Factors that influence moving costs from Richmond to Jersey Citytoggle

The cost of Richmond movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Richmond to Jersey City might cost as little as $1,043, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $6,394.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Richmond, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $374 to $965. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Richmond to Jersey City

Moving from Richmond to Jersey City comes with exciting new opportunities โ€” but also higher living costs. Since Jersey City is generally more expensive than Richmond, itโ€™s important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Richmond Jersey City
Average rent cost $1,595 $2,975
Average home value $350,897 $589,419
Average income (per capita) $59,606 $75,265
Cost of living (single person) $2,270 $4,397
Cost of living (family of 4) $5,336 $9,861
Unemployment rate 7.1% 8.3%
Sales tax 6.0% 6.63%
State income tax 5.75% 10.7%
  • Rent prices in Jersey City are 87% higher than in Richmond, which means youโ€™ll have less money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Richmond.
    Home prices in Jersey City are 68.0% higher than in Richmond.
  • Income in Jersey City is 26.3% higher than in Richmond, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Jersey City include Kuehne + Nagel International AG, Tokio Marine Management, and Farm Credit System.
  • Be sure to budget for higher bills in Jersey City, since the cost of living for a single person in Jersey City is 93.7% higher than in Richmond. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If youโ€™re moving your family to Jersey City, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Jersey City is 84.8% higher than in Richmond.
  • The unemployment rate in Jersey City is 16.90% higher than in Richmond.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Jersey City, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Jersey City are 10.50% higher than in Richmond.
  • State income taxes in Jersey City are 86.09% higher than in Richmond.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $5,811.01 in Jersey City to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Richmond.

How life is different in Richmond vs. Jersey City

Jersey City Richmond
Population 292,449 226,610
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 9 7
Walkability score 87 51
Bike friendliness score 64 51
Crime Index 43.21 48.45
Safety Index 56.79 51.55
Air Quality Moderate Good
  • Jersey City's population is about 29% greater than Richmond.
  • Jersey City's public transportation has a score of 9 out of 10 versus Richmond's lower score of 7.
  • Jersey City is more walkable than Richmond with a score of 87 out of 100 vs Richmond's 51 out of 100.
  • With a score of 64 out of 100, Jersey City is more bike-friendly than Richmond, which has a score of 51 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Jersey City's crime rate is lower than Richmond with a score of 43.21 compared to Richmond's 48.45. This means that Jersey City neighborhoods are safer than 43.21% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Richmond neighborhoods are safer than 48.45%.
  • Jersey City is considered to be safer than Richmond with a safety index of 56.79 vs Richmond's 51.55.
  • Air quality in Jersey City is moderate, and in Richmond it's good.

Other things to consider for your Richmond vs. Jersey City move

  • Weather: September, June and May are the best months in Jersey City, while January and February are the least comfortable months as these are the coldest. Plan your moves accordingly.
  • HOA rules: Itโ€™s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, itโ€™s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • State licensing: In New Jersey, the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs handles the regulation of in-state moving companies. The stateโ€™s Division of Consumer Affairs works to ensure that warehousemen (public storage companies) and public movers provide safe, reliable, and ethical services while adhering to all relevant state rules and regulations. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving companyโ€™s license in New Jersey, visit the state's public utilities commission
  • Moving permits: While New Jersey doesnโ€™t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Jersey City without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Released Value Protection is the most economical option as it incurs no cost. It is provided by movers at no additional charge, but the coverage is minimal. Under this option, no more than 60 cents per pound per article is the responsibility of the mover. For example, if a delicate china set weighing 20 pounds is lost or damaged by the mover, only $12 (60 cents x 20 pounds) would be received. If coverage for the full value of your items is needed, consultation with the moving company you're hiring for other options or a third-party insurance provider is recommended.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Jersey City

With your sights set on "J.C.", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Jersey City.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Journal Square
  • The Heights
  • The Waterfront
  • Liberty Park
  • Downtown

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Mcginley Square
  • West Side
  • Hackensack Waterfront
  • Grove Street
  • Downtown

Things to do in Jersey City

Now that you've made the move to New Jersey, itโ€™s the perfect time to explore Jersey City. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโ€™s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Youโ€™ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Jersey City, such as the Liberty Science Center, Mana Contemporary, 107 Bowers Gallery & ArtSpace, Novado Gallery, and DT234 Gallery & Art Studio.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Liberty State Park, Liberty Landing Marina, J. Owen Grundy Park, and Lincoln Park โ€” along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Saint Peterโ€™s Peacocks (MAAC) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Richmond to Jersey City?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Richmond to Jersey City. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Richmond.

When is the cheapest time to move from Richmond to Jersey City?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Richmond to Jersey City, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Richmond to Jersey City take?

The 334-mile journey from Richmond, VA to Jersey City, NJ typically takes one to four days. Some movers in Richmond offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Jersey City.

Helpful moving resources