As the sun rises over Newark, New Jersey's largest city, its streets come alive with the energy of a bustling urban center. Once overshadowed by its famous neighbor, New York City, Newark has blossomed into a vibrant metropolis with a story all its own. Wander through its diverse neighborhoods, and you'll hear a symphony of languages, a testament to the city's rich cultural diversity.
On any given day, you might find yourself captivated by one of Newark's many cultural attractions, from world-class museums to soulful jazz clubs. As the seasons change, the city's green spaces transform, none more spectacularly than Branch Brook Park. In spring, it becomes a pink-and-white wonderland, boasting more cherry blossom trees than Washington, D.C. itself.
For those seeking a balance between big-city excitement and manageable living, Newark offers a compelling option. Its lower cost of living compared to Manhattan has drawn a new generation of residents, from young professionals to growing families, proving that this city is more than just a gateway – it's a destination in its own right.
We prepared this article to serve you as a guide to living in Newark, NJ, located in the heart of Essex County. Whether you're looking for a suitable place to move to or are already packing your belongings and waiting for local movers, this guide will help you form expectations and navigate around your new neighborhood.
15 Reasons to Live in Newark
Newark, New Jersey, located in vibrant Essex County, offers its residents more than just proximity to the Big Apple. From diverse cultural experiences to economic opportunities, Newark has its fair share of benefits that make it a desirable place to call home. Whether you're considering a move or already settled in, here are 15 reasons why Newark NJ, is the perfect place to live:
- It's close to New York City but has relatively lower housing costs
- The city is filled with cultural diversity and vibrant communities
- It's home to renowned institutions like Rutgers University-Newark and Seton Hall University
- You can move around with comfortable public transport options via NJ TRANSIT and Newark Penn Station
- You'll never get bored since the city is rich in cultural attractions like the Newark Museum of Art and The New Jersey Performing Arts Center
- You can regularly visit historic parks such as Weequahic Park and Military Park
- Lots of fun things to do, including outdoor activities in Branch Brook Park with its famous cherry blossoms
- You'll be able to attend major sporting events and concerts at the Prudential Center
- City has a lower cost of living compared to Jersey City's and Manhattan
- You'll find a strong sense of community gatherings and neighborhood spirit here
- Various job market opportunities with growth in tech, healthcare, and logistics can help you in your professional development
- A variety of housing options, from single-family homes in Forest Hill to affordable apartments in North Ironbound make it easier to find a place to live
- Extensive educational offerings with public and private schools are comfortable for all family sizes
- The city has shown significant redevelopment and growth in the real estate market
- Green spaces like Riverfront Park, offer scenic views and walking paths
What's It Like, Living in Newark?
Living in Newark combines the perks of urban living with a touch of suburban tranquility, thanks to its abundance of parks and residential areas. The city offers a wide range of amenities and services that cater to both young professionals and families. Despite being an urban center, Newark still manages to retain a sense of community through its cultural vibrancy, community gatherings, and numerous cultural events. The city is constantly evolving, with ongoing developments in infrastructure and an improving job market, making it an attractive place to live.
Newark shows its care for the community through its many city parks and sports fields, including popular soccer fields that are busy all year. The public school system, especially at the middle school level, has gotten better in recent years thanks to plans supported by the City Council. While Newark may have limited nightlife options compared to bigger cities, it makes up for this with lots of community events and a lively cultural center that celebrates the city's mix of people. The housing market is competitive but still affordable, with many choices for new residents. Newark is also proud of its top-notch medical facilities, including well-known cancer care centers, making sure residents have access to excellent healthcare. This mix of services, community focus, and ongoing improvements makes Newark an appealing choice for people looking for a balanced city life.
Cost of Living in Newark
The cost of living in Newark exceeds the national average but remains more affordable than Jersey City or Manhattan. The median home price in Newark, at $344,800, is considerably lower than the broader metro area's $578,800, making it an attractive option in the regional housing market. However, with average one-bedroom apartment rents at $1,956 and high childcare costs, Newark still ranks among the more expensive cities in the United States. Large families may find monthly expenses for essentials like groceries and utilities challenging to manage.
Here's a quick overview of living expenses in Newark New Jersey:
| Expense | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Groceries (Monthly) | $400 - $600 |
| Rent (1-Bedroom Apartment) | $1,956 |
| Utilities | $150 - $200 |
| Transportation (Monthly) | $100 - $150 |
| Daycare (Per Month) | $1,409 |
| International Primary School | $27,760 (Annual) |
For small families, the lower housing costs relative to other nearby cities like New York are a key benefit, allowing them to allocate more towards savings, education, or leisure activities.
Newark Job Market
Newark’s job market is diverse, with opportunities in education, healthcare, logistics, and tech. The city's economy is supported by major employers like Rutgers University, Prudential Financial, and various medical centers. Logistics and warehousing have also become increasingly prominent, thanks to Newark’s strategic position as a transport hub. The unemployment rate in Newark is relatively higher compared to the rest of New Jersey, at around 8%, but the city is witnessing job growth in key sectors like healthcare and education.
With a median household income of $49,688, many Newark residents earn significantly less than those in neighboring areas like Jersey City or Manhattan, where the median income is nearly double.
Fun Things to Do in Newark
Newark offers a variety of opportunities for entertainment. The city's cultural vibrancy shines through its numerous museums, parks, and historic landmarks. The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) is a popular spot for music, theater, and dance performances, while Military Park and Riverfront Park provide beautiful spots for picnics, walks, and sports activities.
Families and friends often explore Branch Brook Park, which hosts the annual Cherry Blossom Festival. If you're interested in the arts, you can visit the Newark Museum of Art, which features a wide range of exhibits. Sports fans can cheer for the NJ Devils at the Prudential Center, which also hosts major concerts and events throughout the year.
Whether you're enjoying a day of entertainment at the Prudential Center or exploring the beautiful gardens at Branch Brook Park, there's always something happening in this dynamic city.
Newark Weather
Good news! Newark has a range of seasons, with cold winters and warm, humid summers. Average winter temperatures can drop to around 25°F, while summer temperatures often rise to 85°F or higher. The city receives around 28 inches of snowfall per year, making it essential for residents to prepare for icy roads and snow days,
Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons, with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it a great time to explore the city's many parks and green spaces.
Public Transportation in Newark
Newark has an extensive public transportation network primarily operated by NJ TRANSIT. The city's public transport options include buses, trains, and light rail, making it easy for residents to commute to major cities like New York and Philadelphia.
Newark Penn Station serves as a hub, providing access to Amtrak, PATH trains, and local NJ TRANSIT services.
If you're moving here with your family, public transport can be a cost-effective way to navigate the city. With monthly passes and family discounts available, many families choose public transportation over driving, which also helps reduce the stress of finding parking in the city.
Is Newark, NJ, a Safe Place to Live?
Safety, of course, is a concern for many residents, as Newark has historically had higher-than-average crime rates compared to the rest of New Jersey. The violent crime rate and property crime rate have seen a decline in recent years but still remain above the state average. This trend is being addressed through various community initiatives and increased law enforcement presence.
The city is taking significant steps to improve safety, and some neighborhoods like Forest Hill and North Ironbound have become known for their lower crime rates and family-friendly atmosphere.
How Far is Newark NJ, from NYC?
Newark, just 15 miles from New York City, offers lower housing costs while providing easy access to Manhattan via NJ TRANSIT and major highways. This proximity allows residents to enjoy both Newark's urban environment and New York's opportunities.
Rich Cultural Heritage of Newark
The city's cultural heritage shines through its diverse neighborhoods, like the Portuguese and Brazilian Ironbound District, and various community gatherings. Newark's mix of cultures is evident in its festivals, cuisine, and local events.
How to Move to Newark, NJ?
Now, onto the fun part (but not really) - moving to Newark NJ. Moving to a new place is always difficult, but not when you have a reliable moving company next to you.
Moving to Newark is straightforward, thanks to reliable services like Pick and Pack Moving Company. If you're planning to become a Newark resident, we're here to help you make your move as stress-free and comfortable as possible.
Whether you're looking for NJ Local Moving assistance or require long-distance movers in NJ, they've got you covered. Our comprehensive picking and packing services ensure your belongings are safely prepared for transport, taking one more task off your moving checklist.
If you prefer a more hands-on approach, at Pick and Pack Moving we also offer labor help. If you're downsizing or need a temporary home for your belongings, their storage and warehousing services offer secure solutions.
Whatever your need is, we're sure we can help. Give us a call or contact us via our contact form and ask for a free quote or an in-house estimation.
Newark, NJ, is a commuter-friendly city with various transportation options, including NJ Transit trains, buses, and easy access to major highways. You can reach New York City in about 20 minutes by train, making it ideal for those who work in the city but prefer to live in Newark. Plus, with upcoming events in the area, traffic might vary, so it's essential to plan ahead when using Movers in Newark, NJ or any NJ Local Moving services for smooth transitions.
The job market in Newark is diverse, with opportunities in industries such as healthcare, transportation, and education. The city also benefits from its proximity to major corporate hubs in New York and Jersey City. For anyone moving for work, partnering with long-distance movers in NJ can ease the transition, and storage and warehousing services offer flexible solutions while you settle in.
Yes, Newark offers a vibrant lifestyle, cultural diversity, and job opportunities. With an evolving housing market and rich community life, many find Newark an ideal place to call home. If you're still deciding, Movers in Newark, NJ can help you transition smoothly, offering everything from picking and packing services to labor help for a hassle-free experience.
Hiring Movers in Newark, NJ, can make your relocation much easier. At Pick and Pack Moving we offer a range of services, including picking and packing services, labor help, and even storage and warehousing services. These options ensure your move is as smooth as possible, whether you're moving across town or utilizing long-distance movers in NJ.
You can find reliable Movers in Newark, NJ, through local directories, online searches, or by asking for recommendations. A trusted option is Pick and Pack Moving Company, a family-owned business, which provides comprehensive moving services, including NJ Local Moving, long-distance movers in NJ, and storage and warehousing services. They can help with all aspects of your move, offering flexible packages to meet your needs, whether you require full-service moving or just labor help for loading and unloading.
