The Ultimate Renter’s Guide to Jersey City, New Jersey

Newport

Although Newport is a slightly pricier neighborhood, if you’re looking for amazing city views, new, high-rise apartments and easy access to both city centers, this is your spot. Here, there’s plenty within walking distance of almost all the residential buildings in the Newport area. Residents can reach the Newport Center Mall, a 4.25-acre green space and “beach” area on the waterfront on foot, plus the entrance to the PATH train that can take you one stop to Exchange Place or Manhattan.

Newport, Jersey City, NJ, USA

Hamilton Park

Rows of beautiful brownstones are a clear giveaway of the Hamilton Park neighborhood. This historic area of town is famous for its beautiful architecture and central location, right near Grove Street and the PATH trains. Hamilton Park also boasts two park areas, one of which hosts a year-round farmer’s market, numerous street fairs, and food festivals. It’s a family-friendly neighborhood with a plethora of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops nearby.

Hamilton Park, Jersey City, NJ, USA

Paulus Hook

Located in the southeastern section of Jersey City, Paulus Hook is a combination of low-rise apartments, historic brownstones, and townhouses in stark contrast to the high-rises of its neighboring Exchange Place. Despite the difference in building height, Paulus Hook is also within proximity to the Hudson Riverfront Walkway, which makes it a desirable place to be for families and young professionals. It’s a short walk to the downtown business district, making for a close commute in town as well as a quick trip into Manhattan via the PATH train, Light Rail or the Liberty Water Taxi on Warren Street.

Paulus Hook, New Jersey, NJ, USA

The Heights

The up-and-coming Heights area is perfect for the younger crowd thanks to its budget-friendly options and relatively short walking distance to the nightlife and bar and restaurant scene. It’s nearby the Light Rail Station, so commuting to a PATH train or NJ Transit bus is fairly easy. If you’re looking for affordable low-rise apartment buildings or Victorian homes that have rooms for rent, The Heights has various housing options. Renters will also love the park and outdoor areas here, including Washington Park, which offers a public track, sports fields, basketball courts, and a large swimming pool that transforms into a skating rink for the winter months.

The Heights, Jersey City, NJ, USA

Jersey City is the second largest city in the state, behind Newark, and is becoming an increasingly popular place to live. For this same reason, rent prices have also gone up, and the market is decidedly more competitive than ever before.

Despite its desirability, there are still plenty of apartments available for rent in every neighborhood of Jersey City; you’ve just got to know a thing or two to snag the right one.

For a glimpse of what the real estate market looks like, you can expect to see these average prices:

Studio Apartment: $2,346/mo
1 Bedroom: $2,870/mo
2 Bedroom: $3,705/mo
3 Bedroom: $4,243/mo
4 Bedroom: $5,587/mo
Penthouse: $6,098/mo

Unless you’re willing to fork over a few thousand dollars for rent per month, finding roommates to split the cost is your best option. Many young professionals who commute in and out of New York City are willing to make the quick trip to work for lower rent costs and lower taxes, so there’s always someone looking.

If you’re looking into high-rise developments similar to the ones you’ll find in Exchange Place, many of those buildings have leasing offices, and you won’t need a broker. If you’re looking into smaller buildings that are less developed, you’re better off finding a local broker who is familiar with the area.

From Zillow to Hotpads to Craigslist and more, there’s no shortage of websites with rentals and listings to help you find your new home.