Home to 1.56 million people, Philadelphia is widely regarding as one of the cultural meccas of the United States (not to mention one of the largest cities) and a dream home for people around the country. From the Liberty Bell, to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, to the Franklin Institute, Philly is full of varied and interesting landmarks and attractions worth visiting. Many South Jerseyans view Philly as the perfect place to live, even if only for a few years. With that said, the benefits that come from living in New Jersey, even if you work in the city, are tremendous. Here are a few:
Cheaper Housing
New York City boasts some of the highest housing costs in the country, and prices show no sign of slowing down. The median rental rate for a one-bedroom apartment in Philadelphia is $1,350, substantially higher than that of the average Garden State apartment. You’ll be able to afford a significantly larger house or apartment in New Jersey, and at a cheaper price, if you opt to take the train.
Taking the Train
It might seem strange to commute into another state every day, but if you live in Southern New Jersey, it can take less than 30 minutes to get into the city. Taking a train into Center City is more affordable and convenient than ever, and some employers offer a pre-tax method of paying for the morning transit.
Keeping a Car: Easy in New Jersey, a Nightmare in Philadelphia
Parking your car in a Philadelphia parking garage will typically run you in excess of $200, more if you’re in a high-traffic area. Add in the cost of insurance and gas, and before you know it, you’ll find yourself shelling out massive amounts of money each month to hold onto a car that you’ll rarely use if living in the city. In New Jersey, meanwhile, you can park your car in the driveway or apartment parking lot for free and take care of essentially all of your needs in a small radius (with parking options, of course).
Schooling
New Jersey has the second-highest high school graduation rate of any state in the U.S., and 8 out of 10 high school graduates go on to attend college. Philadelphia is home to some superior schools, without question, but you won’t find their public school system topping any best schools lists.
Source: Investopedia