Top Affordable Places to Live in NJ Close to NYC for 2024

April 23, 2025

4 minutes

Are you thinking of moving to New Jersey but also worried about the high cost of living? You're not alone. The average home price in New Jersey is recently crossed $500,000. Therefore, many potential home buyers are searching for more affordable options in the state.

New Jersey offers several towns and cities that provide budget-friendly living. These places also maintain easy access to New York City. This blog explores affordable places to live in NJ near NYC.‍

Why Choose New Jersey for Affordable Living Near NYC?

New Jersey combines proximity to New York City with a range of affordable housing options. Commuters can enjoy shorter travel times and lower living expenses compared to Manhattan or Brooklyn.

Proximity to NYC: Cities in the state of New Jersey offer direct transit links to NYC. Cities like Hoboken and Jersey City are ideal places for working professionals.
Quality of Life: Towns in NJ often provide a better quality of life that balances work and leisure. This is due to easy park access, recreational facilities, and community offerings.
Commute Times: The average commute time from NJ to NYC is about 30-50 minutes by train.
Lower Housing Costs: Many New Jersey towns feature significantly lower home prices and rental rates than in NYC.

These factors make affordable places to live in New Jersey close to NYC an attractive option to live.‍

Understanding Living Costs in New Jersey

Knowledge about the cost of living in New Jersey is important before moving. Here’s a quick overview:

Housing:

Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,800 in NJ compared to $3,000 in NYC
Average home price: Approximately $532,000 statewide.

Utilities:

Monthly utilities average around $200.

Transportation:

Public transportation costs vary but average about $120 for a monthly train pass.

Groceries:

Expect to spend around $400-$600 monthly for a household of two.

This estimated living expense in New Jersey allows potential residents to budget effectively.‍

Top Affordable Towns and Cities in NJ (Close to NYC)

You can find affordable places to live in New Jersey close to NYC. This also involves exploring various towns and their unique characteristics. Here are some of the best towns to live in NJ that offer budget-friendly options:

1. Hoboken

Distance to NYC: 8 minutes by PATH train
Average Rent: $2,800 for a one-bedroom
Highlights: The town has vibrant nightlife, waterfront parks, and a strong community vibe. Great public transportation options make commuting convenient.

2. Jersey City

Distance to NYC: 20 minutes by PATH train
Average Rent: $2,600 for a one-bedroom
Highlights: The area has a growing tech scene with good schools. It also has diverse culture, excellent dining, and beautiful views of Manhattan.

3. Newark

Distance to NYC: 27 minutes by train
Average Rent: $1,550 for a one-bedroom
Highlights: Public transportation links are strong here. Other than this, the place offers affordable housing, revitalized downtown, and cultural offerings. This includes the New Jersey Performing Arts Center.

4. Montclair

Distance to NYC: 40 minutes via NJ Transit
Average Rent: $2,100 for a one-bedroom
Highlights: Artsy community with rich cultural heritage, excellent schools, and parks. Montclair has a highly rated school system. This makes it a family-friendly place.

5. Ridgewood

Distance to NYC: 40 minutes via train
Average Rent: $2,300 for a one-bedroom
Highlights: The city has high-quality schools, a charming downtown, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Its appealing neighborhood makes it popular among buyers.

These towns not only provide good places to live in NJ but also showcase the benefits of accessing New York City easily. ‍

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Most Affordable Places to Buy a House in New Jersey

Here are the best places to buy a house in NJ that are still budget-friendly:

1. Clifton

Average Home Price: $460,000
Key Considerations: Clifton has a strong local economy with diverse job opportunities. The market is also stable.

2. Linden

Average Home Price: $360,000
Key Considerations: Linden features affordable housing prices and good access to public transport. The community is growing, making it desirable for homebuyers.

3. Hamilton Township

Average Home Price: $320,000
Key Considerations: This suburb is becoming increasingly popular for families due to its good schools and parks. This indicates strong buyer intent.

4. Little Falls

Average Home Price: $390,000
Key Considerations: Little Falls is known for its parks and schools. It’s an excellent option for homebuyers looking for value.

5. East Orange

Average Home Price: $295,000
Key Considerations: This town offers some of the most affordable housing in the state. As urban development grows, property values are expected to rise.

Affordable Housing Programs and Assistance in NJ

New Jersey offers various affordable housing initiatives to assist potential residents:

Available Programs

NJ Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA): This agency provides multiple programs for first-time homebuyers. This includes down payment assistance.
Rental Assistance Programs: These programs assist low-income families in finding affordable housing.

Eligibility and Resources

To apply for these housing programs:

Check the NJHMFA Website: Navigate through the available resources and assess eligibility criteria.
Contact Local Housing Authorities: They can guide you further about options available in your area.

Residents can reduce living costs effectively by understanding the New Jersey affordable housing programs.‍

Bottom Line: Ready to Move to New Jersey—But Smarter?

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Because moving to New Jersey shouldn’t just be affordable. It should feel empowering.

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If you're also trying to stretch your budget without compromising on safety, don’t miss our guide to the safest places to live in New Jersey—because peace of mind shouldn’t come at a premium.

And if you're still weighing your options, wondering whether to rent or buy, you're not the only one asking that question right now. Our Rent vs. Buy comparison breaks down the pros, cons, and long-term trade-offs—so you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and a plan that fits your life.