An outdoorsy town with postcard views of Budd Lake
In the heart of Mount Olive Township, Budd Lake is a unique gem among New Jersey's natural wonders. It is the largest naturally formed lake in the state, setting it apart from other lakes in the area that have been altered or created by human intervention. The lake's pristine waters and unspoiled shoreline provide a tranquil escape for visitors and residents alike. Surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, Budd Lake offers a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities, including fishing, boating and hiking. Anglers can cast their lines and try their luck at catching various fish species, including largemouth bass, pickerel and sunfish. Boating enthusiasts can enjoy leisurely rides on the lake's calm waters, taking in the breathtaking views and the serene atmosphere. Beyond its natural beauty, Budd Lake is also a vibrant community. With over 10,000 residents, the town exudes a charming suburban feel. Many families and young professionals choose to make Budd Lake their home, drawn by its excellent public schools, the great outdoors and easy access to New York City. Its convenient location in Morris County provides easy access to major highways, making it a commuter-friendly town for those working in nearby cities.
Summer homes converted into full-time residences
With some homes surrounding the glacial body of water, residents wake up to sunrises on the water. "Most of Budd Lake's real estate is a lot of summer homes converted into full-time residences," says Realtor Patrick Bolger with The Holmquist Group of Keller Williams Metropolitan. Houses here run the gamut, from quaint to modest colonials, Cape Cods and ranch-style houses to luxurious colonials and some millennium mansions. "You can find a three-bathroom, one-bath ranch style with a finished basement for $329,000, a bi-level with three bedrooms, one bathroom, and a two-car garage for $449,900, or a wholly reconstructed colonial with four bedrooms and three bathrooms for $549,000," says Bolger.
Some Budd Lake homes feature beautiful stonewalls.
Residents of Budd Lake often have views of the lake and even private docks
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Boating and water sports at Budd Lake Beach Park
If the neighborhood name wasn't enough of a hint, lake life is a thing here. "During the summertime, everyone is out there," Bolger says. "You can find people fishing, tubing and sometimes you'll see sailboats out on the water." Residents and visitors can canoe, kayak or try balancing on a paddleboard. There's also a small beach with ample sunlight for basking. For those who prefer the outdoors on land, there is plenty to explore at Turkey Brook Park, including soccer fields, baseball, softball and football. There are tennis, volleyball and basketball courts, as well as a meandering walking trail.
Boats prepared for the summer season on Budd Lake
Vessels ranging from small rowboats and kayaks to larger motor boats can be found on Budd Lake.
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Performances at the Pax Amicus Castle Theather, including Peter Pan
Located near Budd Lake, the Pax Amicus Castle Theatre is a community performing arts theater that stages Broadway and off-Broadway revivals throughout the year. In recent years, they have performed works such as Romeo and Juliet, The Tales of Edgar Allan Poe and Peter Pan.
Favorite local eateries, including Budd Lake Diner
After a day at the lake, have a bite to eat at the Budd Lake Diner. "The food here is delicious. It's been here forever," Bolger says. "A typical Jersey diner with its old-timey décor, it has a little bit of everything." Enjoy a classic hamburger, a tuna melt with a side of fries and cole slaw or chicken parmesan sliders. Locals enjoy West Lake Take Out for its Chinese offerings like spring rolls, lo mein and beef with broccoli. Or, grab some sandwiches from BJ's Sandwich Shop and bring them to the lake. There are cold sandwiches like turkey with fresh mozzarella and roasted peppers or hot subs like meatball parmigiana or sausage and pepper. On Route 46, which runs through Budd Lake, you can find the small businesses that keep life humming along, like dry cleaners and nail salons, a grocery store, and, of course, the Budd Lake fire department.
Enzo's Ristorante & Pizzeria is the place to grab a slice or have a family dinner in Budd Lake.
The Budd Lake Diner has been a local institution for decades.
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Three A-rated schools in the Mount Olive Township School District
Kids can attend three great schools in the Mount Olive Township School District, including Mount Olive High School, which has an A rating on Niche for its college prep, academics and diversity. There, students can apply for several honor societies like history, music, art, English and the International Thespian Society. Mount Olive Middle School, also an A-rated Niche institution, is known for its acclaimed applied music and theory courses, and arts and 3D printing programs. Chester M. Stephens School, an A-rated elementary school, has a language arts program with special area classes in art, music, library science and physical education.
Aerial view of the Mount Olive Marauders football field in Turkey Brook Park in Budd Lake
Aerial view of Chester M Stephens School in Budd Lake
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Driving is easy to and from Morris County
Residents and visitors can drive to Budd Lake around New Jersey via Route 80 heading West or eastbound and on I-287 heading Northwest. Newark Liberty International Airport is approximately 45 miles from Budd Lake. John F Kennedy International Airport is about 70 Miles from Morris County. The Netcong NJ Transit station in Morris County is about 3 miles from Budd Lake Township.
Written By
Gabrielle Golenda
Video By
Matt Ferguson
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Budd Lake, NJ sell after 28 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in Budd Lake, NJ over the last 12 months is $587,500, up 25% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Tucked away on a peaceful cul-de-sac, this newer construction 4BR, 2 full & 2 half bath home blends elegance with everyday comfort. The sunlit gourmet kitchen features granite countertops, stainless appliances, a large center island, and seamless flow into the open family room perfect for gatherings. Tray ceilings, crown molding, and hardwood floors add timeless style, while a main-level laundry
Stunning Colonial set on 1.72 private & wooded acres, offering over 4,000 square feet of beautifully designed living space. Built in 2005, this grand 4 bedroom and 4.1 bath residence combines timeless architecture with modern comforts for an exceptional lifestyle. Step inside the grand two-story foyer w/sweeping curved staircase and gleaming hardwood floors that flow throughout. The sun-filled
Location, Location! Enjoy comfortable leisure living and formal entertaining in this spacious 4 bedroom 2006 Colonial home on 1/2 acre property in serene neighborhood cul-de-sac street, convenient to Mt Olive public schools and picturesque Turkey Brook Park. A two-story foyer flows into an open concept living room and dining room with oversized windows, Brazilian cherry hardwood floors and nine
Tucked away on a peaceful cul-de-sac, this newer construction 4BR, 2 full & 2 half bath home blends elegance with everyday comfort. The sunlit gourmet kitchen features granite countertops, stainless appliances, a large center island, and seamless flow into the open family room perfect for gatherings. Tray ceilings, crown molding, and hardwood floors add timeless style, while a main-level laundry
Build your dream in Mt. Olive on this prime corner lot, fully equipped with public water, sewer, and natural gas. Located in a highly rated school district, this flat, buildable lot offers scenic views of Budd Lake without the high price. Enjoy easy access to major highways and public transportation for a seamless commute. The seller is willing to accommodate buyers in obtaining necessary permits
Prime Buildable Lot " Mt. Olive School District. Seize this rare opportunity to own a spacious one-acre buildable lot in the highly sought-after Mt. Olive School District! Perfectly situated just steps from Mt. Olive Middle School, this level, scenic lot offers the ideal setting for your custom-built home. One-Acre Lot " Over 4,000 sq. ft. of buildable space! Prime Location " Close to highways,
Freshly painted Colonial in the desirable Country Oaks community of Budd Lake, located in the highly rated Mt. Olive School District! The first floor features a dramatic two-story foyer, living room, dining room, family room, eat-in kitchen, laundry room, and powder room. Upstairs offers 4 spacious bedrooms and 2 full baths, including a primary suite with walk-in closet and spa-like bath.
Outfitted with private patios, spacious cabinets, and matching appliances, these homes have it all. With an on-site shopping center, SDK Village Green is a host to many great restaurants, shops, and professional services that will suit everyone's needs, including , Dino's Pizzeria, Dunkin Donuts, Legacy Dentistry, Bubbakoos Burritos, Revive Yoga and fitness studio, PNC Bank and so much more!
This stunning Schubert model townhome offers the perfect blend of luxury, space, and low-maintenance living in the highly sought-after Mountain Ridge community in Mt. Olive. Ideally located near award-winning schools, scenic walking trails, a fully equipped fitness center, and with easy access to Route 80 for commuters, this home checks every box. The main level features an open-concept layout
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