BERGEN COUNTY, NJ – Teachers in New Jersey, especially those in high-performing districts such as Bergen County, are facing significant challenges due to the high cost of living. Despite earning a salary close to $60,000, which is substantial for a first-step elementary teacher, many find it difficult to afford housing within a reasonable distance of their schools.
This leads many teachers to work with long commutes or to bypass teaching in New Jersey altogether. That’s because New Jersey is one of the most expensive states to live in. The cost of living, high taxes, and expensive housing options make life hard for Garden State teachers.
Single teachers are hit the hardest, while teachers who are married or co-habitating an apartment can survive a bit better financially in New Jersey. A 2019 survey by USA Today found that, on average, New Jersey teachers pay 30% of their income on housing annually.
The salary, while competitive in education, falls short when considering the high rental costs in the region. The standard financial advice suggests that rent should not exceed one-third of a person’s income, but in this case, the salary does not meet the three times rent criteria for most areas within a 25-mile radius of the school. This situation forces many young teachers to live with their parents or seek roommates, as living independently remains out of reach.
The issue is not just limited to rent. Other living expenses, such as utilities, internet, and car maintenance, add to the financial burden. Teachers, vital to the development and education of future generations, find themselves in a predicament where housing costs consume a significant portion of their income.
The situation highlights a broader issue of housing affordability in New Jersey. It raises questions about the sustainability of living conditions for professionals who are essential to the community. The state’s attractiveness for teachers is at stake, as the cost of living may deter talented educators from working or continuing to work in New Jersey.
The dilemma teachers face in New Jersey reflects a growing concern in many parts of the country, where salaries in crucial public service roles are not keeping pace with the cost of living. This situation calls for a closer examination of housing policies and support systems for educators.