Five cities leading residential real estate in New Jersey
Writer: Mariana Hernández
July 2025 — The New Jersey residential real estate market continues to evolve, given shifts in the economy and buyers’ demand patterns. The Garden State ranks in the Top 3 most expensive states to live in, driven by the proximity to important cities such as NY, Philadelphia, and DC.
According to New Jersey RE/MAX, locking in a mortgage will be a smart move for those interested in capitalizing on buyer activity. With New Jersey’s housing inventory going up, homebuyers have more options to choose from and a slightly broader opportunity to negotiate prices.
“The cost of housing, especially for the first-time homebuyer, is rising. For example, in New Jersey, the median sales price has risen to $560,000, which is 11% over 2023 prices. This is despite the rise in inventory coupled with high interest rates. It’s a barrier for some people.
People have to expand the areas where they’re looking to purchase to find neighborhoods that are conducive to their lifestyle and what they want to purchase,” Kathy Morin, president of New Jersey Realtors, told Invest:.
From shore to greenspaces, the Garden State offers an immense catalog of places to consider when choosing a place to call home. For many buyers, especially younger ones navigating today’s economic pressures, choosing the right place means a long-term investment that will have an impact on future job opportunities, accessibility to the transportation system, and a vibrant lifestyle in a suburban or urban area.
“We look for highly-skilled agents who have an understanding of the value of homeownership and the ability to convey that message to their clients. At the end of the day, it’s not about selling quickly, but building a relationship that lasts multiple generations,” said Robert Norman, regional president at Coldwell Banker Realty in an interview with Invest:.
With that in mind, here are five of the best places to consider when looking to buy a home in the Garden State, offering a range of options for every kind of buyer and lifestyle.
Ranked as the best place to live in the Garden State, Clifton combines suburban appeal with urban accessibility, making it New Jersey’s most desirable place to live, according to U.S. News & World Report. With a population of over 87,000, Clifton offers quick access to New York City and other metro hubs while maintaining a residential charm. The median home value sits at $438,054—higher than the national average of $370,489—reflecting its strong demand and location advantages. Clifton benefits from solid public transportation access, with 12.2% of residents relying on it, and a walkable layout that supports diverse lifestyles.
Clifton enjoys all four seasons, like most New Jersey cities, providing a full Northeast weather experience. Demographically, Clifton is balanced and diverse, with 24% of the population under 20 and another 25% between 45 and 64. With 43.5% of residents being married, Clifton offers a strong quality of life for families.
Vineland offers an affordable and spacious living environment, making it one of the more cost-effective places to live in the Garden State. With a median home value of just $214,793, residents benefit from a lower cost of living. The city also offers a quieter suburban lifestyle for families and individuals alike.
With a population of nearly 60,000, Vineland is home to a largely working-class community. The city’s appeal lies in its space, affordability, and family-friendly demographics, similar to Clifton’s. A higher-than-average single population may also make it attractive for younger residents looking for community and opportunity.
Jersey City stands out as a dynamic and diverse urban center just across the river from Manhattan. With nearly 300,000 residents and a median age of 33.5, it offers a vibrant atmosphere ideal for young professionals seeking proximity to New York City. The city is one of the most transit-accessible areas in the state, with 54.1% of commuters relying on public transportation. Jersey City’s walkability, cultural offerings, and skyline views along the Hudson River waterfront make it a top destination for urban living.
The high cost of living —median home value of $550,485 and an average monthly rent of $2,500— is balanced by a strong median household income of $98,891, well above the national average of $79,466. The local economy is competitive for white-collar professionals. With nearly 60% of the population single, Jersey City combines energy, opportunity, and connectivity in a growing urban setting.
Bayonne offers a convenient and affordable urban-suburban mix. Situated close to New York City, Bayonne combines access to big-city amenities with a quieter community feel. The median rent is $2,350, slightly lower than in Jersey City. Despite its desirable location, it has an average commute time of 30.7 minutes.
Bayonne’s demographic profile includes a healthy mix of age groups, with 24% under 20 and 25% between 45 and 64. The city’s balance of affordability, proximity to NYC, and community diversity make Bayonne a solid choice for young families looking for value within reach of metropolitan opportunities.
With a diverse and vibrant city with a median age of 34.5, Elizabeth offers a mix of urban amenities and suburban comfort. The median home value in Elizabeth is $436,853—higher than the national average—reflecting its appeal as a place to live close to New York City. The average commute time is 21.8 minutes, with 80.7% of residents driving to work.
Demographically, 28% of the population under 20 and another 25% between 45 and 64, showing great balance among residents. With only 33.6% of residents being married, Elizabeth is also an attractive option for singles. The median household income stands at $65,032, which is below the national average. Despite this, Elizabeth’s affordable housing relative to New Jersey standards and convenient location continue to attract individuals looking for value and accessibility in the Garden State.
