Elizabeth, NJ Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 2 Location

Elizabeth, NJ Utility & Living Guide

Elizabeth, NJ offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with diverse cultural attractions and convenient access to New York City.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$305/mo
1BR Rent$1200/mo
Sales Tax7.5%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score6/10
Median Home$320,000
🌤️ Live Weather — Elizabeth
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Elizabeth
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$120/mo

PSE&G
🔥 Gas

$50/mo

PSE&G
💧 Water

$45/mo

Elizabeth Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$25/mo

City of Elizabeth Department of Public Works
📶 Internet

$65/mo

Combined Average Overhead $305/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1200/mo
2 Bedrooms$1600/mo
3 Bedrooms$2100/mo
Median Home Price$320,000
Property Tax Rate1.2%
Avg Childcare/mo$1000

The housing market in Elizabeth is competitive, with a mix of historic homes and modern apartments. Prices have been rising due to proximity to NYC and redevelopment projects.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

98

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$1000

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax7.5%
Property Tax Rate1.2%
<p>State 6.625% + County 0% + City 0.875%</p>

New Jersey has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 1.4% to 10.75%.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
6/10
Safety Index

50

Higher = safer
School Rating

6.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1000/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+3% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
High with key industries in logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Traffic congestion, affordable housing, school funding
🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit is moderately accessible with some stations having elevators, but sidewalks can be uneven in older neighborhoods.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Turtle Back Zoo
  • 🎯
    Warinanco Park
  • 🎯
    Jersey Gardens Mall

Best Neighborhoods for Families

Elmora and Peterstown are popular for families due to their quieter streets and proximity to parks. The North End offers newer developments with family-friendly amenities.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Elizabeth based on your household profile.

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Local Regulation Notice

Residents must obtain permits for home renovations and adhere to strict parking regulations in certain zones.

Relocation Overview

Elizabeth is experiencing growth in logistics and warehousing due to its port access. The city is also investing in tech startups and renewable energy projects.

Live Local News

Financial Tools

Calculators
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📊 Elizabeth — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

💰 Median Household Income
$54,415
👤 Median Age
35.3
🏠 Homeownership Rate
25.3%
🔑 Renter Rate
74.7%
📉 Poverty Rate
14.7%
💼 Unemployment Rate
5.8%
📡 Internet Access
81.0%
🎓 College Educated
13.6%

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs peak in summer due to air conditioning usage and in winter due to heating needs. Spring and fall typically see lower utility bills.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rates vary by neighborhood, with no local surtaxes specific to Elizabeth county.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

7/10 with explanation: Sidewalks are generally good but uneven in older areas. Park access is decent, and some transit stations have elevators.

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