In my July blog, 5 Reasons People are Leaving New Jersey, I gave some of the reasons New Jersey was ranked the top Outbound State in the latest United Van Lines Annual Migration Study. But my real estate team continues to see multiple bids for each home we list, and it is clear that there are just as many reasons people flock to the Garden State. Here are 5 reasons people are moving to New Jersey:

Schools

Families are drawn to New Jersey for its excellent public and private schools. In the 2014 US News Best High Schools rankings report, New Jersey had 25 high schools with gold medals and 19 with silver medals. The gold and silver medals indicate a high level of college readiness. In addition to robust curricula and a wide range of athletic teams, many New Jersey schools offer opportunities to take Advanced Placement (AP) exams in preparation for college, a wide range of clubs and activities as well as excellent sports facilities.

The New Jersey Shore

For many residents of New Jersey, summers are a time to spend at the Jersey shore. There are 40 communities dotted along 130 miles of coastline offering boardwalks, boating, sailing and beautiful beaches. There is lodging of every type including charming bed and breakfast inns. Three wineries with their own distinct vintages call the Jersey shore home along with numerous restaurants and a variety of international cuisines.

Access to New York

The Midtown Direct is a convenient mass transit option which makes New York easily accessible from northern New Jersey. The ease of access into New York City’s Penn Station makes New Jersey a great option for families while still a commuter’s haven. Since 1996 when the Midtown Direct opened, the towns along the Morris & Essex Line have flourished attracting both commercial and residential developments. Housing values along the Line were buoyed as well. In the towns of South Orange and Maplewood, a convenient Jitney shuttle gives residents easy access to its two Midtown Direct stations.

Sports

Whether you like football, basketball, baseball or hockey, New Jersey has something for everyone. With its proximity to New York, residents of New Jersey can enjoy New Jersey and New York professional and collegiate sports teams. A recent highlight, New Jersey hosted Superbowl XLVIII at MetLife Stadium, the first time the Superbowl was  hosted outdoors in a cold weather city.

Job Opportunities

Professional opportunities abound for New Jersey residents. Wall Street and Broadway are a quick train ride away on the Midtown Direct. There is a growing tech industry in New York, and a thriving health industry in New Jersey with 5 nationally ranked hospitals. In addition to the many job opportunities, New Jersey is more tax friendly than neighboring New York, also convenient for those choosing to work in New York while living in New Jersey.

With so many positives, it is no wonder we are seeing an influx of interested homebuyers in northern New Jersey. If you are thinking of making a move or just need an experienced real estate broker to show you around, contact Victoria Carter at (973) 220-3050 or email: victoria@victoriacarter.com. I look forward to helping you find your new home!