Welcome to the Garden State, where dreams and opportunities abound! In [year], New Jersey is home to some of the best places to live, work, and explore. From bustling cities to picturesque towns, our state offers a diverse range of experiences for residents and visitors alike.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 15 places to live in New Jersey this year, based on factors such as good schools, neighborhood safety, quality housing, and nearby amenities.
So, sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and get ready to discover the incredible places that make New Jersey a truly exceptional state to call home.
Best Places to Live in New Jersey
Here are the 15 best places to live in New Jersey in [year]:
1. Jersey City
Jersey City, situated across the Hudson River from Manhattan, has emerged as a vibrant and desirable place to live, offering a captivating blend of urban energy, cultural diversity, and a thriving waterfront.
With its skyline piercing the clouds, Jersey City exudes a cosmopolitan ambiance, while its neighborhoods pulsate with a distinct character that sets it apart from its neighboring metropolis.
Jersey City is a haven for art enthusiasts, with a thriving arts and culture scene that rivals that of its Manhattan counterpart. From world-class museums and theaters to intimate galleries and performance spaces, the city offers a constant stream of cultural experiences.
2. Princeton City
Princeton is a town in Mercer County, New Jersey, United States. It is home to Princeton University and is one of the most affluent towns in the United States. The town is also known for its excellent schools, historic downtown, and beautiful parks.
Princeton is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in New Jersey. In 2025, Niche.com ranked Princeton as the second best place to live in New Jersey, with an overall grade of A+.
The town received high marks for its schools, outdoor activities, health and fitness, and commute.
3. Ridgewood
Nestled in Bergen County, New Jersey, Ridgewood stands as a charming suburb brimming with life. Consistently ranked among the best places to live in the state, Ridgewood offers an idyllic blend of suburban tranquility and urban vibrancy.
Ridgewood’s crowning jewel is its exceptional public school system. Consistently earning top marks for academic excellence, Ridgewood schools provide students with a rigorous and well-rounded education.
Also, Ridgewood’s family-centric atmosphere is palpable throughout the community. From its abundance of parks and playgrounds to its vibrant youth sports programs, Ridgewood caters to families of all ages. The town’s safe and welcoming environment provides a nurturing backdrop for children to thrive.
4. Ocean City
Ocean City, New Jersey, has been recognized as one of the best places to live in the state. It is often referred to as “America’s Greatest Family Resort” and offers a unique setting nestled right on the beach and boardwalk.
The town is known for its great high school, sports, clubs, and academics, making it an attractive place for families.
The town is home to the best food, beaches, and boardwalk in the New Jersey area, and it provides easy access to the beach, the bay, and the bridges.
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5. Newark
Newark, New Jersey is the largest city in the state with a population of over 310,000 residents. It has experienced strong population growth and massive reinvestment and revitalization in recent years
The Ironbound District, Forest Hill, Downtown Newark, Upper Roseville, and University Heights are some of the best neighborhoods to live in Newark.
Downtown Newark is particularly affordable and offers easy access to public transportation, making it an attractive option for young adults and singles.
6. Ho-Ho-Kus
Ho-Ho-Kus, New Jersey is a charming small town located in Bergen County. It has a population of just over 4,000 residents and is known for its tight-knit community and welcoming atmosphere.
The town has a rich history and several historical landmarks, including the Ho-Ho-Kus Inn and The Hermitage. Ho-Ho-Kus is primarily an upper-class and upper-middle-class suburb of New York City, ranking 15th in the state of New Jersey in terms of per-capita income.
It is also known for its excellent school system, low crime rate, and proximity to New York City and other major commercial destinations.
7. North Arlington
North Arlington, New Jersey, is a small town located in Bergen County and is considered one of the best places to live in the state.
The town offers a dense suburban feel, and most residents rent their homes. It is known for its excellent public schools, low crime rate, and family-friendly amenities such as parks, libraries, and restaurants.
The town has a diverse population, and residents tend to be liberal. The median home value in North Arlington is $388,100, and the median rent is $1,498.
8. Cherry Hill
Cherry Hill Township in New Jersey is considered one of the best places to live in the state. It offers a dense suburban feel with highly rated public schools, making it an attractive option for families and young professionals.
The township has received an “A+” grade in recent community ratings from Niche, with high scores in categories such as public schools, outdoor activities, nightlife, and being good for families.
Cherry Hill also offers a diverse range of housing options, including townhouses, condominiums, and single-family homes, catering to different financial situations.
9. Summit
Summit is another highly desirable location in New Jersey, offering a dense suburban feel with a population of nearly 22,000 residents. It is known for its highly-rated public schools, fabulous architecture, and vibrant community.
Summit’s public schools are highly rated, with a grade of A+ for academics, activities, and teacher engagement. The town is also home to the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey, the state’s largest institution dedicated to contemporary art.
Summit offers a range of housing options, from townhouses to large single-family estate homes with luxury amenities and land. The real estate market in Summit is characterized by colonial-style mansions, custom-built modern homes, and large estates.
10. Bergenfield
Bergenfield, a borough in Bergen County, New Jersey, has been recognized for its livability. It has a population of 28,321 and offers a suburban feel with a dense population. The town has been acknowledged for its safety, being named the safest municipality in the nation in 2012 by NeighborhoodScout.
While it has dropped in rankings, it remains a desirable place to live. Bergenfield is part of New Jersey’s 5th Congressional District and is represented by Josh Gottheimer in the United States Congress.
The town’s official website provides information about its departments, offices, and services, including the Bergen County Housing Authority and the Bergenfield Food Pantry.
11. Middletown
Middletown, New Jersey, is a vibrant city located in central New Jersey, offering plenty for residents to explore. With a population of 67,007, Middletown provides a sparse suburban feel, and most residents own their homes. The town has received positive ratings for its outdoor activities, family-friendliness, and health and fitness opportunities.
Middletown has been rated as good for families, with highly-rated public schools and a range of academic and athletic opportunities for its residents.
The town’s family-friendly environment makes it an appealing choice for those looking to raise children in a supportive community.
12. Chesterfield
Chesterfield Township in Burlington County, New Jersey, is recognized as one of the best places to live in the state. With a population of 9,302, it offers a rural feel, and the majority of residents own their homes.
The township has received high ratings for its public schools, safety, and family-friendliness, making it an attractive option for families and young professionals.
Chesterfield offers a rural atmosphere, providing residents with a peaceful and scenic environment. Additionally, the high rate of homeownership reflects the stability and desirability of the area.
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13. Elizabeth
Elizabeth, New Jersey, is a vibrant city located in Union County, offering plenty of amenities and easy access to public transportation that can take you to other locations in New Jersey or to New York City, which is only 35 minutes away.
The city has a top-rated school district, making it an ideal location for parents and families. Elizabeth is also known for its beautiful parks and trails, amazing shopping and dining options, and plentiful local attractions.
Elizabeth is a diverse city, offering a range of lifestyles and cultural experiences.
14. Toms River
Toms River, New Jersey, located on the Jersey Shore in Ocean County, offers a diverse range of amenities and attractions. The city provides a suburban feel and is known for its beautiful beaches, including Ortley Beach, Normandy Beach, and Ocean Beach, making it an attractive location for beach enthusiasts.
Toms River is also home to the New Jersey Chili and Salsa Cook-Off and the New Jersey Ice Cream Festival, offering residents and visitors enjoyable community events.
The city’s official motto, “Great Places. Familiar Faces,” reflects its welcoming and community-oriented atmosphere.
15. Metuchen
Metuchen, New Jersey, is a suburb of New York City located in Middlesex County, and it is considered one of the best places to live in New Jersey. The town has a population of 14,883 and offers a dense suburban feel, with most residents owning their homes.
Metuchen has received high ratings for its public schools, safety, and family-friendliness, making it an attractive option for families and young professionals
Metuchen is a diverse town, offering a range of lifestyles and cultural experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
New Jersey offers a diverse range of experiences, including lucrative industries, beautiful beaches, green space, and a rich history in industrial work.
In New Jersey, cities have populations over 5,000, towns have populations between 1,000 and 5,000, and small towns have populations below 1,000.
New Jersey offers a wide range of opportunities, including good schools, neighborhood safety, quality housing, and nearby amenities, making it a desirable place to live.
Conclusion
New Jersey offers a diverse range of living experiences, from bustling cities to charming small towns. The state’s unique features, including lucrative industries, beautiful beaches, green spaces, and a rich history, make it an attractive place to call home.
References
- apartmentlist.com– 16 Best Places to Live in New Jersey
- thecrazytourist.com– 15 Best Places to Live in New Jersey
