There’s no official rule book for living in the sometimes gritty, but mostly gorgeous, Garden State. We’re tough here: we’re fighters, survivors, urban warriors… battling traffic to the shore, exorbitant property taxes, and the ever-consistent misrepresentations of our state. Why so much hate? Anyway, there are certain rules we live by to navigate life in New Jersey, and here are just a handful of them:

1. It's either Pork Roll or Taylor Ham. Never both.
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...and we must argue about it endlessly. Because it's about truth, accuracy, and all that's right (or wrong) with the world.
2. Speed limits are just guidelines.
Chad Elliot/Flickr
We really should obey the speed limit... but isn't it called Route 80 for a reason?
3. ...but E-ZPass is essential.
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When you're traveling down the turnpike or parked on the Parkway, E-ZPass helps. Waiting for those coin and cash carriers can take forever, though.
4. It's not really summer unless it's spent at the shore.
Jazz Guy/Flickr
At least some of the summer should be spent on the shore. Whether it's swimming, surfing, sunbathing, shopping, or strolling the streets of Cape May, a trip to the beach is essential. We love our boardwalks, bustling beach towns, sleepy shore towns, and thriving waterfront dining scene.
5. Laugh it off.
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Out-of-staters like to crack jokes at our expense. We don't let it get to us... unless they say "Joisey." Then, fuggedaboutit.

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6. Don't order pizza out-of-state...
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Unless you want to be disappointed. Jersey pizza is the best pizza. In fact, we're all going to need a slice after writing this. Yum!
7. Don't go hiking alone in the Pine Barrens at night.
Louis Dallara/Flickr
Sure, there are always dangers when hiking alone, but there's an added risk in the Pine Barrens: running into the Jersey Devil.
8. Food tastes better after midnight.
Tony Fischer/Flickr
This isn't really a rule so much as it's a fact. That's why we've got so many 24-hour diners. Disco fries, please!
9. Gas stations aren't just for gas.
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Especially if we're at WaWa or QuickChek. Grab snacks, coffee, and definitely some grub. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly beverages or sizable sandwiches, both stations have you covered. Best of all, you don't even need to touch the pump. (And, don't be alarmed at the prices - this photo is a decade old.)
10. Park your car in the garage on October 30th.
sharyn morrow/Flickr
If you have a garage, at least. Otherwise, you may need to deal with silly string and toilet paper (but hopefully not eggs). Whether you call it Mischief Night, Cabbage Night, or Goosey Night... it's a Jersey thing.

What are your rules for surviving, or thriving, in New Jersey? To make the most out of life in the Garden State, check out this list of the best hikes in New Jersey or this list of hidden gem restaurants.

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New Jersey Rules

Tori Jane | March 18, 2021

What is living in New Jersey like?

New Jersey is a beautiful state with so much to do and so much to love, whether you're a nature lover or a city slicker. We have no doubt you'll find lots of things to fall in love with, no matter what. For example, New Jersey has collected numerous accolades over the years, such as being named the #1 place to raise a child, according to Save The Children. We're also home to what's been called the best golf course in the U.S., and we have also been named the #3 best state to live in according to USA Today. Overall, we agree: life here is pretty good!

What are some points of New Jersey pride?

New Jersey is a state full of varied points of pride; as it turns out, we have a lot to be proud of here in the beautiful Garden State. We're home to a decent handful of natural wonders, like Great Falls, nestled in Paterson, or our penchant for glowing beaches - literally! The awe-inspiring natural glow that is otherwise known as bioluminescence is prevalent along some of our beautiful shorelines, and you can't miss it. For a more complete list of awesome aspects of Jersey to be proud of, check this article out. 

What are some of the best parts of life in New Jersey?

Well, "best" is certainly subjective; however, we're more than certain that just about anyone can find things to love in New Jersey. For the more outdoorsy types, New Jersey is home to 81 different hiking and walking trails. We've also got more than 20 breathtaking waterfalls scattered throughout the state just begging to be photographed. For the more city-inclined, never fear - there's plenty to do in just about every beautiful Garden State town. New Jersey is home to numerous art museums in several cities and towns, and the cost of living is reasonable in the cities. We have beautiful summers and chilly winters, and we're also one of the very safest states in the US. Life here is lovely, and we're sure you'll fall in love with it.

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