Located on a peninsula between the Hudson and Hackensack Rivers opposite Manhattan Island in New York, Jersey City is the second-largest city in New Jersey, ranking only behind Newark. It's a city full of opportunity with plenty to see and do – not only because of its location close to New York City but also in its own right. In fact, The Atlantic recently ranked Jersey City the 10th most artistic city in North America. It has a warm, welcoming, and growing LGBTQ community, and many are happy to call it home.
A Bit of Jersey City History
Prior to its modern-day settlement, the area that is now Jersey City was originally inhabited by the Delaware Indians. In 1609, Henry Hudson first visited the area, and shortly thereafter, in 1618, it was settled by Dutch traders. It eventually became a British-held territory and was a strategic location for the British during the American Revolution. Following the Revolution, Jersey City became a major transportation center, both due to its proximity to New York City, and its waterfront location. In 1908, the Hudson and Manhattan Tunnels officially connected Jersey City to New York City, further encouraging its growth. Today, Jersey City is a city with plenty of industry and opportunity, and also a thriving arts and culture scene. It’s diverse, welcoming, and vibrant – and it would be a great place to call home.
Jersey City– A Few Fun Facts
Read more fun facts about Jersey City here.
The LGBTQ Community in Jersey City
Jersey City has a warm and friendly LGBTQ community, rich in diversity, and welcoming to all. That community is fortunate to be well-supported by a variety of community resources, including:
PFLAG Jersey City is the Jersey City chapter of the national PFLAG organization. PFLAG is the largest grassroots organization of its kind in the United States, and for many years, it has played an essential role in providing education, advocacy, support, networking opportunities, and resources to LGBTQ communities across the country. Monthly meetings and other community-building events and resources are regularly offered.
The Hudson Pride Center is an LGBTQ community resource center dedicated to its mission of creating a safe home and a voice for the LGBTQ community in the Jersey City area. It accomplishes this mission through advocacy, event-planning, providing resources, and creating safe and welcoming spaces for all.
What’s the Weather Like in Jersey City?
Those who call Jersey City home can expect to experience all four distinct seasons. July is typically the hottest month of the year, with temperatures usually reaching around 86 degrees. January is usually the coldest month, with temperatures dropping to around 25 degrees. Spring and fall are typically the most pleasant and mild seasons, with spring promising beautiful flowers, and fall offering the bright colors of changing leaves. Jersey City averages around 48 inches of rain per year, and about 26 inches of snow.
Can’t-Miss Jersey City Events
Jersey City Pride is the city’s annual LGBTQ pride celebration – and it’s one party you won’t want to miss. From parades to parties to family-friendly fun events and all kinds of activities, it’s truly an event to look forward to each year, and it’s an excellent way to celebrate all that the LGBTQ community adds to the city.
The Best Jersey City Neighborhoods
Unlike some other cities, Jersey City doesn't have one traditional "gayborhood" – but this isn't to say that there aren't plenty of wonderful places to live. In fact, The Advocate once named Jersey City one of the queerest cities in America, and it almost always scores very high on the HRS Municipal Equality Index. From a real estate perspective, this means that most neighborhoods would be great places to call home – and choosing one is largely a matter of personal preference. The LGBTQ community is spread across the city, and most neighborhoods are very warm and welcoming. Condos in Jersey City can be found for as low as $100,000 and can reach up to several million. Single-family homes typically range from the low $100,000s to several million dollars as well.
Arts and Entertainment
The Jersey City Theatre Center is a local performing arts group known for putting on an excellent and inspiring selection of shows each year in a diverse range of art forms and genres. There is something for everyone to enjoy, and the performances are always excellent.
The Loew's Jersey Theatre is a palatial movie theater in the classic Old Hollywood style, located right in Jersey City. Opened in 1929, it was one of the five Loew's Wonder Theatres, and for generations, it delighted moviegoers with its unique atmosphere and wide variety of performances. Today, it is still used for special showings, events, and performances – don't miss your chance to check it out for yourself.
Parks and Recreation
The East Coast Greenway Trail is the perfect place to enjoy a beautiful day in the outdoors in Jersey City. This trail, which covers nearly 100 miles of greenway in New Jersey, passes through a variety of landscapes, and will eventually be part of an unbroken route that travels all the way to the Florida Keys. It’s a great place to bike, walk, run, and just enjoy nature.
Everyone knows this famous national landmark – but few know that it’s actually within the bounds of Jersey City. It’s well worth taking one of many ferry rides offered throughout the year to get an up-close look at this American icon for yourself.
Jersey City Nightlife
Pint is a popular and laid-back LGBTQ bar in Jersey City known for its excellent selection of craft beers and pub food, and for offering plenty of fun and a great atmosphere to socialize with friends.
Located in Asbury Park not far away, Paradise is worth the drive. It offers two dance floors, a Martini Lounge, a heated pool, tiki bars, and plenty of fun. You’ll be glad you made the trip!
Contact a Jersey City Gay Realtor Today
If you want to make Jersey City the next place you call home, the first important step in the process is finding a realtor who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find the perfect place in a neighborhood that you’ll love. We would be glad to put you in touch with a realtor who’s a great fit for you and who can help to make your home-buying experience a success. Contact a Jersey City gay realtor today for a free, no-obligation consultation!
