Downtown Jersey City

Downtown Jersey City has a dual identity: It’s the hub of a commuter town and an urban waterfront metropolis of its own. It’s no surprise that so many are drawn to Jersey City’s charming and convenient downtown, with the waterfront’s sweeping, cinematic view of Manhattan, an abundance of great restaurants and bars, and easily walkable streets. And of course, it's a short PATH train ride away from the heart of New York City. The area comprises several smaller neighborhoods, including Historic Downtown, the waterfront, and Newport, a master-planned mixed-use community. The Grove Street Plaza serves as downtown’s heart, with its weekly farmers’ market, an artist and maker market, free summer concerts (dubbed “Groove on Grove”), and occasionally, the Jersey City Record Riot, with more than 40 tables of vintage vinyl. Housing choices span the gamut, ranging from 19th-century townhouses to high-rise luxury residential buildings.

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Living in Jersey City

Jersey City—with its extensive business and residential development—has evolved into a cosmopolitan powerhouse to rival its neighbor across the water, New York City. What began as a trickle of people moving from Manhattan and Brooklyn has recently turned into something closer to a rapidly rushing stream, as newcomers discover Jersey City’s many advantages. Jersey City denizens—whether just arrived or natives who are affectionately referred to as the “born and raiseds”—enjoy one of the country’s best dining scenes, with the even New York Times admitting that the best New York pizza might be in Jersey City. The mix of architecture has something for everyone, with historic brownstones downtown, Victorian mansions in the Heights, and luxury waterfront condos. And if you do decide to venture over to NYC? It’s a quick train or ferry ride across the water, arriving in midtown or downtown in 30 minutes or less.