The Jersey City Commute Guide: Parkway patience and train rides
Commutes, congestion, transit, and parking: what getting around Jersey City really takes.

How Do You Get Around Jersey City?
Commutes, congestion, transit, and parking: the daily logistics nobody puts on the listing.
The time I spend getting to/from work every day is
PATH minutes, Holland Tunnel hours, GWB can be a total gamble depending on the time of day.
Traffic congestion areas to avoid
Holland Tunnel approach via Marin and 12th after 3 p.m., GWB during the morning.
Ability to get around without a car
Yes, if your calves fear no hills, you can bike ride, and PATH gods smile. This is actually a fairly walkable city.
Locals dream of driving around in a
Porsche 911 that parallel parks itself in Paulus Hook and is somehow immune to the hyper-aggressive drivers in the area.
The reality is that most locals drive
A dented Civic hunting meters and empty parking spaces like truffles on Newark Avenue
Quirky local driving habit
Double parking to grab cafecito on Newark Avenue, parking in front of other peoples' garages even though it can cause an accident.
The likelihood of finding parking
Prime spots exist, like unicorns, mostly at 4 a.m. Other than that, expect to park several blocks away from your destination, especially during holidays like Christmas.
#1 driving tip
Download ParkMobile, don't park in tow away zones, be ready for aggressive drivers, and read alternate side signs twice. Oh, and did I mention that driving here can be nerve-wracking? If you're not used to New York City-style driving, you will have a hard time here.
Parking space info
This is a city where you will find a lot of people willing to pay money for a parking space. People get very territorial over their parking spaces, especially if they are part of their real estate. Don't gamble it. People here have no issue getting you towed if your car doesn't belong somewhere.
Where I Go for a Quiet Escape
Despite it being somewhat crowded, I really find a certain luxurious peace at the waterfront near Exchange Place. It feels elegant, you feel safe walking there, and the skyline views are incredible.
Jersey City Local Expert


Ready to See If Jersey City Fits You?
Compare neighborhoods, check the routes, or head back to the full Jersey City guide for the bigger picture.