The Secret’s Out: Why You Should Buy Property in North Monmouth County, New Jersey

Serviced by a 45-minute ferry to Wall Street, North Monmouth County is a haven for the city slickers that crowd into Manhattan and Brooklyn during the week, but the area offers so much more than the average city suburb. Between sprawling properties, beautiful beaches, and abundant space, it’s no wonder that people find themselves drawn to take up residence in the county’s pretty, coastal towns.

Coastal lifestyle with city access

Beach clubs dot the coastline, with multiple exclusive neighborhoods just minutes away, while the Navesink River provides plenty of shoreline for private docks out back of Colonial-style mansions—plus there’s easy access to coveted education systems for younger buyers looking to take their expanding families out of the urban sprawl.

Towns like Rumson, Middletown, and Fair Haven are all draws for the full-time residents as well as the part-time second-home crowd, while those looking for something more quaint may be attracted to Atlantic Highlands or Monmouth Beach—the latter boasts relatively low taxes for the area.

Related: Discover Darlington, New Jersey—the American Versailles

Riverside Views, in Middletown, New Jersey

This property on Navesink River Road, which is lined with handsome houses backing onto the Navesink River, counts New Jersey native Jon Bon Jovi and his family among its neighbors. It’s also within walking distance of the exclusive Navesink Country Club, which offers a scenic golf course and respected tennis programs.

Made with lovers of water in mind, the property comes complete with a deep-water dock and boat lift, as well as an infinity edge pool that overlooks the river.

Riverside Charm, in Fair Haven, New Jersey

Backing onto a tranquil creek and just a 10-minute walk away from local delights such as the Nicholas Creamery gourmet ice cream parlor, this carefully restored home is resplendent with custom woodwork and warm design elements.

“This property is based near the historic district of Fair Haven, which is much like Martha’s Vineyard,” explains Mario Venancio, broker for Gloria Nilson & Co. Real Estate, the exclusive affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate in the region. “It’s an easily walkable area and has that rare Norman Rockwell feel that you rarely find.”

Related: Tour an Oceanfront Paradise on Montauk Point

Large Estate, in Rumson, New Jersey

While many areas of the county are known for their exclusivity, Rumson is North Monmouth’s VIP room. For proof see properties like 114 Rumson Road, easily one of the most iconic estates in the area.

This home is one of few of its size not to have been subject to subdivision. It comes complete with a bowling alley in the basement, and a pool with cabana. Very exclusive, completely private, and a mile from the beach—so many things Rumson special. It’s also just a four-minute drive from Undici, an Italian restaurant known for house-made pasta and wines handpicked and brought back from Italy personally by the owner.

“It’s about having things to do. People today, they want a lifestyle”

Country Club Style, in Rumson, New Jersey

Just off Rumson Road is Club Way, so named because it backs onto the exclusive Rumson Country Club, where members are able to enjoy tennis, golf, sailing, and shooting.

The Evergreens estate looks like it could be a private country club in itself, with generous rooms and an interior lined with French doors looking out onto manicured grounds.

Related: Uncover New Jersey’s River Charms

Luxurious & Private Estate, in Colts Neck, New Jersey

The integrity of Colts Neck acreage has been remarkably well-preserved. There’s no high street retail or built-up supermarkets, or even a sewer system—the latter of which goes a long way to keeping out condominium developments and fast food restaurants.

But this doesn’t mean the area is without grandeur. A few minutes further inland, this property pairs Colonial style with country club luxury, summed up by the eye-catching two-story foyer and expansive terrace, which leads to a pool, spa, and cabana.

For all its pastoral feel, Colts Neck is only a 25-minute drive from Red Bank, where two of the area’s best-known upscale restaurants, Char and Catch19 are located. You can also paddle board, Jet Ski, and even go ice boating in the winter.

Expansive Waterfront Views, Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey

This five-bedroom harbor-facing property is just one mile (1.6 km) from the ferry terminal that whisks you to Manhattan in less than an hour.

“We get a lot of people coming to the area saying, ‘We just want a view,’” explains Venancio.  “The views from Ocean Boulevard are just fantastic, and yet you are high and dry too.” Atlantic Highlands is home to the ferry into New York City, which takes just 45 minutes. As an added bonus, ferries are also able to take passengers right to Yankee stadium, and also as far as Nantucket. “It’s about having things to do,” says Venancio. “People today, they want a lifestyle.”