10 reasons why New Jersey is the best place to live

Although we could go on and on

1. New Jersey’s natural beauty is unmatched.

Did you know that New Jersey is one of the most topographically diverse states in the nation? We are blessed with everything from mountainous terrain to the sandy beaches of the Shore. New Jerseyans have their pick of outdoor fun and that diversity is not only inspiring to enjoy, but inspiring to defend. With such natural beauty, we need to do all we can to defend it against rising temperatures, pollution, and natural disasters.

2. Pizza here isn’t just a meal, it’s a lifestyle.

You can’t go wrong with a slice from New Jersey. We are the United States capital of pizza, and there’s no changing our minds on that fact. From a simple slice of plain to all the works, the Garden State knows how to make a pie. And if we’re being honest, no other state even comes close.

3. From Sinatra to Springsteen — talented New Jerseyans are aplenty.

It’s no secret that New Jersey is the birthplace of some of the greatest of all time. Musicians, visual artists, thinkers, and scientists — you name it, so many have made a mark on our culture and have called the Garden State home. From comedians and actors like Danny DeVito to talented musicians and businesswomen like Halsey, it’s clear that New Jersey is a place where stars are born.

4. Getting around? We’ve got it down.

NJ TRANSIT is legendary for so many reasons. And now, with historic investments from Governor Phil Murphy, it’s only going to get better. People across the Garden State have been relying on NJ TRANSIT for nearly 40 years, and the Northeast Corridor for even longer than that! The way New Jerseyans’ travel to and from work, get-togethers, vacation spots (via the Garden State Parkway — what’s your exit?), sporting events, and more will only become safer and more reliable. Being proud of our infrastructure and public transit is just another reason to be proud of being from New Jersey.

5. Our diversity is our strength.

New Jersey is one of the most diverse states in the nation — top five in fact! Many of us have the pleasure of living in neighborhoods that are filled with foods from all over the world, minority-owned small businesses, engaged faith groups, and local leaders that reflect the makeup of New Jersey. Gone are the days when our local government was made up of just the wealthy and well-connected. Governor Murphy often says, “Our diversity is our strength,” and we couldn’t agree more. When the experiences of people from different livelihoods, backgrounds, faiths, and cultures are put together, we learn from each other and create opportunities where we all can thrive.

6. A+ schools full of A+ students and teachers.

Not to brag, but New Jersey’s public school system is no joke. Year after year, New Jersey claims some of the best schools and best school districts in the country. Governor Phil Murphy knows that our students are the future, and that’s why he’s made funding education a top priority. Starting from pre-K all the way to college, he is working to make education not only more affordable but accessible for all. Our young people deserve to be prepared with not only book smarts, but also life skills that will propel them into the future.

7. Pumping our own gas? No way, no how.

It might seem trivial to some, but we take great pride in not pumping our own gas. All that New Jerseyans have to do is pop the tank, say “filler up, regular,” kick back, and relax. You could even use this time to go inside and grab a coffee or a snack. In New Jersey, we’re unique, and this is definitely one way that’s true. But don’t worry if you’re not from here, you’ll catch on quick.

8. We’re a state full of firsts.

North Carolina might be first in flight, but are they first in baseball or drive-in movies? I didn’t think so. Hoboken boasts the location of the first-ever recorded game of baseball in 1846, and what’s more American than baseball? The first drive-in movie was held in Camden County in 1933. In fact, New Jersey is considered the birthplace of the motion picture industry. Thomas Edison (long-time New Jersey resident, btw!), invented his version of the motion picture as well as the phonograph right here in the Garden State. The first blueberry was even cultivated here! This brings us to our next point…

9. Blueberries as big as your thumb!

New Jersey has some of the best produce in the country. Hands down. We are the blueberry capital of the United States and have some of the best tomatoes, cranberries, corn, bell peppers, eggplants, and apples on the market (and that’s not even the whole list!) In fact, New Jersey is home to over 9,000 farms — bet you didn’t know that!

10. We’re moving forward.

With all of the above in consideration, it’s clear that New Jersey is one of the best states to not only live, but also raise a family. Here, you can experience diversity, culture, great food, great transit, and overall, a great life. But there’s still more work to be done. That’s why we’re counting on people like Phil Murphy, Sheila Oliver, and New Jersey Democrats across the state to keep moving us forward. We have so much to be thankful for, but we have to defend it against those who only want to divide us and take us backward. We need to make our state stronger and fairer for everyone so that we all can enjoy the greatest parts of being from New Jersey.