Here are 10 Things People from New Jersey Do That Seem Insane To Everyone Else

Welcome to the Garden State, where New Jerseyans march to the beat of their own drum! From heated debates over pork roll versus Taylor ham to the peculiar practice of prohibiting self-service gas pumping, residents of New Jersey engage in behaviors that might leave outsiders scratching their heads. Join us as we explore 10 quirks and customs that showcase the unique and sometimes eccentric nature of New Jersey culture.

“Jughandle turns”

In New Jersey, drivers navigate jughandle intersections, where they must exit right in order to make a left turn, a traffic pattern that may seem confusing or counterintuitive to those unfamiliar with the state’s road system.

“Pork roll vs. Taylor ham debate”

New Jersey residents engage in passionate debates over whether to call a popular breakfast meat “pork roll” or “Taylor ham,” with strong opinions on both sides of the argument, showcasing a culinary rivalry that may seem trivial or humorous to outsiders.

“Beach badge fees”

In New Jersey, beachgoers must often pay for access to public beaches through the purchase of beach badges or passes, a practice that may seem unusual or inconvenient to those from regions where beach access is free or less regulated.

“WaWa worship”

New Jerseyans have a deep love for WaWa convenience stores, often expressing fervent loyalty to the chain and its offerings of hoagies, coffee, and snacks, a devotion that may seem excessive or perplexing to those from areas without WaWa locations.

“Pumping gas prohibition”

New Jersey is one of the few states where it is illegal for drivers to pump their own gas, with attendants handling refueling at gas stations, a law that may seem outdated or unnecessary to those accustomed to self-service stations.

“Diner culture”

New Jersey is known for its abundance of diners, with residents frequenting these establishments for meals at all hours of the day and night, showcasing a diner culture that may seem unique or nostalgic to those from regions with fewer diners.

“Trash talking in sports rivalries”

New Jersey sports fans engage in intense rivalries with neighboring states like New York and Pennsylvania, engaging in spirited trash talk and rivalry chants at sporting events, showcasing a competitive spirit that may seem aggressive or excessive to those from less passionate sports communities.

“Bagel snobbery”

New Jersey residents take their bagels seriously, often proclaiming that the state’s bagels are the best due to factors like water quality and baking techniques, showcasing a pride in local culinary traditions that may seem obsessive or elitist to those from regions with different bagel preferences.

“Taylor ham, egg, and cheese addiction”

New Jerseyans have a fondness for the classic breakfast sandwich featuring Taylor ham (or pork roll), egg, and cheese on a roll, often enjoying it as a staple morning meal, showcasing a culinary obsession that may seem indulgent or unhealthy to those with different breakfast preferences.

“Turnpike tollbooths”

New Jersey’s Turnpike features numerous tollbooths and toll roads, leading to frequent delays and congestion for drivers, a toll system that may seem inconvenient or frustrating to those from regions with fewer toll roads or alternative transportation options.