If you're currently living on Staten Island and eyeing a primary residence move, yes—New Brunswick is absolutely worth considering for significant cost savings, more space, and an upgraded lifestyle. I've guided many Staten Island families to New Brunswick for these exact reasons, helping them stretch their budgets while maintaining reasonable ties to NYC and family.
Key advantages:
- Home Prices: New Brunswick medians hover around $440,000 (recent December 2025 sales data), compared to Staten Island's $700,000-$730,000 range. That difference often means upgrading from a smaller attached home to a spacious single-family with a yard.
- Property Taxes: While NJ taxes are higher statewide, New Brunswick's effective rate (~2.49%) on a $440K home yields ~$11,000/year—with rebates like ANCHOR offsetting $1,000+. Staten Island's lower rate (~0.85%) on higher values balances out, but overall ownership costs favor New Brunswick for value.
- Commute & Access: Driving to Staten Island is quick—20-30 minutes (20 miles via Goethals/Outerbridge bridges, non-rush). For NYC work, New Brunswick's NJ Transit station offers 45-60 minute trains to Penn—often comparable or better than Staten Island's express bus/ferry combos (60-90 minutes).
- Lifestyle: Vibrant downtown, excellent schools, parks, and Rutgers community energy—ideal for families seeking walkability and amenities without Staten-level density.
Downsides? Slightly longer NYC commute if driving daily, but many clients find the savings (20-30% lower total costs) and quality of life worth it.
Tverdov Housing makes transitions seamless. Ready? Call (732) 344-0701.
