Moving to New Jersey? Here’s How to Get Around Without Owning a Car

So, you’re moving to New Jersey. Congratulations on the big step. You may be heading there for a new job, better rent than in NYC, or just chasing the perfect bagel, but one thing must be on your mind all the time: “Do I need a car to live here?”

Let us give you a spoiler: it is not necessary. You can survive and even thrive without a car in the Garden State. But before you toss your car keys forever, let’s break it all down with some honest-to-goodness advice from someone who’s been on those commuter shoes.

Why Are So Many People Moving to New Jersey Anyway?

Let’s be real, New Jersey has had its share of stereotypes. But do you know what the deal is? People are moving here in droves and for good reason.

• You’re super close to NYC and Philly.
• Rent and home prices (While still high) aren’t Manhattan levels.
• It’s packed with diversity, good schools, and decent healthcare.
• Beaches, lakes, farmlands, and city life, everything is in one state.

If you’re planning on moving to New Jersey and don’t want to deal with car insurance, gas, or playing parking-spot roulette every night, the car-free lifestyle could be your move.

Can You Live in New Jersey Without a Car?

If we had to answer this question in words, the answer would be “yes”, but if we take the long route, it depends on where you live. New Jersey is a unique blend of dense cities, quiet suburbs, and extensive farmland. If you pick the right spot, one with solid public transit and walkability, you’re golden.

Top Places in NJ Where You Don’t Need a Car

Here’s the cream of the crop for folks looking to ditch the car and keep life walkable:

1. Hoboken

This place is practically made for car-free living. It’s small (like, a mile wide), has tons of cafes, stores, and restaurants within walking distance, and the PATH train gets you into NYC faster than you can say “I miss my car.”

2. Jersey City

This is Hoboken’s bigger sibling. It’s more spread out, but it has fantastic public transit, including ferries, light rail, and bonus great views of Manhattan.

3. New Brunswick

Thanks to Rutgers University, this town has a younger vibe, a decent public transportation system, and numerous walkable spots. Perfect for students or young professionals.

4. Montclair

A little more suburban, but don’t write it off. Montclair has its train station, numerous bus routes, and charming, walkable downtown areas.

5. Newark

Parts of Newark are surprisingly easy to navigate without a car. It has trains, buses, the light rail, and even an international airport. Just make sure you’re in a walkable neighborhood (some parts are better than others).

How to Get Around NJ Without a Car

Let’s break down your options so you’re not left guessing when it’s time to head to the grocery store or go to work.

NJ Transit (Train & Bus)

The backbone of public transportation in the state. You can get from small towns to major cities with relative ease—commuting to NYC or Philadelphia is doable.

• Trains are more reliable for long hauls.
• Buses help with short-distance local travel.
  

PATH Train

If you’re living in Jersey City, Hoboken, or Newark, the PATH is your lifeline to Manhattan. It’s fast, affordable, and runs almost continuously.

Light Rail

Places like Jersey City and Bayonne have a light rail system that connects neighborhoods. It’s not huge, but it’s super helpful if you’re in the area.

Local Buses

NJ Transit buses cover a lot of ground. They might be a little slow during rush hour, but they’ll get you where you need to go, especially in cities.

Ferries

Commuting from Weehawken or Hoboken to Midtown or Downtown Manhattan? Ferries are fast, scenic, and a lot of fun. It’s a less stressful commute than being jammed in a train at 8:00 a.m.

What About Uber, Lyft, and Taxis?

Yes, they’re here, and let us tell you, they’re widely used.

Uber & Lyft

Available almost everywhere, especially in more urban areas. Wait times are typically under 10 minutes in cities, although you may wait longer in suburban areas.

Traditional Taxis

Old-school? Maybe. But reliable? Definitely. Companies like Alo Z Car Service offer everything from local rides to airport pickups in places where rideshares are spotty.

Are NJ Towns Walkable?

Walkable towns typically feature a solid downtown area with shops, schools, and public transportation within easy reach. Here’s where you’ll be happiest walking everywhere:

• Hoboken
• Montclair
• Red Bank
• Morristown
• Princeton
  

Many of these areas also feature parks, libraries, cafes, and entertainment, all within walking distance.

Is New Jersey Bike-Friendly?

Some cities and towns have been adding more bike lanes and shared-use paths, but the effort is still a work in progress. If you’re into cycling:

• Bring your bike on the train (off-peak hours).
• Use bike racks on NJ Transit buses.
• Check for local ordinances; some towns are more pro-bike than others.
  

Living Car-Free with Kids?

You can do it. Here’s what helps:

• Most towns offer yellow school buses.
• Many schools and stores are walkable.
• Grocery delivery is widely available.
• Weekend trips? Just rent a car or call a cab.
  

When You Do Need a Car Occasionally

You’re not banned from cars forever just because you don’t own one. You’ve got options:

Zipcar or Car Rentals

Do you need to make a Costco run or visit the in-laws in South Jersey? Just grab a Zipcar for a few hours or rent one for the day.

Scooters & Bikes

Some towns like Hoboken and Asbury Park offer e-scooters and bike shares—perfect for quick errands or beach trips.

How Much Can You Save Living Without a Car in NJ?

Here’s a peek at the cost comparison:

When you own a car, it also leads to maintenance, tolls, and more, with costs adding up to $50 and beyond. When it comes to savings, without a car, you can save $500 to $ 1,000 per month, depending on your commute distance. 

Is Living Car-Free Worth It in New Jersey?

Suppose you’re in the right part of the state—absolutely. You’ll skip traffic, save money, and probably walk more than you have in years. No more searching for parking spots, no oil changes, no expired inspection stickers.

But if you’re heading to rural parts of NJ? It gets harder. Some towns simply aren’t built for walking or transit. In that case, a car might still be a necessary evil.

Final Verdict: Can You Live in New Jersey Without a Car?

Yes, if you choose wisely. Stick to urban and semi-urban areas with public transit, and you’ll be fine. You might even love the freedom of not being tied to a car. Plus, with all the modern options like rideshares and rentals, you’ve got backup when you need it.

Just plan, know your routes, and you’ll do great.

5 Quick FAQs

Q1. Can you get around New Jersey without a car?
Yes! In cities like Hoboken, Jersey City, and Newark, it’s very possible and pretty standard.

Q2. What’s the best town in NJ for a car-free lifestyle?
Hoboken is a top-tier destination: super walkable, transit-rich, and small enough to explore on foot.

Q3. Does NJ Transit run on weekends?
Yep! Trains and buses still operate, just a bit less frequently. Always check schedules.

Q4. Are taxis still a thing in NJ?
Totally. Local services, such as Alo Z Car Service, are often more reliable than apps in quieter towns.

Q5. Can I use ferries to get into NYC from NJ?
Yes! Ferries from places like Weehawken, Jersey City, and Hoboken are fast, scenic, and efficient.