$695,485Average Value$413Average Price per Sq Ft2Homes For Sale
An industrial, waterfront town with big ambitions
Belford is a small maritime community along central New Jersey’s Raritan Bay with a heritage of fishing and seafaring industries. Much of the area is encumbered by wetlands and streams, and the remaining land mainly houses county-wide utility and commercial services. A few residential streets are tucked in the southwest corner and along Route 36, which acts as the neighborhood’s south border. Near the shore, the Belford Ferry Terminal offers travel to downtown and Midtown Manhattan. “Locals can enjoy the suburban life and still have access to the big city here,” says Melissa DeSantis, top Monmouth County agent and broker associate at Real Broker LLC. “You can head to New York City or Philadelphia in an hour or so but you can just as easily reach about a dozen beaches in a half hour.” Though it’s years from fruition, the local township committee has proposed a redevelopment plan that would completely transform the area into a sprawling mixed-use district and grant community-wide access to the prime waterfront.
Belford neighborhood is surrounded by nature.
Beachgoers can park close to the water at Bayshore Waterfront Park in Belford.
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Limited inventory but growing interest among homebuyers
Belford’s small-town feel is visible in its modest housing stock: a mix of manufactured houses, Craftsman bungalows with front porches and traditional ranches clad in vinyl siding, with a median price of $561,000. There’s limited inventory and very little turnover. The neighborhood’s only waterfront property is the coveted Cape-Cod style condominium, Dunes at Shoal Harbor, which offers exclusive amenities like a private clubhouse, pool and gym. A two-bedroom unit can start around $560,000, while a bayfront four-bedroom townhouse can fetch $960,000. “If you’re a New York City commuter, what you can get here is likely a lot more than what you’ll find in the boroughs,” DeSantis says. “For less money, the size of your property is larger and taxes are lower.” Under the town’s proposed redevelopment plan, two multifamily housing complexes would join the neighborhood—one of them waterfront—with a small number of units set aside for low- and moderate-income households.
Most homes in Belford feature large porches and expansive lawns.
Craftsman bungalows in Belford, NJ, exude an inviting and comforting charm.
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The Seastreak Ferry makes a quick turn around in Belford.
Access to major cities by land or sea
The arrival of the Belford Ferry in 1989 transformed this humble fishing community into an emerging commuter suburb. Operated by Seastreak, the ferry travels to downtown Manhattan in 40 minutes or Midtown Manhattan in 75 minutes. Drivers can connect to highways via Route 36, reaching New York City in 44 miles or Philadelphia in 88 miles.
A small selection of local favorites
The Belford Seafood Co-Op is a Monmouth County staple, providing fresh-caught seafood and daily specials. Newcomer Ross Brewing Co. has a loyal following delighted by the brewery’s events and laid-back, waterfront atmosphere. Otherwise, restaurants can be found along Route 36 or in neighboring New Monmouth along Main Street and Leonardville Road. Pueblo Mágico serves authentic Mexican fare, Belford Bistro is an upscale American eatery, and Claudie’s Chicken is a fast-casual spot with friendly staff and good prices. Super Foodtown of Port Monmouth is the main grocery store.
Ross Brewing Company in Belford is renowned for its friendly atmosphere and exceptional beer.
Pueblo Mágico serves authentic Mexican fare in a vibrant setting
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Waterfront parks, beaches and miles of hiking trails
Bayshore Waterfront Park, one of the premier attractions of Belford and Port Monmouth, is a 229-acre stretch of beach that locals visit to swim, fish or picnic while taking in views of the New York skyline. In just over five miles, residents can reach Huber Woods Park, a 360-acre green space with dog-friendly hiking trails. Seven miles away, there’s Hartshorne Woods Park with more hiking, water views and WWII-era bunkers. Bikers enjoy the 24-mile Henry Hudson Trail, a former railroad-turned-paved trail, and neighborhood children use the sports grounds at Belford Park. The Jersey Shore’s popular Sea Bright beaches are under 10 miles away.
Belford residents can wander the meandering trail of Huber Woods Park.
The Henry Hudson Trail, passing through Belford neighborhood, is popular among bikers.
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Numerous public schools and athletic excellence
Belford’s students attend seven public schools in neighboring New Monmouth. Both Leonardo Elementary School and Bayshore Middle School earn a B-plus from Niche. Middletown High School South earns an A-minus and has one of the most successful athletic programs in the state, evidenced by alumni, Belford native and NFL running back Knowshon Moreno.
Leonardo Elementary School in New Monmouth is known for its academic excellence.
Bayshore Middle School in New Monmouth prepares students for a successful future.
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Belford’s plans for the future
Belford is home to multiple flood zones, a landfill, a compost facility and a sewerage authority. However, the town is pursuing an ambitious redevelopment plan that would preserve the natural wetlands and creeks while bringing community-focused attractions. Ideas include a bayfront amphitheater, pedestrian promenade, retail and dining, mixed-use buildings, new housing, a community center and a museum honoring the area’s maritime history.
Photography Contributed By
Pushparaj Aitwal
Video By
Jonathan Bradley
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Belford, NJ sell after 20 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Belford, NJ over the last 12 months is $601,500, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Get in before summer! Park Ferry at Shoal Harbor -- a stunning 3-bed, 2.5-bath Townhome where coastal calm meets city convenience. Solid oak floors, gourmet granite kitchen, and sun-drenched open living make an instant impression. The primary suite features a custom walk-in closet, dual vanities, glass shower, and soaking tub. Your private deck frames sweeping sunsets over quiet estuaries and a
Welcome to this inviting ranch in the highly sought-after Belford section of Middletown. Beautifully maintained and move-in ready, it's an ideal choice for first-time buyers or those looking to downsize. Set on a spacious lot, this home features hardwood floors, an updated bathroom, and a bright, easy-flowing layout filled with natural sunlight. The kitchen offers quartz countertops, and the
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This 5 bed 2 bath home on a huge lot is ready for you to put the finishing touches on to make it your own! Some nice amenities included a new roof with solar panels and a new water heater, hardwood floors, 2-zone heat and central AC. Layout would accommodate a mother/daughter situation with first floor access to bedrooms and full bath. The spacious level yard backs up to a babbling brook and has
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Priced below market value because Buyers will need to complete due diligence (including survey and DEP assessment) to determine if it can be used. Seller may consider a very good offer that is subject to certain conditions being met, but not full approvals. Convenient location--not far from Main Street and Route 36 in the Belford section of Middletown. Schools, shopping, commuter ferries and
Brian ChurchBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach - Spring Lake
Welcome home to this charming 2 bedroom 1 bath rental located at 402 Maple Drive in Belford! This quaint and inviting home has been thoughtfully updated, featuring an eat in kitchen complete with a full stainless steel appliance package, sleek tile backsplash, and a convenient coffee bar.Enjoy a bright and airy living space filled with natural light and neutral finishes. Step outside to a
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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach - Red Bank
Welcome to your Jersey Shore retreat! This 3-bed, 2.5-bath Shore Home. The open first floor features a spacious living room, dining area, and large kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, and in-kitchen laundry. Hardwood floors, 9-ft ceilings, and natural light create an airy feel. Upstairs, enjoy the primary bedroom with walk-in closet and private bath, plus two additional
Danielle Farney
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach - Red Bank
2 bd 1.5 bath House, Garage not included; parking on property. $2500 with a month-and-a-half security deposit. Located in Port Monmouth, NJ 07758, close to Belford ferry. The Rental will be available in a month or possibly sooner. I'm taking names and contact info. Let me know who will be renting and any other information you would like to share. ty.
Beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home featuring hardwood floors throughout and a spacious, functional layout. The main level offers a cozy living room with a fireplace. Kitchen, and dining area, are perfect for everyday living and entertaining. The primary bedroom includes a private en-suite bathroom, while two additional bedrooms share a full hallway bath. The home also features an
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