Is it your first time in New Jersey? Settling in and don’t know what to look for? Look no further than this quick and easy guide on New Jersey and some of its key elements as a state. Here you will find a breakdown of some common costs, parks and recreation, sports, and even what the state is like. Let’s dig in!
Life is More Expensive
Something that you will have to steel yourself for is the difference in living costs compared to the rest of the country. Statistically speaking, the price of living is a whopping 15% higher than the rest of the United States.
At the same time, the average pay is in the $80,000 range rather than the average $50,000 range for the rest of the country. While this does even out in the long run, it is hard to adjust the sticker shock right away.
Most homes also run for well over $400,000 on the market and that is just the average. Higher end homes run well into the millions of dollars but this is also in higher end counties as well.
The Family Friendly State
There’s a reason that people flock to New Jersey if they can afford it. There are many areas that are considered very safe for families with a wonderful education system.
It’s also called the family friendly state because of how many different activities can be done around the entire state with minimal traveling.
The Cool Beach Life
Don’t expect too much sunshine and hot beaches along the Jersey shore. Rather it is instead a little bit cooler and more gloomy along the shores. When that is the case, you have to adjust your perspective of what to expect.
There will be some summer days with the sun shining and tanning on the docket, but that won’t always be the case. Soak up the sun when you can and plan ahead to enjoy the beaches on sunny days.
Casino Galore
If you are looking for something for everyone to do on the weekend, there are endless casinos with a whopping 21 casinos in the small state. That’s basically one casino per county in the state.
Medical and Recreational Marijuana
In the state of New Jersey, both medical and recreational marijuana are allowed. There are similar laws compared to other states such as recreational users can only purchase set amounts which is the same for those that are using medically as well.
The Medical Cannabis Program, not unlike other medical marijuana programs, allows up to three ounces to be purchased at a time while under medical care. To find out more about some of the options and doctors available, check out this resource here!
Golfing Wonderland
With over 200 different golfing courses available, you won’t miss much on finding a course that fits your style or desires. With many clubs, no pun intended, available for all ages, there’s something for everyone in the family.
Sports Haven
Home of the Giants and the Jets, you won’t be wanting for football needs. Not to mention hockey, soccer, and baseball galore as well! No matter what you are into when it comes to sports, it is important to remember that you will find what you are looking for in New Jersey.
Take a look at the coastline and you’ll also find some spots for water sports. Home to one of the top hockey teams, there’s no end to the sheer number of fans and their undying passion.
Easy Transportation
One of the best parts about New Jersey is its easy transportation. With 243 stations that connect the state from stem to stern, it is rather easy to get from one place to the next without much of a hassle.
Even the more outlying parts of the state have their own stations that are either connected by tram or railway. How incredible is that?
Heavy Population
As the most heavily populated state with over 11,295 people per square mile, the state can feel a little packed. With this density there are several things that you can come to expect. Look for higher traffic, the higher sticker prices, and overall a very passionate atmosphere.
Despite the dense population, there are still endless activities that you can partake of on a regular basis.
Parks and Recreation
If golf is not your thing and the beaches aren’t exactly a draw for you, it’s time to try out the numerous parks that are around the state. Especially along the coastline, you’ll find numerous parks that belong to the Parks and Recreation Association.
If Mother Nature is not exactly your thing, it might be time to visit some of the recreational parks that are available too. One is the Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park where you can stay indoors and visit with friends like Spongebob Squarepants and Patrick Star!
Conclusion
New Jersey is a beautiful state to live in. It is full to the brim with state parks, theme parks, golfing courses, and so much more. While the prices of living may be higher, there is much that the state has to offer you as you take up residence in this family friendly state.