7 New Jersey cities just as walkable as Manhattan — but at a lower price

New York City is renowned for its walkability, with virtually every amenity a short stroll or subway ride away.

But living in Manhattan, one of NYC’s most famously walkable areas, comes at a steep cost, with median real estate list prices in July of $1.6 million. At least six neighborhoods in the city require homebuyers to earn seven figures to even consider making an offer on a home, according to a recent Realtor.com® analysis.

However, walkability isn’t confined only to the Big Apple. Across the Hudson River, several New Jersey cities offer comparable levels of walkability but at a fraction of the cost.

Using data from Local Logic, a leading source for neighborhood analytics, coupled with Realtor.com housing market data, we’ve pinpointed the most walkable cities in New Jersey. The data encompasses factors such as proximity to amenities, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and the overall ease of living car-free.

Seven cities, mostly clustered along New Jersey’s Hudson River shoreline, all have walkability scores as high as Manhattan’s, but with significantly lower real estate prices.

“The walkability of New York City has a kind of culture to it,” says Realtor.com senior economic analyst Hannah Jones, “but the value of that walkability has spilled over into these New Jersey towns.”

Each of the seven has a median home list price below—some far below—Manhattan’s median list price. Renters will also see substantial savings across the Hudson River.

In Manhattan, the median asking rent for all rental properties on Realtor.com is $4,489, while the median asking rent for properties in the state of New Jersey is nearly half that, at $2,765.

And while all of these walkable New Jersey neighborhoods have an urban feel, not unlike New York City, each has its own cultural flavor.

“All of these neighborhoods have a vibe, just like you find in Queens or Brooklyn,” says Jill Biggs, a real estate agent and team leader at The Jill Biggs Group Coldwell Banker Realty in Hoboken, NJ.

And no matter where someone lives in this cluster of cities, from one block to the next, the high walkability scores mean residents can find practically everything they need on foot.

“Depending on which block you live on, you’ll walk to get your produce from one shop and your bread from another,” Biggs says. “You’ll find your favorite takeout spot that’s close enough to walk to or stop at on your way home.”

These New Jersey cities are also strategically located near major transit routes that make commuting to Manhattan swift and convenient. Hoboken, Jersey City, and Weehawken benefit from direct access to the PATH train, which takes commuters to Manhattan’s financial district and midtown areas. And ferry service provides daily commuters with another option to cross the Hudson.

Moreover, these cities are well-serviced by NJ Transit buses and trains, offering connections to broader New Jersey areas and other New York City boroughs. The comprehensive public transportation network ensures that residents can enjoy the perks of New York City’s bustling lifestyle without bearing the brunt of its living costs.

Setting aside the light-hearted rivalry that New Yorkers and New Jerseyans often engage in, New Jersey cities that provide exceptional walkability with lower real estate prices than NYC combine urban conveniences with residential charm.

For those open to an alternative to New York City and the hefty home prices there, here are the most walkable New Jersey cities that offer good access to the Big Apple.

Located just across the Hudson River from Manhattan, Union City offers stunning views of the Big Apple skyline, cultural diversity, and a vibrant arts scene.

2. Hoboken, NJ

Hoboken is famous for its bustling waterfront and proximity to Manhattan, just a short ferry ride away. With a lively nightlife and lots of dining options, it’s a popular choice for young professionals.