Facts nobody tells you: Fun Facts About Jersey City
Think you really know Jersey City? It's not your average town and it has a history unlike any other. Once we school you on these near facts and figures, you might understand why some folks have a certain pride when it comes to living in the Sixth Borough.
What Makes Jersey City Jersey City?
The weird, useful, and surprisingly relevant facts that shape everyday life here.
Common nicknames for Jersey City
JC, Chilltown, The Sixth Borough, Wall Street West.
Local Reality Check
It's not just another borough. There's a distinctly Jersey vibe with lots of blue-collar families.
You're most likely moving from
Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, Hoboken, the Jersey Shore, and priced out Bergen County suburbs.
Strangely large concentration of
Filipino eateries and markets around Manila Avenue and Newark Avenue.
Music scene
White Eagle Hall, WFMU's Monty Hall, The Ashford, plus basement vinyl parties. Close to NYC and Newark's legendary QXT's goth club.
You'll have to see it to believe it
Statue of Liberty skyline sunsets from Liberty State Park's picnic tables, breathtaking walks through the parks at night, the celebrity visitors at Liberty Prime Steakhouse
Unique Geography
Neighborhoods cascade from Palisades cliffs to tidal marshes between Hudson and Hackensack.
Jersey City is home to
The giant Colgate Clock by the Hudson, once among the world's largest clocks. The railroad yards are also said to be haunted, so paranormal fans can always try to catch a ghost...and a train.
Well known for its
Ridiculously diverse food, from momo to mutabal to mozzarella within five blocks. It's also home to exceptional Asian cuisine.
Fun history fact
1998 Supreme Court ruled most of Ellis Island is New Jersey.
Celebrity sightings
Lady Gaga and Joaquin Phoenix filming Joker at Journal Square and Newark Avenue. Multiple celebrities are regulars at Jersey City clubs and eateries.
Noteworthy Census stat
About 42 percent foreign born, giving this city top tier nationwide diversity.
Most interesting sub-culture within Jersey City
Pinoy karaoke nights and Jollibee superfans orbiting Journal Square might be one. The other would have to be the new wave of artists hanging around Deep Space.
Population
It's the 2nd largest city in NJ, and ranks in the top 100 largest nationwide. Only Newark is larger in terms of population.
Jersey City is roughly the same geographic size as
Alexandria, Virginia
A Local Event Worth Experiencing Once
Aside from the Exchange Place waterfront, I love the Jersey City Night Market. This is found on Montgomery Street during the summer and it gets very loud there. However, the crowds are there for a reason. It's the best outdoor zone for people who want to sample delicious food truck offerings from throughout the state.
Jersey City Local Expert
Ready to See If Jersey City Fits You?
Compare cities, check the routes, or head back to the full Jersey City guide for the bigger picture.