Living in New Jersey isn’t for everyone—common complaints center on the high costs, crowding, weather, and daily frustrations that set the state apart from others. Here are 11 reasons why life in New Jersey might not suit some people:
1. High Property Taxes
New Jersey consistently ranks as having the highest property taxes in the United States, making homeownership especially costly for residents in almost every part of the state.
2. Cost of Living
The overall cost of living in New Jersey hovers well above the national average, from groceries and utilities to healthcare and auto insurance.
3. Expensive Housing Market
Home prices in New Jersey are among the nation’s highest, especially close to New York City and along the shore—affordable homes are very hard to find in desirable areas.
4. High Income and Sales Taxes
New Jersey imposes steep income and sales taxes, contributing further to the overall cost burden and making it one of the top states for lifetime tax payments.
5. Heavy Traffic and Congestion
Traffic can be truly brutal, with constant congestion on major roads and frequent bottlenecks that result in long, frustrating commutes.
6. High Tolls on Highways
Many major New Jersey highways and bridges use expensive tolls, so regular commuters rack up significant extra costs over time.
7. Extreme Weather
Residents deal with humid summer heatwaves and cold, snowy winters, with weather extremes sometimes disrupting daily life.
8. High Population Density
New Jersey is the most densely populated state, so crowding, noise, and a lack of personal space are constant issues, especially in urban and suburban areas.
9. Pollution and Environmental Concerns
Industrial areas, especially near Newark and the Turnpike, often have poor air and water quality, which can affect health and quality of life.
10. Limited Public Beach Access
Access to New Jersey’s famous beaches can be restricted or costly, as many beaches require paid fees or are privately owned.
11. Strict Alcohol Laws and Regulations
NJ has relatively strict alcohol laws, with expensive and limited liquor licenses, and sometimes restrictions on when and where alcohol can be sold.
These challenges, combined with additional frustrations like harsh winters, aging infrastructure, and occasionally higher crime in big cities, cause many residents to reconsider New Jersey as a long-term home.
SOURCES
(https://www.sroa.com/blog/local-guides/pros-and-cons-of-living-in-new-jersey)
(https://www.travelsafe-abroad.com/pros-and-cons-of-living-in-new-jersey/)
(https://homeia.com/city-living-guide/the-pros-and-cons-of-living-in-new-jersey/)(https://www.defalcorealty.com/blog/cost-of-living-in-new-jersey/)
