Time-Saving Location; possibly working in Basking Ridge but traveling to NYC daily.

Hello. Due to the pursuit of a hobby, I am looking to move from Pennsylvania to New Jersey. If everything works out the next few months, I will be working in Basking Ridge, NJ. However, my hobby requires me to travel to Manhattan (Midtown) daily and will require me to be in Manhattan for 3-5 hours everyday. I will have a car to drive to work but will not be driving to Manhattan.

I am looking to rent a place (I do not mind having to live with roommates) for $1000 or less monthly. I am looking for a place that is in walking distance (~15 minutes) to a reliable public transportation system (e.g. PATH, etc.) that can be taken to Manhattan in 1 hour or less. I am single and have no pets, spouses, or children so school districts and such are not of concern to me. I would prefer a decent and safe neighborhood and ideally, an area with a decent population of young adults (not a big factor though). The number one factor in choosing an area would be a place that will allow me to make most of my time (in the middle of Basking Ridge and Manhattan perhaps?).

I was originally thinking of Downtown Jersey City and commuting 1 hour to work and 1 hour to home.

3 Important Things (in descending order)
1. Location that will save me time (e.g., proximity to work & hobby (i.e., Manhattan) -though, I am open to anywhere that will save me time
2. Safety
3. Walking distance to public transportation

I appreciate any and all feedback. I know I am requiring a lot and am willing to look at options that meet even some of my preferences. Also, please be blunt with me if you feel that it will be impossible to find such a place in Jersey. I am also looking at jobs in Manhattan but that would be Plan B.

Thank you in advance!