15 Best Places to Live in New Jersey

Prepare to be utterly charmed by the Garden State! Forget everything you thought you knew about New Jersey, because beyond the turnpike stereotypes lies a vibrant tapestry of communities, each offering a unique blend of suburban tranquility, urban convenience, and natural beauty. From quaint, tree-lined streets to bustling downtowns, New Jersey boasts some of the most desirable places to call home in the entire country, and you’re about to discover why. Imagine living just a stone’s throw from world-class beaches, a short train ride from the bright lights of New York City, or nestled in a picturesque town with top-tier schools and a strong sense of community.

This guide isn’t just about visiting; it’s about experiencing the very best of New Jersey living, uncovering the hidden gems and well-loved locales that make this state truly special. Whether you’re considering a move or simply curious to explore, get ready to be inspired by the diverse appeal, rich history, and undeniable quality of life that awaits you in these exceptional New Jersey towns. The best time to experience New Jersey’s charm is during the spring (April-May) when gardens burst into bloom and temperatures are mild, or in the fall (September-October) for stunning foliage and crisp air, perfect for exploring these inviting communities.

North Arlington

North Arlington offers a compelling blend of suburban comfort and urban accessibility, making it a highly desirable place to live in New Jersey. Nestled along the Passaic River, this borough provides stunning views of the Manhattan skyline from certain vantage points, a constant reminder of its proximity to New York City. You’ll find a friendly, diverse community here, characterized by well-maintained homes, quiet streets, and a strong sense of local pride. The borough’s main thoroughfare, Ridge Road, is dotted with a variety of local businesses, from family-owned restaurants serving delicious international cuisine to charming boutiques and essential services.

Residents enjoy convenient access to major highways and public transportation, making commutes to NYC or other parts of New Jersey remarkably easy. For recreation, you can explore the local parks like Riverside County Park, which offers walking trails, sports fields, and scenic river views, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll or a family picnic. The community often hosts local events and festivals, fostering a warm, neighborly atmosphere. This area is particularly appealing to young professionals and families looking for a more affordable yet well-connected alternative to city living, without sacrificing amenities or community spirit. Its unique position offers the best of both worlds: a peaceful retreat with the excitement of the city just a short ride away.

Ridgewood

Ridgewood stands as an epitome of upscale suburban charm, consistently ranked among New Jersey’s most desirable places to live. When you visit, you’ll immediately be struck by its picturesque downtown, a vibrant hub brimming with boutique shops, gourmet restaurants, and charming cafes housed in beautifully preserved historic buildings. The tree-lined streets, meticulously maintained homes, and impeccably landscaped gardens create an inviting and serene atmosphere. Ridgewood is renowned for its exceptional public school system, drawing families seeking top-tier education, but its appeal extends far beyond academics.

You can spend an afternoon browsing unique independent stores, enjoying a leisurely brunch, or catching a show at the historic Ridgewood Guild’s movie theater. For outdoor enthusiasts, the village offers numerous parks, including the expansive Saddle River County Park, perfect for walking, biking, or picnicking along the river. The community often hosts seasonal events, from art festivals to holiday parades, fostering a strong sense of belonging and local pride. Its convenient train access to Manhattan makes it ideal for commuters, blending sophisticated village life with easy access to big-city opportunities. Ridgewood truly offers a quintessential suburban dream, appealing to families, couples, and anyone seeking a high quality of life in a beautiful, active community.

White Meadow Lake

White Meadow Lake, located in Rockaway Township, offers a unique lifestyle centered around its beautiful 275-acre private lake. This community provides a resort-like atmosphere, perfect for those who cherish outdoor recreation and a close-knit neighborhood feel. When you visit, you’ll discover a collection of homes ranging from charming cottages to spacious residences, all benefiting from the lake’s presence. The heart of White Meadow Lake is its community association, which provides residents with private beaches, swimming areas, playgrounds, and boat launches.

You can spend your days swimming, fishing, kayaking, or sailing on the pristine waters. Beyond the lake, the surrounding Rockaway Township boasts plenty of open space, including parts of the vast Farny State Park, offering hiking and nature exploration opportunities. The community is particularly appealing to families and retirees who desire a quieter, more active lifestyle away from the urban bustle, yet still within reasonable driving distance to larger towns and amenities. The sense of community here is palpable, with frequent social events, club activities, and a dedicated spirit among residents. It’s a place where neighbors truly know each other and the focus is on enjoying the natural surroundings and a relaxed pace of life.

Princeton

Princeton is more than just a university town; it’s a globally recognized center of intellectual prowess, historic charm, and vibrant culture, making it an extraordinary place to live and visit. As you stroll through its tree-lined streets, you’ll be enveloped by the stunning Gothic architecture of Princeton University, whose hallowed grounds invite exploration. Beyond the ivy-covered walls, Nassau Street and Palmer Square form the heart of a bustling downtown, offering an eclectic mix of upscale boutiques, independent bookstores, art galleries, and diverse culinary experiences ranging from casual cafes to fine dining establishments.

You can catch a performance at the McCarter Theatre Center, home to a Tony Award-winning regional theater, or immerse yourself in art at the Princeton University Art Museum. History buffs will appreciate sites like Morven Museum & Garden, a former Governor’s mansion, or the Princeton Battlefield State Park, where a pivotal Revolutionary War battle took place. The town skillfully blends its rich past with a forward-thinking, intellectual atmosphere, attracting academics, professionals, and families seeking an enriching environment. Its beautiful parks, vibrant arts scene, and strong community spirit make Princeton an ideal place for anyone who values culture, education, and a sophisticated yet welcoming lifestyle.

Oradell

Oradell offers a classic Bergen County suburban experience, renowned for its excellent schools, pristine residential areas, and a strong sense of community. This charming borough boasts a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere where tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes create an idyllic backdrop for everyday life. When you visit, you’ll notice the peaceful ambiance and the presence of the beautiful Oradell Reservoir, a significant natural feature that offers scenic views and a tranquil environment, though public access is limited to specific areas. The small but inviting downtown area provides essential services, local eateries, and a few charming shops, catering to daily needs.

Oradell is particularly appealing to families seeking a safe, nurturing environment with top-rated educational opportunities. Residents enjoy local parks like Memorial Field, which offers recreational facilities, and the borough often hosts community events that strengthen neighborly bonds. Its convenient location provides easy access to major highways and public transportation, making commutes to New York City or other parts of New Jersey manageable. Oradell truly embodies the quintessential suburban dream, offering a high quality of life, a strong community spirit, and a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle, all while remaining well-connected.

Edison Township

Edison Township is a dynamic and diverse community that truly reflects the multicultural fabric of New Jersey, making it a fascinating place to live and explore. Named after the famed inventor Thomas Edison, whose laboratory was once located here, the township is a bustling hub of commerce, culture, and residential life. You’ll discover a vast array of international restaurants, particularly a renowned concentration of authentic Indian and Asian eateries, offering an incredible culinary journey. The township’s commercial centers, like Menlo Park Mall and Edison Mall, provide extensive shopping opportunities.

Beyond the retail, Edison offers numerous parks and recreational facilities, including Roosevelt Park, a large county park with a lake, trails, and an outdoor theater that hosts summer concerts and events. The community is highly appealing to families and professionals due to its diverse job market, excellent transportation links (including multiple train stations for NYC commutes), and a wide range of housing options. Its rich history, particularly its connection to Thomas Edison, adds a unique intellectual layer, which you can explore at the Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park. Edison Township is a vibrant, convenient, and economically robust area that offers a balanced blend of suburban living with access to diverse cultural experiences and amenities.

Saddle Brook

Saddle Brook is a welcoming suburban community in Bergen County, offering residents a convenient location, a friendly atmosphere, and a good quality of life. This township is characterized by its well-kept residential neighborhoods, green spaces, and accessibility, making it an attractive option for families and commuters alike. When you visit, you’ll find a blend of local businesses, including various dining options that cater to different tastes, from casual pizzerias to family-style restaurants.

Saddle Brook’s strategic location near major highways like Route 80, Route 17, and the Garden State Parkway is a significant draw, providing seamless connectivity to other parts of New Jersey and New York City. The township boasts several local parks, such as Saddle River County Park’s Saddle Brook Area, which offers walking and biking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas along the river, perfect for outdoor recreation. The community often organizes local events and youth sports, fostering a strong sense of unity and engagement among residents. Saddle Brook strikes a balance between peaceful suburban living and easy access to urban amenities, making it a practical and comfortable place to call home for those seeking convenience without sacrificing a sense of community.

Succasunna

Succasunna, a charming census-designated place within Roxbury Township, offers a tranquil and scenic living experience, particularly appealing to those who appreciate nature and a quieter pace of life. Nestled amidst rolling hills and lush woodlands, this area provides a quintessential Morris County suburban feel, with well-spaced homes and a strong connection to the outdoors. When you visit, you’ll find a community that values its natural surroundings, with numerous opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying the serene beauty of the region.

Nearby attractions include the vast Berkshire Valley State Wildlife Management Area, offering extensive trails and opportunities for bird watching. Although it maintains a peaceful residential character, Succasunna has convenient access to local shopping centers, restaurants, and essential services along Route 10 and Route 46, ensuring residents have everything they need close by. The community is known for its good schools and a family-friendly environment, making it a desirable location for those seeking a safe and wholesome upbringing for their children. Succasunna represents a wonderful blend of rural tranquility and suburban convenience, providing a high quality of life for those who prioritize open space and a relaxed, community-oriented lifestyle.

Ho-Ho-Kus

Ho-Ho-Kus is a borough that truly lives up to its charming, unique name, offering an exceptionally upscale and picturesque living experience in Bergen County. This small, affluent community is renowned for its stunning historic homes, meticulously manicured properties, and a serene, almost pastoral ambiance that belies its proximity to urban centers. As you drive through its quiet, tree-lined streets, you’ll be captivated by the architectural beauty and the sense of timeless elegance. The downtown area, though compact, is incredibly quaint, featuring a few select boutique shops, gourmet eateries, and the historic Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern, a landmark establishment offering fine dining in a beautiful setting.

The borough is highly desirable for those seeking privacy, exclusivity, and an idyllic lifestyle. It’s particularly appealing to families who value top-tier schools and a safe, nurturing environment. Despite its tranquil nature, Ho-Ho-Kus offers convenient access to major highways and a train station with direct service to New York City, making it ideal for discerning commuters. The community prides itself on its strong civic engagement and preservation efforts, ensuring its unique character remains intact. Ho-Ho-Kus provides a truly refined suburban retreat, where beauty, tranquility, and convenience converge.

Little Silver

Little Silver is a gem on the Monmouth County coast, offering an exceptional quality of life characterized by its beautiful residential areas, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community, all within close proximity to the Jersey Shore. When you visit, you’ll discover a charming borough known for its lush, mature trees, well-manicured properties, and a serene, almost resort-like ambiance. It’s a place where you can enjoy the peace of suburban living while being just minutes away from the vibrant beaches and towns of the Atlantic coast, like Red Bank and Long Branch. The borough itself boasts several local parks, including Sickles Park, which offers sports fields, playgrounds, and community gathering spaces.

Little Silver is particularly appealing to families seeking a top-tier education system and a safe, engaging environment for their children. Its convenient train station provides direct service to New York City, making it a popular choice for commuters who desire a coastal lifestyle. The community actively participates in local events and civic organizations, fostering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Little Silver truly offers the best of both worlds: a tranquil, high-quality suburban retreat with the added benefit of easy access to the recreational and cultural amenities of the Jersey Shore.

Parsippany-Troy Hills

Parsippany-Troy Hills, often simply called Parsippany, is a large and bustling township in Morris County, known for its significant corporate presence, diverse community, and excellent quality of life. It consistently ranks high for its safety, educational opportunities, and economic vitality, making it a prime destination for those seeking stability and convenience. When you visit, you’ll find a well-developed suburban landscape with numerous corporate campuses, which contribute to a robust local economy and diverse job market.

The township offers a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries to international cuisine, reflecting its multicultural population. For recreation, Parsippany boasts an impressive network of parks and lakes, including Lake Parsippany and Lake Hiawatha, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking. The township’s central location in Northern New Jersey, with easy access to major highways like I-80, I-287, and Route 46, makes it incredibly convenient for commuting to various parts of the state or New York City. It’s an ideal place for professionals and families looking for a community with strong economic opportunities, diverse amenities, and a comfortable suburban environment, all while maintaining a strong sense of community through various local events and civic organizations.

Bergenfield

Bergenfield is a vibrant and diverse borough in Bergen County, offering a strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it a desirable place to live. Characterized by its tree-lined streets and a mix of residential housing, Bergenfield provides a classic suburban experience with convenient access to urban amenities. When you visit, you’ll notice a bustling downtown area along Washington Avenue, which is home to a wide array of local businesses, including diverse restaurants, bakeries, and shops that cater to the community’s multicultural population. This culinary diversity is a particular highlight, allowing you to sample cuisines from around the world.

The borough boasts several parks and recreational facilities, such as Cooper’s Pond Park, which offers a serene natural setting, walking paths, and a playground, perfect for leisurely strolls or family outings. Bergenfield is particularly appealing to families seeking good schools and a strong community network, as well as commuters, given its proximity to major roadways and bus routes to New York City. The borough prides itself on its active community life, with various events and organizations fostering a tight-knit environment. It’s a place where you can find both comfort and convenience, supported by a rich tapestry of cultures.

Waldwick

Waldwick is a charming and peaceful borough in Bergen County, offering a quintessential small-town feel with the convenience of suburban living. Known for its excellent public schools, safe neighborhoods, and strong community spirit, it’s a highly desirable place for families. As you explore Waldwick, you’ll be greeted by well-maintained homes, tree-lined streets, and a friendly atmosphere that makes you feel instantly at home. The borough boasts a quaint downtown area with local shops, cafes, and essential services, providing a comfortable and accessible lifestyle.

For outdoor recreation, Waldwick is home to several well-loved parks, including Waldwick Borough Park, which features playgrounds, sports fields, and space for community gatherings. The community often hosts local events, such as farmers’ markets and holiday celebrations, fostering a tight-knit environment where neighbors genuinely connect. Its convenient train station provides direct service to New York City, making it an attractive option for commuters seeking a peaceful retreat after a day in the city. Waldwick embodies the ideal suburban lifestyle: a safe, nurturing environment with a strong sense of belonging, excellent amenities, and easy access to both nature and urban opportunities.

Concordia

Concordia is a unique and highly desirable 55+ active adult community located in Monroe Township, Middlesex County. It offers a distinct lifestyle focused on leisure, recreation, and social engagement, making it an ideal place for retirees seeking a vibrant and amenity-rich environment. When you visit, you’ll discover a meticulously maintained community centered around its impressive clubhouse, which serves as the hub of activity. This clubhouse typically features indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centers, sports courts (tennis, pickleball), a golf course, and various rooms for clubs, classes, and social events.

The community is designed for ease of living, with well-kept grounds and a focus on low-maintenance homes. Concordia is particularly appealing to active seniors who want to enjoy their retirement years surrounded by peers, with endless opportunities for hobbies, fitness, and social interaction. Its location in Monroe Township provides convenient access to local shopping, dining, and medical facilities, while also being within reasonable driving distance of larger cultural attractions and the Jersey Shore. Concordia embodies a resort-style retirement, offering a supportive and engaging environment where residents can truly thrive and enjoy their golden years to the fullest.

Chatham

Chatham, encompassing both Chatham Borough and Chatham Township, is consistently ranked among New Jersey’s most desirable places to live, offering an idyllic blend of historic charm, upscale amenities, and a strong, family-oriented community. As you explore, you’ll be captivated by the beautiful, tree-lined streets, architecturally diverse homes, and meticulously maintained properties that exude classic suburban elegance. The heart of Chatham Borough is its vibrant downtown, featuring a delightful array of boutique shops, gourmet food stores, and diverse restaurants, all within walking distance of the train station. This walkable downtown fosters a lively community atmosphere, hosting various events throughout the year.

Chatham is renowned for its top-tier public school system, making it a magnet for families seeking exceptional educational opportunities. For recreation, you can enjoy the many local parks, like Memorial Park, which offers sports facilities and playgrounds. Its convenient train service to New York City makes it an ideal location for commuters seeking a high quality of life away from the city bustle. Chatham perfectly balances its historic roots with modern conveniences, providing a sophisticated yet welcoming environment for families, professionals, and anyone desiring a premier suburban lifestyle with a strong sense of belonging and community pride.

Plan Your Visit

As you’ve journeyed through these 15 exceptional places, it becomes clear that New Jersey is far more than just a transit state; it’s a tapestry of vibrant, diverse, and highly desirable communities, each with its own unique charm and appeal. From the intellectual hub of Princeton to the serene lakeside living of White Meadow Lake, the historic elegance of Ho-Ho-Kus to the multicultural vibrancy of Edison, you’ve discovered a spectrum of lifestyles that truly cater to every preference. Whether you’re drawn to top-tier schools, convenient commutes to NYC, picturesque downtowns, or abundant green spaces, these towns offer an unparalleled quality of life.

Don’t just dream about it; start planning your exploration of these incredible New Jersey locales. Use the detailed cost information to budget wisely, and let the insider tips guide you to the heart of each community. New Jersey invites you to discover its hidden gems and perhaps even find your perfect place to call home. Your next adventure, or even your next chapter, awaits in the Garden State!