Moving to Jersey City: The Key Considerations

November 13, 2020

There’s no need to worry about running out of things to do in Jersey City. Its proximity to Manhattan and various local attractions make it an ideal place to call home. Not to mention, Jersey City features a wide variety of homes. From brownstones to Victorian-era mansions, there’s something for everyone. That said, making a move to Jersey City can be challenging. That’s why it’s essential to learn everything you can about the city before becoming a new resident.

Cost of Living in Jersey City

Arguably the most important detail to consider before moving to Jersey City is cost. Understanding how the cost of living in Jersey City compares to your current cost of living will help you determine whether the move is truly viable. You can use this tool to perform a cost of living comparison.

Additionally, it’s important to note that Jersey City features a lower cost of living than its neighbor NYC. So, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly locale, then it makes for an excellent choice.

What Kind of Home to Buy in Jersey City

Moving to Jersey City means appreciating the plethora of buying options you’ll have as a new resident. It can be difficult to choose between the many different houses and home types that the area offers. That said, the most predominant homes available are Victorian-era homes, brownstones, and condos. Here’s a breakdown of these popular Jersey City home options.

Victorian-Era Homes

Victorian-era homes are not difficult to spot. They are known for their use of bay windows, multiple stories, roundness, and turrets. You don’t typically see a garage featured with these homes, so you’ll have to ensure that there is street parking available.

Many home buyers are excited to get their hands on a Victorian-era home as they are usually very durable homes with strong bones that have lasted since the mid-1800s.

Brownstones

Though Brooklyn gets the reputation for having an abundance of brownstones, Jersey City doesn’t lack this popular home type. Brownstones may be a little harder to find, as they are so popular, but if you do manage to place an offer on one, then you’ll likely have found a home with history and a beautiful exterior.

Additionally, many of these buildings have been converted to hold multiple families in different units to present an excellent rental opportunity and serve as a primary residence.

Condos

Jersey City is seeing an increase in the number of condos on the market. This is largely attributed to the many new development projects that are currently in place throughout the city. These are typically very modern and features tons of luxury amenities, so they’re the perfect option for someone who wants something newer.

Popular Jersey City Neighborhoods

Jersey City spans a large area with many unique neighborhoods that may be better suited to some residents than others. In short, if you’re looking to get the most out of your experience as a Jersey City resident, then it’s a good idea to research neighborhoods to ensure that it’s the right fit. Here are some of the most popular major neighborhoods of Jersey City.

Downtown Jersey City

The famed center of Jersey City is home to several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique personality and vibe. You’ll have to do your research to ensure that you choose a neighborhood that best suits your needs.

That said, you’ll find no shortage of retail shops, brownstones, and restaurants in Downtown Jersey City. There’s always something to do. The city center offers easy access to public transportation for commuters and is currently expanding its office space, which might mean your commute might be shorter than you expect.

The Heights

You’ll find the heights at the northern tip of Jersey City. It’s made up of multifamily houses and low-rise apartment buildings. This area is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities and sports with several parks with vast green space, including Pershing Field and Reservoir Number Three.

Not to mention, the numerous businesses, historic architecture, and proximity to public transportation make the Heights a neighborhood that offers plenty of benefits for any new resident.

Journal Square

Named for the newspaper headquartered in the area for over a hundred years, Jersey Square is currently a mix of residential and commercial spaces.

It features many high-rises which have been raised in recent years. Expect more and more high-rises to dominate the area, alongside a burst of new residents taking advantage of the newer buildings.

That said, Journal Square has a lot going for it and is an ideal location for anyone looking for the hustle and bustle of the city on a smaller scale. Brownstones and condos are the most commonly available real estate in Journal Square.

Bergen-Lafayette

Another neighborhood made up of several smaller neighborhoods, Bergen-Lafayette features historic buildings, homes, and parks. It’s an area with a lot of history that is greatly reflected in the architecture.

From rambling Victorian houses to Art Deco apartment buildings, the variety enables new residents to choose a home that truly suits their preferences. Additionally, Bergen-Lafayette has been undergoing a revival, and newly revitalized areas make for awesome dining and shopping opportunities. Not to mention, Lafayette Park is a gorgeous green space that residents of the neighborhood can enjoy year-round.

Key Takeaways

Moving can be challenging regardless of where you’re coming from or going. However, the best thing that you can do for yourself and your family when making a major move is to utilize an experienced real estate agent’s services.

These professionals are well-versed when it comes to matching clients with homes that suit their needs. Moreover, real estate agents help you get the most out of any home purchase you make. In short, leveraging a real estate agent’s experience can make getting into your dream home a reality.

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