
McGinley Square, Jersey City, NJ
Welcome to McGinley Square, Jersey City: The Heart of a Historic Revival
Positioned at the literal heart of Jersey City, McGinley Square is a vibrant neighborhood experiencing an exciting resurgence. Once a bustling commercial and entertainment center, this area is now a dynamic mix of its historic past and a promising future. Anchored by Saint Peter's University and a diverse community, McGinley Square offers a well-connected, energetic urban environment with an authentic neighborhood feel. If you're looking for a place that's rich in history, undergoing rapid growth, and offers excellent value and connectivity, McGinley Square is an exceptionally compelling place to call home.
A Legacy of Education and Revival
From Entertainment to Education Hub
McGinley Square's history is deeply tied to its role as a central hub for commerce and entertainment in the early 20th century, a bustling "Times Square West" with grand theaters and shops. This legacy as a key crossroads was further solidified by the presence of Saint Peter's University, which continues to be a powerful anchor for the community. After a period of decline, the neighborhood is now on an exciting trajectory of redevelopment. Significant revitalization efforts, including community-led plans for new retail, housing, and public spaces, are transforming the area into a vibrant, mixed-use district.
A Community Forging Its Future
McGinley Square is defined by its strong sense of community and the active participation of its residents and local organizations. This isn't a neighborhood where things just happen—it's a place where people are actively involved in shaping its identity. The area's diverse population and its proximity to a major university contribute to a lively, forward-thinking atmosphere. There is a tangible sense of a community on the rise, with new businesses and projects continually adding to its energy.
Architectural Character and Urban Density
The visual appeal of McGinley Square is a fascinating blend of architectural styles. You'll find classic brick rowhouses and multi-family homes that reflect the neighborhood's early 20th-century development, often with charming details. These sit alongside more recent residential buildings and, increasingly, sleek new developments. The area's density and urban character mean that everything is close at hand, from local shops and eateries to the major transportation hub at Journal Square.
Real Estate in McGinley Square: Value and Growth
Real estate in McGinley Square offers a mix of classic multi-family homes, ideal for investors or owner-occupants, and a growing number of modern condominium units and rentals.
Affordable Charm and Upside Potential
The housing stock here often provides more value compared to the more expensive neighborhoods to the east. Many of the classic homes have been updated to blend historic character with modern amenities. The real estate market is active and competitive, reflecting the neighborhood's increasing appeal. Recent trends (as of July 2025) show the median home price in McGinley Square around $483,000, which is significantly more accessible than Downtown. This affordability, combined with the ongoing revitalization, makes it an attractive market for both first-time homebuyers and savvy investors.
Properties for Urban Dwellers and Students
The residences in McGinley Square cater to a diverse population, including students and faculty from Saint Peter's University, as well as professionals and families. Whether you're looking for a classic home with rental potential or a modern apartment in a new development, the emphasis is on a connected urban lifestyle in a neighborhood with a bright future.
Amenities and Connectivity
Experience a Local Vibe with Unmatched Transit Access
McGinley Square’s central location and excellent transportation links are among its greatest assets, placing residents at the nexus of several vibrant Jersey City areas.
A Thriving Local Scene
Bergen Avenue, the area's main commercial corridor, is a bustling hub of activity. It offers a wide variety of shops, including local markets and specialty stores, reflecting the neighborhood’s cultural diversity. The dining scene is eclectic, with a range of authentic international cuisines to discover. The iconic Loew's Jersey Theatre and the cultural events hosted by Saint Peter's University add to the area's vibrant atmosphere. The McGinley Square Partnership and other community groups actively work to enhance the neighborhood's commercial appeal and host local events.
Proximity to Green Spaces and Community Hubs
McGinley Square is within easy reach of several key green spaces. The neighborhood itself has local parks, and the expansive Lincoln Park, one of Hudson County's largest parks, is just a short distance away. This provides residents with access to extensive recreational facilities, from running tracks and sports fields to beautiful walking paths.
Exceptional Accessibility
McGinley Square is a transit-oriented neighborhood. It is incredibly well-connected by bus routes, with major thoroughfares like Bergen Avenue and Montgomery Street serving as central arteries. This provides easy access to all parts of Jersey City, as well as direct connections to New York City. The neighborhood's close proximity to the Journal Square Transportation Center—a major hub for the PATH train—makes commuting to Manhattan and other parts of New Jersey fast and efficient.
McGinley Square, Jersey City, offers a truly special opportunity to experience a historic and rapidly evolving urban lifestyle. It’s a place where a rich past, a strong community, and a promising future converge, creating an exceptionally desirable and engaging environment to call home.
HOA: Yes (Many of the newer condominium and co-op developments in McGinley Square will have HOAs. Some multi-family homes may also operate with shared maintenance agreements.)
55+ Community: No

