New Jersey offers a surprisingly diverse range of communities that are great places to live—from charming college towns to vibrant suburbs and lively urban centers.
In selecting our Top 15 best areas to live in New Jersey, we evaluated key factors such as quality of life, safety, housing costs, access to education, nightlife and entertainment, and public transportation.
Each area included in this ranking features a concise overview highlighting essential data points and the main benefits for residents. Below is the full ranking and why these areas stand out as some of the best places to live in NJ.
1. Princeton, NJ
A refined college town, Princeton blends historic elegance with a distinctive intellectual energy. It is home to the renowned Princeton University and a wide range of cultural institutions, including the Princeton University Art Museum and the McCarter Theatre, giving residents access to top-tier education and world-class arts and cultural events.
The community of approximately 30,700 residents is highly educated (A+ rating on Niche), and local public schools rank among the best in the United States.
Quality of life is exceptional, with abundant green spaces, charming streets, and a walkable downtown filled with restaurants and shops. Safety levels are high, and the overall atmosphere makes Princeton one of the most desirable residential destinations in New Jersey.
Image credit: princetonnj.gov
2. Hoboken, NJ
Hoboken offers the charm of a small town combined with urban-chic amenities, located just across the river from Manhattan. Despite having a population of approximately 57,000 within just 1.25 square miles, this dense and youthful city (with a median age of 32) attracts thousands of young professionals who commute daily to New York City.
The cost of living is high, but still lower than in Manhattan. Nightlife is vibrant, with Hoboken widely known for its dozens of bars, restaurants, and clubs that are especially popular among young residents.
Public transportation is a major strength, with access to the PATH trains, ferry services, and NJ Transit connections, making commuting extremely convenient. Despite its density, the city feels safe and welcoming, featuring historic brownstone buildings and waterfront promenades along the Hudson River.
Hoboken is frequently ranked as the best city in New Jersey for young professionals, thanks to its lively nightlife and close proximity to the career and lifestyle opportunities of New York City.
By King of Hearts – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
3. Ridgewood, NJ
Ridgewood is a prosperous suburban community in Bergen County, widely known for its elite public schools and strong family-oriented atmosphere. With a population of approximately 26,000, Ridgewood has earned top-tier (A+) ratings in Niche rankings, including for safety and school quality.
The downtown area is charming and lively, filled with local shops, cafés, and restaurants that make it a natural hub for social activity. Although it functions largely as a commuter town for New York City (located about 30 km away), Ridgewood does not feel like an anonymous suburb—it has a distinct identity and a strong sense of community.
Safety levels are excellent, and direct NJ Transit train service provides convenient access to Manhattan. With well-maintained parks and frequent local events, Ridgewood offers a high quality of life within easy reach of the metropolitan area.
By Ben Schumin – Own work, CC BY-SA 2.5
4. Montclair, NJ
Named after the French term meaning “open mountain,” Montclair is a bohemian town located about 20 miles from Manhattan that blends a leafy suburban setting with a vibrant urban cultural scene. With a population of approximately 40,000, Montclair is well known for its thriving arts and music culture, featuring numerous galleries, concert venues, film festivals, and independent theaters.
Its walkable streets are lined with gourmet restaurants, cafés, and one-of-a-kind boutiques, creating a distinctly hip and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Families value the area’s strong public schools, and the presence of Montclair State University adds local academic opportunities to the community.
Commuters to New York City benefit from train and bus services that reach Midtown Manhattan in roughly 40 minutes. Montclair stands out for its entertainment options and offers a rare balance of urban culture and suburban comfort. For these reasons, it is frequently cited among the best places to live in New Jersey.
By Blondhairblueeyed at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0
5. Summit, NJ
Summit is a small gem in Union County, widely recognized for its top-tier safety and highly rated public schools. The community of approximately 22,000 residents is affluent and well educated, and crime rates remain low.
Summit offers an excellent quality of life, with a picturesque downtown filled with specialty shops, cafés, and a charming historic movie theater. While nightlife is relatively quiet—reflecting the town’s family-oriented character—its proximity to New York City provides easy access to metropolitan entertainment.
With well-maintained parks, a respected hospital, and a strong civic spirit, Summit is often cited as one of New Jersey’s “happiest towns”—a place where residents enjoy safety, a close-knit community, and high-quality infrastructure.
By AZacharyZ – Own work, CC0
6. Jersey City, NJ
The second-largest city in New Jersey, with a population of approximately 286,000, Jersey City has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as a major hub for young professionals and businesses. Often referred to as “Wall Street West,” the city is home to numerous financial firms that have established offices here.
Located across the Hudson River from Manhattan, Jersey City is extremely diverse from both an ethnic and cultural perspective. This diversity is also reflected in its food scene: the city has become a well-known culinary destination, offering everything from global cuisines to standout local favorites, including Razza, named by The New York Times as serving the best New York–style pizza.
The city boasts stunning skyline views of Manhattan, especially from Liberty State Park—a park larger than Central Park, with sweeping views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
Jersey City offers a vibrant entertainment scene, with trendy bars, art galleries, and street festivals, and it is also home to the largest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere at the Liberty Science Center.
Public transportation is excellent, making Jersey City one of the most convenient locations for commuting in the region. As with any large city, there are areas that are less safe, but revitalized waterfront neighborhoods and Downtown Jersey City offer a very high quality of life. As a result, an increasing number of New Yorkers are choosing to relocate here in search of slightly more affordable living costs than those found in Manhattan.
By Kidfly182 – Own work, CC BY 4.0
7. Westfield, NJ
Westfield is a classic town in central New Jersey, located in Union County, that embodies upscale American suburban living. Tree-lined streets, elegant homes, and a lively downtown define the area. With a population of around 30,000, Westfield is known for its top-rated public schools and strong overall safety.
The downtown district is well regarded for its boutiques, farmers market, and a wide selection of restaurants and bakeries, offering plenty of family-friendly leisure options. While it does not have the nightlife of larger cities, Westfield frequently hosts community events—such as Halloween parades and arts festivals—that bring residents together and reinforce a strong local spirit.
Situated along the Raritan Valley rail line, the town provides relatively quick access to New York City (with a transfer in Newark) and is close to major highways, making commuting convenient.
With a high median household income and premium real estate prices, Westfield’s cost of living reflects its prestige. However, for many residents, the value delivered through quality of life, safety, and education fully justifies the investment.
By AtsushiJC – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
8. Morristown, NJ
Located in Morris County, Morristown blends a rich historical legacy with a modern urban scene, resulting in a small but highly dynamic town. Often referred to as the “Military Capital of the American Revolution” (George Washington and his army wintered here in 1779–1780), Morristown preserves numerous historic sites—most notably the Morristown National Historical Park—alongside well-preserved buildings from earlier eras, all coexisting seamlessly with contemporary development.
The downtown area is thriving, featuring independent shops, gourmet restaurants, and a strong arts presence. Cultural landmarks include the Mayo Performing Arts Center and the Morris Museum, one of the largest and most important museums in New Jersey, founded in 1913.
In the evenings, Morristown comes alive as a regional nightlife hub. Venues such as Iron Bar and Grasshopper Off the Green attract students and young adults from across the area, making the town especially appealing to college students and young residents looking for weekend entertainment.
Transportation is another strong point. Morristown offers easy access to major highways, including I-287, and commuter rail service to Manhattan takes approximately one hour. Average local commute times remain reasonable for the region, reflecting well-developed infrastructure.
With a median household income exceeding $110,000 and high-value real estate, Morristown ranks among the most desirable towns in New Jersey, offering a compelling mix of history, culture, and modern urban living.
By Robert Solywoda – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0
9. Fort Lee, NJ
Located at the western end of the George Washington Bridge, Fort Lee serves as a gateway to New York City while also standing out as a vibrant city in its own right. With a population of approximately 40,000, Fort Lee is known for its highly diverse community and its mix of residential high-rises alongside quiet, low-density neighborhoods.
In 2023, Money Magazine included Fort Lee in its national rankings of the best places to live in the United States, highlighting several key advantages. These include high safety levels, very good public schools, and exceptional accessibility.
From central Fort Lee, commuters can reach Manhattan—particularly the Upper Manhattan area—in under 15 minutes by bus, which is a major reason the city is so popular among daily commuters.
Fort Lee also has its own lively commercial core along Main Street, filled with restaurants—especially well known for authentic Korean, Japanese, and Chinese cuisine—along with cafés and a modern movie theater, allowing residents to enjoy entertainment without leaving town.
Historically, Fort Lee is also recognized as the birthplace of the American film industry, as several early movie studios were once located here—a legacy preserved today through local museums. With well-maintained parks along the Hudson River and a growing number of new residential developments, Fort Lee attracts young professionals, families, and retirees alike.
Overall, the city offers an ideal balance between suburban comfort and urban energy, just minutes from the heart of the metropolis.
10. Cherry Hill, NJ
Consistently ranked as the top-rated city in South Jersey, Cherry Hill (population of approximately 78,000) offers a high quality of life at more affordable prices than much of northern New Jersey, without compromising on safety or public services.
Located just across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, Cherry Hill allows residents to easily access Philadelphia’s cultural attractions and job market while also providing a strong set of local amenities. The Cherry Hill public school system is highly regarded (A-rated district), and the town features an abundance of parks, recreational areas, and quiet, family-oriented neighborhoods.
For shopping and entertainment, residents have access to the well-known Cherry Hill Mall—one of the first enclosed shopping malls in the United States—along with numerous other retail centers, restaurants, and movie theaters. The cost of living is below the New Jersey state average, making the area attractive for those seeking larger homes at more reasonable prices.
From a safety perspective, Cherry Hill performs well, with crime rates below those of larger cities in New Jersey. Regional transportation access is available through PATCO Speedline and nearby NJ Transit stations, enabling convenient commuting to both major nearby cities.
With its decorative cherry trees blooming each spring—over 1,400 cherry blossom trees lining Chapel Avenue create a striking seasonal display—and its blend of green suburban living with urban conveniences, Cherry Hill consistently ranks among the most desirable cities in New Jersey for families and young professionals.
Image credit: cherryblossomsincherryhillnj.yolasite.com
11. Edison, NJ
Edison is a large central New Jersey city with a population of approximately 107,000, known both for its historical legacy—home to the laboratory of renowned inventor Thomas Edison—and for its strong contemporary growth and diversity.
Today, Edison is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in New Jersey. An estimated 35–40% of the population is of Asian descent, creating a vibrant multicultural community with a wide range of Indian, Chinese, Korean, and other international restaurants and businesses.
Edison’s public school system is widely regarded as excellent, with two of its high schools ranking among the top in the nation. Educational opportunities are further supported by the proximity of nearby Rutgers University campuses.
For recreation, the city offers ample green space, including Roosevelt Park—featuring a lake and a seasonal outdoor theater—as well as shopping destinations such as Menlo Park Mall. Nature lovers also benefit from access to the Rutgers Ecological Preserve, a protected natural area with forest hiking trails.
Housing costs remain relatively moderate for New Jersey, making Edison appealing to those seeking a balance between affordability and quality of life. In terms of transportation, the city is served by the Metropark Station and offers direct access to major highways, including the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike.
Overall, Edison stands out for its strong sense of community, high-quality schools, and strategic location. It attracts both young families and businesses—hosting numerous corporate offices—and its cultural diversity helps make residents from all backgrounds feel at home in a city that continues to grow and evolve.
By Tomwsulcer – Own work, CC0
12. Metuchen, NJ
Nicknamed “The Brainy Borough” for its strong academic tradition, Metuchen is a small town with a population of approximately 14,500, surrounded by the township of Edison yet maintaining a clearly defined identity of its own. Metuchen ranks highly in Niche’s New Jersey listings, reflecting its appealing combination of affordability and small-town charm.
The downtown area is especially inviting, featuring walkable streets, locally owned shops, a well-loved independent bookstore, and a variety of popular restaurants and cafés—“creating an atmosphere similar to that of a college town. Metuchen has invested significantly in revitalizing its downtown and even operates its own cultural and events center, which hosts concerts, arts fairs, and festivals, including the well-known Metuchen Jazz Fest.
One of the town’s biggest advantages is the NJ Transit train station located on the Northeast Corridor Line. Residents can reach Penn Station in approximately 50 minutes on a direct train, making Metuchen a commuter-friendly choice.
Safety levels are very good, and local schools—served by a single high school—consistently receive strong ratings. Housing prices are generally more affordable than in many northern New Jersey suburbs. While the historic downtown features higher-priced Victorian homes, many families can still find single-family houses under $600,000, which is increasingly rare for a suburb with direct rail access to New York City.
Overall, Metuchen offers an authentic small-town lifestyle paired with big-city conveniences, making it particularly attractive to young families and professionals seeking a strong sense of community and everyday convenience in one place.
By Metuchenpic – Own work, CC0
13. Madison, NJ
Madison is a charming town in Morris County with a population of approximately 16,000. It is often described as offering “big-city value in a small-town setting.” Located along the NJ Transit Morristown Line, Madison provides convenient access to New York City—about a one-hour commute to Midtown—although many residents rarely feel the need to leave town thanks to its strong local offerings.
The town is home to three institutions of higher education, which give Madison a distinct academic character and support a steady flow of cultural events. Downtown Madison is especially picturesque, featuring well-preserved historic buildings, a classic movie theater, art galleries, and a diverse restaurant scene. The atmosphere is so appealing that Money magazine has previously referred to Madison as one of the most beautiful small towns in America.
Local public schools are excellent, and crime rates are very low, making Madison particularly attractive to families. The community is close-knit and civically engaged, a quality reflected in the many local festivals and events held throughout the year—from annual holiday celebrations to food-focused gatherings.
Real estate prices in Madison are premium, with median home values exceeding $800,000, but for many residents the quality of life more than justifies the cost. The town was included in Niche’s Top 100 places to live in 2025, earning an overall A+ rating for its strong combination of education, safety, and overall prosperity.
By Jared Kofsky/Placenj.com – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0
14. Ocean City, NJ
For those who dream of coastal living, Ocean City is an ideal choice. Located along the Atlantic coast in southeastern New Jersey, this small town with approximately 11,000 year-round residents swells to several hundred thousand people during the summer season, when visitors flock to its pristine beaches.
Nicknamed “America’s Greatest Family Resort,” Ocean City is a dry town, meaning alcohol sales are prohibited—a factor that contributes to its safe, family-oriented atmosphere. The city has been featured in Travel + Leisure rankings as one of the best beach towns in America, recognized for its mile-long beach, revitalized boardwalk, vibrant arts and music scene, diverse dining options, and strong sense of community.
Beyond sun and sand, Ocean City offers year-round activities, including a waterfront amusement park with a Ferris wheel visible on the skyline, a local history museum, family-focused events, and even a dedicated dog park. The downtown area along Asbury Avenue is filled with boutiques and ice cream shops, making it ideal for relaxed evening strolls.
Housing prices are high, with average home values around $1.03 million, and many properties serve as vacation homes. However, for those who can afford it, Ocean City delivers a lifestyle that feels like a permanent holiday. During the off-season, the town returns to its quieter coastal roots while maintaining enough open restaurants and shops to comfortably serve residents.
With very low crime rates and strong performance from local schools, Ocean City is not only a premier tourist destination but also one of the most pleasant and livable coastal towns in New Jersey.
By Drngogo – Taken with a DJI Phantom 4 drone., CC BY-SA 4.0
15. Collingswood, NJ
Collingswood is a small town in the greater Philadelphia metropolitan area, with a population of approximately 14,000, that has reinvented itself in recent years as a culinary and cultural destination in South Jersey. This historic town, known for its Victorian architecture, has become especially famous for Haddon Avenue—now a true “Restaurant Row” lined with dozens of gourmet restaurants, cafés, artisan bakeries, and vintage shops that attract visitors from across the region.
Although Collingswood has historically maintained restrictions on alcohol sales, most restaurants operate on a BYOB basis, which does little to dampen its vibrant social scene. The town is also well known for its arts and culture offerings, hosting music and arts festivals in local parks, flea markets, and a popular weekly farmers’ market.
Residents benefit from excellent transportation connections. The local PATCO Speedline station provides direct access to downtown Philadelphia in approximately 15 minutes, a major draw for young professionals. From an educational standpoint, Collingswood offers solid public schools and a community that is actively involved in school life. Home prices remain relatively affordable compared to similar suburbs, making the town a popular choice for first-time homebuyers.
Safety levels are good, supported by an active local police presence and a strong sense of community. Not surprisingly, Collingswood is frequently cited as a notable place to live in New Jersey. It offers a unique blend of urban access—through entertainment and proximity to a major city—and small-town charm, making it highly appealing to both young families and couples approaching retirement.
By Saucemaster – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Cities in New Jersey
What are the best cities in New Jersey for families?
The best cities for families are typically those that offer highly rated public schools, high levels of safety, plenty of parks, and stable, well-established communities. Frequently mentioned examples in national and local rankings include:
- Haworth
- Mountain Lakes
- Ho-Ho-Kus
- Ridgewood
- Westfield
- Marlboro and Manalapan
These are generally small to mid-sized towns with a high standard of living and infrastructure designed to support families with children.
Which city in New Jersey is considered ideal for raising children?
There is no single universal answer, but Ridgewood, Westfield, and Haworth consistently rank among the top choices due to their strong combination of:
- excellent education
- low crime rates
- a wide range of activities for children
- highly engaged local communities
Are there good family-friendly cities in New Jersey that are closer to New York City?
Yes. Cities such as Ho-Ho-Kus, Ridgewood, Westfield, and New Milford offer:
- relatively quick access to New York City
- a quiet suburban environment
- above-average schools and safety
What are the best cities in New Jersey for young adults?
For young adults, the most important factors typically include job opportunities, nightlife, transportation, and rental availability. The most popular choices include:
- Hoboken
- Jersey City
- New Brunswick
- Morristown
- Asbury Park
These cities offer an urban energy, a younger population, and strong access to professional and social opportunities.
Which city in New Jersey has the best nightlife?
Hoboken is widely considered the leader when it comes to nightlife, followed by Jersey City, Morristown, and Asbury Park.
Are there good cities for young people that are more affordable?
Yes. Cities such as New Brunswick, Harrison, Rahway, and certain areas of Newark are popular among young residents looking for:
- lower rental prices
- good access to public transportation
- an active urban lifestyle
What are the safest cities in New Jersey?
The safest cities in New Jersey are typically small, suburban communities with above-average household incomes. Frequently cited examples include:
- Vernon Township
- Bernards Township
- Jefferson Township
- New Milford
- Denville
These communities consistently report very low crime rates.
Are larger cities in New Jersey less safe?
In general, yes. Larger cities such as Camden, Trenton, Paterson, and Newark tend to report higher crime rates. However, it is important to note that:
- there are safe neighborhoods within these cities
- many areas are currently undergoing revitalization
- choosing the right neighborhood is essential
What are the most affordable cities in New Jersey?
The most affordable cities in New Jersey in terms of overall cost of living include:
- Camden
- Trenton
- Vineland
- Perth Amboy
- Rahway
These cities are primarily located in South Jersey or in former industrial centers.
What trade-offs come with more affordable cities?
Lower living costs typically come with certain compromises, including:
- public schools that perform below the state average
- variable safety levels depending on the area
- limited local job opportunities
As a result, these cities are generally better suited for people on tighter budgets or for those who are able to commute or work remotely.
What are the most expensive cities in New Jersey?
The most expensive cities in New Jersey are typically premium suburbs or luxury residential areas, including:
- Short Hills
- Hoboken
- Alpine
- Deal
- Princeton
These areas offer top-rated schools, excellent safety, and a very high standard of living.
Why are these cities so expensive?
High housing prices in these locations are driven by several key factors, including:
- close proximity to Manhattan
- elite education options
- exclusive, high-income communities
- strong demand combined with limited housing supply
Are there expensive cities in New Jersey that are especially popular with families?
Yes. Cities such as Princeton, Short Hills, Summit, and Montclair are particularly popular among high-income families who prioritize education, long-term stability, and overall quality of life.
Comparative Table – Top 15 Cities and Scores by Key Criteria
| City | Quality of Life | Safety | Cost of Living | Education | Entertainment | Transportation |
| Princeton | 10/10 | 9/10 | 3/10 | 10/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Hoboken | 9/10 | 8/10 | 4/10 | 8/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Ridgewood | 10/10 | 10/10 | 2/10 | 10/10 | 6/10 | 8/10 |
| Montclair | 10/10 | 9/10 | 2/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Summit | 10/10 | 10/10 | 1/10 | 10/10 | 5/10 | 9/10 |
| Jersey City | 8/10 | 6/10 | 5/10 | 7/10 | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Westfield | 10/10 | 10/10 | 2/10 | 10/10 | 6/10 | 9/10 |
| Morristown | 9/10 | 8/10 | 4/10 | 8/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Fort Lee | 9/10 | 9/10 | 4/10 | 9/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Cherry Hill | 8/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 9/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Edison | 8/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 9/10 | 6/10 | 8/10 |
| Metuchen | 8/10 | 9/10 | 6/10 | 9/10 | 6/10 | 9/10 |
| Madison | 10/10 | 10/10 | 3/10 | 10/10 | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Ocean City | 8/10 | 9/10 | 2/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 5/10 |
| Collingswood | 8/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 9/10 |
Note: Scores from 1 to 10 reflect relative evaluations within the New Jersey context, where 10 = excellent / highly favorable and 1 = unfavorable. For example, under “Cost of Living,” a higher score indicates a more affordable city and a better outcome for residents.
Whether you choose a quiet family-oriented town, a dynamic area for young professionals, or a premium community in New Jersey, the move itself remains a major step that needs to be handled properly. A well-organized relocation can save you time, money, and a great deal of stress—especially when dealing with short-distance moves within New Jersey or more complex interstate relocations.
If you need professional assistance, Moishe’s Moving is a trusted option for both local and long-distance moves, whether you are relocating to an apartment, a family home, or a larger residential space. Our teams are experienced with moves throughout New Jersey, New York, and surrounding areas, offering tailored solutions for every type of relocation, including packing, secure transportation, and efficient planning—regardless of complexity.
Sources
- Niche – Best Places to Live in New Jersey
- U.S. News & World Report – Real Estate New Jersey
- Patch.com – New Jersey Local Rankings & Safety Reports
- SafeWise – Safest Cities in New Jersey
- Wikipedia
- De la David Jones – Flickr: Jersey City from a helicopter, CC BY 2.0
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