By Maid Sailors General Information • New Jersey • New York City • NYC • Tips and Tricks 2 Comments

Living In Jersey City While Working In NYC

Have you recently accepted a job in New York City? If so, then congratulations! As you prepare to begin your new position, one of the most important steps you’ll need to take is to secure a place to live near your place of employment (if you haven’t done so already). It’s no secret that New York City is one of the most expensive places in the world to live—but believe it or not, working in NYC doesn’t mean you have to live there.

In recent years, more people have begun moving to New Jersey and commuting to their jobs in different areas of New York City, such as Manhattan. Specifically, Jersey City has become a hot-spot for those who work in NYC but want to live somewhere more affordable, all while still being close enough to the Big Apple to commute to work daily.

Before you sign a lease on an overpriced studio apartment in Manhattan, then, be sure to at least explore your options in Jersey City. You may be surprised at how much more affordable it is to live here and how easy the daily commute to your job in New York City can be. By having a better understanding of what living in Jersey City is like, as well as some of the pros and cons of living there while working in New York City, you can ultimately make an informed and confident decision.

About Jersey City

Jersey City, New Jersey is situated along the Hudson River and part of Upper New York Bay. As the second most populated city in New Jersey, its population is estimated at 247,597 as of the 2010 United States Census. Some people actually consider Jersey City to be a “hidden NYC borough” due to the fact that the commute is significantly shorter between Manhattan and Jersey City than it is between Manhattan and many other NYC neighborhoods.

While not nearly as large as New York City, Jersey City is still a relatively large city and offers plenty in the way of arts and entertainment, dining, and more. Major employers in the city’s bustling downtown area include Barclays and Goldman Sachs.

Benefits of Living in Jersey City

Whether you’ve already accepted a job offer in New York City or are seeking employment in the Big Apple, there are many reasons to consider calling Jersey City home.

Lower Overall Cost of Living

Despite the proximity, the overall cost of living in Jersey City is significantly lower than any of the neighborhoods in New York City. According to Numbeo.com data, overall consumer prices in New York City are more than 25% higher than they are in Jersey City. Groceries, dining, and general consumer goods are also much higher in NYC than they are in Jersey City. If you’re looking to make your budget stretch as far as possible, then, you’ll get a lot more out of your money when living in Jersey City as opposed to an expensive NYC neighborhood like Manhattan.

More Affordable/Available Real Estate

In addition to the overall cost of living being more affordable in Jersey City, real estate (both rentals and purchases) is much more affordable and easy to come by in Jersey City. In fact, rent prices in New York City are estimated to be around 65% higher than rent in Jersey City.

Let’s look at a specific example for comparison. According to Business Insider, the average monthly cost of living in Jersey City is about $2,000. This includes a mortgage payment of about $1,300, in addition to property taxes and similar costs. In Manhattan, the average monthly cost of living is more than $4,500 per month, including a typical mortgage payment nearly $3,700.

With lower mortgage and rental costs in Jersey City, this may mean you’ll be able to afford a nicer/larger place or that you’re able to pocket that extra money that you otherwise would have spent on your costly NYC rent. Many people also find that they don’t need to find roommates to afford a place to live in Jersey City, whereas you may find it necessary to find one or several roommates to comfortably afford a place in an NYC neighborhood like Manhattan or Queens.

There also tends to be less competition for places to live in Jersey City, which could make it less stressful for you to find and secure a place to live. All too often, the biggest challenge of moving to NYC is finding and securing a place to live before it gets taken off the market.

Lower Taxes

The sales taxes in Jersey City are also much lower than that of New York City’s. Specifically, NYC has a whopping 8.5% sales tax, whereas Jersey City’s is just 3.5%. This means you’ll save even more money on the goods you purchase while living in Jersey City. New Jersey also has no sales tax on clothing/apparel items, so you can save money if you need to stock up on a new wardrobe for work.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

While there are plenty of advantages to living in Jersey City while working in New York City, there are some potential drawbacks to consider as well.

Commute Costs and Time

When you live in Jersey City and work in NYC, you’ll have to commute. Depending on where your place of employment is located and what time of day you need to travel in/out of work, you could end up spending a fair amount of time on your daily commute. Commuting can also add up in terms of cost. However, it is worth noting that even if you lived in New York City, you’d probably still have a commute to get to your work each day.

You may be able to alleviate some of your commute costs and time by inquiring with your employer about potentially working remotely one or two days a week. More employers are open to this option than ever before, though it may not be appropriate for all industries.

Different Vibe/Lifestyle

For those who love New York City and its unique vibe, the simple fact is that you cannot recreate the NYC lifestyle anywhere else. Jersey City, like living in Weehawken, has a lot to offer and has its own unique culture, but it is by no means similar to that of New York City. With this in mind, those who are really looking forward to becoming a “true New Yorker” may not be happy living in Jersey City.

Potential Tax/Withholding Confusion

Any time you’re living in a different state than the one in which you work, there can be some confusion when it comes to tax withholding and paying your state taxes. You may need to consult with a tax professional to make sure you’re paying the appropriate amounts to each state; otherwise, you may face underpayment penalties when it comes time to file.

The good news is that it’s extremely common for people to live in New Jersey while working in NYC, so it shouldn’t be too difficult to work this out and avoid problems.

Jersey City Real Estate

Now that you have a better understanding of the inherent pros and cons of living in Jersey City while working in New York City, you may be wondering what to expect when it comes to seeking out Jersey City real estate. Whether you’re interested in buying or renting, there are some important things to keep in mind.

Which Neighborhood is Right For You?

Start by getting a better feel for the different neighborhoods in Jersey City; this way, you can ultimately narrow down which neighborhoods will best suit your lifestyle and budget. For example, if you want the “big city” feel, then you’ll probably want to look in downtown Jersey City for your next home or you may want to check out Hoboken. There are plenty of condominium and apartment buildings in downtown Jersey City, though single-family homes here can be a little more difficult to come by. Still, downtown is a great place to live if you want to be within easy walking distance to nightlife, restaurants, and much more of what Jersey City has to offer.

Another popular neighborhood to consider is that of Paulus Hook; this particular neighborhood is the closest to Manhattan, making for the shortest commute if that’s where you’ll be working. It’s actually only one mile across the river from Paulus-Hook to Manhattan. This neighborhood also has a charming small-town feel with plenty of great local shops and restaurants.

The Bergen-Lafayete neighborhood is another one to consider, especially if you’re looking to live somewhere that is rich in culture and diversity. There are a lot of luxury rental options here, but if you’re on a budget, you’ll have options for both buying and renting as well.

Getting to NYC From Jersey City

If you’re interested in living in Jersey City while you work in NYC, you’ll want to take some time and research your transportation options so you know just how to get to work each day. Perhaps the most popular commuting option to get between New Jersey and New York City is the PATH train, which runs 24 hours a day and provides direct routes from Jersey City to Midtown Manhattan, downtown Manhattan, and most of Brooklyn.

In addition to the PATH train, there are also plenty of bus lines that run directly from Jersey City to different parts of New York City. These tend to be independently run, so prices can vary. Still, this is an option worth checking out. Just be aware that you may be prone to being stuck in traffic if you need to commute during popular times of day, such as rush hour.

Ferries across the Hudson River are another great transportation option—and depending on where in Jersey City you live, this could be the most practical and affordable commuting choice as well. And of course, you’ll enjoy beautiful skyline views (and no stand-still rush-hour traffic) when you take the ferry in to work.

Tips for a Smooth Move

Leaning towards moving to Jersey City and commuting to work in NYC? If so, there are some tips you’ll want to keep in mind to ensure that your move goes as smoothly as possible.

Hire a Team of Professionals

When it comes to loading and transporting all of your belongings, hiring a team of professional movers is one of the best choices you can make. This is especially true if you’ll be moving to or from a high-rise, where getting items in and out can be a real challenge. You will also need to hire a Jersey City maid service that is familiar with all the cleaning procedures in the city.

Consider a Broker or Real Estate Agent

While real estate is more affordable and readily available in Jersey City than it is in New York City, there is still some competition. By working with a real estate agent or broker, you may have an easier time finding a place that suits your needs and budget. These professionals will also help to ensure you’re getting a fair deal while serving as a line of communication between you and the seller or landlord/property management company.

Keep an Open Mind

If you have your heart set on living in a specific neighborhood in Jersey City, try to keep an open mind to seeing rentals or homes for sale in other parts of the city as well. Keeping an open mind can go a long way in taking the stress out of your home search and ultimately making it easier to find a place that works with your lifestyle needs and budget.

Inquire About Relocation Assistance

It never hurts to ask if your employer offers any kind of relocation assistance as part of your job offer. Some employers will kick in a certain dollar amount to go towards your move. This can help to cover the costs related to hiring movers or even furnishing your new place.

Don’t Overlook Professional Cleaners

Before you move into your new place, consider hiring professionals to perform a thorough move-in cleaning so you can save yourself the time and hassle of cleaning the place yourself. From there, you can move all your furniture in with confidence and not have to lift a finger when it comes to cleaning. Maid Sailors is proud to offer move-in/move-out services to take the stress out of your next move. If you’ll be moving out of a place in New York City, you can trust us with your move-out cleaning as well!

Overall, living in Jersey City while working in New York City can be a smart move—both from a budgetary and practical standpoint. You’ll be able to make your budget go further and have an easier time finding a great place to live.

By Maid Sailors General Information • New Jersey 0 Comments

Things To Do In Weehawken

Located on the Hudson River in New Jersey, Weehawken is a popular destination for its historical landmarks, parks, and piers. Its raised elevation along the Hudson Palisades also makes it an ideal location to enjoy sweeping views of the Hudson River and downtown Manhattan.

Top 5 Things to Do in Weehawken

Whether you’ve recently moved to the area, are planning on moving to Weehawken, or are even visiting as a tourist, there is no shortage of things to see and do. From river tours and memorials to parks and other points of interest, Weehawken has something to offer for everyone. Take a look at our list of the top five things to do for a little inspiration. Keep in mind that some of these activities may be weather-permitting and may not be available during the colder months of winter.

1. Take a Skyline Tour at Hamilton Park

Hamilton Park has an incredible history—and today, it is the sight of many recreational and sightseeing opportunities. Specifically, Hamilton Park hosts the site where Aaron Burr killed Alexander Hamilton in 1804. In this park, you can find a small memorial on the rock where Alexander Hamilton allegedly laid his head after he was wounded in the duel. I

Hamilton Park is situated along Port Imperial Boulevard on the Hudson River, offering excellent views of the New York City Skyline and the beautiful river itself. You can also get these views if you are living in Jersey City or living in Hoboken. The park itself is relatively small in size, but there is plenty to see and do here. One of the more popular attractions offered is the recurring skyline tour, which offers some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline.

There are a number of different tour options available to suit your needs. For example, there are both night and daytime tours, with different stops along the way. These tours are actually available all throughout Weehawken, but one of the more popular pick-up locations is right in Hamilton Park. All transportation is included, and most of these skyline tours include stops for views of the Statue of Liberty as well as a visit to Frank Sinatra’s hometown. This is a must for those who want to enjoy a “behind-the-scenes” view of the Big Apple while taking advantage of some incredible photo opportunities in the process.

Hamilton Park also hosts a summer concert series that typically runs on weekends from July through September. These concerts are free to the public, so consider attending one if you’ll be in the area during the summer months.

2. Visit the World War One Memorial

While you’re at Hamilton Park, you may also want to check out the World War One Memorial. Here, you’ll find a number of monuments and inscriptions in honor of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the United States during what was then simply known as “The World War.” One of the most popular attractions inside the memorial is the Soldiers and Sailors monument, which was built in 1930 and contains a number of bronze figures. Many parts of the memorial are specifically dedicated to Weehawken soldiers who served in the war as well. This memorial is a must-see for those stopping in or around Hamilton Park.

3. Enjoy a Walk Through Old Glory Park

Another park worth checking out if you’ll be visiting Weehawken is that of Old Glory Park, which is a popular destination on Kennedy Boulevard. This small park is situated quite a distance from the Hudson, but its elevation allows for some incredible views of the river and the Manhattan Skyline. Despite its small size, this park remains quite busy year-round (but especially during the months of spring and summer). It is a popular destination for those wanting to take some gorgeous skyline photos of New York City.

Old Glory Park is also located close to popular Weehawken restaurants and offers walking paths, making it a great place to burn off some calories after dinner with a brisk walk. A family-friendly park, it also offers a small playground for children to enjoy. If you’re looking for a hidden gem that’s less crowded than Hamilton Park but still offers beautiful views of the area, this is it.

4. Go on a Dinner Cruise Along the Hudson

Thanks to Weehawken’s location right along the Hudson River, another popular attraction that both locals and tourists enjoy is that of going on a river cruise. There are several different companies that offer Hudson River cruises, including the Spirit of New Jersey. This particular company offers a range of lunch, dinner, and specialty/holiday cruises to suit your needs. With each cruise, guests enjoy incredible views of the Hudson River and New York City skylines. The boat also stops at a number of must-see attractions, such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge, so you can do your sightseeing while you enjoy your hot meal and drinks.

Included in all Spirit of New Jersey cruises are a 2-3 hour ride along both the Hudson and East Rivers, as well as a buffet and unlimited beverages such as water, iced/hot tea, and coffee. Each cruise also has its own DJ and interactive games for everybody to enjoy. Extras and upgrades are also available to take your cruise experience to the next level. For example, consider enjoying a cocktail at the cash bar or making a reservation for a window table for the absolute best views. There is also a professional photographer on-board to take your photo and provide prints on-the-spot.

Additional services and extras are also available for special events, so reach out to the cruise director if you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or other special occasion!

5. Watch the Sunset on Weehawken Recreation Pier

The beautiful Weehawken Recreation Pier opened just a few years ago in October of 2016; this $3.1 million project includes a pier that juts out more than 400 feet into the Hudson River, offering excellent views of the New York City skyline and more. Visit this pier for yourself and you’ll enjoy a number of activities, including a unique “kayak pod” where you can rent and launch kayaks directly into the river. The pier itself was actually designed with an innovative “pod” structure, where each pod offers a different activity.

In addition to the kayaking pod, there is also one for fishing, educational visits (such as those from nearby schools), and a  raised pod for viewing.

This pier is also one of the best places in town to watch a sunrise or sunset; consider packing a picnic basket and enjoying a meal as you take in the breathtaking views. There is also plenty of room on this pier to walk, run, or even ride a bike.

Other Weehawken Attractions

While we’ve picked our top five things to see and do in Weehawken above, there are a few other sights and attractions that deserve an honorable mention and are certainly worth checking out if you’ll be in the area.

The Weehawken Water Tower is an architecturally fascinating structure that was built in 1883. Looming about 175 feet over the city, the tower was originally erected to help transport fresh water from the nearby Hackensack River to local communities, such as Hoboken and Weehawken. Originally, the tower was part of a large complex that included office buildings, shops, and other attractions. Today, only the tower stands—and though it is no longer used for water storage and transport, it still serves as a local point of interest. Today, there is even a small park located around the base of the tower and the city hosts occasional events, such as tours and poetry readings, inside the renovated tower itself.

Weehawken also has a 9/11 Memorial, which is located along the Hudson Riverfront on Port Imperial Boulevard. This memorial opened in 2011 and consists of two large beams that were salvaged from the World Trade Center site. The memorial also features an infinity pool and fountain, serving as a reminder of the lives lost on that fateful day in United States history.

Weehawken also has a public library, which is located in a historic building on Hauxhurst Avenue. The building first opened as a library in 1942 and was both renovated and expanded in 1997. Today, it offers 25 computers available for use to the public, as well as a historical room and a community room. For children, there is also a dedicated kids’ reading area. Throughout the year, the Weehawken Public Library hosts a wide range of free events, including book readings and classes for children of all ages.

Whether you’ll be visiting or living in Weehawken, you’ll also want to check out Park Avenue, which runs through the center of town and is a hub for all kinds of shops, bars, and restaurants. You could easily spend an entire day shopping and dining along Park Avenue. When you’re done, there are a number of parks and other attractions within walking distance as well.

Getting Around Weehawken and Beyond

If you’ll be traveling to Weehawken from another destination, you’ll find that the easiest way to get from local airports like Newark and La Guardia is to take a bus or train to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan. From there, you can easily catch a bus through the Lincoln Tunnel into Weehawken. The town is also easily accessible through the popular PATH rapid transit system.

Once you’re in Weehawken, having a car is certainly the easiest way to get around. There is a decent amount of public parking available for those who have rented cars or who have driven their personal vehicles into town. Bus service is also available throughout Weehawken and Hudson County, though schedules and stops can be somewhat unreliable. For those wanting to take a day trip into Manhattan, there are many 24-hour bus services that offer rides to and from Weehawken and downtown.

Some parts of Weehawken are easily walkable, including areas such as downtown Park Avenue.

Considering a Move to Weehawken?

Many people who live and work in New York City are making the move to Weehawken, and for good reason. Not only is the cost of living significantly lower here than in the Big Apple, but many people also prefer the smaller town vibe that Weehawken has to offer. There is less hustle and bustle, as well as a less dense population. Still, Weehawken is close enough for most to continue with a daily commute into work in downtown Manhattan and other parts of New York City. Ferries, the PATH system, and bus routes are all viable means of getting to New York City from Weehawken and back as part of your daily commute.

Many also enjoy Weehawken for its historical significance and the lower costs of rent/home ownership. Your money will go a lot further in Weehawken than it will in New York City when it comes to renting or buying a home. This makes it a great place to start or raise a family, as there are many more single-family homes available with yard space and more square footage.

If you’re considering a move to Weehawken to enjoy a more relaxed and stress-free lifestyle, you may also want to look into hiring a Weehawken professional cleaning company. A reputable company like Maid Sailors can provide you with the move-out cleaning you need to get your security deposit back at your NYC residence and handle any move-in cleaning or regular cleaning you may need at your new place. From there, you can relax and enjoy the slower pace of life here in Weehawken while still being close to all the action that New York City has to offer.

By Maid Sailors General Information • New Jersey • Tips and Tricks 2 Comments

Raising A Family In Hoboken: What You Need To Know

Whether you’ve recently moved to Hoboken or are considering a move here, you probably have a lot of questions. These questions may be multiplied if you have children or plan on starting a family in the near future. Hoboken is a wonderful town and can be a great place to raise kids, but there are some things you’ll want to know.

You Might Be in the Minority With Kids

For starters, consider the fact that the average citizen in Hoboken is just 30 years of age, is not married, and doesn’t have children. In fact, children make up a very small percentage of the town’s 50,000 people. And while Hoboken can be a great place to start or raise a family due to its low crime and great schools, it is important to understand that you may be in the minority as a parent.

The good news is that there are plenty of online parenting groups that make it easy to connect with and meet other local parents not just in Hoboken, but in the nearby Jersey City and NYC-metropolitan area as well.

Finding Housing for Families in Hoboken

Another potential challenge to consider when it comes to raising a family in Hoboken is simply finding a residence that’s large enough to accommodate a growing family within your budget. The cost of living in Hoboken is already significantly higher than the national average—and housing prices are no exception. Whether you’re looking to buy or rent, you should be prepared to shell out top-dollar for a space that has enough bedrooms, bathrooms, and overall square footage for a family.

Median prices per-square-foot in Hoboken are well over $700, so if you’re looking for a place that has at least two bedrooms and two bathrooms with plenty of living space, you should be prepared to spend a pretty penny. Furthermore, because single-family homes can be difficult to come by in Hoboken, you may have a harder time finding a property in your budget that has yard space for kids.

The good news? There are plenty of parks and area activities to keep your kids entertained without necessarily having yard space of your own. Many condominium buildings have a common yard space that may even include playgrounds or parks. And as an added bonus, you won’t have to worry about doing any yard work or lawn maintenance, as this will likely be built into your monthly HOA cost already.

Hoboken Has Excellent Schools

There are more that 30 different schools across Hoboken, which is pretty impressive when you consider that the entire town of Hoboken consists of less than two square miles. This includes some colleges as well as elementary, middle, and high schools. Private schools can also be found across Hoboken, though the public schooling system here is excellent. Whether they choose to enroll their children in public or private school, parents can feel great about their children’s quality of education in Hoboken.

Family-Friendly Activities in Hoboken

While Hoboken is largely known for its nightlife in the form of bars, taverns, and breweries, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy in Hoboken as well. Because the town is situated right along the Hudson River, many families enjoy regular trips to the waterfront for activities such as fishing and walking. The riverfront also has some great parks that have activities for children of all ages. And of course, setting up a picnic along the water can always make for a great afternoon activity. You can also view our Hoboken activity guide.

Hoboken also has a movie theater, which is a popular spot for families. Here, you can catch the latest movies without having to go far from home.

Still, because of the nightlife in Hoboken, parents should be aware that noise levels (especially at night) can be higher than what you would find in other cities. The high population density, combined with the proximity of bars and clubs, means that the streets of Hoboken can get quite loud at night. Some parents with smaller children may have a harder time adjusting to this, but setting up a white noise machine in your child’s room can help to drown out any street noise. And if you have the ability to choose, you might opt for a unit on an upper floor of your condo or apartment building.

Tips for Busy Parents in Hoboken

Many parents who choose to raise families in Hoboken do so for a number of reasons. For starters, they may work in New York City but prefer to raise their children away from the hustle and bustle of a large city. Many parents are also drawn to the low crime rates in Hoboken, which have always been pretty low but have fallen even more in the past couple of years. All of this, combined with the smaller-town feel of Hoboken’s streets, can make it a great place to start or raise a family.

Still, there are some tips worth keeping in mind if you’re thinking about moving here with children of any age. For starters, understand that the majority of Hoboken residents don’t own cars and that parking can be a challenge. If you have a mini-van or other larger vehicle to accommodate your family, you will probably have a hard time finding a place to park it. Some condominiums or apartments will offer parking lots or parking garages for this purpose, but they will come at a premium.

With the availability of public transportation and the easy walkability of the town, many people get around just fine without a car all year-round. Even if you’ll be working in nearby Manhattan, you should have an easy time getting in and out of the city each day without a car. Meanwhile, you and your children will enjoy getting more exercise by getting around without a vehicle.

Another tip worth keeping in mind for busy Hoboken parents is to consider budgeting for a professional cleaning service. Doing so will allow you to maximize your time with your family while still keeping your home in order. Maid Sailors offers a wide range of professional cleaning services to suit your needs, including move-in/move-out cleanings, routine cleanings, green cleanings, and even deep-cleanings at affordable prices. We also serve NYC and the surrounding areas, including Hoboken.

Find out more about our wide range of professional cleaning services by contacting us today, or schedule your first cleaning using our online form. Either way, having a cleaning service at your Hoboken home is a great way to free up more time to spend with your family—and it’s more affordable than you might think!

By Maid Sailors General Information • New Jersey • Tips and Tricks • Vacation 1 Comment

Living In Hoboken NJ: What You Need To Know

Hoboken, New Jersey is a relatively small town located on the Hudson River waterfront. Its proximity to Manhattan—along with its more affordable cost of living, has made it a popular place to live and work for decades. In recent years, however, more people have been flocking to Hoboken to escape the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple without being too far away from the action.

If you’re considering a move to Hoboken, New Jersey, there are some things you need to know in order to make your decision. From having a better understanding of Hoboken’s housing availability, Hoboken cleaning services, and cost of living to learning more about things to see and do in the area, a little information can go a long way in deciding whether a move to Hoboken is right for you.

General Information About Hoboken

Compared to Manhattan and other major NYC neighborhoods, Hoboken is a relatively small town, consisting of just a little over 53,000 residents according to the 2010 United States Census. Many people who live in Hoboken work in New York City but prefer to live somewhere a little quieter and less densely populated. Despite its small population, however, it is important to realize that the entire town is just 1.25 square miles large. It is also worth noting that the median age of a Hoboken resident is just 30, making it a relatively “young” town.

From a safety standpoint, Hoboken is about as safe as any other urban area that you may be considering a move to. Of course, there is going to be some level of crime no matter where you live, but statistically, instances of violent crime in Hoboken are relatively slim. In fact, overall crime dropped between 2017 and 2018. Violent crime specifically is down 8.4% and non-violent crime is down 19.1%, according to a statement from Hoboken Police Chief Ken Ferrante.

The climate in Hoboken is typical of the northeast United States. Many residents enjoy being able to experience all four seasons throughout the year, and it is worth noting that Hoboken is absolutely beautiful during the fall. During the winter, temperatures can drop quite a bit and snowfall can be significant, though many residents enjoy the beauty of the town during the holiday season. No matter which season is your favorite, you’ll be able to experience it in Hoboken. Unfortunately, that also comes with having to experience your least-favorite season(s)!

Hoboken has some interesting history as well. Did you know, for example, that the first American baseball game was first played in Hoboken back in 1846? Today, Hoboken’s claim-to-fame is that it’s considered the Hipster Capital of America.

Housing Availability and Pricing In Hoboken

From a cost-of-living standpoint, Hoboken is a lot more affordable than nearby Manhattan and other parts of NYC—which is what draws many people to the town in the first place. Still, the cost of living in Hoboken is quite high compared to national averages, earning it an “F” cost-of-living grade from AreaVibes.com. When you live in Hoboken, you will pay more for everything from basic groceries and goods to housing, so you’ll want to be prepared.

Speaking of housing, there is a high demand for housing in Hoboken due to the large influx of people who have been moving to the area in the past several years. Currently, the demand for housing outweighs the supply, which can make finding housing within your budget a bit challenging. The good news is that there is new residential housing development happening all across town, so there should be greater availability as these begin opening up.

The majority of the housing in Hoboken comes in the form of apartments or condominiums. Single-family homes are few and far between—and as you can probably imagine, the costs of single-family homes in Hoboken are astronomical. Even smaller condominiums can easily start around $250,000 for those interested in buying, as the median cost-per-square-foot hovers around $738. Meanwhile, the median rental price is $2,725 per month. Still, this is significantly less than the median rental rate for Manhattan, which is a whopping $3,400 per month.

Because of Hoboken’s small size, there’s a good chance that wherever you live will be relatively close to nearby nightlife and other entertainment. For this reason, Hoboken is generally not the place to move if you’re wanting to avoid noise or you are raising a family in Hoboken. Unless you can secure a high-rise rental, you’re probably going to experience some street noise. Hoboken is not a quiet town, especially when you take into consideration its relatively young residents and the colleges in the area.

Job Availability and Hot Industries In Hoboken

If you’ll be seeking employment when you move to Hoboken, it’s worth noting that the top employers in the town are in the following industries:

There are more than 30 schools in Hoboken, including the Stevens Institute of Technology, so these educational institutions are major employers. Many people who live in Hoboken also work in New York City, particularly in nearby Manhattan.

What About Parking and Getting Around?

Wondering if you need a car to live in Hoboken? This will depend largely on where you’ll be working. For most, there is no need to own a car because the entire town is so small that it’s easily walkable. You’ll never be more than a few minutes’ walk from local bars, grocery stores, and other essentials.

In fact, if you own a car, you may actually want to consider selling it before you move to Hoboken, as parking can be difficult (and costly) to come by. Street parking is available with a monthly permit, but actually finding street parking can be a challenge. Meanwhile, some apartment buildings may have their own parking garages or parking lots available, but these will certainly come at a premium.

Getting rid of your car before moving to Hoboken will also help you avoid the notoriously high auto insurance rates that exist within the town. And if you ever need to head into the Big Apple, there are plenty of options to help you get around. There’s a bike-share program for getting around within the city and nearby suburbs, as well as a free shuttle service and inexpensive cab rides.

Is Hoboken Pet-Friendly?

If you have a dog or have been thinking about getting one after you move, you’ll be thrilled to learn that Hoboken is an incredibly dog-friendly town. Most businesses are happy to allow dogs inside and out, with the exception being restaurants and bars that serve food. This means you can more-or-less bring your dog wherever you go. There are also plenty of dog-friendly paths throughout town that are wide enough to comfortably walk with your dog.

One of the main challenges to consider when it comes to owning a dog as a Hoboken resident is the availability of housing with yard space. Unless you have a larger budget, there’s a good chance the place where you end up living won’t have much of a yard (if it has any at all). Instead, you may need to share common space with other residents or find a local park to take your dog to on a regular basis.

For this reason, many dog owners in Hoboken have dogs that are smaller breeds. These smaller breed dogs don’t require quite as much space (which is ideal in Hoboken’s smaller residences) nor do they necessarily require outdoor space to use the bathroom. Some smaller breeds, for example, can be trained to use indoor potty pads. Of course, this isn’t to say that you cannot have a large-breed dog when you live in Hoboken; plenty of residents have larger dogs. You’ll just need to be more diligent about taking them out on walks and to local dog parks so they can get plenty of exercise.

Things to See and Do in Hoboken

Hoboken is located right along the Hudson River, so you’ll never need to go far to enjoy a beautiful waterfront view of the New York City skyline similar to what you would see if you were living in Jersey City. There are also plenty of parks where you can enjoy such activities as fishing, walking, and picnicking without having to go far from home.

Where Hoboken really shines, however, is in its nightlife offerings. Everywhere you turn, it seems there are taverns, clubs, and bars to choose from. This makes sense, given that Hoboken is considered to be the “Birthplace of American Brewing. ” And of course, if you ever want to venture into Manhattan or other parts of New York City, you’re not far from all the nightlife and entertainment that the Big Apple has to offer as well.

Tips For a Move to Hoboken, NJ

If you’re serious about relocating to Hoboken, you may be wondering where to begin. Because of the high demand for housing in Hoboken, finding a place that fits your needs and budget can be a challenge. The good news is that there are some tips you can follow to make your move to Hoboken a smoother one.

Consider a Broker

One option to consider to help your search for a new home, especially if you’re planning on renting, is to hire a broker. Specifically, a broker works in a similar capacity to a real estate agent by helping clients find and secure the right rental properties for their needs and budgets. In return, you end up paying your broker a percentage of your rent or a flat fee, depending on the agreed-upon set-up.

In a town like Hoboken where real estate is already difficult to come by, having a broker can be worth the added cost. Often times, brokers will have access to new listing information before it even hits the market, which may help you snag that perfect rental before someone else does. On the flip side, it may be worth contacting some rental properties directly (especially newer ones) to inquire about availability before you shell out money for a broker. You never know what you might find.

Read the Fine Print

When renting in Hoboken or Weehawken, make sure to read your lease agreement thoroughly before you sign. Ideally, you should receive a copy of your lease agreement to review prior to the day of your scheduled lease signing. This will give you the time needed to read everything and request clarification on key points as needed. For example, your lease may specify an end of lease cleaning that you may be liable for. Specifically, make sure to look for clauses regarding parking availability if you plan on bringing a car with you. If you plan on bringing a pet or adopting one once you move in, you’ll also want to find out what your landlord’s restrictions or rules are regarding breeds, pet fees, and additional deposits.

Don’t Skimp on Movers

Whether you’re relocating from nearby Manhattan or from somewhere across the country, hiring professional movers to assist you is almost always worth the cost. A moving company can take a lot of the stress out of relocating and getting settled into your new place. And with many residences in Hoboken being located within multiple-story buildings, the last thing you want is to have to haul your heavy furniture up a set of stairs. Leave it to the professionals instead. Hiring movers will be some of the best money you spend on your upcoming move.

Hire a Move-In/Move-Out Cleaner

Before you move into your new place in Hoboken, you may also want to consider hiring a professional cleaning service. Specifically, look for a company that offers move-in cleanings, which will ensure that your new place is spotless and ready for you to move your belongings in. Hiring a cleaner to take care of this can save you the time, stress, and hassle of trying to clean the space yourself before your big move.

If you’re moving out of another apartment in the NYC area, you may also want to hire the same company to complete a move-out cleaning service. Again, this will save you time and may help you more easily obtain your security deposit from your landlord.

At Maid Sailors, we offer move-in and move-out cleaning services for NYC and the surrounding areas, including Hoboken! We also offer routine cleaning, green/eco-friendly cleaning, laundry service, deep cleaning, organization services, and much more. Ultimately, our goal is to take the stress and hassle of cleaning off your hands so you can better enjoy your time in Hoboken. Find out more about our professional cleaning services by contacting us today at ( 212) 299-5170. You can also set up your service with us by using our convenient online form, allowing you to schedule your move-in/move-out cleaning in as little as 60 seconds! We look forward to helping you with your upcoming move.