New Jersey is a densely populated state with a high cost of living, heavy traffic, and high taxes. While some people enjoy the proximity to New York City, Philadelphia, and the Atlantic Ocean, others are looking for a change of scenery and a better quality of life. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, New Jersey had a net loss of over 50,000 residents between April 2020 and June 2021, the fourth-highest among all states. Here are three towns that people are fleeing as soon as possible, and the reasons why.
Jersey City
Jersey City is the second-largest city in New Jersey, with a population of over 280,000. It is also one of the most diverse and vibrant cities in the state, with a rich cultural and artistic scene, a booming financial sector, and a stunning skyline overlooking Manhattan. However, Jersey City also has its drawbacks, such as high crime rates, overcrowded schools, and expensive housing.
According to the Census Bureau, Jersey City lost 8,485 residents in the 15-month period, the most of any municipality in the state. Some of the factors that may have contributed to this exodus are the COVID-19 pandemic, which hit urban areas hard and reduced the need for commuting to New York; the rising cost of living, which made it difficult for many residents to afford rent or mortgages; and the lack of open space and recreational opportunities, which made it less appealing for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Union City
Union City is another densely populated city in Hudson County, with a population of over 65,000. It is known for its large Hispanic community, which makes up over 80% of the residents, and its proximity to the Lincoln Tunnel, which connects it to New York City. However, Union City also faces many challenges, such as low median income, high poverty rate, and poor air quality.
According to the Census Bureau, Union City lost 2,874 residents in the 15-month period, the third-highest among all municipalities in the state. Some of the reasons that may have driven people away from Union City are the lack of economic opportunities, especially for low-skilled workers; the high cost of living, which made it hard for many residents to make ends meet; and the environmental hazards, such as noise pollution, traffic congestion, and industrial emissions.
North Bergen
North Bergen is another town in Hudson County, with a population of over 60,000. It is located on the Hudson Palisades, a steep cliff that overlooks the Hudson River and New York City. It is also home to the largest Hindu temple in New Jersey, the Sri Venkateswara Temple. However, North Bergen also has its share of problems, such as high taxes, low educational attainment, and limited public transportation.
According to the Census Bureau, North Bergen lost 2,749 residents in the 15-month period, the fourth-highest among all municipalities in the state. Some of the factors that may have influenced people to leave North Bergen are the high property taxes, which averaged over $10,000 per year in 2020; the low graduation rate, which was only 75% in 2019; and the limited access to public transit, which made it difficult for many residents to commute to work or school.
Conclusion
New Jersey is a state with many attractions and advantages, but also many challenges and disadvantages. While some people choose to stay and enjoy the benefits of living in the Garden State, others decide to move and seek better opportunities and lifestyles elsewhere. According to the Census Bureau, three of the towns that people are fleeing as soon as possible are Jersey City, Union City, and North Bergen, all located in Hudson County. These towns have experienced significant population losses in the past year, due to various reasons such as high costs, low quality of life, and environmental issues. Whether these trends will continue or reverse in the future remains to be seen, but for now, these towns are losing their appeal and their residents.