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
Thomas Boniakowski,
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 56 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.
Tudor Colonial Bernards Twp Basking Ridge 5 BR 3 full BA 3,720 sf 0.88 acres Roof 2021 Sunroom 3-car garage 1,879 sf unfinished basement....Set on 0.88 acres in Basking Ridge, 34 Knollcroft Rd offers 11 rooms, 5 bedrooms and 3 full baths with a classic layout for everyday living. Close proximity to downtown Basking Ridge, parks, shopping and dining. Walking distance to NJ Transit rail and
Move-in Ready, top floor Essex model- with highly desirable open concept floor plan. This home features two bedrooms and two full bathrooms (both with shower tubs). This unit has a lovely, private balcony off of the second bedroom and is a nice place to enjoy your morning coffee or your evening glass of wine, or simply to read a book or catch some shut eye. The home is sunny and bright and has
Beautifully renovated 4-bdrm, 2.1-bath home set on .73 acres of flat, landscaped property in a highly convenient location with top-rated schools. Just a short walk to the Lyons Train Station, Lyons Mall, and nearby bus transportation, this home offers the perfect blend of suburban comfort and commuter convenience. Thoughtfully updated throughout, the home combines classic character with modern
Sunny ground floor unit set up on a hill offering privacy and light. HW floors in LR,DR, hall, new carpet in primary bedroom. Solid wood doors , stainless steel appliances , freshly painted interior. Close to schools, shopping, transportation.
GREAT VALUE IN FABULOUS LOCATION Fairy Tale property for future estate home. Magnificent 8.7 Acre Building Site with Storied Carriage House, formerly the stable complex of now United States Golf Association Mansion. 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
Beautifully fully renovated home set on a manicured, level lot with exceptional indoor-outdoor living, moments from downtown Basking Ridge and Oak St School. This home offers both comfort and convenience in a sought after neighborhood. The open-concept main level features a stunning kitchen with oversized center island, high-end appliances, quartz counter tops, custom cabinetry and seamless flow
Tudor Colonial Bernards Twp Basking Ridge 5 BR 3 full BA 3,720 sf 0.88 acres Roof 2021 Sunroom 3-car garage 1,879 sf unfinished basement....Set on 0.88 acres in Basking Ridge, 34 Knollcroft Rd offers 11 rooms, 5 bedrooms and 3 full baths with a classic layout for everyday living. Close proximity to downtown Basking Ridge, parks, shopping and dining. Walking distance to NJ Transit rail and
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
The historic village of Basking Ridge has welcomed residents since before the Revolutionary War, offering a charming Main Street, New England-style Colonial homes, and enduring farmsteads that define one of New Jersey's most appealing communities.This extensively renovated Circa 1872 home with 4 fireplaces is set on just under an acre. Rebuilt and expanded with exceptional craftsmanship by
Meticulously updated 5-bedroom colonial situated on a private 1.24-acres. New walkway to the covered front porch. Foyer flows seamlessly to the formal dining room. Updated custom kitchen features quartz countertops, maple soft-close cabinets with custom molding, under-cabinet lighting, high-end stainless steel appliances, a double wall oven, and beverage fridge. Breakfast area with sliders that
Gilded-Age grandeur abounds at this updated Spanish Colonial Manor. Built in 1898, this former estate of Walter A. Reynolds has been restored and updated through the years. Lush landscaping with 200 boxwoods and formal gardens, original architectural elements, and an expansive wrap-around porch add to the home's exterior appeal. The stunning interior boasts 10+ft ceilings, double-hung custom
Move-in Ready, top floor Essex model- with highly desirable open concept floor plan. This home features two bedrooms and two full bathrooms (both with shower tubs). This unit has a lovely, private balcony off of the second bedroom and is a nice place to enjoy your morning coffee or your evening glass of wine, or simply to read a book or catch some shut eye. The home is sunny and bright and has
Discover the potential in this spacious 2-bed, 2-bath unit located in the highly desirable community of Spring Ridge. This inviting home features an open floor plan designed for comfortable living and effortless entertaining. Step inside to find a bright and airy living space - the primary bedroom is highlighted by soaring vaulted ceiling and skylight that fill the room with natural light. The
Welcome to this beautifully updated 4-bedroom cape where classic charm meets modern convenience. Experience instant charm with the inviting covered front porch. The main level features a bright and spacious living room, anchored by a cozy wood-burning fireplace. Entertaining is effortless in the formal dining room, which opens via a slider to a sunny deck. The kitchen boasts stainless steel
A rare blend of privacy and convenience, this updated home puts you close to everything while feeling tucked away. Inside, you'll find 4 bdrms and 2.5 baths with a layout that feels connected without losing definition. The eat-in kitchen is the heart of the home, center island, newer appliances, and open sight-lines to the living room make it easy to cook, serve, and stay part of the
Welcome to 330 Penns Way in the highly sought-after Society Hill community of Basking Ridge! This beautifully updated second-level unit offers an ideal blend of comfort, style, and convenience. Once inside discover soaring high ceilings that create an open, airy feel throughout the living space, complemented by abundant natural light.The home features modern updates and a thoughtfully designed
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
Available Now! This beautiful 2-bedroom, 1-bath first-floor unit offers comfortable living in the highly desirable Spring Ridge community. The home features a functional open-concept kitchen, a spacious living room, and a formal dining area ideal for everyday living and entertaining. Two generously sized bedrooms with a full bathroom featuring a separate stall shower and a tub/shower combination.
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
Lovely airy and bright end unit in The Ridge w/ lots of natural light, skylight and hardwood floors on 1st floor, updated Kitchen & Baths. Large master bedrm, master bath w/ heated floor, first floor laundry, attached garage Unfinished basement great for storage. Direct access to home from garage, additional reserved spot in front of unit. Great location, situated in the desirable community of
Welcome to this bright 2-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom townhouse, filled with natural light and offering lovely seasonal views of the common green space. The spacious living room features a vaulted ceiling, fireplace, and an entire wall of sliding doors that open to a private front deck perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation. Smart curtain and drapery rods provide effortless control of light
Spacious 4 bedroom, 2 bath ranch-style home on a quiet street, offered partially furnished for added convenience. Features an updated kitchen, comfortable layout, and generous living space with an attached garage. Enjoy a large serene backyard with an expansive deck, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. A rare rental opportunity offering privacy, space, and peaceful surroundings.
2BR 1BA first floor condo in desirable Spring Ridge complex. Renovated in 2020 with new flooring throughout and renovated bath with quartz countertops and tiled bath and shower. Balcony is located at the front of the condo. Completing the unit are a large basement storage area and an assigned spacious one car garage. Great location with Bernards Township schools. Available immediately, no pets,
Super spacious custom colonial set on a private cul de sac in a prime location. First level consists of a grand two story foyer, large living room, large dining room, large office, and bright and sunny family room, which is open to the kitchen/dining area. The kitchen has a large center island, pantry, and french doors that lead to a lovely deck. To finish off the first floor there is a large
1st floor Ardsley Model condominium in Madison Village, private location overlooking serene nature views from the large (18'x4') deck. 9x3 storage closet off kitchen, 1 car garage w/ opener. New Furnace, Air Conditioning & Air Scrubber 12/6/23, Hot water Heater replaced 2013
Basking Ridge- 4th hottest zip code in the US in 2025! Move-in Ready! Spring Ridge top floor, open concept condo. Featuring 2 bedrooms and two full baths This unit has just been entirely painted in a lovely neutral tone, has a very private balcony and is located in a premier location that faces beautiful open green space (location, location, location). No need to worry about drawing your
Welcome to 27 Meadowview Drive, Basking Ridge, a beautifully maintained rental home offering the perfect blend of value, ease, and everyday convenience.Step inside in this sunny, bright, open living spaces creating a comfortable environment for both relaxing and entertaining. Ground floor offers a large living room or can be used as a game room along with a dedicated space for dining room, an
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