15 Lies You’ve Been Told About New Jersey
New Jersey has a bit of a reputation issue. Bring up the Garden State and someone will make a joke about the turnpike or throw shades at how close it is to New York City. The depth to which these myths have taken root is such that even some locals roll their eyes at the mention of their home state.
Unfortunately, New Jersey is a bit like that good book you judged too quickly by its cover. So, let’s get the record straight. Every bit of this state is full of history, culture and quirks ripe for closer inspection. Let’s bust some of the most common myths about New Jersey.
It’s Expensive to Live in New Jersey
It’s not cheap to live here, but it’s not all sticker shock. There are a number of affordable programs and towns in the state to help homeowners. And for many, the added quality of life (close to major cities, excellent schools and scenic landscapes) is worth every penny.
New Jersey Doesn’t Have Its Own Identity
New Jersey has its own identity and happily holds pride of place, though often overshadowed by its neighbours. New Jersey may be a small state, but it’s got a big personality, from the unmistakable Jersey accent to our iconic state pride, and it’s about time the rest of the country caught on.
The State Is One Giant Suburb
New Jersey may have its share of suburbs, but to call it ‘one giant suburb’ is like saying a pizza is simply crust. Newark and Camden are bustling hubs of art, music and more. While towns like Princeton are steeped in history and with charm. People don’t realize there’s a lot more flavor here.
The Place Is Always Crowded and Chaotic
New Jersey may be one of the most densely populated states in the country, but there’s space to breathe. There are serene escapes such as the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, or High Point State Park. Some of that hustle and bustle is what makes the state what it is.
There’s Nothing to Do in New Jersey
There’s lots to do between the world class beaches, historic landmarks such as Ellis Island, and even quirky attractions like the Battleship New Jersey. And don’t sleep on events like the QuickChek Balloon Festival or the endless food and music festivals that happen year round.
New Jersey Is a Nightmare to Drive in
New Jersey’s roads have their quirks; those odd looping turns instead of left hand ones, but they’re far from the nightmare they’re made out to be. Driving here isn’t bad once you get used to the flow. And the system keeps things moving pretty well.
Diners Everywhere in New Jersey
New Jersey has a soft spot for diners; there are more than 500 of them! That’s just one slice of our culinary pie, though. New Jersey’s food scene ranges from world class bagels to thriving ethnic cuisines and some of the best farm to table restaurants in the Northeast.
In New Jersey, There’s No Real Culture
For decades, New Jersey has been a cultural powerhouse. Here is where Bruce Springsteen, Frank Sinatra and Queen Latifah hail from. Among its roster is incredible theaters like Paper Mill Playhouse and world famous art spaces, including the Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton.
Atlantic City Is a Poor Man’s Las Vegas
Atlantic City has casinos, but there’s more to it than the roulette tables. It has rich history, historic boardwalk and a booming food scene. And the Steel Pier and Absecon Lighthouse create even more of their own character. It’s not Vegas and that’s fine.
People in New Jersey Are Rude
While New Jerseyans might be direct, they’re not rude. New Jersey is consistently high on the list of neighborly behavior with many residents ready to help strangers in need. There’s no sugarcoating to this.
The Winters Aren’t Real in New Jersey
Tell that to people who are digging out from a Nor’easter! Winters here aren’t as brutal as some parts of New England, but they’re no walk in the park. Real snow days are a thing, and so is the happiness of sledding down a neighborhood hill.
New Jersey’s Water Is Dirty
Industrialization certainly took its toll on some waterways, but there’s been a marked turnaround. A higher percentage of monitored streams now meet clean water standards.
Everyone Works in New York or in Philadelphia
It’s true that many do commute to neighboring cities, but New Jersey has its own thriving economy. Though known as a commuter state, it’s actually home to major employers in pharmaceuticals, technology and education.
New Jersey Is Nothing But Industrial Wastelands
Yes, you can see factories and smokestacks on some highways, but that’s not the whole story. That’s why New Jersey is called the Garden State. More than 9,000 farms call it home, where cranberries, blueberries and fresh tomatoes are among the items produced. Have you ever been to Cape May or walked through the Pine Barrens? These natural wonders tell a very different story.
The Shore Is Loved by Everyone in New Jersey
While many love “The Shore,” not everyone spends their weekends fist pumping on the boardwalk. But many locals settle for peaceful hikes in the Delaware Water Gap or afternoons spent exploring small towns such as Lambertville. It’s also famed, but it’s only one small part of New Jersey’s story.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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