What Expats Should Know About Edison, NJ USA

by Graham
(Edison, NJ, USA)

In which city are you living?

Edison, NJ USA.

What is the spoken language, and how much local language do you need to know for daily living?

English - and an English accent seems to be a distinct advantage. It opens doors for me!

How is the weather?

This part of the US can be much colder than I'm used to in the Winter. And much hotter - and certainly more humid - than I'm used to, being English.

Is this a good city for families/singles/couples?

Edison was recently voted one of the safest places to live in the entire country! I don't know about that, but I don't think it's an especially dangerous place either. Like many places, if you act like a victim, you'll be a victim. Due to its close proximity to New York City (about 45 minute by train at most), Edison is often a place lived in by commuters. And that can be a little bit of a disadvantage. The place has a reputation of being a place where people just go to sleep.

How are the preschool and daycares?

Don't know about daycare, but we loved my daughter's private preschool. The staff were wonderful.

Any after school activities?

It seems like my daughter brings home a huge wad of paper containing the latest soccer, baseball and other activities.

How is the accommodation?

It's probably not the cheapest place to live; yet being so close to NYC, it's probably good value in comparison.


How is the healthcare?

Quality of healthcare is good - if you are well insured or can otherwise afford it. Access to healthcare is a huge concern of mine. I'm lucky, that my Wife is a healthcare professional, so I'm covered by her plan.

Is it a pet friendly city?

People do love dogs here!

How is the traffic and the public transportation (buses, trains, taxis)?

There are way too many cars in this city! Everyone drives, even a couple of blocks. Public transport exists, but it's not particularly good.

How is the communication - Cell/land phone, T.V/Cable/Satelite, Internet connection, international calls?

Access to these services is great. As long as you can afford it.

What is the dress code to work and in public?

To work? Well, I work from home, so I can do it naked if I so desire ;) In public, pretty much anything goes, within reason!

How is shopping for groceries, household items and clothing?

Lots of malls here, so you're covered in this respect.

Tell us about sport, entertainment, night life, restaurants.

There are plenty of restaurants. There are bars. Not too much going on very late at night though.

How is the expats community?

I very rarely bump into any Brits here. It's a rare pleasure.

Any other comments?

I have a blog dedicated to being an Englishman in New Jersey - curiously, called An Englishman in New Jersey

I love talking about cross-cultural issues and topics.