Best NJ Towns for Young Professionals
By Lisa Fant
Young professionals tend to look for a place to settle that can offer ample employment opportunities and lots to do nearby. Typically, towns and cities with shopping, restaurants and bars, and a diverse array of cultures are popular among young adults; however, many can’t allow affordability to take a backseat. Here are five New Jersey towns best suited for young adults.
Haddonfield
With the PATCO Speedline to Philadelphia within steps of downtown Haddonfield, commuters to the city can enjoy the convenience of the metropolitan area without giving up small-town suburban comfort. Haddonfield’s main street and downtown area boast a variety of restaurants, shopping, and community events. The median sales price of a single-family home in Haddonfield is $695,500, while the median price for a townhome or condo is $158,000, according to New Jersey Realtors® June 2022 monthly housing data. A recent report from Niche found Haddonfield was ranked among the top 1,000 best places to live in the U.S.
Highstown
Nestled in Mercer County, Hightstown is a viable option for young professionals who want affordability without sacrificing accessibility to the city or Jersey Shore. Unique local shops, Central Jersey Restaurant Week, Hopewell Valley Vineyards, and quaint gems like Little Key Coffee Shop are some of the highlights of Hightstown for those looking for a small-town atmosphere with the convenience of nearby Trenton, Princeton, and New Brunswick for a practical work commute. Homes in Hightstown don’t stay on the market long though, with an average of 26 days on the market and a median sales price of $445,000, according to New Jersey Realtors®.
Toms River
Toms River is a well-known town and home to a diverse population. With plentiful employment opportunities, close proximity to the beach, and at a reasonable price point, there’s something for everyone. New Jersey Realtors® data found the median sales price for a single-family home in Toms River is $462,500 and $273,000 for a townhome or condo. Young professionals who enjoy the outdoors will appreciate dynamic views of the ocean, natural surroundings of county parks, and scenic campgrounds.
North Bergen
Home to one of New Jersey’s largest employers, Palisades Medical Center, North Bergen is a prime location for those looking to settle down. North Bergen’s urban ambiance provides extensive employment opportunities within New Jersey’s largest industries such as life sciences and pharmaceuticals, transportation and logistics, and financial services. New Jersey Realtors® data found a median sales price of $515,000 for a single-family home and $327,500 for a townhome or condo in North Bergen. The town has convenient access to public transit and major roadways for commuters into New York City, Jersey City, or Hoboken, and it has endless options for local eateries, nightlife, and parks.
Jersey City
Full of history, diversity, and a growing population, Jersey City is a long-time hotspot. Situated just a few miles from Midtown Manhattan, there’s no shortage of employment opportunities or entertainment in the area; however, there’s no need to leave New Jersey to experience fast-paced city life. Jersey City offers numerous cultural interests and access to famous landmarks, such as the Ellis Island Immigration Station and the Goldman Sachs tower. While the proximity of New York City presents a higher price tag for Jersey City residents than some of the aforementioned towns, it remains a significantly more cost-effective option than residing in the Big Apple. According to New Jersey Realtors, a single family home in Jersey City is $715,000, while a townhome or condo is $630,000.
