Your Guide for Making the Move to New Jersey
New Jersey is a beautiful state full of historic landmarks, natural wonders, unique food and diverse people. Unfortunately, New Jersey’s sister state, New York, overshadows her to where people all but forget about the state.
When they think about New Jersey or the Jersey shore, they associate it with reality television shows that do not highlight the best that the Garden State offers. However, people who can get over the hype and see New Jersey for what it truly is are happy to choose New Jersey as a place to raise a family. Before hiring a moving company and heading to North Jersey or any other part of the state, there are a few things you should know.
Four Things You Should Know Before Moving to New Jersey
1. New Jersey Is Home to Inclement Weather
New Jersey can have scorching summers with temperatures ranging from 90 degrees to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Winters in New Jersey can be just as treacherous with temperatures and wind chills dropping well below 0 degrees. Nor’easters starting in the Atlantic ocean are a common occurrence in the spring and winter months. Come prepared with waterproof boots, thermal underwear and an umbrella. There can be over 30 thunderstorms each year in New Jersey.
2. You Will Not Be Able to Pump Your Own Gas
Since 1949, it has been illegal to pump your own gas in New Jersey. This law is to prevent fire hazards at the gas pump. While it can take a little bit of getting used to, you will be thankful that you do not have to pump your own gas during the winter months when temperatures are subzero and snow is falling from the sky.
3. You Can Bring Your Own Bottle
There are several restaurants in New Jersey that do not have a liquor license. These restaurants allow customers to bring their own beer or wine as long as it is allowed by municipal ordinances. Other restaurants that do have a liquor license might allow BYOB, but they will charge a cork fee. Once you get accustomed to being able to bring your own alcohol into an establishment, you may wonder how you went so long without being able to do so.
4. No Left Turns
For first-timers in the Garden State, New Jersey jug handles can be difficult to get the hang of. More times than not, when you get over to the left lane, you will see a no left turn sign. Jug handles are ramps that allow you to swoop around and make a left turn. Once you understand the system, it’s useful. However, you might drive an additional mile or so because you missed the opportunity to make a left-hand turn.
There are a few other wonderful things to learn about New Jersey. For example, mischief night, disco fries, Taylor Ham pork rolls, and Rutgers pride are just a few of the things that can be enjoyed when you move to Jersey.
Stand out New Jersey Landmarks
1. Absecon Light
This is the fifth tallest lighthouse in the United States. It has been functioning since 1857. It’s no longer used to guide naval vessels, but the light is still shown every night. Here's a historical note. George Meade, whose other claim to fame was defeating Gen. Robert E. Lee in 1863 at the battle of Gettysburg, designed this lighthouse.
2. Storybook Land
This theme park has been dedicated to keeping the spirit of wonderment in children alive for over six decades. Children’s classic tales are intertwined with exciting family rides and attractions. This is a clean and family-friendly theme park. Throughout the year, there are special family experiences and programs presented.
3. Battleship New Jersey
Located on the Camden Waterfront close to Adventure Aquarium, the battleship New Jersey allows you to get an unprecedented glimpse into this magnificent ship. You are able to look at the communications room, explore the 16-inch gun turret, and see the simulated launch of tomahawk missiles.
Things to Prepare before Moving to New Jersey
There are a few things to think about when preparing to move to New Jersey. For example, Trenton, Newark, Elizabeth, Patterson, Atlantic City, Princeton, and Heathcote have been rated as the top places to live in New Jersey.
New Jersey is a small state in the United States. The total area of the state is 8,729 square miles. Although it may be small, it is high on the wealthiest state list. This makes it a desirable place to live. The income per capita is a little more than $37,000, which is higher than the national average. The cost of living in New Jersey is also 22% higher than the national average. However, housing costs and taxes are on par with other states. You should expect to spend more on gas because you will have a longer-than-average commute time.
The ideal time to move to New Jersey is in the fall or the spring. During these two seasons, temperatures are neither too hot nor too cold. If necessity requires you to move during the winter months, you should prepare your vehicle for snow and inclement weather.
There are a lot of significant reasons to move to New Jersey. It has some of the best public school systems in the country, and public transportation is well organized. It offers a variety of sights, sounds, and foods that can be enjoyable for you and your family.