New Jersey, the Garden State! Home to the Jersey Shore, Taylor Ham (or is it pork roll?), and some of the most passionate residents you’ll find in the United States.
But even in a state so diverse and rich in culture, there are certain things that universally grind the gears of New Jerseyans. Let’s dive into the top five things that people in New Jersey just can’t stand.
This list will not even mention Phil Murphy, Chris Christie, traffic, toll booths, high gas prices, or taxes.
1. Being Overshadowed by New York and Philadelphia
New Jersey is nestled between two major cities: New York City and Philadelphia. While this geographical position offers various benefits, like easy access to cultural landmarks and job opportunities, it also results in New Jersey often being overlooked. Residents here are proud of their state and don’t appreciate being considered just a “commuter area” for neighboring cities.
2. The Taylor Ham vs. Pork Roll Debate
You might think a breakfast meat couldn’t cause too much controversy, but in New Jersey, you’d be wrong. The age-old debate over what to call this popular food item divides the state, with those in the northern part insisting it’s “Taylor Ham” and southerners swearing by “Pork Roll.” Regardless of the name, one thing’s certain: it’s a New Jersey staple, and people don’t like their preferred term being challenged.
3. Bad Drivers (Especially from Out of State)
New Jerseyans are quick to critique driving skills, especially when it comes to out-of-state drivers who don’t know the local road etiquette. The Garden State is densely populated with complex road systems, including jug handles and circles. For locals, nothing is more annoying than someone who can’t navigate these unique traffic features or refuses to keep up with the fast-paced traffic.
One of the most hated things on the roads in New Jersey is when out-state-drivers tie up traffic by driving too slow in the left lane!
4. Beach Tags
One of the joys of living in New Jersey is the access to beautiful beaches. However, the concept of “beach tags”—a fee you have to pay for access to the beach—doesn’t sit well with everyone. Residents argue that the beach should be a public good, freely accessible to everyone, and the need to buy a tag can make spontaneous beach trips cumbersome.
5. The “Jersey Shore” Stereotype
The MTV reality show “Jersey Shore” did no favors for New Jersey’s image. Many residents feel that the show perpetuated harmful stereotypes, painting the state as a hub for partying, drama, and bad behavior. People from New Jersey are a diverse bunch with much more to offer than a catchy TV show might suggest.
So there you have it, five things that people from New Jersey find utterly intolerable. Despite these irritations, the state has a lot to offer, and its residents are fiercely proud of their home. Even if they can’t agree on the name for their favorite breakfast meat.