Honestly, I would suggest securing the job first once your gf has a place already. You don't want to put too much strain on your already difficult finances by moving up there before knowing you will have money coming in. Make provisions to visit her often in the meantime, if possible, during times when you could go interview for jobs. I know these days most companies would rather employ someone who is a local, but once you let them know your reason for applying is because you wish to relocate, I don't see it hurting your chances any that you live in NJ at the moment.

That's just my opinion.