Transportation for Those Living Near Manhattan

also, is jersey city/hoboken a lot cheaper for small apartments than manhattan? and are there good bars/hang-out spots? i like going to bars that aren't extremely packed so maybe this might suit me better than a midtown bar...

Hoboken is really young and fun. It's not really cheaper though, it's been getting pretty expensive. Jersey city is a little cheaper depending on what part you live and I guess same goes with Hoboken. If you live by all the bars, the rent can be costly. Car depends on where you live in these areas and what you are trying to do.

I don't know much about new jersey but go to the PATH train's website and see how long the ride takes and how much it costs etc.

Parking is a PAIN in Manhattan. You'd want..and need.. a car to get around in NJ and (farther east) Queens/Brooklyn NYC.. just not to Manhattan at working. Note: a lot of parking open up after 6/7 pm on weekdays in Manhattan..

at working hours*

I was afraid you would need a car in Hoboken/Jersey City. Might as well try to live in Manhattan then. The only comfort in moving towards that expensive area is that I will not have to pay for gas, car insurance, or any other automotive-related expenses anymore. But looks like if I decide on moving into New Jersey, I would still have to pay the expensive rent AND transportation. I don't think that is worth it.

Don't forget time. Living in Manhattan will save you a lot of time, and given that sleep is such a precious commodity, I would try to find a place as close to your firm as possible.