Journal Square
Journal Square Real Estate & Community Guide
Living in Journal Square, Jersey City
Living in Journal Square means diving straight into Jersey City’s pulse —historic, buzzy, and proudly on the rise. Journal Square, NJ mixes old-school charm, global eats worth bragging about, and PATH access so easy it feels like a life hack. It’s vibrant, walkable, and full of those “only here” moments. If you want a neighborhood that actually moves with you, this is it.
Journal Square: Fast Facts (2025)
Population: Approximately 21,876 residents
Land Size: About 211 acres (0.33 sq. miles)
Housing Units: Roughly 8,160 homes and apartments
Location: Central Jersey City, anchored by the Journal Square PATH transportation hub
Explore Homes for Sale in Journal Square, Jersey City →
Why People Love Living in Journal Square
There’s a reason this district in Jersey City keeps stealing the spotlight—it’s got energy, personality, and enough charm to make you feel like you’re part of something exciting. This Journal Square neighborhood guide proves this isn’t just hype; it’s a lifestyle choice.
Walkable streets and cozy coffee shops – Perfect for morning strolls or mid-day work breaks.
Diverse food scene and cultural venues – From hole-in-the-wall gems to weekend performances, there’s something for every craving.
Easy PATH commute to NYC – You’ll be there before you know it (read: roughly 15 minutes)
Ongoing redevelopment – New projects keep the neighborhood fresh and draw in curious locals and investors alike.
Learn more about living in Journal Square →
Journal Square Real Estate Snapshot
Curious about the Journal Square real estate scene? Spoiler: it’s as dynamic as the neighborhood itself, with options that fit nearly every lifestyle and budget.
Property Styles & Price Ranges
From historic brownstones with classic charm to sleek new condos, Journal Square, Jersey City, offers a mix that keeps buyers and investors excited. Prices vary depending on specific style, size, and location, but expect to pay around $549,000 on average for a property.
New Developments
Ongoing redevelopment is reshaping the skyline with modern high-rises and mixed-use projects. It’s a neighborhood in motion, giving buyers and renters alike the thrill of being part of something fresh, vibrant, and on the rise.
Home shopping soon? Check out our buyer checklist
Rental Market
Looking to rent? Jersey City apartments in Journal Square are in demand for their location and convenience. The average cost of a rental in Journal Square is around $2,484. Options range from cozy studios to larger multi-bedroom units, ideal for commuters or anyone craving city-adjacent living without the NYC price tag.
Connect with a Journal Square Realtor to find a rental.
PATH train, Journal Square, Jersey City
Commuting from Journal Square to NYC
If commuting from Journal Square, NJ to NYC is on your mind, good news—you’ve basically got one of the easiest cross-river routines around. The PATH gets you to the World Trade Center in about 15 minutes, which is fast enough to make your Manhattan friends a little jealous. Multiple bus routes run through the area for extra flexibility, and quick access to the Turnpike keeps road trips and weekend escapes simple. Whether you’re heading to the office or out for a night in the city, Journal Square makes the trip feel effortless.
Top Schools in and around Journal Square, NJ
If you’re eyeing the area with kids in mind, the question of "best schools near Journal Square NJ" is probably already on your search history—good news, the options are solid and diverse. Families love this pocket of Jersey City for its mix of public, charter, and private schools that keep commutes short and educational options varied.
Notable nearby picks include:
Academy I Middle School (Public, Magnet):
A top-tier selective public school consistently recognized for strong academics and high student proficiency in math and reading. Its supportive staff and challenging curriculum make it a highly sought-after local option.
St. Dominic Academy (Private, All-Girls):
A respected private, Catholic, all-girls school offering rigorous college-prep programs with a near-perfect college matriculation rate and a wide range of Honors and AP courses.
PS 11 — Martin Luther King Jr. School (Public):
A community-focused public school (Pre-K to 8) valued for its diversity and strong local involvement. As with any neighborhood school, parents should research current data and visit to see if the school's program aligns with their family's priorities.
Explore more detailed information on Journal Square and area schools via our Jersey City Schools Guide
Things to Do in and Around Journal Square
If you think Journal Square is just a commuter hub, give it one weekend and it’ll happily prove you wrong. The neighborhood is packed with culture, history, and those “wait… this is actually really cool” moments that keep locals busy and visitors curious.
Loew’s Jersey Theatre
The crown jewel of Journal Square. This historic movie palace is all velvet, gold detailing, and pure nostalgia. (Note: The theater is undergoing a major, multi-year renovation to fully restore its grandeur and is temporarily closed for events.)
Mana Contemporary
A sprawling arts hub where galleries, studios, and installations all coexist under one very creative roof. Whether you’re a casual visitor or a seasoned art enthusiast, Mana always has something worth exploring. Tip: Check their website for public Open Studio events or to book a tour, as general access can be limited.
Magnolia Landing Plaza
A growing, new community hangout, officially opening up the Journal Squared area. It’s perfect for grabbing a bite, meeting friends, or soaking up the neighborhood buzz, especially during seasonal activities like the Park & Plate outdoor dining series.
Looking for more ideas? We’ve got you. Check our expanded guide - Things to Do in Journal Square.
Where to Eat: Journal Square’s Dining Standouts
Sapthagiri
A local favorite for authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine—massive dosas, rich curries, and value in one stop.
Boulevard Drinks
Classic, quick, iconic. If you want a true Journal Square experience, grab a chili-topped hot dog here and thank us later. It’s been a local institution since 1937.
Wong’s Noodle House
Big bowls, fast service, and the coziest comfort food vibe. Perfect after a long day, a cold day, or—honestly—any day.
Weekend Living, Journal Square Style
Bergen Avenue Coffee Spots
Start your weekend the local way: grab a latte from one of the cozy cafés along Bergen Avenue. It’s the perfect warm-up lap before diving into everything else.
Mana Contemporary
Once caffeinated, wander over to Mana. Those “quick visits” tend to turn into hour-long strolls past exhibitions, artist studios, and installations you’ll think about later.
Magnolia Landing Plaza
When your feet need a break, Magnolia Landing is the go-to reset spot. It’s social, lively, and great for people-watching while you decide where to eat next.
Journal Square - Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Journal Square?
Journal Square is a central neighborhood in Jersey City, New Jersey, surrounding the intersection of Kennedy Boulevard and Bergen Avenue. It serves as a key transit and commercial hub for Hudson County.
Which County is Journal Square in?
Journal Square is located in Hudson County, NJ — one of the most vibrant and densely populated counties in the New York metro area.
What is Journal Square like?
It’s a lively mix of old and new — historic architecture, diverse dining, creative arts spaces, and new high-rise developments attracting young professionals and families alike.
Is Journal Square, Jersey City safe?
Journal Square has improved significantly in recent years thanks to redevelopment and increased community engagement. Like any urban area, safety varies block by block, but it’s generally considered a safe and growing neighborhood by Jersey City standards.
Work with a Local Journal Square Realtor
If you want results in Journal Square, you want a Journal Square realtor who’s not just “familiar” with the area—they dominate it. The Jill Biggs Group is the #1 Team in Hudson County, backed by $3B+ sold, 1,000+ five-star reviews, and a reputation for turning big goals into smooth closings. Buyers trust our neighborhood insight; sellers love our strategy and speed. Whether you’re aiming high, testing the waters, or ready to move today, we’re the team you want in your corner.
Explore Other Jersey City Neighborhoods
Looking beyond Journal Square? Here are a few other Jersey City, NJ neighborhoods worth considering.
BUILDINGS IN JERSEY CITY
