From Brooklyn to Hoboken: What NYC Buyers Need to Know Before Crossing the River

If you’ve been scanning Zillow from your Brooklyn walk-up, wondering if there’s life outside the five boroughs—you’re not alone. More and more New Yorkers, especially Brooklynites, are trading in the brownstones of Park Slope or the high-rises of Williamsburg for the charm and community of Hoboken, New Jersey.

At The Jill Biggs Group, we work with dozens of buyers every year making this exact move. And while it’s only a short ride across the Hudson, moving to Hoboken comes with a fresh perspective, a different market dynamic, and yes—some very real perks.

Here’s everything you need to know if you’re considering crossing the river.

1. You’re Not Moving to the “Suburbs” (But You’re Getting Space Like You Are)

Let’s set the record straight: Hoboken is not your typical suburb. There are no cul-de-sacs or strip malls here.

What you will find is a vibrant, walkable city with urban energy—but with more space to breathe. In Hoboken, it's totally possible to live a car-free lifestyle while gaining perks like:

• An actual second bedroom

• A private terrace or balcony

• A home office or flex space

• In-unit laundry

• On-site parking (!)

All while still being just one train stop from Manhattan.

2. You’re Closer to Midtown Than You Think

If you’re worried about the commute—don’t be. The PATH train runs 24/7, with Hoboken connecting directly to both the World Trade Center and 33rd Street. Midtown in under 20 minutes? Totally doable.

Plus, the ferry from Hoboken offers a scenic, breezy ride with skyline views that beat a sweaty L train any day.

Depending on where you’re coming from in Brooklyn, the commute time could actually improve. A buyer moving from Crown Heights to Midtown might find it’s faster door-to-door from Hoboken. (And the odds of a seat on the train? Much higher.)

3. The Hoboken Vibe Is More Brooklyn Than You’d Expect

For many Brooklynites, the culture is what’s hardest to leave. The vintage shops, indie bookstores, yoga studios, buzzy wine bars, and cozy coffee spots that make each neighborhood feel alive.

The good news? Hoboken delivers on that front—in its own way.

You’ll find:

• Local bakeries and cafes on every corner

• Waterfront bars and rooftop lounges

• A thriving arts and music scene (don’t miss Hoboken Arts & Music Festival)

• Weekly farmers markets and seasonal pop-ups

• Boutique fitness studios and wellness spaces

Hoboken blends the small-town charm of a tight-knit community with the style and edge of a city that knows who it is.

4. The Real Estate Market Moves Differently Here

Yes, it’s competitive. Yes, good listings move quickly. But Hoboken isn’t NYC, and that’s a good thing when you’re a buyer.

Instead of sky-high co-op board drama, you’ll find:

• Condos and townhomes (not co-ops)

• Lower property taxes than NYC

• New construction options with modern amenities

• A smoother closing process

That said, local knowledge is key. The difference between north and south Hoboken, garden-level vs. top floor, or a building with low reserves vs. high ones can impact everything from financing to resale value.

Working with a real estate team that lives and breathes this market—like The Jill Biggs Group—can make or break your search.

5. It’s a Great Move for Growing Families (or Future Plans)

Brooklyn is filled with young families making it work—but Hoboken makes it easier.

Think:

• More square footage

• Excellent public and charter schools

• Tons of family-friendly parks and events

• A safer, more manageable pace

• Playdates that don’t require three subway transfers

It’s no surprise that Hoboken is often dubbed the “6th borough,” especially for young couples planning to grow into a new chapter without giving up the city feel they love.

6. Your Dollar Goes Way Further

We’ve said it before, but it’s worth repeating: the cost-per-square-foot in Hoboken is significantly lower than in most of Brooklyn.

What does that mean in real terms?

You might be able to afford:

• A brand new 2-bed, 2-bath condo with a balcony

• A renovated brownstone with a private yard

• A duplex with garage parking and skyline views

Try finding that in Williamsburg without breaking $2 million.

7. Property Taxes Are Higher—But It Balances Out

One heads-up for NYC buyers: New Jersey property taxes are higher than what you might be used to in NYC. However, that’s offset by lower purchase prices, no city income tax, and more generous space and amenities.

In the long run, many buyers find the tradeoff worth it—especially when you’re no longer paying $4,500/month in rent for a one-bedroom with no laundry.

8. The Lifestyle Shift Feels… Good

The biggest surprise for many of our buyers? How much they love it here.

They spend more time outside. They actually know their neighbors. They have room to host friends, stretch out, or take meetings in a real office instead of a corner of their kitchen.

In short: Hoboken offers a lifestyle upgrade that’s still deeply connected to the NYC they love—but just a little more livable.

Ready to Make the Move?

If Hoboken is on your radar, let’s talk. We’ve helped countless NYC buyers make the move—and our team lives and works in Hudson County, so we know this market inside and out.

From pre-approval and touring to contracts and closing day, we’ll walk you through the process with confidence (and maybe even a little fun).

📍 Serving Hoboken, Jersey City, and all of Northern New Jersey
📞 Call or text Jill at 973-495-6038
🔗 Explore available homes: TheJillBiggsGroup.com

Want a neighborhood tour? Want to know what kind of home your budget gets here? We’ve got you.

The Jill Biggs Group — Hardwired for Hard Work. Ready when you are.