affordability - THE RIDGEWOOD BLOG.

Posted on February 3, 2026February 3, 2026 by James — 1 Comment

The “Invisible Pay Cut”: Why New Jersey Has Become the #1 State Hit Hardest by Inflation

The 7% Pay Cut: Why New Jersey is Officially the Worst State for Inflation

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Trenton NJ, it’s official: New Jersey residents have lost more purchasing power than anyone else in America over the last five years.

According to a startling new study by MyPerfectResume, the Garden State has been crowned the hardest-hit state in the nation regarding the “value of money” since 2020. While your paycheck might look bigger on paper, the reality of the New Jersey economy in 2026 is that your money simply doesn’t go as far as it used to.

Continue reading The “Invisible Pay Cut”: Why New Jersey Has Become the #1 State Hit Hardest by Inflation

Posted on December 24, 2025December 24, 2025 by James — Leave a comment

Mahwah’s $138 Million Question: Voters to Decide on Massive School Bond Referendum in March

So Much for Affordability $684.00 Per Homeowner

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

MAHWAH, NJ — The Mahwah Board of Education has set the stage for a landmark decision that could reshape the township’s educational landscape for decades. In a unanimous vote on December 17, 2025, the Board approved a two-question, $138.4 million bond referendum scheduled for March 10, 2026.

Continue reading Mahwah’s $138 Million Question: Voters to Decide on Massive School Bond Referendum in March

Posted on December 14, 2025December 14, 2025 by James — 2 Comments

Million-Dollar Transition? Mikie Sherrill Faces Fire Over Budget Boost That Doubles Previous Governors

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Governor-Elect Under Scrutiny as $1 Million Transition Spending Proposal Is Abruptly Pulled Amid GOP Backlash

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

TRENTON, NJ – Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill is facing the first major fiscal challenge of her incoming administration. Her transition team was forced to abruptly pull a controversial spending proposal that would have inflated the transition committee’s budget to an unprecedented $1 million—a roughly 62 percent increase over prior gubernatorial transitions.

Continue reading Million-Dollar Transition? Mikie Sherrill Faces Fire Over Budget Boost That Doubles Previous Governors

Posted on October 5, 2025October 5, 2025 by James — 3 Comments

Governor Murphy Puts Taxes & Bureaucracy Ahead of Affordability

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On News12 New Jersey, the governor made clear where his priorities lie

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Trenton NJ, on a recent episode of Ask Governor Murphy on News12 New Jersey, the governor made clear where his priorities lie when pressed about Republican legislation that would have delivered real relief from soaring energy costs.

The legislation, S-4398, introduced by Senators Latham Tiver (R-8) and Joe Pennacchio (R-26), would have suspended the sales and use tax, as well as the Societal Benefits Charge (SBC) on electric bills during peak summer months when energy costs were at their highest.

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Posted on February 25, 2025February 25, 2025 by James — Leave a comment

New Jersey Towns That Are Perfect for First-Time Homebuyers

New Jersey towns offer an ideal mix of affordability, community appeal, and convenience. The state stands out due to its diverse range of housing options that fit different budgets, making it easier for new buyers to find a home without stretching their finances. Its proximity to major cities like New York and Philadelphia means shorter commutes and access to urban job markets while enjoying a suburban lifestyle. Many New Jersey towns that are perfect for first-time homebuyers strike a balance between peaceful neighborhoods and the energy of city life, offering well-maintained parks, quality schools, and welcoming local businesses. This article will guide you through the best options for starting your homeownership journey in New Jersey. Let’s explore what makes these communities stand out and how they can help you lay a strong foundation for your future.

Continue reading New Jersey Towns That Are Perfect for First-Time Homebuyers

Posted on February 23, 2025February 23, 2025 by James — 9 Comments

2025 Property Tax Rankings: New Jersey Named Most Expensive State for Homeowners

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file photo by Boyd Loving

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, thinking about moving? Property taxes should be a key factor in your decision. WalletHub’s 2025 Property Taxes by State report, released on Tuesday, February 18, reveals the stark contrast in property tax burdens across the U.S.—and for New Jersey homeowners, the news isn’t great.

Continue reading 2025 Property Tax Rankings: New Jersey Named Most Expensive State for Homeowners

Posted on December 4, 2024December 4, 2024 by James — Leave a comment

NJBIA’s 66th Annual Business Outlook Survey: New Jersey’s Lack of Affordability

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Trenton NJ, While the state is less than a year away from electing a new governor, New Jersey businesses already know what they’d like to see from him or her after Gov. Phil Murphy completes his second term in office.

Continue reading NJBIA’s 66th Annual Business Outlook Survey: New Jersey’s Lack of Affordability

Posted on October 14, 2024October 14, 2024 by James — 1 Comment

Comparing Various Roofing Materials: Which is Right for You? How Can Experts Guide You in Massachusetts?

Are you considering a roof replacement or installation and feeling overwhelmed by the various roofing materials available? Choosing the suitable material is a critical decision that impacts not only the aesthetics of your home but also its durability, energy efficiency, and value. In Massachusetts’ unpredictable climate, selecting the right roof requires expert guidance. Let’s explore the various roofing materials and how professionals can help you make the best choice.

Continue reading Comparing Various Roofing Materials: Which is Right for You? How Can Experts Guide You in Massachusetts?

Posted on October 28, 2023October 27, 2023 by James — 7 Comments

The Murphy Administration Continues to Push, but Reality has Hit Home for the EV Market

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Trenton NJ, while Governor Murphy continues to push his all electric vehicle mandate ,Toyota’s Chairman and former CEO, Akio Toyoda, has been a vocal skeptic of the electric vehicle (EV) hype, which contributed to his stepping down from the CEO role earlier this year. With Tesla reporting disappointing third-quarter earnings, it seems that some investors are reevaluating the profitability of EVs. In an “I told you so” moment Toyoda said, “People are finally seeing reality.”

Continue reading The Murphy Administration Continues to Push, but Reality has Hit Home for the EV Market

Posted on October 4, 2023October 3, 2023 by James — 7 Comments

Ridgewood Ranks in the Top 3% of Small Cities in America

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, with almost one third of the population saying that they’d prefer to live in a suburban area, the personal-finance website WalletHub today released its report on 2023’s Best Small Cities in America, as well as expert commentary.

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Posted on March 1, 2023February 28, 2023 by James — 1 Comment

NJCPA Raises Concerns With Governor Murphy’s Proposed FY 2024 Budget

Statement by Ralph Albert Thomas, CPA (DC), CGMA, CEO and Executive Director, New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants

Roseland NJ, Governor Phil Murphy delivered his budget proposal for New Jersey’s 2024 fiscal year which begins July 1. The New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJCPA) applauds the Governor for proposing a budget that includes no tax increases or new fees and allows the 2.5-percent corporation business tax (CBT) surcharge to sunset on Dec. 31. We also applaud the fiscally responsible measures to create a $10 billion surplus and put more than $2 billion towards debt defeasance. However, we are concerned about the tax revenue projections which don’t factor in a possible recession.

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Posted on March 10, 2022March 10, 2022 by James — Leave a comment

NJCPA “Ignoring businesses does not help low- and middle-class New Jerseyans”

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Roseland NJ, This afternoon, Governor Phil Murphy delivered his budget proposal for New Jersey’s 2023 fiscal year which begins July 1. We applaud the Governor for proposing a budget that includes no tax increases or new fees. The NJCPA also commends Governor Murphy for once again including a full payment to the public worker pension fund, though structural reform to public worker benefits is necessary to end the ballooning burden of these benefits on the state budget. We also applaud the Governor for making a large allocation to debt defeasance.

Continue reading NJCPA “Ignoring businesses does not help low- and middle-class New Jerseyans”

The 7% Pay Cut: Why New Jersey is Officially the Worst State for Inflation

So Much for Affordability $684.00 Per Homeowner

Governor-Elect Under Scrutiny as $1 Million Transition Spending Proposal Is Abruptly Pulled Amid GOP Backlash

On News12 New Jersey, the governor made clear where his priorities lie

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