Quiet lifestyle near parks, shopping and dining in Bernards
Thirty-eight miles west of New York City, Bernards is a New Jersey township offering quiet suburbia with picturesque green spaces and a charming shopping and dining scene. “It’s conveniently located with an excellent school district and reasonable property taxes,” says Sue Marsh Shikiar, a real estate agent with Weichert Realtors and over 20 years of experience. Highways, bus routes and the Basking Ridge Station make the township popular with commuters, and single-family homes range from modest townhomes to custom estates with acreage. “Lot sizes vary, but in general, you can have a larger lot,” Shikiar says. “It’s suburban, but there’s a country feel.” Bernards also offers a vibrant parks scene, from amenity-rich hubs like Pleasant Valley Park to rustic escapes like the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. “It’s about the quality of life,” Shikiar says. “It’s a very family-friendly environment.”
A shady place to rest on a maintained trail within Bernards.
Bernards features many townhouse subdivisions.
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Fast-moving market with a diverse range of homes
Bernards’ neighborhoods range from secluded enclaves with custom estates to traditional suburbs and townhome/condo communities. “You’re going to find a wide variety of housing inventory,” Shikiar says. Most homes were built during the mid to late 20th century, but there are a handful of early 20th-century homes as well; Colonial and Cape Cod styles are typical. “You will find resale — new housing is difficult to find.” Mansions built over the past 25 years are often set on the outskirts of town with acre-sized lots surrounded by lush greenery. “Inventory is relatively low,” Shikiar says. “Homes sell quickly.” The median home price in Bernards is $680,000, compared to $800,000 in New York City. “When you have many people vying for the same property, prices tend to be higher,” Shikiar says.
Some single family homes in Bernards are situated around small cul de sac's.
There's plenty of open space in Bernards, offering gorgeous scenery to enjoy at your leisure.
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Bernards schools receive high marks from Niche
Bernards is part of the Bernards Township School District, which earns an A-plus. Students may attend A-rated schools, including Liberty Corner Elementary and William Annin Middle. The A-plus-rated Ridge High offers dual-enrollment courses for credit at Raritan Valley Community College. Private schools in the area include The Pingry School, ranked the best private high school in New Jersey.
Niche rates William Annin Middle School as #1 Best Public Middle Schools in Somerset County.
The Pingry School provides education to families in the neighborhood of
Bernards.
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Parks packed with sports and trails
Green spaces and pocket parks are dotted throughout Bernards. The 100-acre Pleasant Valley Park is the town’s go-to for a day outside, offering a playground, picnic shelters and sports like pickleball, softball and soccer. Anglers can reel in largemouth bass from the park’s fishing pond, while birders may spot cedar waxwings, American robins and bluejays. There’s also a community pool open in the summer. The 70-acre Dunham Park is popular for its roller hockey rink, disc golf course and bocce ball court. For a round of golf, Coakley-Russo Memorial Golf Course offers a tree-lined 9-hole layout with manicured greens. The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is another highlight, where hikers can explore miles of dirt-packed trails through dense woodlands and wetlands teeming with wildlife.
An elevated view of the racquet courts at Pleasant Valley Park in Bernards
Bernards' premier private New Jersey National Golf Club has 18-holes of championship golf.
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Exploring downtown Basking Ridge
The Bernards Township area offers a busy shopping and dining scene with a charming mix of national chains, locally owned dining and boutique shopping. Downtown Basking Ridge features walkable streets lined with specialty shops and mom-and-pop restaurants. Residents can start their morning with coffee and fresh, hand-rolled bagels at Ridge Bagel Cafe or head to Blue Cafe for homestyle breakfast plates and Eastern European specialties, like blueberry pierogies, paczki (Polish doughnuts) and blintzes (Ukrainian crepes). Bella’s Burger Shack is a laid-back spot for a quick, indulgent bite, while the historic Washington House Restaurant serves elevated American comfort food with seasonal ingredients. After dinner, Ridge Sweet Shoppe offers dessert favorites like milkshakes, cheesecakes and made-to-order Dubai chocolate bars.
Locals from Bernards order delicious broths and subs for lunch at the welcoming Soup Shoppe.
Take a break from shopping at the Highlands Village Center in Bernards.
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Live performances at Pleasant Valley Park
Community events are held at Pleasant Valley Park throughout the year, including movie nights and concerts at its outdoor amphitheater. Each summer, the Plays in the Park series includes everything from Shakespeare to contemporary musicals. In May, Charter Day celebrates Bernards’ founding in 1760 with historic displays, carnival rides and a street fair with food and crafts from artisan vendors in downtown Basking Ridge.
Commuting to Newark, NYC from Bernards
Interstate 287 and 78 pass through Bernards; the latter grants direct access to Newark and New York, 26 miles and 37 miles away, respectively. Lakeland buses stop in Basking Ridge, and residents can also ride the commuter rail from Basking Ridge Station. “A commuter can easily live here,” Shikiar says. “There’s a train that gets you into New York.” Lyons VA Medical Center is in town, and Morristown Medical Center is 8 miles away. Newark Liberty International Airport is a 26-mile drive.
Many Bernards residents end up commuting daily to New York City for work.
Newark International Airport is about a 45 minute drive from Bernards.
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Flood risk
Some low-lying areas of Bernards near bodies of water are in a flood zone with an annual 1% chance of flooding.
Written By
Travis Rocha
Video By
Adam Lapallo
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Lorraine First,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Bernards, NJ sell after 19 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Bernards, NJ over the last 12 months is $1,900,000, down 30% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bath condo in the desirable Spring Ridge community, Drexel II-Madison Village. The updated kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, garbage disposal, a tiled backsplash, and crown moldings, offering both functionality and a polished look. The open living and dining area is enhanced by recessed lighting, hardwood
Beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath Center Hall Colonial set on a generous 0.80-acre property in one of Basking Ridge's most desirable neighborhoods. This inviting home features hardwood floors, newer windows, updated bathrooms, and a warm gas fireplace in the family room, the perfect spot for cozy evenings and holiday gatherings. The sun-filled kitchen opens directly to a spacious deck,
This beautifully renovated expanded 5-bedroom ranch is nestled on nearly an acre in a quiet, desirable neighborhood. This home offers exceptional privacy and entertainment space with a fully fenced backyard featuring a large deck, patio and a sparkling saltwater pool. Inside, the bright, interior offers abundant natural light, refinished hardwood floors, tall ceilings, and a cozy family room with
Welcome to 110 Village Drive, a beautifully maintained home filled with natural light and thoughtful updates. The entire interior has been freshly painted, creating a crisp, rich atmosphere throughout. Sunlight pours into the home from multiple windows and skylights, brightening the living spaces throughout the day. The skylights continue to the second floor, where the main bedroom enjoys
Fully Approved 5-Lot Subdivision in Warren " Prime 8.7-acre parcel just minutes from top-rated schools (including Pingry), shopping, and major highways (Rt. 78). Each lot ranges from 1.26 to 2.6 acres, offering the perfect setting for spacious estate-style homes. Planned as a subdivision that offers a private, prestigious, and upscale atmosphere, it is set back from Liberty Corner Rd, combining
WELCOME TO THIS BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED 2 BED, 2.5 BATH MULTI-LEVEL TOWNHOUSE FEATURING A LIGHT-FILLED OPEN CONCEPT LAYOUT IN THE CEDARS, ONE OF BASKING RIDGE'S MOST SOUGHT-AFTER COMMUNITIES. THE HEART OF THE HOME IS THE EXPANSIVE LIVING ROOM, WHERE SOARING VAULTED CEILINGS AND A DRAMATIC WALL OF WINDOWS CREATE AN AIRY, OPEN ATMOSPHERE. A COZY WOOD-BURNING FIREPLACE SERVES AS THE FOCAL POINT, WHILE
Fairy Tale property for future estate home. Magnificent 8.7 Acre Building Site with Storied Carriage House, formerly the stable complex of United States Golf Association. Build a spectacular new home or an addition/renovation to current Carriage House. Site plan and architectural drawings for both options, including septic design, have been completed by current owners. If new separate estate home
The perfect blend of classic charm and modern comfort. This beautiful 4-bedroom center hall Colonial sits on a level half-acre lot just moments from downtown Basking Ridge and Oak Street School. Inside, warm hardwood floors, spacious living areas, and abundant natural light create an inviting atmosphere throughout. The updated kitchen with marble backsplash and center island opens to a relaxed
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bath condo in the desirable Spring Ridge community, Drexel II-Madison Village. The updated kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, garbage disposal, a tiled backsplash, and crown moldings, offering both functionality and a polished look. The open living and dining area is enhanced by recessed lighting, hardwood
Set on 3.8 private acres this Bernards Township estate offers a classic and spacious home with generously sized rooms and a floor plan that supports both everyday living and large gatherings. Designed with comfort and practicality in mind, the home features four bedrooms, including two primary bedroom suites and four full and two half baths and a bonus room. Multiple fireplaces, traditional
Welcome to the opportunity you've been waiting for in desirable Spring Ridge! This turnkey second-floor Essex model offers 2 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms with an airy, light-filled layout. The open-concept living and dining area features soaring ceilings, skylights, and a cozy wood-burning fireplace, creating a bright and inviting space for everyday living and entertaining. The updated kitchen
Located in one of Bernard's Township's most prestigious neighborhoods with a Far Hills address, this stunning colonial home has been owned by one family since construction. Newly refinished hardwood floors, coffered ceilings, and detailed moldings throughout. Upon entry into the foyer, you will be awed by the grand central staircase with balcony overlooking the great room with gas fireplace. To
Catherine MulveyTerrie O'Connor Realtors-Saddle River
Welcome to the Rebel Hill neighborhood of Basking Ridge. 61 Queen Anne Drive is a well-updated split level with room to live, work, and gather. Conveniently located near major highways, public trans, shopping, and restaurants. Top-Rated school district, cul-de-sac street, and steps away from the neighborhood park. Inside, you'll find 4 bdrms and 2.5 baths with a layout that feels connected
Excellent opportunity in the desirable Far Hills section of Bernards Township, surrounded by million-dollar homes. Perfect for a contractor, this charming ranch sits on a large beautiful, level lot that backs to parkland, offering exceptional privacy in a truly unique serene setting. The home's renovation has been nearly completed including a bright new kitchen with white shaker cabinets, a
Discover the charm of this End-Unit townhouse perfectly nested on a Cul-de-Sac in the highly desirable Society Hill community. Enjoy peace of mind with a BRAND NEW FURNACE & central AC system, along with freshly painted first-floor walls and ceilings that brighten the open-concept layout. The 1st floor features vinyl flooring throughout, a bright eat-in kitchen with S/S appliances, a convenient
Welcome to Crown Court, a stunning rental community offering 120 apartment- and townhome-style residences in the heart of Basking Ridge, New Jersey. Developed by the Garden Communities, Crown Court boasts expansive living spaces and an unbeatable location. Whether you choose between a one- or two-bedroom apartment, a townhome with a private driveway and garage, or a newly constructed
Totally renovated 4 Bedroom Dutch Colonial. Gourmet kitchen with center island, granite countertops and stainless steel appliances and large pantry. New baths, hardwood floors, spacious rooms and abundant natural light. New systems, windows and hardy plank siding, Convenient to town, schools and New Jersey Transit. Move right in!
Located in the beautiful, desirable town of Basking Ridge, New Jersey—just minutes from Warren and a short drive to Bridgewater—The Enclave at Dewy Meadows is a new, convenient-to-everything residential village that integrates luxury rental apartments, retail shops and services, and an unsurpassed suite of lifestyle amenities.Featuring a classic clocktower and gazebo, a glistening pond
Recently updated and freshly painted for new tenant this two-bedroom 2.5-bath townhouse also offers a full basement, attached garage wood floors, and a loft for use as a den or office. The Cedars have tennis courts and an outdoor pool. Located just minutes from Basking Ridge's restaurants, shopping, parks, and major highways. Pets will be considered. The first $100 repairs will be the tenant's
Completely renovated and move-in ready townhome in Basking Ridge. This bright and open unit features a stunning new kitchen with stainless steel appliances, new flooring throughout, and an open layout connecting the kitchen, dining area, and family room. Sliders to a private back patio and grassy area. First floor powder room. Two bedrooms upstairs, each with its own full bath. Primary bedroom
Great townhouse in an excellent location, ready to be your next home. Available July 1, it will be professional painted and cleaned before move-in. The upper level features two bedrooms, each with its own full bath, along with a laundry area equipped with a full-size washer and dryer. The main floor offers an open-concept living and dining room, a convenient powder room, and a kitchen with a gas
Discover your perfect home in this delightful 4-bedroom property situated on private, level lot. First level offers living room, dining room, good size kitchen 3 bedroom and the bath. Lower level houses family room, bedroom and the full bath, from the family room you exit to fully fenced leveled backyard great for entertaining. Located in highly desirable neighborhood, this home provides ultimate
Spacious 5/6 bedroom, 4 bath home with a 3-car garage in the highly desirable Pond Hill Estates, set on a private 1-acre lot offering space, privacy, and an exceptional layout for modern living. A grand 2-story foyer with a double staircase and hardwood floors throughout the first level welcomes you into this elegant home. The open floor plan seamlessly connects formal living and dining rooms
Well-maintained 2BR 1 BTH Drexel Model on First-Level in Jefferson Village of Spring Ridge. Living Rm / Dining Rm combination with sliders off Living room. Wood flooring throughout, Granite counter top in the kitchen, Newer vanity and Newer washer&dryer in the bathroom, Newer dishwasher, Newer Refrigerator, A large foyer closet, triple closet in master bedroom, one-car detached garage, and a
Second floor penthouse unit in quiet & private location. Features nicely sized room, skylights, cathedral ceilings, wood burning fireplace. EXTRA LARGE PRIVATE DECK, a large basement storage area with shelving and a one car garage. This is a non-smoking home. Home will be repainted and carpets cleaned when current tenant vacates.
Recently updated expanded ranch with large rooms, abundant closet space, open yard, front porch, new laminate flooring, freshly painted throughout, 2 car garage, full unfinished basement, patio, wood burning fireplace in living room. Convenient location with easy access to trains, buses, shopping and highways.
Light and Bright Spacious 3 Bedroom 2.5 bath Duplex. Open concept with high ceilings, eat in kitchen with granite counter tops and newer appliances. First floor primary room has vaulted ceiling and two spacious closets. Enjoy another flex spaces upstairs with a roomy loft suitable for home office or another tv or reading room. Large partially finished basement works well for another family room
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