The great exodus continues. As NYC rents soar past $3,000 for a studio and property taxes bite deeper into paychecks, over 75,000 New Yorkers crossed the Hudson River to New Jersey in 2024 alone—a 12% jump from the previous year. Whether you’re swapping your 450-square-foot Queens walk-up for a Maplewood colonial or trading Brooklyn’s brownstone dreams for actual Jersey City brownstone ownership, you’re part of a massive migration driven by one simple truth: you can get more space, better value, and still keep your Manhattan job.
NYC vs NJ: Cost of Living & Taxes
The numbers don’t lie—relocating from NYC to New Jersey delivers immediate financial relief across nearly every category. According to the latest cost-of-living data, New Jersey residents typically save 15-25% on housing costs compared to their NYC counterparts, with even more dramatic savings in specific areas.
Housing Cost Comparison:
- Rent: Manhattan one-bedroom averages $4,200/month vs. $2,800 in Jersey City
- Homeownership: Brooklyn median home price $850,000 vs. $475,000 in comparable NJ suburbs
- Property taxes: NYC effective rate 0.88% vs. NJ statewide average 2.13% (but calculated on lower home values)
The tax picture requires careful consideration. While New Jersey’s property tax rate appears higher, you’re paying taxes on a significantly less expensive property. A $475,000 home in Montclair with a 2.13% tax rate costs about $10,118 annually in property taxes. Compare that to NYC’s combined property tax and maintenance fees on a comparable $850,000 Brooklyn brownstone, and Jersey residents often come out ahead.
Income Tax Benefits: Here’s where NJ really shines for NYC commuters. You’ll pay New Jersey state income tax (up to 10.75% on high earners) but receive a credit for any NYC taxes paid, effectively eliminating double taxation. Many NYC-to-NJ transplants see their overall tax burden decrease, especially when factoring in New Jersey’s homestead rebate program.
Daily Living Costs: Groceries run about 8% cheaper in New Jersey, restaurant meals cost 12% less on average, and gas prices typically stay 10-15 cents per gallon below Manhattan stations. Even parking—when you can find it—costs significantly less than NYC’s premium rates.
Best NJ Towns for NYC Commuters
Not all New Jersey towns are created equal when it comes to Manhattan accessibility. The best NJ commuter towns balance reasonable home prices, quality schools, and lightning-fast connections to your NYC office.
Hoboken remains the crown jewel for young professionals making the move from NYC to NJ. The PATH train delivers you to 33rd Street in just 12 minutes, while the ferry offers a scenic 10-minute ride to Wall Street. Hoboken’s median home price of $615,000 gets you significantly more space than comparable NYC neighborhoods, plus you’re walking distance to dozens of restaurants and bars along Washington Street.
Jersey City offers the most diverse housing options for NYC relocators. Downtown Jersey City provides luxury high-rises with Manhattan skyline views, while the Heights and Bergen-Lafayette neighborhoods offer more affordable single-family homes. The PATH train runs every 4-6 minutes during rush hour, making your commute to Lower Manhattan faster than many Brooklyn residents experience.
Montclair attracts families seeking top-rated schools without sacrificing convenience. NJ Transit’s Montclair-Boonton line gets you to Penn Station in 45 minutes, while the town’s vibrant downtown rivals any NYC neighborhood for dining and entertainment. Home prices average $650,000, but you’re getting 3-4 bedrooms versus a NYC studio for the same money.
Maplewood and South Orange form the perfect suburban alternative for former NYC residents. These adjacent towns share an excellent school district and offer direct trains to Penn Station in under 40 minutes. The housing stock includes everything from vintage colonials to modern condos, with prices starting around $550,000 for move-in ready homes.
Summit appeals to higher-income NYC transplants seeking premium amenities. This Morris County town boasts a 45-minute express train to Manhattan, top-tier schools, and a sophisticated downtown shopping district. While home prices average $875,000, you’re getting estate-sized properties with actual yards—something impossible to find in Manhattan.
Real-Estate Snapshot: What Your Budget Buys in NJ
The purchasing power difference between NYC and New Jersey becomes crystal clear when you start house hunting. That $800,000 budget that might secure you a one-bedroom co-op in Park Slope transforms into suburban paradise options across the Garden State.
In the $400,000-$600,000 range, first-time homebuyers discover New Jersey homes for sale that include actual parking spots, basement storage, and multiple bedrooms. Think 2-3 bedroom townhomes in Union County or starter colonials in Central Jersey with 30-minute train access to Manhattan.
The $600,000-$800,000 sweet spot opens up premium Jersey City listings in desirable neighborhoods like Paulus Hook and Van Vorst Park. These historic brownstones and modern condos offer the urban sophistication NYC residents crave, plus amenities like in-unit laundry and actual closet space that Manhattan apartments lack.
For families with $800,000+ budgets, the options multiply exponentially. Middlesex County properties in towns like Metuchen and Westfield offer 4-5 bedroom colonials on quarter-acre lots. Monmouth County homes near the shore provide beach access alongside reasonable commuting options to NYC.
Even luxury buyers find better value in New Jersey. That $1.5 million budget that might buy a cramped Manhattan two-bedroom instead secures you a Bergen County home with 5,000+ square feet, a three-car garage, and grounds that require actual landscaping.
Getting There: Commute Options & Times
One of the biggest concerns for NYC professionals considering NJ relocation involves the daily commute. The reality is more convenient than most people realize, with multiple transportation options that often beat intra-NYC travel times.
PATH Train Service provides the fastest and most reliable connection between New Jersey and Manhattan. The system runs 24/7 with trains every 2-4 minutes during peak hours. From Hoboken to 33rd Street takes just 12 minutes, while Jersey City to World Trade Center clocks in at 8 minutes. Monthly unlimited PATH passes cost $89—significantly less than a monthly MetroCard plus the occasional taxi or rideshare.
NJ Transit Rail connects deeper New Jersey suburbs to Penn Station and Newark Airport. Popular commuter towns like Montclair, Summit, and Morristown offer express service that delivers you to Midtown Manhattan in 35-50 minutes. Check current NJ Transit train schedules for specific route timing, as some lines offer express service during peak hours.
Ferry Service adds a scenic element to your daily commute while providing reliable transportation. The NY Waterway operates routes from multiple New Jersey ports to Manhattan terminals, with trips typically taking 10-15 minutes. Many commuters combine ferry rides with short PATH or NJ Transit connections for door-to-door convenience.
Driving and Parking becomes feasible when you relocate from NYC to New Jersey, though tunnel and bridge tolls add up quickly. The Holland Tunnel, Lincoln Tunnel, and GWB all charge $17+ during peak hours via E-ZPass. However, many NJ residents use park-and-ride facilities or drive to PATH stations, combining the convenience of car ownership with public transit efficiency.
Relocating from NYC to New Jersey: Costs & Movers
The cost of moving from NYC to NJ varies dramatically based on your approach, timeline, and specific needs. Understanding your options helps you budget appropriately while avoiding common relocating pitfalls.
DIY Moving represents the most budget-friendly option for NYC-to-NJ relocations. Truck rental companies charge $400-$800 for local moves, depending on truck size and rental duration. Factor in gas, tolls, and your own labor time. Most NYC apartments require freight elevator reservations and building move-out fees ($200-$500), while New Jersey destinations typically offer easier access.
Hybrid Approaches blend professional help with personal effort. Many NYC residents hire movers for heavy furniture and appliances ($800-$1,500) while personally transporting valuables, clothing, and fragile items. This approach works especially well for studio and one-bedroom relocations where the total volume doesn’t justify full-service pricing.
Full-Service Moving costs $2,000-$4,000+ for complete NYC-to-NJ relocations, including packing, loading, transport, and unpacking services. Premium services handle everything from disassembling furniture to setting up your new home’s utilities. Given NYC’s logistical challenges—narrow staircases, parking restrictions, elevator requirements—professional movers often prove worth the investment.
Timing Considerations significantly impact moving costs. Summer months (June-August) see premium pricing due to high demand, while fall and winter relocations often offer 15-20% discounts. Mid-month moves cost less than month-end transitions, and weekday relocations beat weekend pricing.
60-Day Relocation Checklist
Successful NYC-to-NJ relocations require systematic planning and precise timing. This proven timeline ensures you handle all logistics while maintaining your sanity during the transition.
60 Days Before Moving:
- Research target New Jersey towns and neighborhoods
- Get pre-approved for mortgage financing
- Schedule initial home tours with local realtors
- Request school district information if you have children
- Begin decluttering and organizing belongings
30 Days Before Moving:
- Finalize home purchase or rental lease agreements
- Book moving company or reserve rental truck
- Submit change of address forms with USPS
- Notify employers about address changes for payroll and tax purposes
- Research New Jersey auto insurance requirements and rates
14 Days Before Moving:
- Confirm utility setup at new New Jersey address
- Schedule cable/internet installation appointments
- Transfer prescriptions to New Jersey pharmacies
- Pack non-essential items and label boxes clearly
- Arrange pet transportation if applicable
7 Days Before Moving:
- Confirm moving day logistics with your chosen company
- Pack survival kit with essentials for first few days
- Clean out refrigerator and use up perishable foods
- Withdraw cash for moving day tips and unexpected expenses
- Backup important computer files and documents
Moving Day:
- Conduct final walkthrough of NYC apartment
- Be present for loading and verify inventory lists
- Keep important documents and valuables with you personally
- Take photos of valuable items before packing
- Get contact information from moving crew supervisor
Post-Move Setup:
- Register to vote in New Jersey within 21 days
- Update driver’s license and vehicle registration within 60 days
- Find new healthcare providers and transfer medical records
- Research local services (banks, grocery stores, restaurants)
- Join community groups or neighborhood associations
Setting Up in NJ: Taxes, DMV & Voter Registration
Establishing New Jersey residency involves several mandatory steps with specific deadlines. Understanding these requirements prevents penalties and ensures smooth integration into your new state.
Tax Obligations begin immediately when you establish New Jersey residency. You’ll need to file a part-year NJ resident tax return for your first year, reporting income earned before and after your move date. New Jersey offers credits for taxes paid to other states, which typically eliminates double taxation on NYC income earned before relocating.
New Jersey residents working in NYC don’t pay NYC income tax on earned income, but they do pay both New Jersey state income tax and NYC tax on investment income. Many NYC-to-NJ transplants see overall tax savings, especially when factoring in New Jersey’s property tax deductions and homestead rebate programs.
Driver’s License Transfer must occur within 60 days of establishing residency. You’ll need your current license, Social Security card, two proofs of New Jersey address, and payment for fees. New Jersey requires vision tests for all new residents, regardless of your previous license status.
Vehicle Registration follows the same 60-day deadline. Bring your current registration, insurance card, and title (if you own the vehicle). New Jersey insurance requirements include higher minimum coverage than many other states, so contact insurance providers before your move to ensure continuous coverage.
Voter Registration can be completed online, by mail, or in person within 21 days before any election. New Jersey offers automatic voter registration when you obtain or renew your driver’s license, making this process relatively seamless for most new residents.
FAQs
Is it cheaper to live in NJ and work in NYC? Yes, for most people. While New Jersey has higher property tax rates, lower home prices mean smaller actual tax bills. Combined with reduced rent, cheaper groceries, and lower daily living costs, most NYC-to-NJ relocators save 15-25% on overall expenses while gaining significantly more living space.
How much is the average move from NYC to NJ? Costs range from $400-$800 for DIY truck rentals to $2,000-$4,000+ for full-service professional movers. Most people spend $1,200-$2,500 for hybrid approaches that combine professional help with personal effort. Factor in potential security deposits, utility setup fees, and first-month expenses when budgeting.
Which NJ towns have the shortest commute to Manhattan? Hoboken offers the fastest commute at 12 minutes via PATH train to 33rd Street. Jersey City follows closely with 8-15 minute PATH rides to various Manhattan destinations. Weehawken and Fort Lee provide quick bus connections, while towns along the NJ Transit Northeast Corridor offer 25-35 minute train rides to Penn Station.
Do I still pay NYC income tax after I move? No, New Jersey residents don’t pay NYC income tax on earned income. However, you will pay New Jersey state income tax and may owe NYC tax on investment income or rental property income within the city. Most people see overall tax savings after relocating.
Is Hoboken or Jersey City better for young professionals? Both offer excellent options with different personalities. Hoboken provides a more intimate, walkable environment with a strong nightlife scene concentrated along Washington Street. Jersey City offers more diverse neighborhoods, better apartment inventory, and slightly lower costs. Both provide excellent PATH train access to Manhattan.
How do property taxes in NJ compare to NYC? New Jersey’s statewide average property tax rate (2.13%) appears higher than NYC’s (0.88%), but you’re paying taxes on significantly less expensive properties. A $475,000 New Jersey home generates about $10,118 in annual property taxes, while comparable NYC properties cost $850,000+ with additional maintenance fees and assessments.
What is the best time of year to move across the Hudson? Fall and winter offer the best combination of lower moving costs, reduced competition for housing, and cooler weather for the physical moving process. Avoid summer months when both moving companies and rental markets see peak demand and pricing. Mid-month relocations typically cost 10-15% less than month-end moves.
Ready to House-Hunt? Work with Robert DeFalco Realty
Making the move from NYC to New Jersey represents one of the smartest financial decisions you can make in 2025. Between lower housing costs, reduced daily expenses, and excellent commuting options, you’ll wonder why you waited so long to cross the Hudson.
Ready to start relocating from NYC to New Jersey? Our team specializes in helping NYC professionals find their perfect Garden State property. We understand the unique needs of Manhattan commuters and can line up three Jersey City brownstone tours for you next Saturday. From first-time homebuyers seeking affordable condos to families wanting suburban estates, we’ll match you with properties that fit your lifestyle and budget.
Contact our relocation team today to schedule your personalized New Jersey home tour. Let’s turn your NYC-to-NJ relocation dreams into your new address reality.