Located in Hudson County, Jersey City was once an entry point for immigrants into the United States. Today, Jersey City’s Hudson River waterfront, from Exchange Place to Newport, is nicknamed “Wall Street West,” with over 13 million square feet of office space. A third of the city’s private sector jobs are in finance. Those who call Jersey City home have access to New York’s career and entertainment offerings—minus the wallet-draining rent or congestion. But with proximity comes a price: Jersey City rents have skyrocketed by 48% in recent years, according to Bloomberg.
Food and Nightlife
- Los Tres Chilitos (456 Central Ave, Jersey City): This Jersey City Heights joint, which specializes in authentic Oaxacan cuisine, outshines other “edgy” Mexican spots downtown.
- Ita Italian Kitchen (682 Bergen Ave, Jersey City): Looking for delicious Italian food in Jersey City? Your search ends here. Book your crew in for a group dinner at ITA Kitchen and make sure to order their vodka chicken parmigiana.
- The Archer (176 Newark Ave, Jersey City): Where classic cocktails meet gamey bites in a swanky, rustic setting. Dimly lit by candles, it feels like cozying up in a cabin.
- Zeppelin Hall (88 Liberty View Dr., Jersey City): There’s no one to hold your hand in this no-frills, European-style biergarten. Grab a pint, find a seat, and settle in for an evening of live music and self-serve eats.
Attractions
- Liberty Science Center (222 Jersey City Blvd, Jersey City): An interactive science museum and learning center with a bonus view of Manhattan from the fourth-floor balcony. By day, it’s a hands-on learning hub for kids; by night, it transforms into an adult playground of beats, booze, and biology.
- Liberty State Park: Every summer, Monarch butterflies flutter into Liberty State Park for their migration. Catch the only ferry in New Jersey that transports visitors to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
- White Eagle Hall (337 Newark Ave, Jersey City): Originally built in 1910 as a bingo hall, this historic venue maintains a pre-rock and roll charm. It has a decent sound system and has hosted talents like Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Frank Infante.
- The Pixel Lab (381 1st St, Jersey City): Recently opened and on track to be Jersey City’s go-to neighborhood arcade, The Pixel Lab is packed with everything from vintage games to video consoles. Pay by the hour or go all in with an unlimited pass for a full day of gaming.
Neighborhood Events
- Jersey City Caribbean Carnival Parade: Each summer, Jersey City residents are transported to the Caribbean for a weekend of music, dance, costumes, and food.
- All About Downtown Street Fair: This September street fair is Jersey City’s largest outdoor community event with over 100 vendors, crafters, and food trucks in participation.
- Jersey City Art and Studio Tour: Known as JCAST, this annual Hudson County staple lets art lovers step into personal studios and galleries, meet the creators, and experience artwork up close and personal.
Living in Jersey City
Jersey City is the second-largest city in New Jersey, right after Newark.
According to realtor.com, the median listing home price in Jersey City is $727K. As of July 2024, the average rent in Jersey City is $3,038 per month, 98% higher than the national average rent price.
The Jersey City Public School District is the largest in the state, with 39 schools serving over 27,000 students. Of them, 41.5% are economically disadvantaged.
Neighborhoods in Jersey City
Best Neighborhoods for Families
- Bergen-Lafayette: Diverse with historic properties, modern mid-rises, two shopping districts, and Liberty State Park. In the summer months, the park hosts concerts from acts like New Jersey Symphony, Radiohead, and Selena Gomez.
- The Heights: A residential neighborhood with Victorian and Edwardian homes and Manhattan skyline views. The neighborhood comes alive in the summer with farmers’ markets and outdoor concerts.
- Hamilton Park: A historic brownstone neighborhood centered around five acres of greenspace.
Best Neighborhoods for Young Professionals
- Downtown Jersey City: A hipster-friendly neighborhood with craft beer bars and indie record shops tucked between modern developments.
- Newport: Prime waterfront real estate with luxurious condos, shopping at Newport Centre, and recreational spots like Newport Green Park.
- Powerhouse Arts District: A thriving arts scene just a quick drive from Mana Contemporary, which National Geographic called “Jersey City’s home of creativity.”
Fun Facts
- Martha Stewart: Born and raised in a two-story home on Stagg Street in Jersey City. Her upcoming Netflix documentary will cover her Jersey City upbringing, her career as a stockbroker on Wall Street, and her time in prison.
- Ellis Island: Located in Jersey City…
Fun Facts
- Martha Stewart was born and raised in a two-story home on Stagg Street in Jersey City. Her upcoming Netflix documentary will cover her Jersey City upbringing, successful career as a stockbroker on Wall Street, and naturally, time in prison.
- Ellis Island, located in Jersey City, was the first stop for millions of immigrants entering the U.S.
- Because of its waterfront views, Jersey City is a sought-after location for filming movies and TV shows. Steven Spielberg’s “War of the Worlds” and “The Sopranos” were filmed here.
Moving to Jersey City?
In Jersey City, you’ll find more living space at better value, plus city connections and nearby nature.
Ready to make the move? Count on Metropolis Moving to handle the logistics while you focus on the fun stuff: exploring your new neighborhood.
