Living in New Jersey: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in New Jersey.
New Jersey, known as the Garden State, offers expatriates a strategic location between New York City and Philadelphia, combining suburban tranquility with easy access to major metropolitan centers. With a population of approximately 9.5 million residents, this densely populated state delivers diverse communities, excellent schools, and strong employment opportunities in pharmaceuticals, finance, and technology sectors.
The state spans 8,723 square miles of varied landscapes—from the iconic Jersey Shore beaches to the rolling hills of the northwest. New Jersey boasts the second-highest per capita household income in the United States, reflecting its prosperous economy and educated workforce. The state's humid continental climate brings warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters, similar to cities like Boston or Toronto.
5 Good Reasons to Move to New Jersey
- Strategic location: Reach 33% of the U.S. population within a day's drive, with direct access to NYC and Philadelphia via NJ Transit and PATH trains.
- Top-ranked education: Home to Princeton University (#1 in U.S. News rankings) and Rutgers University, plus excellent public school districts.
- Strong job market: The state hosts 13 of the top 20 pharmaceutical companies and the largest concentration of scientists and engineers per square mile in the country.
- Diverse communities: Welcoming neighborhoods with international residents from over 125 countries.
- Quality of life: 127 miles of coastline, state parks, world-class dining, and proximity to Broadway and major cultural attractions.
Working in New Jersey: Opportunities in a Thriving Economy
New Jersey's economy, valued at $666.9 billion GDP, offers expatriates diverse career opportunities across multiple high-paying sectors. The state's workforce of approximately 5 million people benefits from proximity to major financial centers and a well-developed transportation infrastructure connecting businesses to global markets.
Key Industries and Employment Sectors
The pharmaceutical and life sciences sector remains New Jersey's crown jewel, employing over 86,000 workers across 2,400 establishments. Major employers include Johnson & Johnson (New Brunswick), Merck & Co., and Bristol Myers Squibb. The financial services sector employs over 230,000 workers, with companies like Prudential Financial (Newark) and Chubb (Warren) offering competitive salaries averaging $157,000 annually—94% higher than the state average.
The technology sector accounts for 184,000 jobs with an average annual wage of $146,123. Healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and logistics round out the major employment categories, with the Port of New York and New Jersey ranking as the busiest on the East Coast.
Employment Data Overview
The following table summarizes key employment indicators for New Jersey based on official government data.
Unemployment Rate (2024) | 4.5% |
Median Household Income | $103,500 |
Average Weekly Wage (Somerset County) | $2,701 |
State Minimum Wage (2025) | $15.49/hour |
Sources: NJ Department of Labor, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis
Work Visas and Permits
International workers typically require an H-1B visa for specialty occupations, sponsored by a U.S. employer. The annual cap is 65,000 visas plus 20,000 for U.S. advanced degree holders. Processing involves employer-filed petitions through USCIS, with registration typically occurring in March. Recent policy changes have introduced additional requirements—consult the USCIS website for current regulations.
Higher Education in New Jersey: World-Class Universities
New Jersey hosts over 60 accredited colleges and universities, including some of the nation's most prestigious institutions. The state's higher education system attracts students from across the globe, with 14.1% of graduates and 77.8% of postgraduates choosing to remain in New Jersey after completing their studies.
Top Universities for International Students
Princeton University, consistently ranked #1 nationally by U.S. News & World Report, offers world-class education in economics, public policy, engineering, and computer science. The Ivy League institution provides generous financial aid—families earning under $100,000 annually typically pay little or no tuition. International applicants require SAT scores of 1500-1580 and face a competitive 4% acceptance rate.
Rutgers University, New Jersey's flagship public institution, enrolls over 70,000 students including 8,500+ international students from 125 countries across its New Brunswick, Newark, and Camden campuses. Ranked #15 among public universities, Rutgers offers 550+ academic programs with out-of-state tuition around $32,132 annually.
Other notable institutions include Stevens Institute of Technology (ranked #75, specializing in engineering and cybersecurity), New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) with tuition around $34,024, and Montclair State University offering affordable options at approximately $26,022 annually.
Admission Requirements
International students generally need TOEFL scores of 79+ (internet-based) or IELTS 6.5+. Graduate programs require a minimum 3.0 GPA. Most universities require proof of financial resources for visa processing. Students on F-1 visas pay out-of-state tuition rates plus an international student fee (typically $500/semester at Rutgers).
Sources: Princeton University, Rutgers University Admissions, NJIT
Schooling for Children: From Public Schools to International Options
New Jersey consistently ranks among the top states for K-12 education, with numerous high-performing public school districts and diverse private school options. Expatriate families benefit from strong academic standards, extracurricular programs, and specialized offerings including International Baccalaureate (IB) programs.
Public School System
New Jersey's public schools are funded primarily through local property taxes, resulting in well-resourced districts particularly in affluent areas. School enrollment is based on residence—families must provide proof of address, immunization records, and previous school transcripts. The academic year runs from September through June. Districts like Millburn, Princeton, and Ridgewood consistently rank among the state's best.
International and Private Schools
Several options cater specifically to internationally-minded families:
- Newark Academy (Livingston): The first and only private school in New Jersey offering the IB Diploma Programme. Serves grades 6-12 with a diverse, internationally-oriented student body.
- Tessa International School (Hoboken): Offers bilingual immersion in French, Mandarin, or Spanish combined with IB Primary Years Programme for nursery through primary school.
- French American Academy: Dual-language French-English curriculum, welcoming students from 50+ nationalities.
- Wardlaw+Hartridge School (Edison): PreK-12 college preparatory school with a robust international student program serving students from China, Singapore, India, and diplomatic families.
- Waldo International School (Jersey City): IB-accredited curriculum from infants through 8th grade with STEAM focus.
Private school tuition typically ranges from $15,000 to $45,000 annually depending on grade level and institution. Application deadlines are generally in January for fall enrollment.
Sources: NJ Department of Education, Newark Academy, Tessa International School
Housing and Neighborhoods: Finding Your New Jersey Home
New Jersey's housing market offers everything from waterfront high-rises with Manhattan views to historic Victorian homes and suburban family properties. As of 2025, the median home price statewide is approximately $565,000, while rental prices vary significantly by location and proximity to New York City.
Average Rental Prices
The following table shows typical monthly rents across different apartment sizes based on current market data.
Studio Apartment (statewide) | $1,987/month |
1-Bedroom Apartment (statewide) | $2,084/month |
3-Bedroom Apartment (statewide) | $3,586/month |
1-Bedroom in Jersey City | $3,050-$3,447/month |
1-Bedroom in Hoboken | $3,746/month |
1-Bedroom in Newark | $1,538-$1,746/month |
Sources: Apartments.com, RentCafe
Popular Areas for Expatriates
Jersey City and Hoboken: Urban lifestyle with stunning Manhattan views, excellent PATH train access (10-15 minutes to NYC), young professional communities, and waterfront dining. Expect higher rents but lower than Manhattan.
Princeton: Academic town atmosphere, top-rated schools, charming downtown, popular with university-affiliated families. More affordable than Hudson County waterfront areas.
Morristown: Suburban living with a walkable downtown, good train connections, family-friendly with excellent schools and proximity to pharmaceutical company headquarters.
Newark: More affordable urban option with growing arts scene, close to Newark Liberty International Airport, diverse neighborhoods like the Ironbound with authentic international restaurants.
Renting Process
Landlords typically require proof of income (usually 40x monthly rent annually), credit check, employment verification, and references. Without U.S. credit history, expatriates may need to pay several months upfront or provide additional documentation. Security deposits are usually one to two months' rent.
Leisure, Culture, and Things to Do in New Jersey
New Jersey delivers a surprising depth of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and entertainment options that rival major destinations. From the iconic Jersey Shore to world-class performing arts venues, residents enjoy diverse recreational opportunities year-round.
Beaches and Outdoor Activities
The 127-mile Jersey Shore stretches from Sandy Hook to Cape May, featuring distinct beach towns each with unique character. Cape May, a National Historic Landmark City, offers Victorian architecture and renowned bird-watching. Asbury Park combines beach culture with a thriving music scene centered around the legendary Stone Pony. Atlantic City's famous 6-mile boardwalk—America's oldest—features casinos, restaurants, and the restored Boardwalk Hall organ with over 33,000 pipes.
Beyond the shore, New Jersey offers hiking in the Delaware Water Gap, skiing in the northwest, and 40+ state parks and forests for camping, fishing, and biking.
Arts, Culture, and Entertainment
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark hosts world-class concerts and performances. Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn produces Tony Award-winning theater. Sports fans can catch the Devils (NHL) at Prudential Center or the Giants and Jets (NFL) at MetLife Stadium. Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson offers family thrills.
Museums and Attractions
- Newark Museum of Art: The state's largest museum with American art, Asian galleries, and a planetarium.
- Liberty Science Center: Interactive science museum in Jersey City with stunning Manhattan views.
- Princeton University Art Museum: Free admission with world-class collections.
- Jenkinson's Aquarium: Popular boardwalk attraction in Point Pleasant Beach.
- Cape May Lighthouse: Climb 199 steps for panoramic views of the Atlantic and Delaware Bay.
Sources: NJ.gov Explore NJ, NJPAC
Daily Life in New Jersey: Getting Around and Settling In
Daily life in New Jersey balances the convenience of metropolitan access with suburban comfort. The state's extensive transportation network, diverse dining scene, and varied shopping options make settling in straightforward for newcomers.
Public Transportation
NJ Transit operates the nation's third-largest public transit system, with trains, buses, and light rail serving most of the state. Key connections include:
- NJ Transit Rail: Connects suburbs to Newark Penn Station, Hoboken Terminal, and New York Penn Station. Monthly passes range from $67 to over $400 depending on distance.
- PATH Train: Runs 24/7 between Newark, Jersey City, Hoboken, and Manhattan. Single ride costs $3.00 (increased January 2025).
- Light Rail: Hudson-Bergen Light Rail serves the waterfront communities; Newark Light Rail connects downtown Newark.
The NJ Transit Mobile App allows ticket purchases directly from your smartphone.
Driving and Car Ownership
Many suburban residents rely on personal vehicles. New Jersey has self-serve gas stations banned—an attendant pumps your gas. Toll roads include the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway, with E-ZPass recommended for frequent drivers. The current gas tax averages lower than the national average.
Lifestyle and Culture
New Jersey's diverse population creates a rich culinary landscape—from authentic Italian in the Ironbound to Korean BBQ in Fort Lee. Shopping ranges from outlet malls to upscale boutiques, and no sales tax on clothing or groceries saves money compared to neighboring states. Tipping culture is standard: 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars.
Sources: NJ Transit, PATH
Cost of Living in New Jersey: Budgeting for Your Move
New Jersey's cost of living runs approximately 15% higher than the national average, with housing being the primary expense driver at 39% above national norms. However, competitive salaries, no sales tax on essentials, and savings on NYC-level costs offset these premiums for many residents.
Monthly Budget: Single Person
The following table estimates monthly expenses for a single adult living in New Jersey.
Expense Category | Newark/Affordable Areas | Jersey City/Hoboken |
Rent (1-bedroom) | $1,550 | $3,200 |
Utilities | $190 | $200 |
Groceries | $295 | $350 |
Transportation | $150 | $130 |
Health Insurance | $350 | $350 |
Total (excluding dining/entertainment) | $2,535 | $4,230 |
Monthly Budget: Family of Four
The following table estimates monthly expenses for a family of four in New Jersey.
Expense Category | Suburban NJ | Urban/Waterfront |
Rent (3-bedroom) | $2,800 | $5,500 |
Utilities | $380 | $400 |
Groceries | $900 | $1,000 |
Transportation (2 cars or transit) | $600 | $400 |
Health Insurance (family) | $1,200 | $1,200 |
Private School (if applicable) | $1,500-$3,500 | $1,500-$3,500 |
Total (excluding school/dining) | $5,880 | $8,500 |
Sources: Numbeo, MIT Living Wage Calculator, RentCafe
In Short
New Jersey combines the best of American living—world-class education, diverse career opportunities, and easy access to two major metropolitan areas—with a quality of life that rewards both ambitious professionals and families seeking strong communities. The Garden State's pharmaceutical and financial sectors offer competitive salaries to offset higher-than-average housing costs, while the extensive NJ Transit and PATH networks make car-free living possible in urban areas.
Whether you're drawn to the waterfront energy of Jersey City, the academic charm of Princeton, the affordable diversity of Newark, or the suburban comfort of communities like Morristown, New Jersey offers a neighborhood to match your lifestyle. The 127-mile coastline, excellent schools, cultural institutions, and welcoming international communities create a setting where newcomers quickly feel at home.
Ready to start your New Jersey adventure? Join the Expat.com New Jersey forum to connect with fellow expatriates, ask questions, and get advice from those who've made the move.
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this content, please contact us.
