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
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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 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Budd Lake, NJ over the last 12 months is $612,000, up 11% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Opportunity meets space, versatility, and privacy in this expansive 5-bedroom, 3 full bath home set on a beautiful property backing to serene wooded surroundings.Thoughtfully expanded, the home features a generous primary suite addition complete with a spacious bedroom, walk-in closet, and a spa-like bath with a jetted soaking tub creating the perfect private retreat. The flexible layout offers
Move-in ready custom-built expanded ranch offering approximately 2,160 sq ft of living space, plus an additional 560 sq ft finished basement, set on nearly one acre. This spacious home features 5 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, premium Andersen 400 Series windows, hardwood floors, recessed lighting, elegant 5-inch moldings, and a cozy wood-burning fireplace with insert. The gourmet kitchen
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
There's a quiet appeal to a home that has already done the hard work for you and this one delivers that feeling the moment you step inside. Beautifully updated and thoughtfully expanded, this 3-bedroom, 3-bath home offers the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and standout features. The highlight is the brand-new primary suite, designed as a true retreat, complete with a spacious, spa-like
Much larger than it appears! This beautifully maintained 4-bedroom Cape Cod sits on a spacious, level corner lot and is truly not your typical cape. The home features a flexible layout with one bedroom on the first floor and three generously sized bedrooms on the second floor. There is a full bathroom on each level for added convenience. Enjoy a large living room and an expansive kitchen, perfect
Welcome to the Griffin Hall at Mount Olive Grove Carriage Homes – the lowest-priced new 2-story townhomes in Mount Olive Township with first-floor owner's suites. The Griffin Hall home combines elegance with comfort, starting with a welcoming foyer that opens to a formal dining space and an inviting great room. The gourmet kitchen offers abundant counter space and a breakfast bar, ideal for
Welcome to this spacious Colonial nestled in the highly desirable Budd Lake area of Morris County, offering beautiful lake views and a lifestyle of comfort and convenience. Ideally located just minutes from shopping, dining, and major commuting routes, this home blends tranquility with everyday accessibility.Step inside to discover a bright and inviting open floor plan, perfect for both
Opportunity meets space, versatility, and privacy in this expansive 5-bedroom, 3 full bath home set on a beautiful property backing to serene wooded surroundings.Thoughtfully expanded, the home features a generous primary suite addition complete with a spacious bedroom, walk-in closet, and a spa-like bath with a jetted soaking tub creating the perfect private retreat. The flexible layout offers
Welcome to this beautifully upgraded Ashbourne Elite Model end-unit in the sought-after Morris Chase community of Mount Olive. Ideally positioned at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac and bordered by tranquil woods on three sides, this residence offers a rare combination of privacy, premium location, and low-maintenance living. Featuring 3-bedroom, 2 full baths, and 1 half bath, the home showcases an
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
Welcome to the Overture at Mount Olive Grove Towns – the lowest-priced new construction townhomes in Morris County. Start your journey in a new townhome in a planned community with future amenities and Mount Olive Schools. 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 with the option to add a half
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
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,
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
-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!
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!
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
Welcome to this 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath condo located in the desirable community of Mount Olive, NJ. This inviting home offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, ideal for anyone seeking easy access to everyday essentials. Main level living room flows into dining room, just off the kitchen. Upstairs, you'll find two generously sized bedrooms with plenty of closet space, along with a full
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 -
Don't miss this stunning newer 2/3 bedroom townhome for rent set within the highly regarded community of Mountain Ridge and offering the perfect blend of style, comfort and convenience. The main level features and expansive open floor plan filled with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere for both relaxing and entertaining. The gourmet kitchen is beautifully designed with a generous
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
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