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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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
Shuang Liang,
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 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Bernards, NJ over the last 12 months is $1,900,000, down 34% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bath 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. The updated bathroom showcases stylish and
Fabulous Brick Front 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath Model 300 in Society Hill, offering the perfect blend of style, comfort, and location. Beautifully updated 2 bedroom en-suite townhouse features an open floor plan w natural light. The sun-filled Living and Dining Rooms open through sliding glass doors to a spacious 18' x 16' private cedar deck, fully fenced for pets & privacy. The deck also includes a gas
If you seek quality craftsmanship, elevated aesthetics, and an exalted lifestyle, look no further! No expense has been spared in this elegant home offering sophisticated living blended with the tranquility that abounds in the resort-like outdoor oasis. The Chef-inspired Custom Kitchen impresses with high-end designer appliances, and rich hand-carved wooden cabinetry. Savor every moment in the
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.
Tucked into the sought-after Basking Ridge section of Bernards Township, this inviting condominium offers a warm, comfortable lifestyle with a sense of privacy, surrounded by a peaceful wooded setting. A welcoming entry hall features a built-in shoe rack and double coat closet for everyday convenience. The updated kitchen is both stylish and functional, offering granite countertops, newer
Welcome to one of Bernards Township's most sought after neighborhoods. This stunning 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath contemporary home is filled with natural light thanks to an abundance of windows and skylights throughout the property. From the moment you enter, you'll appreciate the open and airy layout featuring a spacious great room with combined living and dining areas, perfect for everyday living and
Welcome to the highly desirable Spring Ridge community in Basking Ridge, known for its top-rated school district. This beautifully updated Ardsley model offers ground-level living, a rare in-unit storage room, and a spacious walk-out patio in Madison Village. This stylish home features an open-floor plan filled with natural light, connecting the living and dining areas. The remodeled kitchen
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. Designed by John Russell Pope in 1919, this red brick structure with center courtyard was partially renovated in 2010 and is
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bath 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. The updated bathroom showcases stylish and
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
Rare opportunity to own over an acre of land in Bernards Township. Existing structure is being sold strictly as-is and is considered a tear-down. Value is in the land. Ideal opportunity for builders, investors, or buyers looking to build a custom home in a desirable location. Buyer responsible for all due diligence, permits, inspections, and approvals with the township. Do not go on property
Situated on one of the most desirable streets in town, this spacious four-bedroom property presents an exceptional opportunity to create the home of your dreams in a truly premier location. Generous living spaces and endless potential for customization, the residence offers incredible opportunity. Hardwood floors extend throughout the home, adding warmth and classic appeal to every room. The
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
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 this well-maintained 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom townhome located in the sought-after Spring Ridge community. This home features beautiful laminate flooring throughout, an updated kitchen and bathroom with modern finishes, and a spacious layout perfect for comfortable living. Enjoy outdoor relaxation on the private balcony just off the main living area. The home also includes a full basement
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
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 (NEW widows to be installed 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
Property Id: 36399Upgraded 2 bed one bath condo in up-market Spring Ridge community. Genuine solid hardwood floors in living room, dining room, kitchen and hallways. Painted in light neutral colors Bright flood-lit eat in kitchen with Italian tile work and all brand newer appliances. Bathroom totally refurbished, newer vanity etc. Two large bedrooms overlooking quiet backyard area. Huge
Easy living 3 bedroom custom house. Conveniently located to train, highways, elementary school, high school & downtown Basking Ridge. No Pets. No Smoking on property. Lease Includes lawn maintenance & sewer. Available July, 15, 2026
Welcome to this beautifully updated Filmore model on a desirable corner lot in the Liberty Ridge section of The Hills, Basking Ridge. This spacious 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath single-family home is filled with natural light and enhanced by hardwood floors and recessed lighting throughout.The main level features a living room, family room with an electric fireplace, a private study with custom built-in
Bright and Spacious Essex II Model, offers a corner location with privacy on all sides. Painted in neutral color pallet and newer laminate flooring. The wood burning Fireplace in the living room and high vaulted ceilings are enhanced with 2 skylights. An open concept between living room and dining room is attractive and spacious. The kitchen has granite counters, a new refrigerator and a
Welcome home to this bright and sunny one bedroom, one bath ground-floor condo in the highly sought-after Spring Ridge community. This spacious four room unit offers comfort, convenience, and beautiful surroundings backing up to peaceful preserved land for extra privacy. Enjoy an open living area with sliding glass doors that lead to your own private patio perfect for relaxing or entertaining.
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,
Beautifully maintained, this bright & airy, 2nd floor Chesterfield II model unit in the desirable Spring Ridge community is available immediately! Close to major highways 78,287,22, dining & shopping. Wonderful highlights include spacious living/dining room combination w/ sliders to private balcony, open kitchen w/ large breakfast bar, master bedroom w/ walk-in closet & versatile
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
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
