Moving to Jersey City from UK

Submitted by BerryFit3491 t3_zy0zzg in jerseycity

Hi, I’m moving from UK to US with work, and am seeking advice on where might be good place to live. Office is based in Jersey City, I’m married with 2 dogs coming with us, thanks all…

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BerryFit3491 OP t1_j239ewp wrote

I can add that we like walking, good beer, indie type culture, US sports, things to do after busy days at work

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Marybelle18 t1_j23y3w1 wrote

We’re in Paulus Hook (downtown JC). We live in a duplex apartment in a brownstone that gives us a small back yard. This set up isn’t easy to find but it exists (Van Vorst and Hamilton Park, too). Best part of Paulus Hook for us is the amount of dogs (and I know people will yell at me) but you’ll find lots of dog and dog space at Morris Canal Park.

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BerryFit3491 OP t1_j25ta3k wrote

Really like the sound of Paulus Hook

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intergrade t1_j25uoa9 wrote

It’s the best for me (moved from London)

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BerryFit3491 OP t1_j25uz5l wrote

You mean Paulus Hook worked well for you ?

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intergrade t1_j266s6j wrote

All things considered. The closest comparison for London to me is west village / Chelsea. Paulus Hook and Hamilton Park give you more bang for your buck, so to speak. Would rather the city but two dogs …

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[deleted] t1_j23cn6g wrote

Downtown (for example near Hamilton Park if you're lucky to find something not outrageous) or Hoboken. Parks are sparse, so with 2 dogs it might be nice to be near one. Otherwise roads are generally not very pedestrian friendly. It's really worth finding something near public transit too. Traffic can be bad and drivers worse, so personally it would be a double dose of stress for me to commute by car instead of by the train twice a day. Depends on you. If you're looking for something nice but more affordable, you can also look at Journal Square. Not that much stuff to do after work yet, but it's a very easy commute to downtown JC, World Trade Center and all the way up to 33rd Street if you find a place near the Journal Square Path Station.

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assanza t1_j23jt96 wrote

Do not even think about journal square. You've got a well paying job and want to experience city life. You'll fit right in downtown Jersey City or Hoboken. As someone mentioned before, there are many UK expats here. Everything you mentioned is available, including parks, restaurants, beer, and you have quick access to NYC. Virtually every family, if they don't have kids, they have dogs here.

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JournalSquire t1_j292z4m wrote

LOL. As if no one with “well paying jobs” who wants to experience city life lives in Journal Square. Have you considered that some people who want city life also want to embrace living in and giving back to a diverse community? Do you hear yourself?

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assanza t1_j29x5j7 wrote

How does living in downtown Jersey City prevent one from "embracing living in and giving back to a diverse community"?

I'm glad you've made a great decision for yourself.

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JournalSquire t1_j2a4g15 wrote

You’re writing off an entire neighborhood that has a lot to offer — it’s culturally rich and a hub for art and history. Some people value that.

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assanza t1_j2a6gz9 wrote

I'm sure it's fabulous. But based on the OP's criteria downtown is a better fit, IMHO.

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JournalSquire t1_j2a4r7d wrote

“Do not even think about Journal Square. You have a well paying job…” 🙄

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jwuer t1_j2do4qw wrote

Reading through some of the other comments it seems you are open to several options. I love JC and lived there for 6 years, recently moved but still check in here because I love the city. If you want to be in JC then I definitely recommend Hamilton Park or Paulus Hook. You'll be hardpressed to find personal outdoor space though. I lived in the city with a dog and it was fine, city is very dog friendly.

I see you are from a shore town, if you like the beach I would echo some other folks comments about Monmouth county. I recently bought a house in Red Bank, NJ and would highly recommend. It's more urban than what you are probably used to but not Jersey City Urban. It's a 10-15 minute drive to the beach and there is an awesome live music scene and walkable downtown. Every bar has live music Weds-Sun night all year long. Several other shore towns within 15-30 minutes have thier own bars, breweries, and downtown areas. If you like fishing the Jersey Shore has some of the best in the country. The area gets very lively during the summer. It's a 45 minute drive to Jersey City or you can take the train to Newark and catch the PATH. You can get a car and won't have to pay extra for parking as well. All in all it's really about your priorities. Red Bank seems to have alot of Ex Pats as I met several English folks at a local pub during the USA/England world cup match.

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jcnative t1_j23bgzn wrote

That's pretty vague, depends on what your lifestyle is. Mahattan if you want the true NY lifestyle. Hoboken skews younger and more bars etc. Lots of expats in downtown JC. You can commute from the suburbs easily too. I did the same 12 years ago, DM if you have any questions.

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BerryFit3491 OP t1_j23c6g4 wrote

Hi, thanks for your reply. With dogs we need outside space, but coming from a rather dull seaside town in UK , want to experience something different. On radar is Jersey City, Hoboken, suburbs too not against provided the transport links are there

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jcnative t1_j23g1d3 wrote

If you really want a backyard, DT JC isn't a good place to look. If you WFH half the week and the office is JPM or Citi for example in Newport, you're pretty close to Hoboken train station and would probably be better to commute from the suburbs. https://content.njtransit.com/sites/default/files/pdfs/maps/NJTRailSystemMap-Aug2022.pdf

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BerryFit3491 OP t1_j23hsxc wrote

Thanks if I was to consider suburbs, which areas are worth a look?

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DavidPuddy666 t1_j23lbiw wrote

Depends on your income and home budget, whether or not you have kids/need good public schools, etc.

You said you are craving something a little “different”. If you can afford it, Montclair has the most “urban” amenities of any suburb in the area, and has trains that run into Hoboken. Montclair is pricey though. Adjacent Bloomfield can give you access to Montclair’s amenities for a cheaper price.

South Orange is another good choice for an urban/suburban mix. While its downtown isn’t quite as vibrant as Montclair’s, it has a lot going for it, and has really good train service. West Orange is between South Orange and Montclair and is a bit cheaper than both.

You might be able to find a nice house in a yard for a reasonable price in Bayonne too, which is the city just to the south of Jersey City. It’s on the light rail, which will give you a quick, easy, and inexpensive commute to downtown JC. This is probably the best option if you want a yard but see yourself doing most of your socializing in JC and Hoboken.

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TheTuccIsLoose t1_j23no5d wrote

I agree that South Orange, Montclair, west orange, and Bloomfield are all solid options depending on budget. Just want to add that Maplewood is a cool town too and it’s right in the area

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DavidPuddy666 t1_j23pca9 wrote

Maplewood is a good town with lots of culture but is decidedly quieter and less urban-feeling than the ones mentioned above - it’s mostly classic early 1900s suburbia. It shares a school district with South Orange though and the two towns function as one in many ways.

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TheTuccIsLoose t1_j23s8n2 wrote

I’m from South Orange originally. I always thought that Maplewood had more going on, but I haven’t spent significant time in the area since 2008 so maybe things changed or my memory is wrong

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DavidPuddy666 t1_j245img wrote

Things have flip flopped a bit. All the new apartments in South Orange have meant SO has gotten younger and more hip, while Maplewood’s NIMBYism has meant it has just gotten older and wealthier. The trajectory is not dissimilar to how Hoboken has gotten wealthier and stuffier (RIP Maxwell’s) while Jersey City has became more culturally relevant.

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jcnative t1_j256ln4 wrote

If you like the beach, somewhere down the end of the Monmouth line. Mountains end of Morristown, Bergen or Pascack lines. Northeast goes to Princeton. Expensive suburbs like Summit, Short Hills, Milburn. Nice suburbs out from there. Bergen County has classic upper/middle America. Essex more like city fringe. This is a big city that covers a lot of space.

Its worth saying the trains a slow and infrequent compared to UK so JC is actually pretty good. :)

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Jeff3412 t1_j240a29 wrote

How big are the dogs/how much space do they need? Depending on budget you can get a small backyard in Hoboken or JC. Private backyard costing more than one shared with the building.

Also how are they with other dogs? Since most people don't have yards there are some dog parks scattered around Jersey City, Hoboken, and NYC itself.

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Economy-Cupcake808 t1_j243mg6 wrote

Jc isn’t really a good place to look for a backyard. It can be done if you’ve got millions to spend on a house. Maybe look further out past Newark in the deep suburbs. Lots of nice cute little towns where you can get full houses that will be substantially cheaper than JC. Places like maplewood, union, etc.

Research by looking at the areas around nj transit rail stations.

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Mindless-Budget9019 t1_j2950jf wrote

You can get a condo with a backyard for 600,000-800,000 in the heights, JC easily.

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ribasad t1_j23wjcj wrote

What's your take home income? That'll play a factor in to your location. A space big enough for 2 dogs will most likely be a ground floor or basement level apartment, with hopefully a shared (with neighbors) backyard.

Downtown Jersey City is fun; you’ll have access to a good number of restaurants/bars in dtJC & can be in Manhattan in 20 to 30 minutes, and then you can also enjoy awesome hikes, and trails in NJ in the spring or fall. You can also have a fun beach day with your partner & dogs at the Jersey Shore in the summer.

Zillow & other apartment searching apps have a Dogs/Cats filter, but be sure to also ask the broker/landlord/management if dogs are allowed.

If you embrace diversity, you'll love JC. Amazing variety of cuisines, cultural celebrations, etc.

Also- you can use the Turo app to rent a car/sub/truck for a day or two, if you're not looking to take on car ownership

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ribasad t1_j23wkpg wrote

Please don't hesitate to DM if you have any questions- happy to help.

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BerryFit3491 OP t1_j25qfn1 wrote

Thanks this is really helpful

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ribasad t1_j25qkbv wrote

I'm looking to sublease my downtown jersey city apartment for 2-3 months actually haha

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knit_run_bike_swim t1_j23eq58 wrote

If the dogs need a lot of space, look at communipaw and light rail into downtown JC (assuming that’s where the office is). Liberty state park is a true gem (and under utilized)! Get a car.

Other than that, I’ve moved cross country three times (I know that that’s different than abroad), but corporate owned apartment buildings were a godsend because 1) you can rent sight unseen and 2) they have dedicated staff to deal with the admin details. There are plenty of new buildings in downtown to choose from. Many parks to walk to although I have never seen so many lawless pet owners that don’t pick up after their dog. It’s so out of hand. Good luck!

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postbox134 t1_j23ibb5 wrote

I did the same move as you a few years ago. I assume your job is in manhattan? Edit: you said jc sorry

I find JC a great compromise between nyc while still having the option to head out from the city fairly easily.

One perk of New Jersey over New York is that you can swapa UK Driving Licence for a NJ one without having to do a road test. This is much quicker and easier. Also council tax here (property tax) is much more expensive (2% of the value per year) and is included in rent.

If you choose to live in New York City you'll pay an additional "city tax" which will increase how much you pay income tax. Worth bearing in mind.

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yapl0x t1_j24edg5 wrote

We live in the Heights. Not exactly where all the action is (that's more Downtown) but if you want a quiet neighborhood with reasonable-ish rental prices, it's a good place to be. There's also a few nice parks and sidewalks for walking your dogs.

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danm888 t1_j23njnb wrote

How do! Brit in Hamilton Park, via LA first.

There are places with back yards more than good enough for 2 dogs but depending on their sociability, there are lots of dog parks and dog runs plus a lot of places are very dog friendly making urban or waterside walking an ease.

Your budget will probably be good with a work move. I'd highly recommend Hamilton Park or DTJC below Columbus. Either location, you're close to the PATH stations.

Hoboken is ok but floods a lot and is full of college kids. Easy to get to though for excellent shopping and restaurants. Out in the 'burbs is ok but you will need a car. We hardly use ours. Compromise is hire at weekends when needed from Avis or Hertz.

DM if you want to know more!

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BerryFit3491 OP t1_j25qujt wrote

Thanks looking into Hamilton Park and DTJC south of Columbus, maybe Paulus Hook ?

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danm888 t1_j25ryul wrote

Both excellent and quite distinct in their own ways. Happy to help via DM if you want. We moved to JC sight unseen during the height of pre vaccine lockdown but landed on our feet with bars, travel and shops.

And Paulus Hook might have a Whole Foods before the next Ice Age...

You're probably seeing lots of good and bad recommendations for which letting agents/developers to go with so I could also help there with my completely biased and brilliant opinion!

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BerryFit3491 OP t1_j25t2ne wrote

Thanks and where did you end up? Happy to hear your tips on the best real estate companies

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Britinnj t1_j25l1h3 wrote

Hey there, we moved from the UK in 2016 for work, pets and all, so if you want to hit me up with any questions/ a friendly face when you get here, just drop me a DM.

We moved with very little knowledge of the local area and landed in Hamilton Park, which we have never regretted for a second. Walkable, quiet, safe, friendly people l, easy access to NYC etc. definitely not the cheapest area, and parking can be a nightmare, but if you can swing it, I’d recommend it.

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BerryFit3491 OP t1_j25rcnn wrote

Thanks so much will keep you posted , Hamilton Park sounds really good

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JcpaNYC t1_j25o8t9 wrote

Agree with what most others have said.

The one difference worth looking into depending on budget is hilltop neighborhood. You get the affordability of JSQ, but you are not IN JSQ. Short walk to downtown/Hamilton park/ JSQ path station. Plenty of options with backyards too

Most underrated bang for buck in the area imo

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Jimmoe t1_j25zs8s wrote

I second this opinion on The Hilltop -- we moved here 20 years ago from Paulus Hook. It's cheaper, quieter and way less floody than downtown -- stay away from garden-level apartments downtown and the lower-lying areas of Paulus Hook.

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JournalSquire t1_j295767 wrote

But isn’t construction in Hilltop a nightmare? I read SCF complaints every day from your area about the lack of sidewalks for pedestrians and construction starting at 5am. Also the Ward councilman here is a dunce. Doesn’t even know how to use email. Poor constituent services. At least Downtown people get a good councilman who is responsive.

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JcpaNYC t1_j29901e wrote

I think that talk is mostly just a political show. I have not been bothered at all.

There is one corner (end corner of jsq/hilltop) that has two towers going up. I suppose if someone lives right next to that (effects maybe 5 homes max) the noise would be very annoying. The real noise driver comes from the pile driving that typically only lasts a few months and for these two buildings is already complete.

I understand why a select few could be annoyed- I however look forward to the coffee shops/restaurants/grocery stores that are set to open there in the coming year+. Traffic is also a complete non issue. I think the real complaints are coming from those who don’t want new (wealthier/gentrified) people moving in. Which to them is a very fair complaint- but this is what happens in cities and OP just asked for a place to move so I ignored the political/social aspects and provided what I think is a great area to move to both from affordability perspective + proximity to downtown

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Open-Advertising-869 t1_j24vuww wrote

Moved to JC from UK. If you need space then it depends what lifestyle do you want? House with garden? Hamilton Park might have options.

Want an apartment instead? Try downtown if its in your budget, near Grove Street, or along the Light Rail near the Riverside to the south.

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Substantial-Floor926 t1_j23nk4n wrote

Assuming your budget is sufficient which it seems like it is and based on what you are looking for, I would strongly suggest anywhere downtown Jersey city. Suburbs would probably be disappointing as would other neighborhoods like the heights or other towns like Bayonne

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BaldoSUCKIT t1_j24dy2d wrote

Did the same move and eventually got married with 2 dogs. Highly recommend Hamilton park. Family friendly and a little quieter with a quick walk to downtown for going out etc. Then you have local bars like ed&marys with a bunch of British expats!

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slickmartini t1_j23vf7y wrote

When are you moving? We’re leaving our apt in Paulus Hook in February. It has a yard, 1bed, den and 2 baths and a block from the water. DM if you’d like more info.

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certifiedforgedcheck t1_j23y65d wrote

Downtown JC by Liberty State Park would probably be ideal. Not sure what your budget is, but maybe somewhere around Zeppelin Hall, Surf City, Golden Cicada. You’d be close to a Light Rail stop and walking/biking distance to the PATH.

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BerryFit3491 OP t1_j25rnqp wrote

Thanks yeah that area looks good especially with the dogs in mind

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MichaelDeMarcoCEO t1_j244ayk wrote

Sounds like you need a backyard. I may be renting my place (2 bedroom private backyard, low rent for the area) in downtown. Can I message you once I know? Should be in the next few days.

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Jctexan t1_j24c1yz wrote

I think you would prefer downtown JC (Montclair and Maplewood/SO are better suburbs with walkable downtowns, but you will need a car). But downtown JC is probably what you’re really after lifestyle wise. Tons of restaurants, bars, gyms, etc all walkable. I wouldn’t bother with a car, I would just rent as needed on weekends or take the train though US trains pale in comparison to Europe.

I’m a realtor and would be happy to help you find what you like and can do virtual tours to help you get a feel for an area. I think you’ll prefer the ease and charm of downtown Jersey City.

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JournalSquire t1_j295uit wrote

Agreed — no need for a car. It’s already so congested all over NJ. Easy access to things when living downtown.

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JerseyCityGeordie t1_j256uu1 wrote

I recommend looking at the areas you can afford and then come back to this thread and ask about those areas. Jersey City is huge by itself, let alone the surrounding area.

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BerryFit3491 OP t1_j25si9f wrote

Budget is good so cost of area hopefully not an issue

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Plus_Mix6915 t1_j256yrk wrote

Depends on what you're looking for. Like a lot of commenters noted, there are a lot of good dog-friendly parks in the area. Apartments with personal/small-group shared yards are rare and fairly small in the area. But there are a lot of managed buildings with large outdoor spaces if it's financially/style what you want. I love Columbus Towers, big outdoor space and LOTS of dogs here, plus it's nice to have someone at a front desk to manage things esp if you're getting used to the area. I'd usually recommend trying the larger apartments for a year to ease into to neighborhood, but it's definitely not for everyone.

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Express_Stage9490 t1_j2776r3 wrote

Congrats! Making the reverse move myself :) without a sense of your budget or the size of your dogs (are they small, medium or large?), it’s hard to specifically advise but I can reiterate that Paulus Hook is great. With two dogs, a yard is ideal but there are also a lot of dog friendly buildings in the area and you’re near Van Vorst Park and Morris Canal Park where the dogs have the time of their lives (especially Morris Canal Park). My building, which has a ton of residents with dogs, has a dog run attached to it. Near Hamilton Park is also great (as is Hoboken!). All are also very close to the waterfront, which has some of the best walking routes with gorgeous views of NYC. It’s also mostly clean (especially compared to NYC), close to Manhattan via the path or you can take the ferry if you want to mix it up. Good luck with your move!

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xmrseanx t1_j289hhr wrote

If you're willing to commute from the suburbs towns mentioned before like Montclair, Maplewood, South Orange are really nice (especially if you have children) but you will find a bigger bargain and quicker commute from towns like Rutherford, Lyndhurst, North Arlington and Nutley. These are less ritzy but all are safe, quiet, have a train station or very close to one and dog friendly. You will also still have access to backyards but expect them to be smaller as towns closer to the city have smaller property boundaries. I commute from this area and it only takes me about 30 minutes to get to my office in downtown Jersey City. The things is though if you don't move to JC, Hoboken or Bayonne you will need to purchase an automobile. Its an additional cost but it opens up all of NJ, NY state and beyond for exploration.

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chazthetic t1_j23w8t4 wrote

Depending on your budget, the Newport area is expensive but convenient to the train and very close to lots of restaurants and the grove street area. Plus it’s on the water, so you can rent apartments with some killer views.

For the pups, our building had a dog run that makes walking them very easy

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Maleficent-Baby-1926 t1_j24aqky wrote

look in Bergen Lafayette JC. Plenty of parks for walking dogs and you can rent out 3 bedroom duplexes for ~2.1k a month. good access to light rail to down town and Manhattan as well as access to major roadways to go to other parts of NJ. very underrated location imo

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