Just an hour’s commute from New York City, Monmouth County, NJ, is one of the top choices for living in New Jersey. Whether you’re a retiree, student, young professional, or family, there’s a town here that fits your lifestyle and budget.
We’ve identified the 5 Best Places to Live in Monmouth County, NJ, to help simplify your decision. Find details on schools, safety, cost of living, and more to make the right choice!
Why Choose Monmouth County, NJ?
Living in Monmouth County also means enjoying the beautiful beaches of the Jersey Shore, where residents can fish, boat, and relax by the water. Plus, just about an hour from New York City and an hour and a half from Philadelphia gives residents easy access to amenities not typically available within Monmouth County.
The county is home to top-rated schools like High Technology High School and Holmdel High School, making it an ideal choice for families focused on quality education. For those who enjoy the outdoors, Monmouth County has must-seen spots like Holmdel Park and Shark River Park, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and other recreational activities.
Nearby City Benefits:
- Broadway Shows: NYC’s theater scene is only a quick commute away.
- Museums and Art Galleries: Access top art institutions like NYC’s Metropolitan Museum of Art.
- Career Opportunities: NYC and Philadelphia provide finance, tech, and media job options.
- Higher Education: Proximity to institutions like Columbia University and the University of Pennsylvania.
- Diverse Dining and Shopping: International dining and high-end shopping are easily accessible in nearby cities.
Key Factors When Choosing a Place to Live in Monmouth County
Consider factors like schools, safety, recreation, commuting options, and cost of living to find the right fit for your lifestyle:
- Schools: Towns like Holmdel and Rumson have some of New Jersey’s best public and private schools.
- Safety: Communities like Marlboro and Freehold are known for their low crime rates, ideal for families and retirees.
- Recreation & Community Life: Enjoy everything from outdoor parks to arts and dining, especially in areas like Red Bank.
- Commute Options: With Monmouth County just an hour from NYC, towns like Red Bank are great for professionals.
- Cost of Living: Towns vary in affordability; Manalapan and Neptune are more budget-friendly, while Rumson and Holmdel offer premium living.
Top 5 Places to Live in Monmouth County, NJ
Here’s a look at the standout qualities of some of the top towns, helping families, professionals, and retirees find a great place to settle.
Fair Haven
Fair Haven is a quiet, suburban town in Monmouth County with a strong school district that includes Viola L. Sickles School and Knollwood School, both known for their academic standards. Most high school students attend the highly-ranked Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School.
The town has a very low crime rate, about 3.4 times below the New Jersey average and nearly five times lower than the national average. Property crime rates are also notably low, with 471 incidents per 100,000 residents, compared to the national average of 1,954.
Residents can enjoy Fair Haven Fields Natural Area for hiking and Victory Park for its playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic spots. Events like the annual Fireman’s Fair bring everyone together, giving the town a warm, family-friendly feel and helping neighbors get to know each other.
Little Silver
Little Silver is a charming small town with neighborhoods for all budgets and beautiful views along the Navesink River. With family-friendly amenities and great schools, Little Silver gives you that peaceful, close-to-nature feel.
Local schools, like Point Road School and Markham Place School, have a solid reputation, and most kids head to Red Bank Regional High School after middle school.
Safety is another big plus here, with crime rates about 3.4 times lower than the national average, and property crime rates are low, too—just 678 incidents per 100,000 residents compared to 1,954 nationally.
Families enjoy Sickles Park for sports and playgrounds, and the Little Silver Marina offers access to boating and water activities. Events like the annual Little Silver 5K and community yard sales bring neighbors together. For those planning a move, Little Silver moving services are available to help new residents settle in.
Manasquan
Manasquan is a top choice in Monmouth County for those seeking an active social lifestyle.
Schools, Safety, and Community Amenities: Manasquan’s schools, including Manasquan Elementary and Manasquan High School, are known for community involvement and strong academics.
The town is also safe to live in, with a daily crime rate about 3.4 times lower than the national average. Property crime rates are notably low, at 1,345 incidents per 100,000 residents, well below the national average of 1,954.
Residents enjoy Manasquan Beach and Manasquan Inlet for beach activities, fishing, and surfing. Mallard Park is a popular spot with sports fields and picnic areas. The downtown area is lively, with various shops, restaurants, and cafes that bring people together. Moving to Manasquan is simple, with reliable Manasquan moving services available to help newcomers settle comfortably.
Lincroft
Lincroft is a calm town that appeals to families and retirees. Local parks, community centers, and healthcare facilities make it a comfortable place to live, with reliable Lincroft moving services to help newcomers settle in easily.
Part of the Middletown Township School District, Lincroft is served by Lincroft Elementary and Middletown High School South, both known for their solid academic programs.
Lincroft is also very safe, with a crime rate around 3.4 times lower than the national average. Property crime is low, too, with only 573 incidents per 100,000 residents, far below the national average of 1,954.
Residents love Thompson Park for its trails, sports fields, and picnic areas, and Tatum Park is another favorite, with hiking trails and spots for family activities. Community events, like town picnics and holiday celebrations, bring people together, helping everyone feel connected.
Holmdel Township
Holmdel Township offers a great mix of suburban living with easy access to parks, good schools, and convenient spots for dining and shopping, making it a popular choice for families, professionals, and retirees.
Holmdel’s schools, like Village School and Holmdel High School, are highly rated and attract families who prioritize education.
The town is also very safe, with a crime rate about 3.4 times lower than the national average. Property crime is low, too, at 1,345 incidents per 100,000 residents, much lower than the national average of 1,954. These factors make Holmdel a comfortable and secure place to call home.
Locals enjoy Holmdel Park for hiking, sports, and picnics, and Bell Works is a popular spot with shops, restaurants, and regular events. For those planning to move, Holmdel Township’s moving services make it easy to settle in and start exploring all that Holmdel has to offer.
Things to Do in Monmouth County for Families, Professionals, and Retirees
Whether you’re searching for things to do in Monmouth County, NJ, with kids, nightlife as a professional, or relaxing spots as a retiree, Monmouth County offers something for everyone.
Families
Jenkinson’s Aquarium (Point Pleasant): Marine life exhibits are on the Point Pleasant boardwalk, and nearby games and snacks are also available.
- Holmdel Park (Holmdel): Playgrounds, picnic areas, and trails, plus the historic Longstreet Farm.
- Keansburg Amusement Park & Runaway Rapids (Keansburg): Rides, go-karts, and water park.
Professionals
Asbury Park Boardwalk: Live music spots like Stone Pony and Wonder Bar, with bars and restaurants.
- Red Bank: Dining and arts venues, including The Robinson Ale House, Char Steakhouse, and Count Basie Center for the Arts.
- Bell Works (Holmdel): Dining, shops, and networking spots.
Retirees
- Deep Cut Gardens (Middletown): Walking paths and garden areas.
- Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park (Long Branch): Beach, picnic areas, and boardwalk.
- Monmouth Park Racetrack (Oceanport): Seasonal horse races and events.
Educational Opportunities and Schools in Monmouth County
Monmouth County provides top-rated public, private, and charter schools, attracting families who prioritize education. Here’s a summary of the best schools in Monmouth County and key options.
Public Schools
Monmouth County’s public schools offer quality academics and community programs:
- Holmdel Township School District: Includes Village School and Holmdel High School.
- Rumson-Fair Haven Regional School District: Known for Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School.
- Middletown Township Public School District: Features Middletown High School South.
Private Schools
Private schools in Monmouth County offer specialized education with various academic focuses:
- Ranney School (Tinton Falls): College-preparatory, Pre-K to grade 12.
- Christian Brothers Academy (Lincroft): All-boys Catholic high school.
- Red Bank Catholic High School (Red Bank): Faith-based education.
Charter Schools
Charter schools in Monmouth County provide alternative programs:
- High Technology High School (Lincroft): STEM-focused, highly competitive.
- Academy Charter High School (Lake Como): College and career prep.
Cost of Living and Economic Opportunities in Monmouth County
Monmouth County, NJ, offers a mix of economic opportunities and a cost of living that varies by area, making it one of the best places to live in Monmouth County, NJ, for various lifestyles and budgets. Here’s a breakdown of housing costs, employment rates, and economic conditions.
Housing Costs
- Home Prices: The average home price in Monmouth County is around $600,000, though prices vary widely across towns. Popular towns like Rumson and Holmdel tend to have higher property values.
- Rental Market: Average monthly rent ranges from $1,800 to $3,000, depending on location and property size.
Employment and Economic Conditions
- Employment Rate: Monmouth County has an employment rate of approximately 96%, with key industries including healthcare, education, and technology.
- Local Economy: Proximity to New York City supports commuting professionals, while the county itself hosts a range of local businesses and corporate offices, providing diverse job opportunities.
So, Found Your Place in Monmouth County, NJ?
Monmouth County combines highly rated schools, low crime rates, and a variety of living options. Towns like Manasquan offer beach access, while Fair Haven and Little Silver are known for strong communities and family-oriented amenities. It’s a practical choice for many, with diverse job opportunities and housing options close to major cities.
Ready to make Monmouth County your home? Contact SETT Movers today!
