This Tiny Town In New Jersey Is One Of The Happiest Places In America
I’ve got some Garden State trivia that’s sure to make you smile! According to a 2017 WalletHub study, New Jersey is the sixth happiest state in America. The same site ranked Jersey City among the top 100 happiest cities in the country, coming in ahead of New York City and Nashville, Tennessee. A 2017 SmartAsset study broke happiness down by county – New Jersey’s Hunterdon and Morris Counties both made the top ten. Why is our ranking so high? We’ve got very low depression and divorce rates, and plenty of enjoyable activities to keep us busy.
If we want to single out one tiny town as being among the happiest, that would have to be Cape May. Coastal Living ranked the shore town number six on their 2017 list of happiest beach towns in the USA. What makes it such a cheerful place to be? I think there’s a lot to love. Read on for a few reasons why Cape May is one of the happiest places in America.
You'll find several beaches in Cape May, each unique. From abandoned bunkers to sea glass, you never know what you'll find. Also, beach living is just...better. According to the Journal of Environmental Psychology, "Studies have shown that natural environments like beaches and waterfront parks offer more restorative benefits to people than gyms, entertainment venues and the built urban environment." You'd think that might make the California coast paradise but, not quite. We're actually happiest when the beach is a bit cooler.
You'll find a variety of Victorian-style homes including Stick, Shingle and Bungalow styles. Many feature beautiful balconies and covered porches. The care and attention to detail that went into each residence is evident. The area also features Italianate and Georgian Revival estates. Many of the buildings date back to the 1870s. Not looking to buy in Cape May? There are plenty of bed and breakfasts to serve as your home away from home. All that charm makes it a little easier to smile.
Science shows a significant link between food and happiness. Eating is one of our greatest pleasures and can actually change our brain chemistry. Lucky for residents of and visitors to Cape May, good food isn't hard to find. The Mad Batter at the Carroll Villa is a popular pick. A lively bar and eatery, they offer creative cuisine and one of the best breakfasts in the area. Diners can enjoy live music nightly and frequent art exhibits. For a more refined dining experience, head to 410 Bank Street. They serve up a French New Orleans menu with a Caribbean flair. Open seasonally, you'll need to wait until April 18th for a taste of Louisiana. The Lobster House is another perennial favorite, serving up mouthwatering seafood. Don't miss the boat bar docked alongside the building.
Take in a show at either Cape May Stage or the East Lynne Theater Company, or both. You'll also find breweries, wineries, a nearby zoo, whale watching tours and wildlife refuges. For a unique agricultural experience, visit Jersey Shore Alpacas. Their trolley tours are always fun and you will definitely want to browse the shops at Washington Street Mall.
What would you guess is the happiest town in New Jersey? Last year, I compiled an entire list based on 2013 data – you can check out that list by clicking here. If New Jersey is your “happy place” you might want to check out this t-shirt: New Jersey Happy Place.
Kristen is a freelance writer, editor and social-media manager who really loves her state. She's here to share all that New Jersey has to offer with residents and the rest of the world.
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