Toms River, NJ, United States

Capital City

With a population of 95,438, Toms River is a sprawling suburban hub that has grown rapidly in recent decades. While the town boasts an array of shopping malls and sports facilities, residents must contend with heavy bureaucracy - the township has officially changed its name twice in the past 20 years. And with its subtropical climate and vulnerability to severe storms like Superstorm Sandy, living here requires weathering the occasional natural disaster. Overall, Toms River is best suited for those seeking a convenient suburban lifestyle, though the red tape and coastal risks may be a turnoff for some.