Buying in Pennsylvania vs. New Jersey
Weighing Bucks County, PA — Newtown, Doylestown, Levittown — against nearby New Jersey? Here's a plain-English comparison, and how to get help on either side of the river.
PA vs. NJ at a glance
Property taxes
New Jersey has among the highest average property tax bills in the country, though it varies widely by town.
Pennsylvania property taxes are generally lower on average, but also vary by school district and municipality.
Transfer taxes at closing
NJ charges a Realty Transfer Fee, customarily paid by the seller, that scales with sale price.
PA charges a Realty Transfer Tax (a state portion plus a local/school portion) that is commonly split between buyer and seller.
How closings are handled
NJ contracts typically include a short attorney-review period, and attorneys are commonly involved in the transaction.
PA transactions are frequently handled through title companies, with attorney involvement varying by buyer preference.
Commute & location
Burlington/Mercer/Middlesex offer NJ Transit and quick access to both Philadelphia and (further north) New York.
Bucks County offers SEPTA regional rail toward Philadelphia and Delaware River bridge crossings into NJ.
General information only — not legal or tax advice. Tax rates and closing customs change and vary by municipality; confirm current figures with a licensed attorney, title company, or tax professional in the relevant state.
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