Posted in New Jersey July 14, 2017 by

10 Weird Side Effects Everyone Experiences From Growing Up In New Jersey

New Jersey leaves a lasting impact on its residents. If you grew up in the Garden State, you may experience certain side effects. Even if you leave New Jersey, New Jersey never leaves you. Here are a few signs that New Jersey is, in fact, a major part of who you are.

1. You experience a general sense of uneasiness on October 30th.
Flickr/Fernando de Sousa
I should probably put my car in the garage in case the kids have eggs... Except Mischief Night (Goosey Night/Cabbage Night) isn't really an issue in most places.
2. You expect and plan for traffic during rush hour.
Flickr/Jeff Turner
Even if you live somewhere in the Midwest, with nothing but farms for miles, you budget a bit of extra time for travel if you're leaving just after 5 p.m.
3. You NEED to be near the beach.
Flickr/Kat Vitulano Photos
If the beach isn't an hour or two away, it's NOT okay. You may need to settle for a lake beach, but it's just not the same.
4. Chronic road rage.
Flickr/Charlie Marshall
Back away from the horn but feel free to let out a four-letter-word or two.
5. You roll your eyes when out-of-staters complain about the cost of living.
Flickr/Pictures of Money
Two words: Property Taxes.
6. Pumping gas never quite feels right.
Flickr/Mike Mozart
You can do it, but it's just not natural.
7. You've got a bagel bias.
Flickr/Liz West
The same is true with pizza. It just isn't as good anywhere else.
8. Late night food cravings.
Flickr/Doug Kerr
You'll never not want disco fries, pork roll or a milkshake at 2 in the morning. Growing up with diners, we're used to late night comfort food.
9. You still have a fear of going into the woods at night.
Flickr/Shawn Perez
Not for any of the logical reasons, but because a horned, hooved beast may be lurking in the dark.
10. You instinctively cringe when someone says "Joisey."
Flickr/Bobby Hiddy
It's not funny, people.

What other side effects do you experience after growing up in New Jersey? You may be a bit of a hot dog snob; we do have some of the best in the country. Check out a few iconic hot dog joints (along with some new favorites) here.