Best Places to Live in New Jersey (2026): Buy-Ready
February 3, 2026
5 minutes
Americans have always had a soft spot for New Jersey, and why wouldn’t they? The Garden State ranks as the 3rd best state in the USA to live and work. With a quality of life score of 74/100 and its status as the 5th safest state, New Jersey is an attractive choice for many.
Its thriving job market, top-rated schooling system, and diverse community make it desirable. If you're searching for your dream home, the commission-free platform ReAlpha can help. With its intuitive AI capabilities, finding your perfect home has never been easier.
What to Consider When Moving to New Jersey
Some important factors you need to consider while moving to the best towns to live in NJ are:
- High Tax Burdens: The average property tax in NJ is 2.47%, the highest in the country.
- Weather Conditions: Winters can bring sub-freezing temperatures, while summers are often humid. Coastal areas may also face hurricane warnings, so being prepared is essential.
- Traffic Congestion: New Jersey has some of the most congested roads in the nation, with rush-hour traffic causing delays that can last for hours.
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Top 10 Best Cities and Towns to Live in New Jersey in 2025
Here is a detailed breakdown of the best places to live in New Jersey:
1. Princeton
Princeton is a historic town that seamlessly blends academic prestige with small-town charm. Home to Princeton University, it boasts a vibrant downtown filled with local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Families are drawn to its top-rated schools and safe neighborhoods.
- Median Home Value: $1,548,838
- Population: 30,377
- Crime Rate: 13.96
Why It’s Great: Princeton offers a strong sense of community, abundant recreational spaces, and excellent educational institutions.
2. Hoboken
Known for its stunning waterfront views and proximity to New York City, Hoboken is a hub of urban convenience and charm. The city is well-connected by trains and ferries, making it ideal for commuters. Hoboken’s tight-knit community ensures safety and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Median Home Value: $1,232,732
- Population: 57,703
- Crime Rate: 17.19
Why It’s Great: Its walkable streets, diverse dining scene, and cultural activities make it a vibrant place to live.
3. Ridgewood
Ridgewood stands out for its highly-ranked public schools and picturesque downtown filled with unique shops and cafes. Its parks and recreational facilities are perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Median Home Value: $1,310,357
- Population: 26,168
- Crime Rate: 8.06
Why It’s Great: The blend of suburban tranquility and cultural attractions makes Ridgewood a top choice for homebuyers.
4. Montclair
Montclair is a cultural hotspot with a thriving arts scene, featuring numerous galleries and theaters. Families appreciate its excellent schools and recreational options, while its vibrant downtown attracts young professionals.
- Median Home Value: $1,243,494
- Population: 39,821
- Crime Rate: 12.46
Why It’s Great: The town’s mix of arts, culture, and top-notch education makes it one of the best suburbs in New Jersey.
5. Jersey City
Jersey City is a financial hub with breathtaking New York City skyline views. It offers seamless transportation options, including PATH trains and ferries, making it ideal for commuters.
- Median Home Value: $710,789
- Population: 286,670
- Crime Rate: 15.47
Why It’s Great: Its urban vibe, accessibility, and job opportunities make Jersey City a standout option.
6. Milburn-Short Hills
This affluent area is known for its top-ranking schools and luxurious estates. Residents enjoy proximity to New York City and excellent transportation facilities.
- Median Home Value: $2,321,863
- Population: 14,422
- Crime Rate: 23.30
Why It’s Great: The neighborhood has a combination of luxury living, quality education, and a commuter-friendly location.
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7. Princeton Junction
Princeton Junction offers a family-friendly atmosphere with parks, playgrounds, and easy access to major districts in New Jersey. It’s ideal for those seeking a close-knit community.
- Median Home Value: $999,831
- Population: 2,475
- Crime Rate: 8.89
- Why It’s Great: Its quiet, suburban feel combined with excellent connectivity.
8. Summit
Summit is a suburban gem with excellent schools and a lively downtown area. The town’s convenient commute to NYC makes it popular among professionals.
- Median Home Value: $1,123,734
- Population: 22,342
- Crime Rate: 9.35
- Why It’s Great: Summit balances suburban living with urban accessibility.
9. Westfield
Westfield is renowned for its charming downtown and family-oriented neighborhoods. Its schools are highly regarded, making it a top choice for families.
- Median Home Value: $1,154,483
- Population: 30,539
- Crime Rate: 7.92
- Why It’s Great: A perfect blend of safety, education, and community.
10. Haddonfield
Haddonfield’s historic charm, excellent schools, and proximity to Philadelphia make it an appealing choice for families. Its tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes add to its appeal.
- Median Home Value: $867,941
- Population: 12,514
- Crime Rate: 12.47
- Why It’s Great: Its rich history and family-friendly environment.
Is New Jersey a Good Place to Raise a Family?
Absolutely. New Jersey is one of the best places to live in the USA due to its high-quality education system (ranked 2nd nationally) and excellent healthcare (ranked 4th). With low crime rates and a strong sense of community, the Garden State is a great place to raise a family.
With mortgage rates currently low, now is the perfect time to invest in a home. ReAlpha makes the home-buying process easy and efficient with its AI-driven real estate technology.
FAQs
1. Which are the best places to live in New Jersey?
The top places to live in New Jersey are Newark, Princeton, and Jersey City. These places have excellent access to different parts with a diverse community.
2. Are cities in NJ good places to live?
New Jersey is an excellent place to invest in a home, offering top-rated schools, a thriving job market, and a vibrant, diverse community.
3. Is the crime in New Jersey high?
New Jersey ranks 5th having the lowest crime rate in America concerning public safety in the US.
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As a great communicator with excellent negotiation skills, I focus more on establishing unbreakable ties between my clients, as opposed to just helping them achieve their real estate dreams. As a representative of both buyers and sellers, I understand how to lead a transaction process to ensure that the needs of both are met. My track record speaks for itself. Since I ventured into the industry in 2013 as a realtor, I have not only helped many buyers land perfect homes, but I have also assisted tons of owners and investors build wealth.