$700,436Average Value$418Average Price per Sq Ft7Homes 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
Christine Trabattoni,
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 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Belford, NJ over the last 12 months is $621,000, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
First time on the market in over 50 years! Welcome to 540 Sherman Avenue, a 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath split-level home located in the desirable Upper Belford section of Middletown. This home offers a great opportunity to create your next chapter in one of the area's most loved neighborhood pockets.A standout feature is the large sunroom addition, offering incredible flexible space that can be used
Coming Soon. Showings start 5/28. Welcome to your forever home! Situated in a cul de sac, in a peaceful neighborhood, you will find a 3 bedroom, 2 bath updated ranch style home with a bonus room and fenced in backyard. Move in ready with a beautifully updated kitchen w/ custom cabinets, granite countertops & hardwood floors throughout plus a mudroom/pantry that leads to the fully finished
Christine Morford
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach - Rumson
Discover the perfect blend of city convenience and waterfront serenity at 70 Golden Eye Ln in The Dunes, Port Monmouth, NJ. This sunlit gem boasts an open floor plan with oversized windows that flood the space with natural light, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The seamless flow between living, dining, and kitchen areas makes it ideal for everything from quiet evenings to hosting
Charming 4-bedroom Colonial located in the desirable Belford section of Middletown! This beautifully maintained home features a newer kitchen,hardwood floors throughout, and timeless character blended with modern updates. A walk-up attic offers additional storage or future expansion possibilities. Situated on a beautifully landscaped corner lot with ample parking, the property offers exceptional
Welcome to this 4 bedroom, 2 full bath home offering the perfect blend of comfort, functionality and lifestyle! The renovated kitchen and bathrooms provide modern updates while maintaining a warm and inviting feel throughout, including retention of the original brick chimney for added character. The spacious layout is ideal for everyday living and entertaining alike. A double-wide driveway
Welcome to 31 Skimmer Lane, a beautifully maintained townhouse in the desirable Port Monmouth community. This bright and spacious home features an open-concept living and dining area, modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, and a private balcony perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The primary suite offers a walk-in closet and en-suite bath, while additional bedrooms provide ample space
A rare offering at The Dunes at Shoal Harbor--where protected wetlands, bay breezes, and skyline views create a setting unlike anything else along the Jersey Shore. This coveted Willet Model end-unit spans 2,466 SF with east, south, and west exposures filling the home with natural light from sunrise to sunset. A dramatic 17-foot ceiling and wall of windows define the family room, centered around
PREMIERE LOCATION! Welcome to this beautifully renovated 2 BR ranch in the highly sought-after Belford section of Middletown - offering a rare opportunity to own a move-in ready home in Monmouth County at an exceptional value. Perfectly positioned for today's lifestyle, this home offers an effortless commute to NYC - located just 1 mile from the Seastreak Ferry, while still allowing you to enjoy
Coming Soon! Showings start 5/29.Welcome to The Dunes, a premier waterfront community on Sandy Hook Bay. This ideal location is perfect for commuters seeking a tranquil yet accessible lifestyle. This stunning multi-level townhome offers 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, providing spacious and comfortable living for your family. The main level features a dramatic 17 foot cathedral ceiling, a wall of
Sherry GrossBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach - Rumson
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 to this charming Belford colonial, where classic architecture meets thoughtful modern upgrades. This home perfectlly blends traditional character with sought after contemporary finishes. Newer and upgraded efficiency cooling with hospital grade air scrubber installed for comfort. The interior is finished in a crisp neutral color palette. Sylish, modern-rustic lighting fixtures have been
Renovated expanded ranch in the offering 3 bedrooms, 2 updated baths, and approximately 1,600 sq ft of comfortable living space. Enjoy summer evenings on the Trex front porch. Inside, the bright and versatile layout features spacious living and dining areas, hrdwd flrs, & generously sized bedrooms. The newer gourmet kitchen boasts granite countertops, breakfast nook, WiFi/Bluetooth gas stove with
Summer Rental.This one-bedroom one-bath apartment is situated on a quiet, residential street. This inviting home features a bright eat-in kitchen, along with a comfortable living area filled with natural light. Step outside to enjoy a large backyard sitting area, perfect for relaxing, outdoor dining, or enjoying warm evenings. Conveniently located close to the ferry, scenic trails, shopping,
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.
Renovated, luxury rental within minutes to NYC fast ferries, Jersey Shore beaches, Red Bank and the coastal towns of Atlantic Highlands and Highlands. Enjoy 1,162 sq of living space in this 2nd level, 2 bed, 2 bath condo, privately positioned at the back of the building with serene courtyard views from a private deck. Enjoy an in-unit washer and dryer and private en-suite full baths to each
Renovated, luxury rental within minutes to NYC fast ferries, Jersey Shore beaches, Red Bank and the coastal towns of Atlantic Highlands and Highlands. Enjoy 1,162 sq of living space in this 2nd level, 2 bed, 2 bath condo, privately positioned at the back of the building with serene courtyard views from a private deck. Enjoy an in-unit washer and dryer and private en-suite full baths to each
COMING SOON- Can not be shown until 5/5/26Cute home Great quiet street Perfect for just married, singles,or retirees Featuring 1 Bedroom,one bath, an eat in kitche.n A cozy Gem in a great location
Welcome to your Jersey Shore retreat....just two blocks from the beach and only minutes from the ferry to NYC! Built in 2021 this stunning custom built 4 bedroom, 3 bath home epitomizes modern luxury, offering over 3,500 sq ft across four levels complete with an elevator! The top floor is a true highlight, offering flexible space for a home office or lounge complete with sweeping views of the
Shannon FrederickHeritage House Sotheby's International Realty
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