three categories was one hundred. The top state, Utah, scored first place in both work and community environments, achieving a total of 69.79 points. New Jersey nearly reached a score of 62 points, missing it by just two-hundredths of a point. While New Jersey isn’t the happiest state in the country according to this study, it is in the top five and has commendable scores across the board.
Image from Depositphotos
Various Beaches
New Jersey offers several compelling reasons to consider moving there, including its relatively small size, large population, and high overall happiness scores. This state is located on the eastern coast of the United States and borders New York and Pennsylvania, as well as the Atlantic Ocean, which means access to beautiful beaches.
One great option is Stone Harbor, where you can enjoy sunbathing on the sandy shores or take kayaks out for a leisurely ride. If you prefer birdwatching or fishing, the nearby conservation area provides a peaceful atmosphere. While the absence of a boardwalk might disappoint some visitors, it also means less traffic and more opportunities to relax under the sun.
For those seeking a livelier beach experience, Long Branch is the place to be. At Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park, you can indulge in surfing and sunbathing, and in the evening, the vibrant boardwalk comes alive with various restaurants and shops. There’s plenty to enjoy, whether it’s a game of volleyball or skateboarding, while the kids have fun at the nearby playground.
Checking Out Other Attractions in New Jersey
Of course, enjoying the beaches isn’t all there is to do in New Jersey; you could also explore some of the many fun things to do here. You could take a statue cruise, tour a vineyard, enjoy the lighthouses, and so much more. Many art and cultural centers await your curious eyes and an open mind, while the wide range of events held each year awaits your visit. The unique decoration, delicious food, and exciting events will surely excite and delight you.
Image from Depositphotos
Embracing Everything New Jersey Offers
New Jersey has a lot to offer, and we haven’t even scratched the surface of all of the great gems the state has in store. We haven’t even touched upon the national and state parks or any other outdoor activities, and we simply can’t go over all of the delicious offerings provided by the mom-and-pop restaurants you’re sure to find or the benefits of living so close to the underappreciated beauty of New York state or the gorgeous scenery that Pennsylvania has to offer.
Things to Do in New Jersey USA
Whether you like the idea of living a happy, cozy life in your condo or the excitement of all of the quick adventures you can have here, New Jersey has something for everyone, and we’re excited to hopefully see you soon!
