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
Debra Ross,
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.
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Expanded and beautifully maintained 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home set on 0.93 acres in a quiet section of Basking Ridge known for its large lots, mature trees, and peaceful park-like setting. The home has been thoughtfully renovated over the years and offers generous living spaces throughout. A truly standout feature of the home is the stunning family room addition with a beautiful stone fireplace,
Move right into this stylish End-Unit condo in The Cedars of Bernards Township! This bright and inviting home offers an exceptional blend of comfort, space, and convenience. The spacious eat-in kitchen features sliders leading to a private deck, the perfect setting to enjoy outdoor dining. The adjacent formal dining room is filled with natural light from oversized windows and flows seamlessly
Situated on a beautifully landscaped lot, this sun-filled 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath Colonial combines timeless elegance with modern comfort. Featuring exceptional curb appeal, a classic wraparound front porch, and thoughtfully updated interiors, this meticulously maintained home offers both sophisticated living and everyday functionality. A welcoming foyer opens to the formal LR and DR, highlighted by
Meticulously Maintained condominium offering a warm, comfortable lifestyle and privacy which includes your own patio and backyard. A versatile multi-purpose room offers endless possibilities as an office, hobby room or over night guest space, complete with two oversized closets and access to the laundry area. The living room is centered around a charming wood-burning fireplace with glass
Location, location, location! Completely renovated and move-in ready, this stunning home is located in one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Bernards Township, approximately 1/2 mile to the train station and town center. Featuring public sewer, public water, and natural gas, this property offers the convenience today's buyers are looking for. Major updates include a new roof, new siding,
Experience modern luxury in this newly constructed custom home set on approximately 2 acres in Warren Township. Offering approximately 4,625 sq. ft. of living space, this 6-bedroom, 6 full and 1 half bath residence features thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and refined finishes throughout.A dramatic two-story foyer welcomes you into an open floor plan with soaring ceilings, abundant
Beautiful updated multi-level townhouse in the highly sought-after Cedars community! Kitchen & bathroom renovated in 2026, this bright & inviting 2BR, 2.5BA residence offers an open-concept layout designed for comfortable living & effortless entertaining. The dramatic living room features soaring vaulted ceilings, abundant windows that flood the space with natural light, a cozy wood-burning
Welcome to Spring Ridge, one of Basking Ridge's most desirable communities. This well-maintained and updated 3-bedroom, 2.1-bath half duplex offers spacious living with soaring ceilings, newer skylights, hardwood and tile flooring, a fireplace, formal dining room, eat-in kitchen with stainless steel appliances, and a flexible den/family room. The finished basement provides additional space for
CREATE A NEW LIFESTYLE WITH YOUR BARN RIGHT AT HOME. PLACE THIS PROPERTY IN FARMLAND ASSESSMENT AND REDUCE YOUR TAXES. Historic 100-year-old carriage house ready for new vision on 8.7 acres of storied property. Originally part of the family compound where the United States Golf Assn Museum now resides. The century-old setting frames the converted carriage house with extraordinary character.
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bath 1,000 sqft condo nestled in the desirable Jefferson Village section of Spring Ridge. Being move-in ready, this inviting condo offers a comfortable and functional layout. The spacious living and dining areas feature plush carpeting that continues throughout the home, creating a warm and cohesive atmosphere. Updated bathroom showcases stylish
Beautifully updated large 2 Bedroom, 2.1 Bath model townhome in one of the most desirable locations in Society Hill! This home features wood laminate flooring throughout, recessed lighting, and updated bathrooms. The updated kitchen offers granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, abundant cabinet space, pantry closet, and a sunny eat-in area with a built-in window seat. Spacious dining
Expanded and beautifully maintained 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home set on 0.93 acres in a quiet section of Basking Ridge known for its large lots, mature trees, and peaceful park-like setting. The home has been thoughtfully renovated over the years and offers generous living spaces throughout. A truly standout feature of the home is the stunning family room addition with a beautiful stone fireplace,
Check out 506 Lyons Rd, recently updated with fresh interior paint and new appliances throughout the residence. The kitchen includes an accent backsplash and all stainless steel appliances for a cohesive design. The exterior provides a functional deck and a fully fenced in backyard for usability. This property perfectly blends modern updates with practical outdoor living.. Included 100-Day Home
Beautifully nestled on 5+ lush acres, this fully renovated home features 5 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms, offering both elegance and comfort in aprivate, serene setting. The welcoming entrance foyer w marble flooring, opens into a spacious sun-filled formal living room with a wood-burning fireplaceand beautiful front-to-back views. A generously sized office, accented by a large bay window, is filled
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
Spotless, renovated first floor unit with updated kitchen and bath, new flooring, freshly painted interior and 2 spacious bedrooms. Roomy basement ideal for storage plus detached garage. Close to major highways, trains, shopping, schools.
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
Bright and sunny 1/2 duplex offering new kitchen and updated baths. Living room and dining room with cathedral ceilings, fireplace and skylights, eat-in kitchen with granite counters and new applicances, powder room , laundry area plus first floor primary suite offering cathedral ceilings, walk-in closet and bath with jetted tub. 2nd floor features a large loft area ideal for home office, 2nd
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
Freshly painted and impeccably maintained, this bright and spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bath penthouse condo is located in the desirable Society Hill community of Basking Ridge. The open-concept layout features a sun-filled living room with cathedral ceilings, new skylights, a two-sided wood-burning fireplace, and extra-wide sliding glass doors opening to private deck. Formal dining room with cathedral
- 2 Bed - 2 full bath condo - Top schools in NJ - Penthouse condo with cathedral ceiling / sky roof / sky windows- Private balcony- Living room with wood burning fireplace, full kitchen and separate dining room- Master bedroom master bathroom, large Walk-in-closet and linen closet - Large second bedroom with wall to wall closet- Second full bathroom is with tub-
Excellent end-unit townhome rental in desirable Basking Ridge in The Ridge community. This home opens to a bright and spacious living room with a vaulted ceiling and wood-burning fireplace. Adjacent is the formal dining room with a bay window. The eat-in kitchen has plenty of cabinetry and prep space with a slider to the private patio. The first-floor den can be used as an office and has sliders
Welcome home! Located in Society Hill in Basking Ridge, this second floor apartment will hit all your needs. With 2 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, there is plenty of space for a family. Primary bedroom has an ensuite bathroom and a big walk-in closet. There is plenty of natural light with skylights in the living room along with high ceilings in the living room and dining room for a nice airy
This bright upstairs 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom condo is ready for you to move in! Large storage basement, indoor garage and one reserved parking; Hardwood floor thorough out main living area; Newer two sky light, Newer chandelier; Renovated guest bath room, Walk-in closet in Main Bedroom with all built-in cabinet. Newer HAVC and appliances. Great amenities throughout the complex with a pool,
Spacious, bright, and neutral Fairfax model second-floor condo featuring vaulted ceilings and skylights that fill the home with natural light. The open floor plan includes a versatile den, a combined living and dining room with sliding doors leading to a private balcony, and a well-appointed kitchen with a breakfast bar.The primary bedroom offers a generous walk-in closet and an en-suite bath
Experience luxury living in this beautifully furnished premium rental home featuring high-end furniture, fine art, crystal chandeliers, and thoughtfully selected household essentials for comfortable move-in-ready living. Tucked away at the quiet end of a cul-de-sac and surrounded by a peaceful stream and expansive private grounds, this exceptional home offers privacy and convenience directly
Excellent opportunity to live in desirable Basking Ridge in a newly constructed home! This welcoming 2-bedroom unit boasts crown molding and hardwood floors throughout. Walk up the stairs to the beautifully outfitted kitchen with stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and an abundance of cabinetry. The large living room offers plenty of space for everyday living and entertaining. Both
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