Clayton

“Clayton is your typical small hometown in southern New Jersey. We have parades for Memorial Day, homecoming, and Fourth of July. It's very community-oriented,” says Suzanne Cunningham, a longtime resident and Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach. Incorporated in the late 1800s, you will find homes built over the last 100 years. Older residences show minimal Victorian stick features from the early 20th century. There are sizeable houses with colonial influences found inside the Willow Woods subdivision. The neighborhood also has quaint Cape Cods and ranches among the housing stock.

“Small ranch-styles list on average for $250,00 to $275,000. Homes inside developments cost around $375,000 to $425,000, peaking around $450,000,” says Cunningham. Potential buyers should expect a number of long-term residents within the township. “Clayton has always been a great place for first-time homebuyers, with low taxes and reasonable prices," Cunningham says. "People who buy their first home in Clayton often purchase their second home here as well.”

The Clayton Public School District is considered one of the top ten in the county, according to Niche. "Both of my children went from PreK to high school here. With small class sizes, our schools offer an environment similar to a private school," says Cunningham. Kindergarten to fifth graders will start the day at Herma S. Simmons Elementary. Students at Clayton Middle have access to academic assistance in core subjects such as Math, Reading and Writing through programs called “Clinics.” Both elementary and middle schools earned a C+ on Niche. Clayton High, which received a B- on Niche, has been recognized as one of the top high schools in the state by The U.S. News and World Report. The school system recently completed renovations on the football field, Haupt Stadium. “I love the school system. People enjoy going to the middle school and football games. The parents all know each other, and we like it that way,” says Monique, a resident and owner of the local Mr. Suds Laundromat. Parents may also choose the faith-based option, St. Michael The Archangel Regional School, for kindergarten to eighth grade.

The borough has dedicated one-third of its land to recreational green spaces, making it an excellent place for outdoor activities and relaxation. If your students enjoy athletics, you may spend time at DJ Bentz Memorial Soccer Complex cheering on matches for the Clayton Soccer Association. The grounds also contain an onsite senior center. Behind the Clayton Historic Museum is Autumn Pasquale Memorial Park, where you may catch a Clippers Youth Football game or a cheerleading match. Locals can shoot hoops or work on their backhand on the basketball and tennis courts. The grounds also include a skateboard park and a dedicated dog park. Avid golfers can practice their swing on the fairways at Scotland Run Golf Club, along Glassboro Road, north of the township.

Those hoping to immerse themselves in nature may visit the NJ State Wildlife Management Area for bird-watching and hiking through the woodlands and fields. While visiting, you may see Tiger Swallowtail butterflies, owls, warblers, and ribbon snakes. If you are visiting during the summer, be sure to bring insect repellent. The autumn months often attract locals for deer hunting season.

Locals shop for groceries at ACME markets. Cunningham says the area has few restaurants but recommends the new Core3 Brewery and her favorite place to eat, Neri's Cafe And Mexican Grill. Monique, a local business owner, recommends Twin Kiss Drive-In as one of her favorite spots to order water ice, burgers, and root beer floats. The township is a part of Gloucester County and is about 30 miles from Center City, Philadelphia. Well-loved by many longtime residents, Clayton offers a small-town feel in southern New Jersey.

Written By

Hannah Rainey

Photography Contributed By

Carmen Gerace

Video By

Sara Warthen