New Jersey has a little bit of everything — city views, calm neighborhoods, great food, and easy access to beautiful beaches and scenic getaways. It’s easy to understand why living here appeals to so many. Travel + Leisure recently asked real estate experts across the state to share their picks for the best places to live in New Jersey. Here are the 10 places that made their list.
Jersey City
If you want to be close to New York City without having to live there, Jersey City is your spot. The skyline views across the Hudson are stunning, and the PATH train gets you to Manhattan within minutes. The city has high-rise condos, historic homes, parks along the waterfront, and some of the best restaurants in the state. The median home price is around $645,000.
Asbury Park
If you want a beach town with a welcoming, inclusive vibe, Asbury Park is worth a look. The town sits along the Jersey Shore with a mile-long boardwalk, colorful murals, and lots of great shops and restaurants. The town has quiet streets, local cafes, and many seasonal events right by the beach. Homes here average around $660,000.
Montvale
Montvale has that classic suburban NJ feel. The streets are clean and quiet. It’s a great place for families because there are many parks and strong schools. The homes range from cozy ranches to newer modern houses, and the median price is around $915,000.
Woodland Park
Woodland Park, originally known as West Paterson, is quiet but well connected. It’s known for its easy access to major highways and calm suburban feel. It’s a popular choice for many retirees and families. The town’s public schools are considered above average. People who live here love the local parks, recreational facilities, and the different dining options. The average home price is about $625,000.
Woodcliff Lake
Woodcliff Lake has a quiet, family-friendly feel. You’ll find parks, access to shopping and restaurants, and outdoor activities around the Woodcliff Lake Reservoir. The town is close enough to New York for commuters to get there quickly. Homes average about $1.2 million.
Morristown
Morristown is a nice walkable town full of history. It was a key location during the Revolutionary War. The downtown is lively with cozy cafes, popular restaurants, and an active nightlife. The town also has a museum and a performing arts center that host many events throughout the year. Homes average around $870,000.
Fair Lawn
Fair Lawn is a great choice for families. There are parks, farmers markets, summer concerts, and fireworks. Homes range from small capes to bigger colonials. Many areas are filled with walking paths and open green space. The town feels friendly and easy to live in.
Tenafly
Tenafly is a quiet town in Bergen County with some of the top schools in the area. The downtown has great cafes, shops, and small boutiques. Homes average around $1.24 million.
Hamilton
Hamilton in Mercer County has nice parks, good schools, and the famous Grounds for Sculpture. It’s a more affordable option in Central Jersey with homes averaging around $225,000. Its location between New York and Philadelphia makes commuting and weekend trips very easy.
Monroe
Monroe in Middlesex County sits right in the middle of New Jersey. The town has several active-adult communities with pools, clubhouses, and golf. People can enjoy parks, hiking trails, craft fairs, summer concerts, and fishing at Thompson Park. The Jersey Shore is an easy drive, and major cities are close enough for day trips. Homes average around $665,000.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.