2. New Jersey
Insider Monkey Score: 3
New Jersey faces negative perception due to a significant number of reported bias incidents and hate crimes, with 1,282 hate crimes reported in 2021. There was a 29% increase in bias incidents that year. Popular culture, including TV shows like “Jersey Shore” and “The Sopranos,” contributes to the state’s unfavorable image. The crowded nature, congested freeways, and traffic also influence the negative perception. Despite these challenges, New Jersey remains diverse, with a higher-than-average median income and life expectancy. The state allocated $750,000 for a public awareness campaign to address the rising tide of hate and encourage reporting of bias incidents.
