DC has some of the longest commutes in the country with more than a third of people traveling more than 45 minutes to get to work each day. The capital’s reputation for traffic congestion is well established, so if you intend to use a car or ride-share service for commuting, give yourself a wide berth with timing. About 30% of residents use the Metro or bus system, but it’s worth noting fares are based on the time of day and distance traveled, not the flat fee New Yorkers are used to. The people happiest with their commutes are cyclists and walkers in this pedestrian-friendly city.

Whether you want to explore your new hometown or use it for a springboard for a getaway hiking in West Virginia or the beach in Delaware you have an abundance of options. History is all around you in DC, from President Lincoln’s Cottage to Old Town Alexandria. It’s hard to go past events at the Kennedy Centre and free museums like the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and the National Gallery of Art. DC’s growing bar scene is lively in neighborhoods like U Street while legendary music venues like the 9:30 Club are still going strong.

Whether you are moving from a beach-adjacent community or have lived in a landlocked state, the beaches and boardwalks of the New York City coast are a sight to behold. And, as a resident, you’ll have time to discover the 40+ beaches along 100 miles of coastline where there’s a vibe for each person and occasion. Take in the serene scenes of Brigantine Beach for a relaxing day in the sand. If you’re more excited to get active, there’s always something going on at Asbury Park Beach and the boardwalk, including sunbathing, surfing, food, entertainment, and retail options. Beyond the sand lies even more sights and adventure, though. For those who have green thumbs, a visit to Middletown, NJ’s ode to the home gardener, Deep Cut Gardens features 55 different varieties of roses in their collection. In need of another impressive feat of nature? How about taking a gander at the state’s tallest waterfall Buttermilk Falls in Layton, NJ.

New York City isn’t the most expensive place to live, but there are some higher costs associated with being a Garden State resident. As a reference point, the median household income in the state is $85,245. So how is the money put to use? For starters, NJ has the 6th highest tax burden in the country. This includes state property tax at 2.49%, for which the state ranks at number one for the highest rate. State sales tax is at 6.625% but everyday spending on items like prescription meds, food, and clothing isn’t taxed. Keeping in mind the property tax, those opting to purchase a home will find that the median sale price is $471,900. Among the cities and towns in the state, however, that price can vary. For example, the median home sale price in Trenton, NJ is less than half of the state median sale price.