$697,347Average Value$459Average Price per Sq Ft10Homes For Sale
Year-round beach community that moves at a slower pace
The Highlands is a year-round coastal community that hugs Sandy Hook Bay. This small enclave is literally minutes from some of New Jersey’s best beaches, while also offering high-speed NYC commuter ferries.
This Monmouth County borough has long been a working-class beach town, with 4,600 residents living within 1.4 miles.
Despite its name, much of the Highlands is in a flood zone and Superstorm Sandy destroyed 1,400 homes and most of the downtown businesses in 2012. But the tight-knit community has since rebuilt, and homes have been steadily increasing in price through the years. Despite the flood risk, Susan Natale, an experienced agent with Coldwell Banker who raised her family nearby, has noticed an influx of transplants from the NYC area. “People can work from home and have the flexibility of being near beaches, while having easy access to ferries and NYC,” she says.
Commuters can take a short Ferry ride from the Highlands to New York City.
The Highlands is surrounded by beautiful beaches such as Sea Bright.
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Multiple beaches including Miller Beach, plus the Henry Hudson Rail Trail
Beaches are the main attraction here, and the Highlands is home to a number within walking and biking distance. Snug Harbor Beach is small, but features soft white sand, calm bay water and a new skate park. Miller Beach draws families since it offers bathrooms, showers and lifeguards. It’s also popular with anglers and surfers. Highlands Beach in Sea Bright is located on a narrow strip along Sandy Hook Bay, a local favorite since not only is it less crowded, but it’s also free. There are a handful of marinas in town too.
Sandy Hook Gateway National Recreation Area is just over the causeway and includes pristine, protected beaches as part of a National Park. Nearby Sea Bright offers private beach clubs.
Huddy Park is the town gathering spot, a small green space with a gazebo and playground. It’s also the backdrop for community events. There are plans to open a new Overlook Park on Navesink Avenue.
The Henry Hudson Trail is a popular 24-mile rail trail that starts in the Highlands. The wide stretch follows former railroad tracks past scenic stretches of wetlands, streams and more.
Hartshorne Woods spans part of the Highlands and offers 812 hilly acres with hiking and biking trails overlooking the Navesink River.
Secluded Snug Harbor Beach is a little get away in the heart of the Highlands.
The Highlands own Huddy Park provides a gathering space in the middle of town.
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Newer construction, smaller lots and water views
Due to Highland’s compact size homes are on small lots. It’s highly walkable with sidewalks and views of Raritan Bay. Many homes within the town’s flood zone have been rebuilt, with the first floor lifted on top of a garage to mitigate future flooding. Flood insurance is required for many homes.
Natale describes this as a beach bungalow town, but new styles are also a mix of Dutch colonials and cape cods with dormer windows. There are a sizable number of condos and townhomes, starting around $300,000 for a one-bedroom condo and going for as much as $1.6 million for a two-bedroom waterfront townhome. Small single-family homes on equally small lots start around $400,000. Water views can start around $380,000 for a one-bedroom condo and $750,000 for a roomy three bedroom.
The median price is $590,000.
Raised Bungalows on small lots dot the Highlands neighborhoods.
The Highlands has waterfront condos throughout the borough.
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Clam Fest and year-round events
Highlands has hosted the Annual Clam Fest for almost 30 years. This weekend-long celebration is held at Huddy Park, complete with live music, kids' activities and all things clams. Fireworks at Snug Harbor Beach cap the festivities. Year-round events include Pride Fest, Seaport Craft Show, Taste of Highlands, St. Patrick’s Day and Howl-O-Ween.
Local waterfront restaurants and nearby shopping
A small number of restaurants line Bay Avenue like The Chubby Pickle, a popular dive bar for burgers, fried pickles, trivia and live music. Bahrs Landing is a waterfront institution dating back to 1917 and known for its fresh seafood and laid-back atmosphere. Dock Donuts serves homemade doughnuts along with cold brew and frozen lemonade by the water.
For basics, Super Foodtown is next door in Atlantic Highlands, along with additional shopping along First Avenue and Route 36. Additional supermarkets and big box chains are 15 minutes away in Middletown.
Highland's residents and visitors can stop by Dock Donuts for a little treat near the beach.
The Chubby Pickle is a popular dive bar located in the Highlands.
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Henry Hudson Regional School serves 7th to 12th graders in the community
The district is small, with an eight-to-one student/teacher ratio for all grades. Public school students attend Highlands Elementary School, rated a B-minus from Niche, for kindergarten through sixth grades. They continue to Henry Hudson Regional School for seventh through 12th grades, which Niche rates a B plus.
Henry Hudson Regional High School
Aerial view of Highlands Elementary School.
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NYC commuter ferries
The Seastreak ferry provides 40-minute ferry rides to Lower Manhattan, along with scenic views and an onboard bar. Route 36 is a main corridor, but shore traffic gets very heavy in the summer.
Commuter ferries leave from the Highlands taking an easy ride to Manhattan,
Ferries provide a scenic ride to start the commuters day.
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Flooding is a major concern
According to the site Risk Factor, the majority of the Highlands is at extreme risk for flooding within the next 30 years. The borough recently received a $12 million federal grant that will go toward green infrastructure and stormwater mitigation projects.
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Kellan Beaver
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Highlands, NJ sell after 41 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Highlands, NJ over the last 12 months is $600,000, up 24% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Experience coastal luxury in this brand-new Highlands masterpiece with sweeping views of the water and the city. Just minutes to the beach and the SeaStreak ferry to NYC, this home offers the perfect blend of shore charm and commuter convenience. Featuring 5 en-suite bedrooms, soaring 9' ceilings on all 4 floors, 2 kitchens, an elevator to all 4 floors, and a 2-car garage with two EV outlets plus
Spend your summer in the heart of downtown Highlands! This charming Craftsman-style home is filled with natural light and offers an inviting, open feel throughout. Enjoy outdoor living on the shaded back deck or in the side yard--perfect for relaxing or entertaining.The versatile under-home area adds great space for storage, a workshop, or summer get-togethers. Just a short walk (approx. 0.5
Joely CarasiaHeritage House Sotheby's International Realty
This property is located in the Highlands downtown redevelopment zone. Zoning allows for parking underneath and 4 stories above. Currently a storefront with living space above which can provide income during the approval process.
3-levels with unobstructed panoramic views of the NYC skyline, stretching from Sandy Hook to Sea Bright and encompassing the Lower New York Bay and Atlantic Ocean. Nestled between Hartshorne Park and the Twin Lights, this home stands proudly among multi-million dollar properties. The exterior offers a charming rocking chair front porch and a serene rear yard. Inside, the main level features an
Experience coastal luxury in this brand-new Highlands masterpiece with sweeping views of the water and the city. Just minutes to the beach and the SeaStreak ferry to NYC, this home offers the perfect blend of shore charm and commuter convenience. Featuring 5 en-suite bedrooms, soaring 9' ceilings on all 4 floors, 2 kitchens, an elevator to all 4 floors, and a 2-car garage with two EV outlets plus
Spend your summer in the heart of downtown Highlands! This charming Craftsman-style home is filled with natural light and offers an inviting, open feel throughout. Enjoy outdoor living on the shaded back deck or in the side yard--perfect for relaxing or entertaining.The versatile under-home area adds great space for storage, a workshop, or summer get-togethers. Just a short walk (approx. 0.5
Joely CarasiaHeritage House Sotheby's International Realty
This property is located in the Highlands downtown redevelopment zone. Zoning allows for parking underneath and 4 stories above. Currently a storefront with living space above which can provide income during the approval process.
Come see this beautiful home in the vibrant coastal community of Highlands. This beautifully updated, turn-key home has been completely refreshed within the last year, offering modern comfort and peace of mind for its next owner.Nearly every major feature has been upgraded, including brand-new flooring throughout, a new heating unit, new central A/C, a new roof, an updated kitchen, a fully
Recently renovated top to bottom. Granite kitchen, hardwood floors throughout. Three bedrooms, two full baths, a flexible layout that works for living, working, or short-term rentals. At just $449K with no HOA, this is one of the best-priced shore homes in the state of New Jersey. It just came back on the market. Steps to the beach and the Ferry to NYC. For more details visit 86Seadrift.com
Welcome Home! Fully renovated 3 level townhouse in the heart of beautiful Highlands offering the perfect blend of style, space, and shore town convenience. This bright and airy home features 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, oversized rooms, and abundant natural light throughout. The first floor offers a private bedroom with outdoor access to the back patio, a full bath, and an office--ideal for guests or
25 Shrewsbury Avenue offers magical water views paired with timeless coastal charm. Completely renovated and restored, this home blends classic character with modern comfort. Thoughtfully selected finishes, appointments, and décor create an elevated yet relaxed atmosphere throughout. Its welcoming layout and signature style make it equally suited for everyday living or coastal entertaining.
Stephen SmithBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach - Rumson
ELEVATED COASTAL LIVING WITH OCEAN VIEWS! This luxurious, newly built custom home is perfectly positioned in the heart of the Highlands. This four-story residence offers breathtaking, unobstructed ocean views, which flood the home with natural light. The home features 3 spacious bedrooms and 3.5 baths, soaring high ceilings, and a professionally designed open-concept living and dining area ideal
Luxurious Living At The Northern Jersey Shore! Located near the bay & ocean beaches sits this luxurious 1 BR, 1 BA condo. The Eastpointe building offers a rare combination of incredible nature, outdoor activities, upscale amenities & exceptional convenience. The interior boasts a large-inviting living rm for relaxing/entertaining, kitchen w/adjoining dining area & sliding door leading to a
Enjoy coastal living in this beautifully located condo at 324 Shore Drive in the Highlands. This bright and inviting unit offers comfortable living space just moments from the waterfront, Seastreak ferry, beaches, and local dining. Perfect for year-round living, a weekend retreat, or an investment opportunity, this home places you in one of the Highlands' most desirable locations with easy access
Welcome to this beautifully updated second-floor end unit offering seasonal views of Sandy Hook and the New York City skyline. Light-filled and freshly painted, this home features elegant crown moldings, an upgraded kitchen, and two fully renovated bathrooms. The spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bath layout includes a large en-suite bedroom with ample closet space and a private balcony overlooking the
Completely updated and remodeled single family home situated in the adorable beach town of the Highlands w/ included private beach access directly across the street. Fully furnished with 1 car garage and private driveway which could easily accommodate 4 cars. Oversize kitchen is flooded with natural light as well as sliders which open to the backyard. The back patio is lined with pavers and is
Christine Morford
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach - Rumson
Charming property on a quiet street within walking distance to the beach, parks, ferry, walking trails, and adjacent to Sandy Hook Bay Marina. This property has a wonderful backyard and boasts an open floorplan with a large kitchen, 3 bedrooms, and 1.5 baths and is perfect for a family. This property won't last!
Welcome to a rare, luxury waterfront rental opportunity in a fully upgraded Harborside townhome featuring stunning Sandy Hook Bay water views. Located in the highly sought-after resort style community of Harborside at Hudson's Ferry in Highlands. Steps to the Seastreek Ferry, Henry Hudson Trail, beaches, dining and marina. This unique, end-unit townhome offers breathtaking water views, private
Beautifully Renovated Upper Level Apartment with a spacious deck and private parking available April 1. The unit offers hardwood floors, big kitchen with stainless steel appliances, laundry and a HUGE Loft for additional bedroom space, office or exercise area. Downtown location allows for full emersive experience.
Enjoy water views from every window at this SUMMER RENTAL in Highlands NJ. This 3-bedroom, 1 bathroom home is located on corner lot in Waterfront Business District of downtown Highlands. Everything you desire for summer living is walking distance including private beaches, fresh catch seafood restaurants, coffee shops and bakeries, and a weekend farmer's market. Grab a bike and enjoy Hartshorne
Annual Rental! One bedroom one bathroom available $1850 a month. This apartment has hardwood flooring, private entrance and is close to beaches, parks and major roads. One assigned parking space. Water and Sewer are included in the rent. Tenant pays Electric, Gas, cable/internet. No Dogs. Must be able to provide current income verification, have good credit and background.
Discover your perfect Jersey Shore summer escape! This feels like new 3-bed, 2.5-bath home in Highlands is flooded with natural light and features a beautifully updated kitchen + bathrooms. Airy open living spaces, stylish finishes, and inviting outdoor areas create an ideal setting for relaxing or entertaining. Just steps to waterfront dining and local beaches, plus close to Sandy Hook and
Beachfront Rental !!! Enjoy this special opportunity to live literally on the beach and be 5 min to the Seastreak Ferry for easy commuting to the City. With over 1,500 sq ft of living area , separate entrance , this totally renovated unit features updated kitchen with new appliances , 3 bed 1 bath Washer and dryer, recessed lighting throughout and maintenance free tile flooring .Outside shower
Helen MarescaHeritage House Sotheby's International Realty
The water views are stunning here at this Summer rental high on the hill in Highlands. 12,500 for the month of June, 17,500 for July, 17,500 for August or 45,000 for entire season Memorial day thru Labor Day. Designer decorated with gourmet kitchen, beautiful hardwood floors, 3 new baths, and beautiful multi tiered property. Very close to all beaches including Sea Bright and Sandy Hook. Marinas,
Karin BusichioBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach - Rumson
Summer Rental with a pool available in Highlands offering a prime location near beaches, Hartshorne Woods park, restaurants and NYC ferry. Tudor style homefeaturing 3 bedrooms 2.5 baths and a large finished basement making for easy entertaining. Available for July 20,000 a month and August 20,000 a month. Full summer Memorial D
Karin BusichioBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach - Rumson
This bright and sunny unit offers 2 bedrooms and 2 full baths, featuring an updated kitchen, a spacious living room, and a large dining area with vinyl flooring throughout. Enjoy the convenience of an in-unit washer and dryer, bike storage in the garage, and designated parking. Eastpointe's amenities include 24-hour security, a heated pool, gym, tennis courts, picnic area, and the Skytop Clubroom
WINTER RENTAL - Available FEB MARCH & APRIL - This adorable 2 bedroom 1.5 bath property comes fully furnished and is close to fast ferry to NYC ! Conveniently located near commuting, bars, restaurants and the Jersey Shore. Call for questions! WINTER RENTAL Feb 1 - April 30
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