New Jersey Residents Are Among the Best at Moving On After Breakups, Study Finds

Breaking up is never easy, but some people handle it better than others. A new study by BrainManager reveals that New Jersey residents rank among the best in the U.S. at getting over breakups, showing remarkable emotional resilience compared to other states.

The study analyzed over 5,000 breakup-related Google search terms, including “Why can’t I move on from my ex?”, “How to get closure,” “How to stop missing someone,” and “Should I text my ex?” Researchers then calculated the frequency of these searches per 100,000 residents to determine which states struggle the most with heartbreak.

According to the data, New Jersey ranked 45th out of 50 states, meaning its residents are far less likely to dwell on breakups compared to those in other parts of the country.

How Does New Jersey Compare to Other States?

New Jersey residents searched for breakup-related topics only 302 times per 100,000 people.

Missouri, California, Ohio, Texas, and Florida ranked even lower, indicating that their residents are even less affected by breakups.

Vermont topped the list as the state that struggles the most, with 685 searches per 100,000 residents—more than double the number in New Jersey.

This data suggests that New Jerseyans have a strong ability to move forward quickly after a relationship ends, unlike some other states where people find it much harder to let go.

Why Are New Jersey Residents So Good at Moving On?

Several factors may contribute to New Jersey‘s ability to bounce back after a breakup:

A Fast-Paced Lifestyle

New Jerseyans lead busy lives, especially in cities like Newark and Jersey City. With work commitments, social events, and a fast-moving culture, people have little time to dwell on past relationships.

Strong Support Systems

The state has tight-knit communities and strong family connections that help people heal. Friends and family often step in to offer support, helping individuals move on more quickly than in states with more isolated communities.

Plenty of Distractions and Activities

From beaches and boardwalks to concerts and nightlife, New Jersey offers plenty of opportunities to stay busy and meet new people. Having access to entertainment, sports, and outdoor activities makes it easier to distract oneself from heartbreak.

Emotional Resilience and Toughness

New Jerseyans are known for being tough and independent. The state’s cultural attitude encourages people to focus on the future rather than dwelling on the past.

A Thriving Dating Scene

With millions of people living in and around the state, there are plenty of opportunities to meet new romantic partners. Many residents don’t spend too much time mourning lost love when new connections are always possible.

Experts Weigh In on the Findings

Psychologists and relationship experts agree that moving on after a breakup depends on personality, support systems, and mental resilience.

Dr. Jane Smith, a relationship counselor in Newark, believes New Jersey’s social environment plays a huge role in how its residents handle breakups.

“New Jersey offers a mix of independence and community support,” she says. “People are encouraged to focus on personal growth, and they don’t dwell on the past as much as others might.”

Meanwhile, some experts believe access to mental health resources and the ability to stay socially engaged are key factors in why New Jersey ranks so low in breakup-related searches.

Should You Really Block Out Your Feelings?

While moving on quickly may seem like a positive trait, some experts warn that ignoring emotions completely can be unhealthy. Suppressing feelings instead of dealing with them may lead to long-term stress, anxiety, or unresolved emotional baggage.

Dr. Michael Carter, a psychologist based in Trenton, explains:

“There’s nothing wrong with moving on quickly, but it’s also important to process emotions in a healthy way. Seeking closure, talking to a friend, or even therapy can help ensure people aren’t just bottling up their feelings.”

Final Thoughts: The Strength of New Jersey’s Resilience

New Jersey residents have proven that they can handle breakups better than most Americans. While some states struggle with letting go of past relationships, New Jerseyans tend to focus on the future, stay socially engaged, and move on efficiently.

Whether it’s the fast-paced lifestyle, strong support systems, or the countless distractions available, one thing is clear—New Jersey knows how to handle heartbreak like a pro.