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 32 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Budd Lake, NJ over the last 12 months is $600,000, up 15% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Stunning fully renovated 2,960 sq. ft. custom-built ranch on nearly one acre, featuring 5 bedrooms and 3 full baths. This home includes premium upgrades such as Andersen 400 Series windows, hardwood floors, recessed lighting, 5-inch moldings, and a wood-burning fireplace with insert. The gourmet kitchen offers quartz countertops, island and peninsula seating, illuminated frosted-glass cabinetry,
Welcome to 14 High St in Budd Lake, a charming 2-Bed, 1.5-Bath home offering comfort, character, and the opportunity to grow. The main level features a bright living area filled with natural light and a cozy fireplace, perfect for relaxing evenings, along with a well-appointed kitchen with ample cabinetry and a convenient half bath. Upstairs you?ll find two generously sized bedrooms and a full
COMING SOON - Come see this 3 bedroom 1.5 bath Cape Cod style home in the desirable Mt. Olive school district. First Floor Primary Bedroom, Full Bathroom, Renovated Kitchen (2022), Living Room/Dining Room, Flex Room/Office/Den (2022) with Sliding Doors to New Paver Patio w/Firepit (2023), Updated lighting throughout. Second Floor offers 2 more Bedrooms and new Powder Room (2024). Vinyl Flooring
Stunning fully renovated 2,960 sq. ft. custom-built ranch on nearly one acre, featuring 5 bedrooms and 3 full baths. This home includes premium upgrades such as Andersen 400 Series windows, hardwood floors, recessed lighting, 5-inch moldings, and a wood-burning fireplace with insert. The gourmet kitchen offers quartz countertops, island and peninsula seating, illuminated frosted-glass cabinetry,
Build-ready improved lot! The existing home has already been knocked down, and the property is fully prepared for new construction. All utilities are in place, including well water, public sewer, natural gas, and electric. This sale includes approved permits, architectural drawings, and a current survey, saving buyers significant time and upfront costs. An excellent opportunity for builders or
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
Welcome to 14 High St in Budd Lake, a charming 2-Bed, 1.5-Bath home offering comfort, character, and the opportunity to grow. The main level features a bright living area filled with natural light and a cozy fireplace, perfect for relaxing evenings, along with a well-appointed kitchen with ample cabinetry and a convenient half bath. Upstairs you?ll find two generously sized bedrooms and a full
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
New home ready for move-in at Mount Olive Grove Towns – the lowest-priced new townhomes in Morris County! Start your journey in a new townhome in a thoughtfully planned community of homes with future amenities to enjoy. This Overture provides plenty of space and a modern look, all while being set on a desirable homesite backing to open space. Enter through the 2-car garage and step into a
Opportunity is knocking! Spacious 3 Bed 1 Bath Home in thriving Budd Lake is bursting with possibilities, just in need of your personal touch. Ideal for contractors, investors, or buyers looking to put in some sweat equity to make it their very own. The main level holds a living room, separate formal dining room, eat-in-kitchen, the main full bath with tub shower, and the primary bedroom for easy
Welcome to the Overture at Mount Olive Grove Towns – the lowest-priced new construction townhomes in Morris County. The Overture is a townhome for those who value luxury and space. Upon entering the ground-level foyer or two-car garage, find a finished rec room or first-floor guest suite. Up the wide staircase, enter the main level where an inviting kitchen and dining space overlook the great
Welcome to this exceptional Shubert model end-unit townhome in the sought after Mountain Ridge Community, where style, comfort and convenience come together seamlessly. Thoughtfully designed with an open-concept layout, the main level offers effortless flow between the living and dining areas and a beautifully appointed gourmet kitchen. Anchored by a generous center island, the kitchen features
Move right into this beautifully updated and renovated 3-bedroom, 2 full-bath home, ideally located just steps from Budd Lake the largest natural freshwater lake in New Jersey. Enjoy Right-of-Way access to a private beach at the end of the street, only half a block away. Inside, the home features spacious rooms filled with natural light, a modern open layout, and tasteful, neutral finishes
Welcome to this Charming Lakehouse Retreat nestled on a rare double-level lot with deeded lake rights, private beach area, and breathtaking views of Budd Lake - New Jersey's largest natural lake. This inviting home offers 4 bedrooms and a full main bath, along with spacious living areas designed for both comfort and entertaining. The living room showcases a beautiful fieldstone fireplace,
Introducing the Sonata at Mount Olive Grove Towns – the lowest-priced new construction townhomes in Morris County! The Sonata offers a two-car garage townhome design with an abundance of style and space. On the ground level, the finished rec room can be converted into a convenient first-floor guest suite. Follow the wide staircase to the main level, where entertaining is easy thanks to the
-1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments -Parking, Heat & Hot Water Included -Located in the heart of Budd Lake, NJ-Walking distance to Mt Olive Community Garden-Near Routes 46 and 80-Nearby places of interest: Turkey Brook Park, International Trade Center-Contact Kings Village Today!
Welcome to this charming 2 bedroom 1 bath Ranch Style home! Apartment Alternative!. Adorable 2 bedroom cottage with updated kitchen & bathroom! Laminate flooring throughout and pet friendly! Portion of yard fenced, underground electric fencing also available if needed. Spacious yard with room to garden and relax! Lawn Maintenance included in rental price. Deck perfect for entertaining and
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!
Beautiful, like-new townhome located in the desirable Mountain Ridge community. This home boasts an open concept floor plan featuring a gourmet kitchen with premium cabinetry, abundant counter space and a large center island as the centerpiece of the space that flows seamlessly into the dining and living areas, making it perfect for everyday living and entertaining. Upstairs, you will find the
One and Two-Bedroom Apartments in a Prime Budd Lake LocationEagle Rock / Hensyn Village offers spacious one and two-bedroom apartments in a quiet community setting in Morris County. Our location provides the ideal balance of a residential atmosphere with strategic access to major transit routes.Property Features:- Unmatched Highway Access: Situated moments from Routes 80, 46,
Welcome to this beautifully appointed newer 2/3 bedroom townhome located in the desirable neighborhood of Mountain Ridge. Designed with today's lifestyle in mind, this home features a bright, open-concept floor plan perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The gourmet kitchen is the heart of the home, showcasing a large center island, premium cabinetry and abundant counter space -
Enjoy a fully furnished studio suite in our hotel at an affordable rate with free wi-fi, free utilities and free premium cable. Each studio suite has a full kitchen with full-size refrigerator, stovetop and microwave, and has a flexible workspace and plenty of storage. All our hotels are pet-friendly and have on-site guest laundry available. Plus, there are no long-term commitments and you can
Welcome to this beautifully maintained end-unit Mendelsohn model in the sought-after Mountain Ridge community. The entry level features a finished ground-floor flex space, allowing you to tailor the space to your lifestyle needs. A spacious two-car garage provides ample storage and everyday convenience. On the second floor, the open-concept area is filled with natural light and designed for
Welcome to this beautifully renovated 2-bedroom, 1-bath home offering the perfect blend of comfort and modern convenience. Thoughtfully updated throughout, this residence features a newly finished basement that provides versatile additional living space ideal for a family room, home office, or guest area.Enjoy the ease of an in-unit washer and dryer, along with a one-car garage and driveway
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