2 Communities in Belvidere
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Overview
Belvidere in a small residential town New Jersey and part of the outer Allentown metro area. It is popular for its four distinct seasons, nearby outdoor recreation, and abundant antique shopping. Residents love its quaint, small-town charm with access to major cities in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Climate & Geography
Located in Northern New Jersey on the border of Pennsylvania, Belvidere has a humid continental climate. Summers are warm to hot, winters are cold, and there are four distinct seasons. Residents can expect higher than average rainfall and snowfall, as well as 201 days of sunshine each year.
The city’s terrain features rolling hills, but it is also located in the Lehigh Valley. Nearby mountains can often trap cold air, resulting in freezing rain. The city’s western border is the Delaware River, and the Pequest River bisects the city east to west.
Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment
Outdoor recreation is one of Belvidere’s biggest draws. The city is surrounded by greenspace, including the Washington State Forest, Beaver Brook Wildlife Management Area, Pequest River Greenway, and the Furnace Lake Recreation Area. Nearby Phillipsburg has golf courses, and the Pequest River in the city is popular for its trout fishing.
Local amenities in Belvidere include several antique stores, a winery, and a Sunday farmers market. Belvidere Heritage is a group that seeks to preserve and embrace history, hosting community events and festivals, including the popular Victorian Days.
Residents seeking name-brand shopping and high-end dining can head to nearby Allentown, just under an hour away.
Cost of Living & Taxes
The cost of living in Belvidere is close to the national average. Nearly all indexes, including housing, health care, utilities, and groceries are about the same as the rest of the U.S., but transportation costs are higher.
New Jersey is moderately tax friendly for retirees. It does not tax Social Security, and all other forms of retirement income are largely deductible for retirees above the age of 62. Property taxes are the highest in the country, but there is a homestead rebate aimed at retirees. Sales taxes are average for the U.S.
Health Care
The Allentown metro area ranks in the top 91 communities according to Gallup’s Well-Being Index. In the same survey, New Jersey scores well in the social factor.
There are no hospitals in Belvidere, but there are several hospitals within 15 miles that are rated high performing by U.S. News. These include St. Luke’s Hospital-Warren Campus in Phillipsburg, Lehigh Valley Hospital-Pocono in East Stroudsburg, and Easton Hospital in Easton.