The Best Jersey City Neighborhoods: Everything From Skyline Views to Historic Charm

A diverse culture, urban vitality, and strong job market make Jersey City one of the best places to live in New Jersey. With a more approachable price tag than nearby Manhattan, the best Jersey City neighborhoods offer unique personalities, all the best big-city amenities, and unbeatable access to the Big Apple — all with rent prices a little more in line with anyone on a budget.

Families and students alike can find plenty to love here, too. Jersey City’s public school system has a wide range of options, including some of the best in the state. Several universities and colleges, including Saint Peter's University and New Jersey City University, can also be found in town. In other words, whether you’re moving for work, school, or you just want a fresh start, Jersey City makes settling in feel like a seriously smart move.

Jersey City at a Glance

• Population: The population in Jersey City is 308,300.
• Median age: The city’s median age is 34.7. Young professionals are one of the major demographics in the city, but families are also drawn to the local schools and family-oriented neighborhoods.
• Average home value: The average home value in Jersey City is $654,800, compared to $558,800 in the state and $357,400 nationally.
• Average rent (one-bedroom): The average rent for an apartment of any size in Jersey City is $3,750, compared to $2,425 in the state and $1,750 nationally.
• Biggest draws: Jersey City’s biggest draws include the stunning skyline views, easy commuting, vibrant neighborhoods, abundant dining options, outdoor recreation, and historic charm.

Sneak Peek: Best Neighborhoods in Jersey City

From the bustling urban scene to quiet and family-friendly communities, each of the best neighborhoods in Jersey City has something special to offer any potential resident. Here’s a sneak peek of our top picks:

1. The Waterfront

2. Historic Downtown

3. Journal Square

4. The Heights

5. Hackensack River Waterfront

6. West Side

7. McGinley Square

8. Paulus Hook

9. Newport

10. Hamilton Park

11. The Village

12. Exchange Place

12 Best Jersey City Neighborhoods

With a vibrant mix of cultures, lifestyles, and living spaces — from sleek high-rises to classic brownstones — Jersey City has something to offer everyone. So, if moving to New Jersey is on your radar, it’s time to dive into everything you need to know about the best Jersey City neighborhoods and find the one that fits your vibe.

1. The Waterfront — Best for Young Professionals

• Median rent (one-bedroom): $3,725
• Average home value: $1M
• Great for: Young professionals, luxury living, easy commutes, arts, culture, outdoor scenery
• Commute to Downtown: 5 minutes

The Waterfront’s upscale, urban atmosphere makes it one of the best Jersey City neighborhoods, blending luxury living with coastal charm and breathtaking views of the Lower Manhattan Skyline. It’s a great location for young professionals who commute and want to use public transit to bop around the city.

 Known for its artsy and eclectic vibe, The Powerhouse Arts District is the heart of the community, boasting unique spots like Novado Gallery and Art House Productions. The diverse culture of the area is also celebrated through events like JC Fridays.

Enjoy the coastal beauty of the Waterfront by strolling along the Hudson River, or take your kayak out on the water when the weather calls for it.

Historic Downtown, one of the best neighborhoods in Jersey City, offers residents easy access to the Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza, which features diverse shops and restaurants.

2. Historic Downtown — Historic Charm Meets Modernity

• Median rent (one-bedroom): $2,850
• Average home value: $884,200
• Great for: Young professionals, luxury living, easy commutes, dining, shopping
• Commute to Downtown: 3 minutes

From historic charm to modern and urban convenience, Historic Downtown is another one of the most affluent neighborhoods across Jersey City. Known for its variety of high-rise luxury buildings, the high cost of living is an important consideration; however, the lifestyle and stunning views make it worthwhile. Plus, with easy access to NYC through the PATH Train, ferries, and Hudson-Bergen Light Rail, Historic Downtown is a commuter’s dream.

From fine waterfront Italian at Battello to casual eats with great burgers at Diesel & Duke, Historic Downtown is a foodie’s paradise. Centered around the Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza, thrifters on the lookout for vintage clothing can shop from stores like Into The Void and Another Man’s Treasure.

3. Journal Square — Best for Being a Transit Hub

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $3,050
• Average home value: $517,000
• Great for: Young professionals, easy commutes, cultural activities
• Commute to Downtown: 12 minutes

Named after the former headquarters of the Jersey Journal newspaper, the Journal Square neighborhood is a fast-growing transit hub with a strong historical feel and rich culture. While plenty of bus routes and other transit options are provided by the Journal Square PATH station, car drivers have easy access to the major highways nearby as well.

The neighborhood’s rich cultural scene is reflected in hot spots like Loew’s Jersey Theatre, a historic movie palace. Annual festivals like Bergen Square Day celebrate the history of the area through music, tours, and food trucks, while the Navratri Festival reflects local Indian culture.

4. The Heights — Best for Families

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $3,625
• Average home value: $730,600
• Great for: Families, unique Victorian homes, outdoor recreation, local events, schools
• Commute to Downtown: 16 minutes

As one of the best Jersey City neighborhoods for families, The Heights is a community-oriented area known for its variety of recreational opportunities and local community events. And the historic Victorian-style homes give the neighborhood a unique character.

The major community hub of Riverview-Fisk Park offers scenic views of the Manhattan skyline and Hudson River, while featuring a playground, sports courts, and plenty of green space. The park is also home to the weekly Riverview Farmers Market.

A high-performing public school serving The Heights is Dr. Ronald E. McNair Academic High School, showcasing an overall A+ grade on Niche and a No. 1 ranking among Niche’s standout high schools in New Jersey.

5. Hackensack River Waterfront — Best for University Students & Faculty

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,375
• Average home value: $510,600
• Great for: Families, students, school faculty, outdoor activities
• Commute to Downtown: 20 minutes

Hackensack River Waterfront is a peaceful, residential neighborhood best known for its wide range of housing options and access to nearby institutions like New Jersey City University. It’s a desirable neighborhood to settle down for campus staff, and a great place to live for students.

The Hackensack RiverWalk is on its way to becoming a continuous public greenway along the Hackensack River and Newark Bay shorelines. The community is located close to several large parks, including Lincoln Park, which offers trails, sports facilities, and a dog park.

Residents have easy access to Skyway Golf Course, one of the amenities that sets West Side apart among the best neighborhoods in Jersey City.
(Source: Skyway Golf Course at Lincoln Park West via Facebook)

6. West Side — Best for Anyone in Search of a Golfer’s Paradise

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,475
• Average home value: $526,700
• Great for: Families, outdoor activities, dining
• Commute to Downtown: 13 minutes

Currently undergoing major revitalization efforts, the Jersey City neighborhood of West Side is characterized by a mixture of Victorian and Edwardian-style homes.

Residents of the West Side often enjoy a day of golfing, as the community is located adjacent to the Skyway Golf Course. With breathtaking views of the Manhattan Skyline, this golf course welcomes both beginners and experienced golfers. Other outdoor spots include Bayside Park, with sports courts and playgrounds.

West Side Avenue offers some of the area’s best dining, from grilled branzino at SamakMak Seafood to beer, wine, and classic American dishes at New Park Tavern.

7. McGinley Square — Best for Charm & Affordability

• Median rent (one-bedroom): $1,900
• Average home value: $478,300
• Great for: Families, affordable housing variety, local events, diverse dining options
• Commute to Downtown: 10 minutes

The diverse and historical community of McGinley Square is one of the best neighborhoods in Jersey City, known for its charming and sophisticated atmosphere, with more affordable home values than most of the other best Jersey City neighborhoods. From small condos to desirable rowhouses, every walk of life can feel right at home in this neighborhood.

The McGinley Square Community Board ensures that residents get the chance to mingle and enjoy some local entertainment options, with events held, including a tree lighting ceremony and Cinco De Mayo Taco tour.

When looking for diverse dining in McGinley Square, you’ll find options for any craving. Dominican, in particular, is a staple of this neighborhood, with local favorites Lo Típico del Patio and Mi Casa Tu Casa.

8. Paulus Hook — Best for Quiet

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $3,850
• Median home sale price: $1.2M
• Great for: Families, retirees, tranquility, walkability, outdoor activities, shopping, dining
• Commute to Downtown: 5 minutes

The small neighborhood of Paulus Hook is an upscale community known for its beautiful architecture. Offering a quiet and residential feel, this community is rated highly walkable with excellent public transportation options.

Morris Canal Park is just minutes from this neighborhood and offers a perfect, unobstructed view of the Manhattan Skyline, making it a popular spot for photographers. Visitors can also enjoy walking paths, green spaces, and even a “beach area” along the water.

Shoppers will feel right at home, with most residents heading to nearby Old Colony Square Center for shopping and dining.

9. Newport — Best for Being a Shopper’s Dream

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $3,750
• Median home sale price: $905,000
• Great for: Families, young professionals, outdoor activities, shopping
• Commute to Downtown: 7 minutes

As one of the biggest commercial centers in the city, Newport is one of the best Jersey City neighborhoods for those looking for a vibrant waterfront lifestyle with easy access to all kinds of fun. Newport Green Park is the gem of the community, which features a playground, beach area, and a seasonal ice skating rink. The park also offers botanical gardens and a seasonal carousel.

Newport Centre is another highlight for shopping enthusiasts. It’s the neighborhood's premier shopping destination and consists of three levels with stores including Zara, Swarovski, H&M, and Sephora. The mall also features an 11-screen cinema.

Hamilton Park is home to casual dining spots like Hamilton Pork (get it?), known for its classic American fare and barbecue.
(Source: Hamilton Pork via Facebook)

10. Hamilton Park — Emphasis on Local Businesses

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $3,900
• Median home sale price: $739,000
• Great for: Families, young professionals, retirees, local businesses, dining
• Commute to Downtown: 7 minutes

Blending a suburban lifestyle with the convenience of a less than 10-minute drive to downtown, the Hamilton Park neighborhood is home to a vibrant community perfect for any stage of life.

Independently-owned businesses are the core of this community, from local bookstores, such as WORD, to art galleries and restaurants. Deep Space Gallery is a launchpad for local artists, while the Jersey City Art School offers adult classes. For casual and affordable dining options, head to hot spots like The Hamilton Inn and Hamilton Pork for classic American fare and barbecue favorites.

11. The Village — Jersey City’s Little Italy

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $3,825
• Median home sale price: $865,000
• Great for: Families, young professionals, retirees, live shows, outdoor activities, local events
• Commute to Downtown: 6 minutes

Sometimes referred to as “Little Italy,” The Village is one of the most charming Jersey City neighborhoods with historic homes and a mix of new condos. With top attractions and outdoor activities, it’s no surprise that The Village has had a long-standing reputation as one of the best Jersey City neighborhoods.

Just a five-minute walk from the community, White Eagle Hall is one of the best entertainment destinations found in Jersey City, offering live music, theater performances, and on-site dining with two restaurants. For outdoor entertainment, nearby Van Vorst Park is home to beautiful gardens and a dog park. The park also hosts a farmer’s market and Shakespeare in the Park summer series.

12. Exchange Place — the City’s Financial Hotspot

• Average rent (one-bedroom): N/A
• Median home sale price: $1M
• Great for: Young professionals, career opportunities, easy commutes, local events
• Commute to Downtown: 5 minutes

As the financial hub of North Jersey and Jersey City, the thriving neighborhood of Exchange Place is also known as “Wall Street West,” full of opportunities for career growth. The Harborside Light Rail Station and Harborside ferry terminal also make commuting as easy as possible for local residents.

Exchange Place Plaza has recently undergone major revitalization, features incredible views of the Manhattan skyline, and has become a popular community space for local events. Along with a Fourth of July Festival, the plaza also hosts the annual Jersey City Latin Jazz Festival.

Jersey City Neighborhoods — FAQs

Q: What is the best area to live in Jersey City?
A: Known for its luxury, waterfront views, and thriving arts scene, Waterfront is often considered the best area to live in Jersey City.

Q: What are the safest areas in Jersey City?
A: Downtown, Waterfront, and The Heights are among the safest neighborhoods in Jersey City.

Q: Why is Jersey City called Chilltown?
A: Jersey City has been dubbed “Chilltown” for its relaxed and easygoing lifestyle.

Q: Is Jersey City a wealthy area?
A: With a high cost of living and a strong base of high-income earners, Jersey City is considered a wealthy area — but still much cheaper than nearby NYC.

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Move to One of the Best Jersey City Neighborhoods With PODS

Jersey City neighborhoods offer a high quality of life with opportunities for career growth, lively cultural scenes, and beautiful outdoor amenities. Once you’ve found the perfect neighborhood, you can make your move to Jersey City flexible with a portable moving and storage container delivered right to your driveway. Need help with the heavy lifting? PODS can refer you to local packing and loading assistance. Once you’re ready, have your container picked up and taken to your new home. With one month’s storage included in the cost of every move, you can load and unload without feeling rushed.

Visit PODS online for a free local moving quote or call 877-350-7637 for long-distance moving.

Editor’s note: Average and median rent prices were obtained from RentCafe and Zumper; average home values were obtained from Zillow; and median home sale prices were obtained from Redfin. For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100. Home values in the millions were rounded to the nearest $100,000.

_{*This article was written on behalf of PODS Enterprises, LLC (“PODS”). PODS does not warrant the completeness or accuracy of any information contained in this article and disclaims any liability for reliance upon the content herein.}