Looking for somewhere to relocate to but not sure where yet?
If you’re considering locations on the East Coast of the U.S., then look no further as this article will tell you all you need to know about moving to Newark, aka New Jersey’s largest city!
If you’re new to the area or simply curious about what it’s like living in Newark, NJ, the city is home to some great attractions and amenities that many new residents may not be aware of yet. As such, we’ve put together this blog post with 5 tricks so that moving to Newark, NJ, would be a smooth sailing process should you choose to relocate!
1. Find Your Ideal Newark Neighborhood
Let’s kickstart by choosing your neighbourhood, shall we?
Finding a neighbourhood that is suitable for you is essential no matter where you’re moving. Here are some things you should consider (in no particular order):
- Housing options
- Cost of living
- Education and career opportunities
- Amenities (transportation, dining options)
- Crime Rates
Considering these five factors, some of the neighbourhoods worth noting are Downtown Newark (aka the Central Business District, or CBD for short), Ironbound District, Upper Roseville, Forest Hill, and University Heights.
Downtown Newark / CBD
Downtown Newark offers affordable housing options such as apartments and condominiums at a prime location! This neighbourhood is especially fitting for singles and young professionals as it houses many large companies, hot new restaurants as well as lively bars so that you’ll get the best of both worlds: a promising career and an exciting social life! If living in New York City is too far from your budget, why not live in Newark, NJ first? Ultimately, it’s just a train ride away from NYC, and you can always upgrade to your dream city when you can afford it, right?
Ironbound District
If your priorities include culture and cuisine (because why not?), then Ironbound District is your go-to neighbourhood. With over 200 restaurants serving authentic Portuguese, Spanish, and Brazilian dishes, you’ll be spoilt for choice! Who knows how long it might take you to try them all? Residents of Ironbound District are also close to SO MANY art galleries; you might just have to start with the best 10 art galleries near South Ironbound!
Upper Roseville
Located North of the CBD, Upper Roseville houses many new housing developments from high-rise apartments and condominiums to contemporary townhouses and single-family homes, so whether you’re moving to Newark alone or with your family, you should consider Upper Roseville! Also, everything you might need is within a short walk or bus ride away:
- new restaurants in the Ironbound District
- new bars and restaurants in Downtown Newark
- Newark Liberty International Airport, which is only 15 minutes away by car
Forest Hill
If you’re trying to escape from the hustle and bustle of urban city life, then the suburban Forest Hill is your sweet escape! Located in the North Ward, this historic neighbourhood offers its residents a variety of amenities, from the Cathedral Basilica Of The Sacred Heart to walking trails and coffee shops! If you’re the type who appreciates architecture, then the beautiful historic houses and mansions here might just steal your heart!
University Heights
You’ve probably guessed that this neighbourhood is home to a university. Still, we bet you didn’t expect it to house FOUR academic institutions, namely Rutgers University, New Jersey Institute of Technology, New Jersey Medical School, and Essex County College! We’ll talk more about educational opportunities later in this post, but for now, the most important thing you should know about University Heights is that it’s NOT ONLY for students!
The neighbourhood is undergoing developments, so more apartments, entertainment and retail facilities are emerging, making it an attractive neighbourhood to younger adults!
2. Familiarise Yourself With Newark’s Public Transportation
Newark’s public transportation makes it convenient for its residents to commute within the city and other destinations outside of it. We have consolidated the relevant information to help you better familiarise yourself so that you won’t get lost once you’ve moved to Newark.
In a nutshell, 2 major transit systems serve the city of Newark.
New Jersey Transit (AKA NJ Transit) Buses And Trains
Here’s what you need to know about NJ Transit:
- Connects passengers to Newark, Manhattan, New York, Northern New Jersey, Philadelphia and Delaware.
- It offers new buses that are wheelchair accessible and have ramps, making it easier than ever before.
Newark Light Rail System
- Offers rapid transit service with stops at Newark’s station for Amtrak trains and NJT commuter rail, Port Authority Bus Terminal; Broad Street (City Hall Area), Newark Penn Station; Branch Brook Park, Orange Street (Newark Museum).
- New stops include Rutgers – University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-University Hospital and the new Prudential Center.
- Trains are equipped with modern seats and can accommodate wheelchairs, bicycles and strollers.
3. Know Your Educational Institutions
If you’re a student, or if you’re a parent with kids, then you’ll have ample educational opportunities when you move to Newark.
Newark has more than 277 elementary and secondary schools and is home to several colleges, notably the New Jersey Institute of Technology, Rutgers University and Essex County College.
Newark’s universities offer a range of degrees, and Rutgers University is one of the best universities where students would dream of studying. “Why?” you asked? There are some strong reasons that many parents eye Rutgers University.
- It comprises three big regional campuses: Rutgers–Camden, Rutgers–Newark, and Rutgers–New Brunswick.
- It offers extensive STEM programmes, with new and old programs focusing on biomedical engineering, chemical and molecular biology; civil engineering; computer science; environmental science; sustainable development studies, energy infrastructure management and policy, electrical engineering.
With so many educational institutions, you won’t have to look far for AP courses, trade-skills training, college preparation, vocational training for work-site careers or dual enrollment opportunities with local colleges!
4. Witness Newark’s Blooming Arts Scene
If museums, and art in general, excites you, then Newark is the place to be! In 2016, Newark became home to New Jersey’s new arts centre called the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC). It is a 535,000 square foot facility that contains 2 theatres, 1 opera house, 3 art galleries and more. This new building has brought new life to the arts scene in the city and attracted new residents who were looking for a unique cultural experience during their relocation to Newark. You are sure to find something new and different when you visit this new centre!
Newark’s museums offer a lot of culture and history, but there is also plenty for children to enjoy! The Newark Museum of Art conducts tons of hands-on activities for kids (and adults) who want to learn and have fun at the same time.
Another notable mention is the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra which has been in existence for over a century. It is responsible for providing orchestral music to Newark and New Jersey as a whole.
5. Know Your Green (And Pink?) Spaces in Newark
Green spaces are perfect for an afternoon picnic with your family or friends where you can enjoy a beautiful day outside without leaving Newark! Some parks you should visit include:
- Independence Park
- Ivy Hill Park
- Vailsburg Park
- Branch Brook Park
Who says nature is only green? Every April, residents of Newark can feast their eyes on pretty white and pink cherry blossoms at Branch Brook Park! Here’s a fun fact: the park holds a vast collection of cherry blossoms, over 4000 Japanese cherry trees!
Conclusion About Moving To Newark NJ
Picking a new place to live is sometimes an overwhelming experience but know that with a myriad of housing and educational options, as well as the development of new amenities and the many museums and parks, you’ll never run out of things to try when you’re considering relocation to Newark.
Considering other cities in the area? Check out our articles about moving to Philadelphia, Worcester and Pittsburgh.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Moving To Newark
What Is The Weather Like In Newark?
Brace yourselves for cold winters of approximately 10 °F (−12 °C) and hot, humid summers that may reach 50 °F (10 °C). Spring and autumn in the area are generally mild, though they can get quite unstable. Precipitation is evenly distributed throughout the year, with the summer months being the wettest and fall months being the driest.
Whether rain or shine, we offer shipment protection so you’ll have peace of mind during your move. Get in touch with us for a quote.
How Is The Traffic In Newark?
The traffic in Newark can be pretty bad, and that’s no secret! As such, some of your go-to methods of commuting may be cycling, walking, or simply waking up earlier to catch non-crowded public transportation. If you’re ever planning to relocate to Newark, we’ve got some helpful information in point 2 above, where we share about public transport in Newark. We hope it helps!
What Job Opportunities Does Newark Offer?
You can find job opportunities in 2 notable industries in Newark – Insurance and Transportation. Newark houses various insurance companies, including the headquarters of Prudential Financial, Halsey Street Agency Inc., Gary’s Insurance Agency Newark and many more! Whereas the transportation industry in Newark, it’s blooming! Given that New York City is only a train ride away, many people living in Newark NJ are already benefiting from working in NYC!
How Much Would It Cost To Engage Professional Movers?
The cost of engaging professional movers varies on a case-by-case basis as it takes into account many factors! But don’t let this discourage you, as the convenience offered by professional movers can save you a lot of time!
Sanelo is committed to providing you with a seamless moving experience that is free from shocks. As such, they have provided resources for you to obtain a quotation to better estimate the cost: