Out of touch – Remembering how “affordable” living in NJ once was

Just a quick glance at the real estate market nowadays is all you need to do to see how out of touch housing has gotten in New Jersey. Not just to purchase a home, but to rent too.

I look at the cost of apartments today and I sincerely feel for those just trying to begin that new chapter in life. How in the world can anyone make it when they're just getting started on their own?

Seriously. What happened to New Jersey being "affordable" for first timers on their own. And yes, I get that New Jersey hasn't really been very affordable for a long time, hence the quotes.

But still, I just don't see how you can do it with the cost-to-pay ratio the way it is now. Roommates are a must, there's no doubt about that. But how many roommates is the bigger question.

I remember when I had my first start. The rent was $850 a month, which I was capable of managing, but had a roommate anyway to make it a lot easier. One roommate, that's it. And we lived together for several years until I moved out to live with my girlfriend then, now wife today.

What's crazy is that I don't consider that too long ago (around 20 years or so). Now yes, I do expect things to get more expensive as times go, but not to where we're at right now.

I don't know. It just got me thinking about when things seemed more affordable. Not sure what can be done to bring at least renting back to a reasonable range in New Jersey, but I do hope something happens soon to help first-timers get an easier, more affordable start.

The above post reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5 weekend host & content contributor Mike Brant. Any opinions expressed are his own.