I know this response is way late for the original poster but maybe it will help someone else. I think a lot depends on your lifestyle and preferences. I lived in downtown New Brunswick for seven years and enjoyed it immensely as a single professional. Because it is the home of Rutgers, Johnson & Johnson and the Middlesex County government - it is a vibrant place for dining, entertainment, shopping and the Arts. The DevCo - initiated and sponsored by all three has been a driver in the revitalization of downtown New Brunswick.
Some of the best restaurants in NJ are located in New Brunswick - The Frog & the Peach, Deltas, Makedas (Ethiopian) to name a few. There is a comedy club, plenty of outlets that offer live music and a few night clubs. There are plenty of shopping options in New Brunswick and the NJ Transit stop will take you right into Manhattan's Penn Station within about an hour. There are also three world-class theaters - the State, George Street Play House and the Crossroads. There is the Zimmerle Museum at Rutgers. From a history perspective - New Brunswick is steeped in history, with sites that go back to the late 1700's. There is also a new public fitness center and supermarket downtown adjacent to the NJ Transit & Amtrak train station. There are also a number of options available from a Housing perspective including at least five high-end town house, condo and rental properties.
You really can't beat New Brunswick if you single, a couple just starting out or even a couple with small children. I wouldn't recommend it for people with school aged kids unless you want to spring for private school since the public schools are not great.
