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Again, if you read my post you would know that I was quoting PREMIUM (91-93) prices. Looks like LA and NJ are within 20-30 cents of each other. I believe that is a record low -- usually the difference is much greater.
Actually, if you look at your own link, it says the average price is 3.651.
But I'm glad we cleared up that "the same" equals 20-30 cents difference.
I do agree that is probably the closest the prices have been however.
N.Y., LA and SF metropolitan areas are by far the most expensive places in the United States. Anywhere outside of North Jersey, NYC, Long Island, Westchester County, Southern Connecticut, SF bay area and most of Los Angeles it is very cheap housing and cost of living.
However, keep in mind that schools in NJ are among the top in the nation and wages tend to be generally higher. Move to an affordable town and smaller housing. Look around! Many cheap places are also boring
COL in many parts of NJ is due in no small part due to their being bedroom communities of New York City, in particular Manhattan. Take away the high and even very high middle income earners of NYC and much of NJ would plunge into recession.
Tell you something else; if the federal government ever gets around to revising the tax code and eliminates or caps deductions that include state/local taxes then NJ better watch out. That vacuum sound you hear will be the mass rush of persons out of state.
OUCH. This makes the NJEA look like a bunch of greedy fools!
A lot of it is that the courts require NJ to basically shovel money into a fire; the Abbott districts have to be funded to the extent that the wealthier districts are, but that money does no good.
I guess I learned that many others share my sentiment. But I also learned that jersey roots runs deep and many seem to have a strong nostalgia for NJ culture (the good aspects) after leaving. Despite my grievances, I will always think of NJ as "home" and always have fond memories of growing up here.
That being said, for my future and for my overall well being, I am still determined to leave for a more laid back, comfortable, and financially secure life somewhere else.
I appreciate all the suggestions for areas to look into. The posts from NJ expats who put alot of emphasis on how they missed family and friends back home has got me thinking. I would need to be able to live within a days drive (like 6 hours or less) of NJ to be able to come and visit on long weekends whenever I felt the urge or felt homesick for NJ institutions like the shore, or the food.
As it stands now, Pennsylvania is the top contender. Seems the best option due to low taxes, affordability, and proximity to family and friends still in NJ. But I wont yet rule out Virginia, Eastern Ohio, perhaps upstate NY, etc. I have my research cut out for me!
Last edited by TheDarkHorse; 01-06-2014 at 08:27 PM..
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