$591,625Average Value$320Average Price per Sq Ft18Homes For Sale
Califon is small-town living at its finest
Califon is a small borough in Hunterdon County, surrounded by farms, orchards and lush nature. The area became a mill town in the late 1800s but has since returned to its country roots with quiet streets, an active community and small businesses that fuel the downtown scene. There are no stoplights, and the producer of “It’s a Wonderful Life” lived in Califon and based the movie’s bridge on Califon’s historic bridge over the South Branch Raritan River.
One local business owner is Abraham Beates, who took ownership of the South Branch Outfitters shop to keep the spirit of fly fishing alive. “My wife and I were active-duty Navy, and then we moved back to the New Jersey area,” Beates says. “My wife grew up in Chester, and we were looking to move near her family. We knew the previous owner of the fly-fishing shop, so we were pretty familiar with Califon. We didn’t know what to expect when we first moved into town, but we’ve just fallen in love with it. We moved from Jacksonville, Florida, and that’s busy and loud. Califon is quaint and quiet, and you’re in the country. It’s beautiful, in the rolling hills of New Jersey with horse farms and apple orchards all around.”
Chester Flanders, nestled in Morris County, is a delightful neighborhood renowned for its farms.
A peaceful, well-kept street in Califon offers the perfect setting for those who appreciate quiet, small-town living.
Califon’s charm lives in the details—like spring poppies bursting curbside, reminding you this is a place where beauty blooms effortlessly.
Chester Flanders exudes captivating charm through its small yet delightful details.
1/4
Colonial Revivals, Craftsmans and ranch-style homes
Many homes in Califon were built in the 1970s and ‘80s, though there are some from the late 1800s and early 1900s that have been renovated. Ranch-style homes often sell for $300,000 to $475,000, while Colonial Revivals and Craftsman homes can range between $475,000 and $650,000. Based on estimated prices, properties with much more than an acre of land can reach the $800,000s. The yards are often spacious, and tall trees shade the homes and create some privacy between neighbors. Once residents find a home in Califon, they stay rooted in the community. There were eight homes sold in all of 2024. “I would say the hardest part of moving into Califon is finding somewhere to move into,” Beates says. “There’s not too much available. People who move here are staying here, which speaks to how it’s a good place to live.”
Califon’s winters can come with below-freezing temperatures and snow. If snow is on the ground, residents are not allowed to park on the streets to make room for snowplows and salt trucks. Homes without attached garages usually have detached garages or long driveways with enough room for a few cars.
Painted in vibrant hues, these proud Victorians reflect Califon’s love of history, preservation, and neighborhood charm.
Stately and serene, this grand colonial home blends classic elegance with pastoral views on a quiet, winding road.
In need of a refresh, this weathered beauty offers the perfect canvas for restoration in a town that values its roots.
Chester Flanders is renowned for its diverse architectural styles, featuring ranch-style homes.
1/4
Califon Public School makes Califon thrive
Califon Public School serves prekindergarten through eighth-grade students and receives an A from Niche. The school is also ranked as the best elementary school in Hunterdon County. Kids join classes with a 4-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio. Voorhees High School in Lebanon Township gets an A-minus and is a 2015 National Blue Ribbon School.
Califon Public School serves students from prekindergarten through eighth grade, fostering a close-knit and supportive learning environment.
Califon Public School proudly holds an A rating on Niche, reflecting its strong academics and dedicated community.
Voorhees High School serves the broader Hunterdon County community, offering a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for local students.
1/3
Park exploration, fishing and hiking
Being surrounded by nature means having plenty of destinations to explore. Califon Island Park features a playground, baseball fields and a paved basketball court. Trout fishing is a major pastime here, as the Raritan River is the premier site for fishing. South Branch Raritan River flows into Califon's center. Hikers and bikers can hit the Columbia Trail at Califon's trailhead and take the 16.5-mile north to Chester or south to High Bridge.
The South Branch of the Raritan River flows through the heart of Califon, adding natural beauty and tranquility to the town’s center.
Trout fishing is a favorite pastime along the South Branch of the Raritan River, where anglers gather year-round to enjoy the calm waters.
The South Branch of the Raritan River also offers peaceful green spaces, perfect for walking, relaxing, and reconnecting with nature.
Califon Island Park features a playground, baseball fields, and a paved basketball court, making it a favorite spot for families and outdoor fun.
1/4
Dining out at local favorites in town
Califon has Aquí Market for groceries and the long-standing Califon General Store for quick bites. “Oscar’s Gourmet Cafe is my favorite place for breakfast,” Beates says. “He does a great Sunday dinner. It’s crazy affordable, and the amount of food you get is outrageous. For fine dining, there’s Brasserie 513.”
Locally owned businesses line Main Street, from Califon Consignment Boutique to Califon Lumber Co. Beates says South Branch Outfitters, also on Main Street, is open to people who have never owned a fishing rod to experienced fly fishing enthusiasts who moved to Califon and need a guide. Califon United Methodist is one the churches in town, and it accepts donations for the Top O’th Barn Thrift Store. Some residents who want to shop at stores like Lowe’s or ShopRite drive 10 miles to Hackettstown, 20 minutes north of Califon.
Locals gather daily at Rambo’s, the town’s iconic general store—where friendly chatter and pork BBQ sandwiches are always on the menu.
Fresco Mexican is a popular spot in Califon to enjoy great food and refreshing drinks.
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at Brasserie 513, a favorite dining spot in Califon.
Meet up with friends for a great cup of coffee at Maria's Coffee in downtown Chester Flanders.
1/4
Califon Street Fair and Trout Fest
Califon’s recreation department keeps a full calendar of events that bring the community together, from Easter egg hunts to Christmas tree and menorah lightings in the winter. The biggest event is the Califon Street Fair, held every October. Main Street is blocked off to make room for artisan vendors, food trucks, live music and a kids' zone.
Beates organizes the Trout Fest every April, a free event for anyone who loves fishing or wants to hang out in warm weather. “It’s a celebration of spring,” Beates says. “We coordinate with the opening of fishing season. We bring in vendors, local artisans, a couple food trucks and one of the local craft breweries does a beer garden. We bring in a lot of conservation groups because conservation is one of our missions at the shop.”
Commuter options to New Jersey destinations
Narrow sidewalks primarily line streets in the historic district and downtown, so most Califon residents rely on their cars to get around town and beyond. Sidewalks go across the Historic Califon Bridge, which has been in town since 1887. Drivers can head south to hop on Interstate 78, which leads 45 miles to Newark and the Newark Liberty International Airport. The drive takes about 45 minutes with light traffic. The nearest train station is in High Bridge, and Raritan Valley Line trains take about an hour and a half to reach Newark Penn Station. Commuters can change trains and continue to Penn Station in New York City.
Photography Contributed By
Elma Kukaj
Video By
Shannon Hopkins
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Joan O'brien,
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 Califon, NJ sell after 35 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Califon, NJ over the last 12 months is $800,000, up 18% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Custom Built 2019 Cape Cod, Cul de Sac, Private Fenced in Back Yard, Walk-Out Basement, Two Car Garage with 10 Ft Ceilings, 9 Ft Garage Doors includes Workshop Space and Attic Storage, 200 Amp Electrical Service, Dual Zoned Heat and Central A/C, Tilt-In Anderson Windows, First Floor Primary Suite, Walk-In Shower and Professional California Custom Closets, Custom Professional Window Treatments,
Opportunity awaits with this charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath home situated on nearly an acre of land in a highly desirable location. The property offers plenty of outdoor space for gardening, recreation, expansion, or future possibilities. A standout feature is the detached garage, which is in excellent condition and includes a spacious second level perfect for storage, a workshop, hobby space, or
A STONE FRONT CIRCA-1885 4BR & 2 FULL BATH FARMHOUSE COLONIAL WITH A SEPARATE 1BR RENTAL COTTAGE AND ALSO A SMALL HEATED GYM ON A GORGEOUS 7.90 ACRE WOODLAND-ASSESSED LOT WITH A GREAT LOCATION A FEW HUNDRED YARDS DOWN THE ROAD FROM THE COLUMBIA TRAIL AND THE PRISTINE FREE-FLOWING TROUT-FILLED WATERS OF THE SOUTH BRANCH OF THE RARITAN JUST A BIT UPSTREAM FROM WHERE IT BEGINS TO FLOW THROUGH THE
Custom Built 2019 Cape Cod, Cul de Sac, Private Fenced in Back Yard, Walk-Out Basement, Two Car Garage with 10 Ft Ceilings, 9 Ft Garage Doors includes Workshop Space and Attic Storage, 200 Amp Electrical Service, Dual Zoned Heat and Central A/C, Tilt-In Anderson Windows, First Floor Primary Suite, Walk-In Shower and Professional California Custom Closets, Custom Professional Window Treatments,
Welcome to the tranquil side of Lebanon Township! Nestled on 1.15 beautifully landscaped acres in a peaceful wooded setting, this lovingly maintained 4-bedroom 1.5-bath home offers comfort, charm, and a connection to nature. Step inside to discover pristine hardwood floors, a formal living room, family room, and an elegant dining room featuring beautiful built-in cabinets & shelves. The specious
Loaded with historic details this 1840 Colonial sits on a spectacular farm assessed 5.86 acres in a desirable location near Califon. Being sold AS IS WHERE IS this home needs work to bring it up to it's full potential & will need CASH OR RENO LOAN. An impressive stone wall bordered front lawn has steps leading to the covered entrance. Step inside to the welcoming foyer with beautiful wooden
Shaped by generations of thoughtful stewardship, By Pond Farm is a place where rich history, timeless architecture, and inspired modern design come together to create an estate that feels both enduring and deeply lived in. Located in bucolic Tewksbury Township, Hunterdon County, this exceptional 10-acre Gentleman's Farm, previously featured in House Beautiful, offers an expansive farmhouse,
Vintage 5-bedroom, 4-full-bath home on an open, private lot in the Frog Hollow section of Califon. Solid construction, well kept and maintained, and being sold strictly in AS-IS condition. Open living and dining area with a woodstove and a full basement with workshop space offer excellent potential for creative renovation or investment for buyers with a vision. Open grounds provide possible
Opportunity awaits with this charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath home situated on nearly an acre of land in a highly desirable location. The property offers plenty of outdoor space for gardening, recreation, expansion, or future possibilities. A standout feature is the detached garage, which is in excellent condition and includes a spacious second level perfect for storage, a workshop, hobby space, or
Tucked away at the end of a tree-lined driveway on coveted Hollow Brook Road, this exceptional 16+ acre country farm estate offers privacy, serene pastoral views, and direct access to the Tewksbury Trail System. Surrounded by preserved farmland, the thoughtfully updated 1820s farmhouse seamlessly blends historic character with modern comfort, showcasing hand-hewn beam ceilings, wide-plank pumpkin
Gracefully positioned on 5 stunning acres with a coveted Califon address, this stately Colonial is a rare offering that blends timeless architecture with modern functionality. Beautifully maintained, the home makes a memorable first impression with its sweeping circular driveway and striking stone-accented exterior. Step inside the impressive two-story foyer, where a spacious formal Dining Room
Welcome to Winterview Farm offering seasonal views of the valley countryside this authentic reproduction Federal Colonial sits on a private farm assessed 11.10 total acres at the end of a cul-de-sac bordering 147 acre Teetertown Preserve. The impressive foyer highlights the genuine center hall design of this charming home loaded w character & amenities including 4 masonry fireplaces, decorative
Exceptional 4-bedroom, 3-bath home, privately nestled on 5+ picturesque acres, just moments from the Columbia Trail & the scenic Raritan River. Offering generous living space & a beautiful natural setting, this home combines comfort, character & endless possibilities. The dramatic great room welcomes you w/ soaring cathedral ceilings, natural stone accents & a 2-sided fireplace that also warms
Set on nearly 2 private acres in desirable Washington Township, this well-maintained corner-lot bi-level offers a spacious and versatile layout with 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths. The main level features 3 bedrooms, a bright living room, a dining room, and a spacious kitchen designed for everyday functionality. The finished lower level expands the living space with a large family room featuring a
A STONE FRONT CIRCA-1885 4BR & 2 FULL BATH FARMHOUSE COLONIAL WITH A SEPARATE 1BR RENTAL COTTAGE AND ALSO A SMALL HEATED GYM ON A GORGEOUS 7.90 ACRE WOODLAND-ASSESSED LOT WITH A GREAT LOCATION A FEW HUNDRED YARDS DOWN THE ROAD FROM THE COLUMBIA TRAIL AND THE PRISTINE FREE-FLOWING TROUT-FILLED WATERS OF THE SOUTH BRANCH OF THE RARITAN JUST A BIT UPSTREAM FROM WHERE IT BEGINS TO FLOW THROUGH THE
Tucked at the end of a tree-lined driveway on scenic Hollow Brook Road, this exceptional country farm offers tranquility, serene pastoral views, and direct access to the Tewksbury Trail System. Surrounded by preserved farmland, the thoughtfully updated 1820s farmhouse seamlessly blends historic character with modern comfort, showcasing hand-hewn beam ceilings, wide-plank pumpkin pine floors,
This is an elegant 2-story 5 bedroom home located in Tewksbury's most desired locations featuring a stunning brick facade with maintenance free deck enabling full enjoyment for entertaining and a panoramic view of the lush and colorful landscape including a myriad of plantings and flowering trees and fruit trees perfectly placed among the two acres. In view from the oversized deck is a built-in
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.
