Newark: the underrated New Jersey gem that’s far more than a transit hub and airport exit. Just a quick commute to NYC, Newark has job opportunities (particularly in the medical field), dining spots worth traveling for, and spacious homes without the NYC price tag. Newark was founded in 1666 by Connecticut Puritans and became a township in 1693. Known as the “City of Churches,” it gained a reputation for leather tanning, jewelry, and shoe manufacturing after the American Revolution.
Food
- Classified (23 Newark International Airport St): Newark Airport’s secret, invite-only restaurant is hidden away in C Terminal. United passengers can enjoy a gourmet meal with excellent runway views before takeoff.
- Kinjo (159 Washington St): Chef Jamie Knott’s latest hotspot has a sake cocktail list, a live DJ, ice-cold Japanese beers on draft, and a constant stream of anime playing on TV screens.
- Teixeira’s Bakery (113-129 Kossuth St): This little Portuguese bakery is worth the trip for their legendary egg tarts. A true mom-and-pop atmosphere that transports you straight to Lisbon.
Attractions
- Newark Museum (49 Washington St): Founded in 1909 by John Cotton Dana to showcase the best of art, science, history, and technology. Major collections include American art, decorative arts, and contemporary pieces. A century of culture packed into one place!
- Branch Brook Park: This scenic, 360-acre county park is famous for its 5,300 cherry blossoms, maintained by the Branch Brook Park Alliance who ensure the blooms live up to their reputation.
- Aljira Museum (591 Broad St): Aljira means ‘dream time’ in Indigenous Australia and this artist-centered space in Newark is where contemporary creations and artistic vision come to life.
Nightlife
- Hell’s Kitchen Lounge (150 Lafayette St): A kitschy and quirky bar that runs theme nights and showcases local bands.
- Clements Place Jazz (15 Washington St): This charming, unpretentious spot delivers hip jazz classics from up-and-coming talents born and bred on the East Coast.
Neighborhood Festivals
- Afro Beat Fest: Celebrate African culture at this annual family-friendly festival where music, art, fashion, and dance collide.
- North to Shore Festival: This three-week-long extravaganza celebrates music, film, technology, comedy, art, history, and more across Atlantic City, Asbury Park, and Newark. The 2024 lineup includes Matchbox Twenty, Kevin Hart, Bleachers, and Stephen Colbert, plus Newark’s first-ever yoga festival.
People
Newark has a population of 307,300, with a median age of 34 and a median household income of $46,460. In contrast, the median household income in the state of New Jersey is $96,346. 24.0% of Newark residents live in poverty.
Most Newark residents work in educational services, healthcare, and social assistance, administrative services, or retail trade. 24.0% of Newark residents live in poverty.
Schools
Newark Public School District has 65 schools and over 40,000 students. Within the district, 75% of teachers are licensed, and 83% have three or more years of experience. The student-to-teacher ratio is 15:1, higher than the state average. The district employs 34 full-time counselors.
As the largest and one of the oldest school systems in New Jersey, Newark Public School District’s top-rated school is Science Park High School.
Best Neighborhoods
- Forest Hill: This picturesque neighborhood is full of tree-lined streets and historic homes. Nestled by America’s first county park, it’s a tranquil family haven.
- Upper Vailsburg: Perched on a hilltop, Upper Vailsburg has a friendly community where everyone looks out for one another, with local shops adding to its cozy, neighborly vibe.
- Central Business District: The heart of commerce and culture in Newark. This neighborhood has everything you need within walking distance, making it the perfect blend of convenience and entertainment.
Fun Facts
- Newark has the largest cherry blossom collection in the U.S., outshining even Washington, D.C.’s famous display.
- Newark is the birthplace of icons like Philip Roth and Whitney Houston.
- Newark is nicknamed “Brick City” for its extensive use of brick when developing buildings.
Moving to Newark
Thinking of moving to New Jersey? Looking for a city that’s rich in culture and light on the wallet? Moving to Newark may be a great choice for you.
Metropolis Moving knows the ropes of city-to-suburb moves… and vice versa. Trust us to handle the logistics so you can focus on what matters most: your new adventure.
