If you’re considering a move to the vibrant area just across the Hudson River from New York City, you’ll want to explore each of these unique communities in Jersey City. This area offers a range of New Jersey homes for sale, amenities, and attractions to suit all lifestyles.
Whether looking for family-friendly parks like Van Vorst Park or Hamilton Park or seeking proximity to bustling Grove Street with its shops and restaurants, we have you covered. So read on as we rank and reveal what makes each of these Jersey City neighborhoods truly special.
Top Jersey City Neighborhoods Ranked
If you’re considering a move to Jersey City, finding the perfect neighborhood that fits your lifestyle and needs is essential. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top neighborhoods in Jersey City, each with its unique charm and amenities.
Bergen-Lafayette
Population: 22,000
Median Income: $64,000
Median Home Price: $570K
As the oldest neighborhood in Jersey City, Bergen-Lafayette has a storied history. Today, it’s an upscale neighborhood that has transformed into a magnet for artists, young professionals, and families. The neighborhood boasts excellent schools like Dr. Lena Edwards Academic Charter School and Infinity Institute High School and numerous parks, sports fields, playgrounds, and water play areas.
Located just west of the Historic Downtown, Bergen-Lafayette is served by the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail, providing easy access to other parts of the city and beyond. Bergen-Lafayette is one of the quieter neighborhoods in Jersey City but still has plenty of parks, including Lafayette Park, eateries, cafés to grab a cup of coffee, and walkable stores. Moreover, the Historic District contains a fine collection of preserved Victorian homes and row houses, Art Deco structures, and Edwardian mansions.
The Bergen-Lafayette real estate market has seen significant growth due to new developments and renovations of historic buildings. If you’re ready to explore all that Bergen-Lafayette has to offer, a local real estate agent can provide personalized assistance in finding your dream home.
Journal Square
Population: 24,000
Median Income: $60,000
Median Home Price: $420K
Journal Square is synonymous with the Journal Square Transportation Center, one of the busiest hubs in the entire state. Named after the Jersey Journal newspaper, this quaint neighborhood is bustling with various amenities like shopping centers, restaurants, and educational institutions.
Thanks to its prime location, this area is ideal for families, young professionals, and commuters. In particular, the neighborhood is home to several schools and hospitals, while major employers include the government, healthcare, and technology sectors.
The Journal Square real estate market is dynamic, with a mix of historic brownstones, modern condos for sale in New Jersey, and new developments. Housing options cater to various budgets and tastes, from open-plan apartments to upscale townhomes.
With a median home price of around $420K, Journal Square offers relatively affordable options compared to other parts of Jersey City.
The Heights
Population: 53,000
Median Income: $62,000
Median Home Price: $450K
Reflecting its name, The Heights stands 100 feet above sea level, giving residents glimpses of Manhattan’s skyline. This neighborhood is firmly middle class, blending convenience and charm. With its tree-lined streets and many shops and restaurants, The Heights has become increasingly popular among families looking for a safe and welcoming community.
While the neighborhood evokes a quintessential small-town feel, residents still benefit from more than 200 stores running along the 12-block thoroughfare Central Avenue. Elsewhere, Pershing Field is an ideal refuge for individuals and families alike looking to swim, ice skate, or simply enjoy the outdoors.
Real estate in The Heights has experienced higher prices. However, plenty of housing options at affordable prices are still available. Whether searching for single-family homes or multi-unit investment opportunities, we can help you find your dream home in this and other sought-after neighborhoods.
Downtown Jersey City
Population: 37,000
Median Income: $104,000
Median Home Price: $720K
Downtown Jersey City is a bustling urban neighborhood that perfectly blends city living and suburban charm. Despite being one of the liveliest parts of Jersey, Downtown offers residents a cozy atmosphere, helped in large part by its tree-lined streets.
The heart of Downtown is filled with trendy restaurants, boutique shops, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife options. While Downtown features contemporary high-rise condos, the neighborhood also features beautiful brownstones.
Many of these elegant, historic structures are found surrounding Hamilton Park and Van Vorst Park. Downtown’s demand for properties continues to grow due to its proximity to New York City via PATH trains or ferries at Exchange Place Terminal.
The Waterfront
Population: 30,000
Median Income: $102,500
Median Home Price: $750K
Located along the Hudson River, The Waterfront is one of Jersey City’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Here, residents get to take in breathtaking vistas of the Manhattan skyline or enjoy relaxing walks along the picturesque promenade.
With a mix of luxury high-rise condos and modern apartments available for rent or purchase, this area attracts professionals seeking an upscale urban lifestyle.
Amenities in The Waterfront include an array of parks such as Liberty State Park, shopping centers like Newport Centre Mall, fine dining options at restaurants like Battello, and easy access to public transportation via the PATH train or NY Waterway ferry service. Top-rated schools nearby make it ideal for families with children.
According to recent data, home prices have been steadily increasing over the past few years. The real estate market in The Waterfront is anticipated to remain on an upward trajectory as more individuals become aware of the perks of living there.
Liberty Park
Population: 6,000
Median Income: $80,000
Median Home Price: $450K
Nestled along the Hudson River waterfront and adjacent to Liberty State Park, Liberty Park is a picturesque neighborhood that offers panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline. The area boasts an array of outdoor recreational activities such as biking, jogging trails, picnic areas, and even ferry access to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
The real estate offerings in the neighborhood range from classic single-family dwellings to contemporary condominiums. With its proximity to excellent schools like Liberty Science Center High School, this community is ideal for families seeking top-notch educational opportunities in a serene environment.
In addition to its natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere, Liberty Park provides easy access to major employers in Jersey City’s bustling downtown district via efficient public transportation options like the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail system. This makes it an attractive choice for professionals seeking a tranquil escape from city life without sacrificing career growth opportunities.
Greenville
Population: 47,000
Median Income: $48,500
Median Home Price: $350K
Located in the south of Jersey City, Greenville is an inviting and family-friendly area offering a variety of housing choices. From charming single-family homes to modern condos and apartments, Greenville offers something for everyone.
This affordable neighborhood boasts numerous parks, such as Berry Lane Park and Bayside Park, providing ample outdoor space. Residents can appreciate the beauty of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline thanks to its proximity to Liberty State Park and the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway.
The real estate market in Greenville has seen steady growth over recent years due to its affordability compared to other Jersey City neighborhoods. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned real estate investor, local agents would be happy to assist you in finding your dream home or investment property within this up-and-coming community.
Hackensack Riverfront
Population: 12,000
Median Income: $68,000
Median Home Price: $450K
The Hackensack Riverfront neighborhood is an up-and-coming area that offers a mix of residential neighborhoods and commercial spaces. Its convenient location gives people the best of both worlds:
Its proximity to the waterfront and various parks, such as Liberty National Golf Course, Hackensack, is convenient for those seeking a peaceful living space but still desire the convenience of easy access to Jersey City’s attractions. The nearby Hudson-Bergen Light Rail station makes commuting into Manhattan or other parts of New York City simple and convenient.
The real estate market in this neighborhood has been flourishing, with various types of dwellings available – from single-family houses to swanky condos. To stay updated on the latest listings in Hackensack Riverfront, consider signing up for listing alerts here.
West Side
Population: 25,000
Median Income: $58,500
Median Home Price: $400K
With its mix of residential streets and bustling commercial areas like West Side Avenue, this neighborhood offers a little something for everyone.
The housing options here range from charming single-family homes to modern condominiums catering to various budgets and preferences. Furthermore, various new projects are being carried out that will further improve the attractiveness of this up-and-coming locality.
A standout feature of West Side is its abundance of green spaces, including Lincoln Park – one of Hudson County’s largest parks – offering sports fields, playgrounds, and walking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Furthermore, New Jersey City University (NJCU), located within the neighborhood boundaries, attracts students from all over, adding a youthful energy to the area.
Lincoln Park
Population: 11,000
Median Income: $43,000
Median Home Price: $427K
At the heart of Lincoln Park is a historic greenspace featuring wetlands, rec fields, and sporting facilities. The area attracts young professionals and growing families and offers a relatively straightforward commute to New York City.
Nearby, the Hackensack River offers stunning waterfront views, while Hudson Mall offers a decent selection of stores and chain restaurants.
McGinley Square
Population: 18,000
Median Income: $57,000
Median Home Price: $325K
McGinley Square, south of Journal Square, offers an urban feel with plenty of green spaces. Most homes in the area are historic brownstones converted into apartments or condos. In recent years, the square has seen growth in restaurants, stores, and bars. That’s helped by this neighborhood being one of the most walkable in Jersey City.
If you’re interested in buying property in McGinley Square or any other Jersey City neighborhood, at eXp Realty we can set you up with listing alerts so you never miss a chance at your new dream home!
Country Village
Population: 72,000
Median Income: $67,000
Median Home Price: $500K
Country Village is a residential area designed as “suburbia in the city” in the southwest Greenville area of Jersey City’s West Side. The area features one and two-family homes in various styles, including colonials, Cape Cod-style, and ranches.
The area is enclosed on the west, and southern borders by NJ Route 440, so waterfront access is limited. It went through a population decline in the 1950s but has seen an upward tick in recent years.
FAQs: Jersey City Neighborhoods
Let’s look at some frequently asked questions about Jersey City neighborhoods.
What are the main job opportunities in Jersey City?
Main job opportunities in Jersey City are in the finance, healthcare, technology, and government sectors, with a growing focus on start-ups and innovation.
Does Jersey City organize any notable annual events?
Jersey City hosts notable annual events like the Jersey City Art & Studio Tour, the All About Downtown Street Fair, and the Liberty State Park Fireworks.
What is the nicest area in Jersey City?
The nicest area in Jersey City is often considered to be the waterfront district, which offers stunning views, upscale amenities, and a vibrant community.
Is it worth moving to Jersey City?
Moving to Jersey City is worth considering, as it offers diverse job opportunities, a high quality of life, and convenient access to New York City.
Is Jersey City expensive to live in?
Jersey City can be expensive to live in, with relatively high housing costs and cost of living, though it is generally cheaper than New York.
Is Jersey safer than New York City?
Jersey City is considered safer than New York overall, but safety can vary by neighborhood; it’s essential to research specific areas before moving.
What are the most walkable areas of Jersey City?
The most walkable neighborhoods in Jersey City include Downtown Jersey City, Journal Square, and the Waterfront, which offer easy access to amenities, public transportation, and green spaces.
Conclusion
Jersey City is a bustling urban center boasting many distinct districts to explore. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly neighborhood or an area with plenty of nightlife options, there’s something for everyone wishing to move to Jersey City in these communities.
If you’re interested in learning more about buying or selling property in any of these top Jersey City neighborhoods mentioned above, contact our experienced real estate agents at eXp Realty; we’re ready to provide personalized assistance and help you find the home of your dreams. You can start your home search with us for updated listings in Jersey City and everywhere in the US.
