The latest WalletHub study just put Jersey City in the national spotlight. It’s now ranked the second-best city in America for Halloween celebrations—right behind New York City.
The survey looked at 20 different metrics, like the number of costume stores per person, crime rates, and trick-or-treat opportunities. That’s probably why families and Halloween fans keep flocking here every October.
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Jersey City actually leads the nation in Trick-or-Treat Friendliness. But it doesn’t score as high for overall Halloween fun or weather conditions.
So, while residents enjoy safe, candy-filled streets, visitors might not find as many big events or those perfect, crisp autumn nights you’d get elsewhere.
Breaking Down Jersey City’s Halloween Ranking
WalletHub checked out the 100 largest U.S. cities, and Jersey City earned a solid score of 62.29. The biggest highlight? Our No. 1 national ranking for Trick-or-Treat Friendliness.
For parents and guardians, that means safe neighborhoods, friendly neighbors, and easy access to kid-friendly events. Newark made the list too, coming in at No. 10, so Northern New Jersey is doing something right for Halloween.
Areas Where Jersey City Could Improve
Jersey City leads on safety and trick-or-treating, but it only ranked 95th in Halloween Fun and 62nd for Halloween Weather. Halloween Fun covers things like haunted houses, festivals, and nightlife that fit the spooky mood.
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The weather ranking looks at past temperatures, rain, and wind. Not exactly thrilling, but it does matter when you’re planning to wander the streets in costume.
America’s Spending Spree for Halloween
WalletHub’s study dug up some wild numbers about Halloween spending in the U.S. The average household spends about $114.45 on decorations, candy, and costumes.
This year, Americans are expected to shell out a jaw-dropping $13.1 billion just to celebrate.
Participation Remains High Nationwide
Every October, about 73% of U.S. households jump into Halloween traditions. That’s a lot of people in costumes and on the hunt for candy.
With so many joining in, Jersey City’s reputation for safe, friendly trick-or-treating really does matter for thousands of families.
Halloween in the Heart of Jersey City
October in Jersey City has its own charm, mixing small-town warmth with city vibes. Neighborhoods double as city districts, and each brings its own twist on decorations and celebrations.
Sure, there’s room for more big entertainment, but you’ll still find plenty of block parties, parades for kids, and community-run events that feel genuinely local.
Planning Your Visit During the Spooky Season
If you’re coming from out of town, there are plenty of Jersey City hotels that welcome Halloween guests. It’s smart to look up where to stay in Jersey City ahead of time, so you’re close to the best trick-or-treat spots.
Besides Halloween, there’s a long list of things to do in Jersey City all year—like waterfront restaurants or a stroll through Liberty State Park. You might even end up wanting to come back before next October.
Making the Journey
Getting to Jersey City is pretty simple, whether you’re driving, hopping on the train, or catching a ferry from New York City. The PATH train brings you right from Manhattan, and the bus system connects to nearby towns.
Final Thoughts on the Rankings
Jersey City’s top ranking for trick-or-treat safety isn’t something to brush off. That kind of recognition says a lot about how neighborhoods, residents, and local officials actually work together here.
For families, that safe atmosphere feels especially important around Halloween. But honestly, it just adds to the city’s welcoming vibe all year.
If you’ve lived here forever or you’re just stopping by, Jersey City’s got a seasonal charm that sticks with you. And hey, the candy doesn’t hurt either.
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Here is the source article for this story: How did Jersey City and Newark get such a high ranking for the best cities for Halloween?
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