Commuting to NYC from New Jersey can vary depending on your specific location and mode of transportation. Some popular towns for commuters include Hoboken, Jersey City, and Summit, which all have convenient access to public transportation such as trains and buses. Other towns such as Westfield and New Providence have a shorter commute by car, but may not have as many public transportation options. It’s best to research the specific towns and neighborhoods you are interested in and consider factors such as commute time, cost of living, and availability of amenities.
Below are the 5 best places to live in New Jersey when commuting to New York City:
- Hoboken
- Jersey City
- Summit
- West New York
- Secaucus
Hoboken
Hoboken is a small city located on the west bank of the Hudson River, just across from Manhattan. The city has a population of around 55,000 people and is known for its vibrant downtown area, which is filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. One of the most popular attractions in Hoboken is the waterfront, which offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and is a popular spot for jogging, biking, and picnicking.
Hoboken is also known for its rich history. The city was founded in the early 19th century and was once a major industrial center. Today, many of the old factories and warehouses have been converted into luxury condos and trendy lofts. Visitors can explore the city’s past by visiting the Hoboken Historical Museum or taking a walk through the historic district.
In addition to its history and waterfront, Hoboken is also known for its cultural diversity and nightlife. The city is home to a large Italian-American population, and you can find many authentic Italian restaurants and bakeries. The city also has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs catering to a young, diverse crowd. Hoboken is a great destination for those looking for a unique and exciting experience in the New York City area.
Commuting from Hoboken to NYC
The distance from Hoboken, NJ to NYC by car is around 7.5 miles and takes about 20 minutes to half an hour depending on traffic. If you are driving you will be paying for the toll to get in and out of the city, which is currently just under $15 each way. There are also options to take the bus and the pickup point will depend on where you live in Hoboken.
The commute by train is about 1 mile and takes around 10-15 minutes. The train ride is done via PATH (Port Authority Trans-Hudson) which connects Hoboken terminal to several stations in NYC (33rd street, 23rd street, 9th street, Christopher street, and World trade center). This is the most common way that commuters get into the city every morning.
The commute from Hoboken to NYC by ferry is about 1 mile and takes around 10-15 minutes. The ferry ride is done via NY Waterway, which connects Hoboken Terminal to several locations in NYC such as the World Financial Center and the Midtown West 39th street.
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Jersey City
Jersey City is situated directly across from Lower Manhattan. With a population of around 260,000 people, Jersey City is the second-most populous city in the state. It is known for its diverse neighborhoods, vibrant arts and culture scene, and proximity to New York City.
The downtown area of Jersey City, known as Journal Square, is a bustling commercial and cultural center, featuring many shops, restaurants, and businesses. The Liberty State Park, located on the waterfront, offers beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island, which are both a ferry ride away. The park also has recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating.
Jersey City is also home to a diverse and growing arts community, with many galleries, theaters, and performance spaces. The Exchange Place neighborhood features the Liberty Science Center, an interactive science museum, and the Liberty National Golf Club, which has hosted several PGA Tour events. Additionally, the city is home to several colleges and universities, including Saint Peter’s University, which contribute to a diverse student population. Jersey City has something for everyone, from its historic landmarks to its modern developments, it’s a great destination for visitors.
Commuting from Jersey City to NYC
The drive from Jersey City and NYC is approximately 6 miles and the drive can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. You will be paying the same toll as the commute from Hoboken and will also be paying for parking most of the time.
By train, Jersey City is served by the PATH train system, which connects the city to Manhattan. The commute by train takes around 8-15 minutes depending on the station you’re going to in Manhattan. There are trains running constantly throughout the day and many commuters utilize it daily.
There are also several ferry services that run between Jersey City and NYC, including the NY Waterway and Liberty Landing Ferry. The commute by ferry can take anywhere from 10-15 minutes, depending on the departure point and destination. We have many friends that use the ferry daily and it is a great option, especially on a nice day!
Summit
Summit is a small city located in Union County, New Jersey. It has a population of around 21,000 people and is known for its picturesque downtown area, tree-lined streets, and historic homes. The city is situated on top of a hill, which provides residents and visitors with beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Summit is also known for its strong sense of community, and it has a variety of community events and activities throughout the year. Some of the notable events include the Summit Farmers Market, which takes place on Sundays during the summer and fall, and the annual Holiday Stroll, which features carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a tree-lighting ceremony.
Summit is also home to several excellent schools, which is one of the reasons why many families choose to live there. The Summit Public Schools are consistently ranked among the best in the state, and there are also several private schools in the area. Additionally, Summit is home to several parks and green spaces, including Memorial Field, which offers a variety of sports fields and playgrounds, and the Summit Nature Reserve, which has hiking trails and picnic areas. Overall, Summit is a great place to live or visit for those who appreciate a small-town atmosphere with a strong sense of community and excellent schools.
Commuting from Summit to NYC
The distance between Summit and NYC is approximately 25 miles and the drive can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on traffic. Summit is served by NJ Transit buses, which run to Manhattan and other parts of NYC. This ride usually takes slightly longer, but you have the opportunity to get work done or listen to your favorite podcast on the commute.
You would need to drive or take a bus to Jersey City in order to utilize the ferry system and would be able to take NJ transit trains into Manhattan, which is around a 45-minute trip depending on the station that you are going to.
All of these times can be lengthened if there is heavier traffic than usual.
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West New York
West New York is a densely populated town located in Hudson County, New Jersey, United States. It has a population of around 52,000 people and it is situated on the west bank of the Hudson River, across from Manhattan.
West New York is known for its diverse culture and population, the town has a large Hispanic community, and the main street, Bergenline Avenue is lined with many shops, restaurants, and businesses that reflect the town’s multicultural heritage. West New York is also home to several parks and recreational areas, including the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway which offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and Liberty State Park.
West New York is well connected to New York City by public transportation, it is served by several bus lines and the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail, which provides easy access to the rest of Hudson County and to Manhattan.
Commuting from West New York to NYC
By car, the distance between West New York and NYC is approximately 5 miles and the drive can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. West New York is served by several bus lines, including NJ Transit and the Port Authority Bus Terminal. The commute by bus can take anywhere from 20-40 minutes, depending on traffic and the bus route.
By train, West New York is served by the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail, which connects the town to Manhattan and other parts of NYC. The commute by light rail can take around 15-25 minutes, depending on the station you’re going to in Manhattan.
There are no immediate ferry options when traveling from West New York to NYC so utilizing the other options will be your best bet.
Secaucus
Secaucus is one of the best options when it comes to traveling in and out of New York City. I have lived in Secaucus and was a 15-minute walk to Secaucus junction, which is the train station that connects you directly to New York City after a 10-15 minute ride. There are many options when it comes to affordable apartments and also have a nice suburban feel as you move away from the train station.
Secaucus is home to several large retail centers, including the Harmon Meadow Plaza and the Mill Creek Mall, and is a 5-minute drive away from the American Dream Mall, which is one of the largest malls that you can visit in New Jersey.
Secaucus is also known for its rich history and natural beauty, the town has several parks and recreational areas, including the Secaucus Greenway, a 2.5-mile trail that runs through the town and along the Hackensack River. The town also has several historic sites, including the Schuyler-Colfax House, which dates back to the 18th century and is now a museum.
Commuting from Secaucus to NYC
As stated above, the train is the best option when commuting into the city and is only a 10-15 minute ride that stops at Penn Station. There is ample parking at the train station and as a town resident, you will not need to use any of the paid daily parking options that are offered.
You also have the option of driving in, which can be as short as a 15-minute ride (or up to an hour with morning and evening traffic) or taking the bus, which will be anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes.
Making Your Decision
There are a ton of great places in New Jersey that allow you to commute into New York City daily for work. It is best to visit each location before making a decision and finding a living situation that will work best for you. Good luck!