Situated along the Atlantic coast, New Jersey is home to over 9.2 million people, making it the most densely populated state in the Union. Jersey also has the highest median household income in the country, over $96,000, and one-tenth of all households are millionaires.

New Jersey isn’t just home to many wealthy folks or Springsteen worshippers and Bon Jovi freaks; it is also home to the most non-English community enclaves from across the globe and has a history of receiving immigrants. Notably, one can’t help but notice the influence of Italian-Americans around the state. But today, you’ll see a vibrant mix of cultures from the Caribbean, South and East Asia, and Africa.

New Jersey’s centralized location means that its counties are part of several major metropolitan areas on the East Coast, including New York, Philadelphia, and Leigh Valley. New Jersey is an economic powerhouse and home to various industries, including finance, manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism. That means many brands founded in Jersey have gone global, but there are also many local gems you may have only seen on shows like The Sopranos or Jersey Shore or heard about from natives craving local treats.