Johan Gonzalez

Portraits of New Jersey is an ongoing Jersey Vindicator series by photojournalist Andres Kudacki, who speaks with residents about what they love — and what frustrates them — about life in the Garden State. He pairs each conversation with a photograph.

Why he likes living in New Jersey:“You’re close to everything. You’ve got a ton of options for scenery, food, and entertainment. You’re close to the city, you’re close to Delaware, you’re close to Boston. So you have plenty of options for all types of flavors and tastes. That’s why I like Jersey.”

Thoughts on development: “We focus too much on building and developing close to the city, close to the downtowns…I think we could be building up more in central or southern New Jersey — more homes, and more affordable homes.”

The rising cost of housing: “The cost has gone up dramatically. In the last three years, they’re talking about an increase of 30 to 40%.”

Rental agreements: “Depending on the landlord, it’s usually a year—most landlords go once a year. But because of how things have changed, you have landlords that are month-to-month after the first year.”

Housing affordability: “I do rent, but I share with a family member, because paying by myself, I can’t afford it now.”