Overview
Princeton is a borough in New Jersey known by many as a college town as the namesake of one of the most prestigious universities in the country. Situated alongside Carnegie Lake, the city is rich in history and culture, offering plenty of things to do for active adults.
Climate & Geography
The borough has a hot-summer humid continental climate type, which experiences all four seasons with wide variations in temperature and weather. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are typically cold and snowy, with occasional periods of extreme temperatures. Residents can expect more rainfall than the national average, and slightly less snowfall.
Princeton is located in Central New Jersey, northeast of Trenton and Philadelphia. The borough is situated on lower lying land, with Carnegie Lake on the city’s eastern border. Palmer Lake is located in Princeton, and Stony Brook runs through Princeton.
Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment
Princeton offers its residents a variety of activities to choose from. The Morven Museum and Garden is situated inside a historic house that is centuries old. The museum educates visitors on the history and culture of New Jersey. The Princeton University Art Museum is another popular option for those with an interest in culture. Guests can enjoy the many exhibits and the diverse art collection that the museum has to offer.
Those looking to get outside will enjoy the unique opportunities that Princeton has to offer. The Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park allows visitors to hike along trails while surrounded by scenic views of the forest. Nature lovers in Princeton appreciate the convenience of having this wide-ranging park, which is over 70 miles long, right in their backyard. Terhune Orchards & Winery allows guests to pick their own fruits or sample wines from their vineyards.
Aside from that, Marketfair Mall is located in Princeton, and offers several shopping, dining, and entertainment options to locals. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is just over an hour away from Princeton, providing residents with easy access to city life when desired.
Cost of Living & Taxes
The overall cost of living in Princeton is higher than both the state and national averages. The high cost of homes and housing plays the biggest part in raising the overall cost of living in Princeton. Health and grocery costs are both at or below the national average in Princeton.
The state of New Jersey is considered moderately tax friendly to retirees. Social Security benefits are not taxed in the state and, although all other forms or retirement income are taxed, residents who are 62+ qualify for large deductions based on their income level.
Health Care
Although there are no hospitals located in Princeton, Princeton Medical Center, located in nearby Plainsboro, is ranked the No. 11 hospital in the state, and is rated high performing in three procedures. Morristown Medical Center, located approximately 38 miles from Princeton in Morristown, is ranked the No. 1 hospital in the state. Morristown Medical Center is nationally ranked in two specialties, and rated high performing in five specialties and nine procedures.