1. PATH Train: like the subway, but way better

The PATH train is the most popular and efficient choice for commuters traveling between Jersey City and Manhattan. Use your existing MTA Metro Card or tap-to-pay (Apply Pay / Google Pay) for only $2.75/trip, or buy a PATH SmartLink card for $5 and pay just $2.60/trip. The PATH stations in downtown Jersey City are conveniently located, making it easy to catch a train whether you're near the Newport, Exchange Place, or Grove Street stations. Trains run frequently, with service every few minutes during peak hours and less frequently during off-peak times. There are two main PATH train lines: to 33rd St (making stops in West Village and along 6th Ave) or to Exchange Place. It's a short 4-minute train ride from Exchange Place station in Paulus Hook to World Trade Center in Manhattan, taking you to the heart of Manhattan's financial district and Brookfield Place.

2. Ferries: speedy and scenic

For those who prefer a scenic route, the NY Waterway and other ferry services offer a pleasant, less-crowded trip across the Hudson River. Ferries run regularly from various points in downtown Jersey City, including the Paulus Hook ferry stop at 30 Hudson St, providing direct service to Manhattan’s West Side and the Financial District. It's an easy, stunning, and consistently on-time 6-minute sail from Paulus Hook in downtown Jersey City to Brookfield Place in Manhattan. The ferry also runs to 39th St on the West Side of Manhattan, just minutes away from the new central business district at Hudson Yards. On a sunny day with blue skies, your ferry commute selfie will make all your coworkers green with envy.

3. Light Rail: an easy commute to surrounding communities

The Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (HBLR) is another valuable transportation option. It connects downtown Jersey City with various neighborhoods and adjacent cities, including Hoboken, Bayonne, and Weehawken. This can be particularly useful for those who need to travel within the region or connect with other transit options. The light rail is a great choice for getting around Jersey City and reaching local destinations with frequent service and minimal crowds. For those looking for access to ferry service to Manhattan, HBLR has stops adjacent to the Port Imperial and Paulus Hook ferry terminals. It also takes you directly to Costco in Bayonne.

4. Buses: to Manhattan and beyond

For more localized travel or areas not covered by the PATH, NJ Transit buses offer extensive routes throughout Jersey City and beyond. Several bus routes operate in various neighborhoods in Jersey City, connecting residents with to Manhattan's Port Authority bus terminal. In addition, local buses connect Downtown Jersey City to Union City, Fort Lee, and beyond.

6. Biking and Walking: Healthy and Eco-Friendly

For short commutes within downtown Jersey City, biking or walking can be convenient and healthy alternatives. The city is increasingly becoming more bike-friendly with dedicated bike lanes, free and secure oonee bike storage at PATH stations, and Citibike bike sharing program. Walking is also a pleasant and heart-healthy option. If your office is near the waterfront in Jersey City, you can't beat the commute along the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, a car-free multiuse path from Weehawken to Downtown Jersey City with stunning views of the Hudson River and Manhattan skyline. The PATH stations and ferry terminals all have Citibike docks, and bikes are allowed on the ferry, so you can easily combine your morning exercise into your commute.

7. Via Service: Inexpensive On-Demand Rides

For a flexible and convenient alternative to traditional public transportation, consider using the Via service in Jersey City. Via operates as a shared ride service, providing on-demand transportation within specific zones of the city. This service is especially useful for short trips between downtown Jersey City and the "outer zone" away from DTJC and Journal Square. Via vehicles typically accommodate multiple passengers traveling in the same direction, and at only $2/ride are far more economical than traditional ride-sharing options. If you live in the Heights, Bergen-Lafayette, McGinley Square, or the West Side, Via is a great option to get you to a PATH or ferry stop. If you need to take the NJ Transit out to the suburbs, the edge of Newport by the Hoboken train station is within Jersey City; set your drop off point to the Beach Apartment at 180 River Dr N.