$726,207Average Value$474Average Price per Sq Ft12Homes 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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On average, homes in Highlands, NJ sell after 36 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 $601,000, up 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Boutique home. Completely renovated inside & out. New kitchen w/espresso cabinets, rich granite counters & stainless appliances, flooded with natural light. Two stylish renovated baths. New wood flooring throughout. Gas fireplace. All new HVAC. Finished walkout lower level. Approx 1,827 SF incl finished basement. Dir-entry oversized garage. From the rear, see what makes this property so special.
This is a Coming Soon and cannot be shown until Sept 16th. Welcome to Highlands the hidden jewel of the Jersey Shore. Experience modern coastal living in this beautifully custom built four bedroom ,three full bath home with exceptional outside living area on each level for every day comfort and entertaining .Set in an exceptional location, this home has views of Sandy Hook Bay, the Atlantic Ocean
Helen MarescaHeritage House Sotheby's International Realty
Luxury at the Jersey Shore! Breathtaking views of Sandy Hook from the large balcony on the 4th floor. Only minutes from the SeaStreak Ferry to NYC and tucked high in the hills of Highlands away from the flood zone. This modern and contemporary custom home with approx 3,100+ sqft of living space was re-built from the studs in 2023. The builder used all high-end building materials and finishes
Brian McNamaraHeritage House Sotheby's International Realty
Boutique home. Completely renovated inside & out. New kitchen w/espresso cabinets, rich granite counters & stainless appliances, flooded with natural light. Two stylish renovated baths. New wood flooring throughout. Gas fireplace. All new HVAC. Finished walkout lower level. Approx 1,827 SF incl finished basement. Dir-entry oversized garage. From the rear, see what makes this property so special.
VIEWS FROM THE VISTA! THE SKY IS THE LIMIT... from this inviting home perched overlooking Sandy Hook Bay, the Atlantic Ocean and NY Skyline. Your front porch provides the perfect vantage point to enjoy amazing birds-eye views from sunrise to sunset while providing a year-round vacation experience. This thoughtfully updated, unique, 3 BR home offers abundant versatile space to relax, entertain, or
Lori SayboltHeritage House Sotheby's International Realty
This is a Coming Soon and cannot be shown until Sept 16th. Welcome to Highlands the hidden jewel of the Jersey Shore. Experience modern coastal living in this beautifully custom built four bedroom ,three full bath home with exceptional outside living area on each level for every day comfort and entertaining .Set in an exceptional location, this home has views of Sandy Hook Bay, the Atlantic Ocean
Helen MarescaHeritage House Sotheby's International Realty
Luxury at the Jersey Shore! Breathtaking views of Sandy Hook from the large balcony on the 4th floor. Only minutes from the SeaStreak Ferry to NYC and tucked high in the hills of Highlands away from the flood zone. This modern and contemporary custom home with approx 3,100+ sqft of living space was re-built from the studs in 2023. The builder used all high-end building materials and finishes
Brian McNamaraHeritage House Sotheby's International Realty
This Highlands gem features 4-bedroom, 2 and 1/2 baths and has magnificent ocean views all the way to the NYC skyline from the home's third floor and fabulous roof deck. You are perfectly positioned minutes away from the surfing and sunbathing at Sea Bright Beach, the scenic coastal bike paths of Sandy Hook, and the incredible shaded hiking trails of Hartshorne Woods. Enjoy the perfect blend of
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.
Be among the first to own this exceptional Custom-built 3,200 sq ft home thoughtfully designed for modern coastal living with breath taking waterviews from your rooftop decks .Ideally located just minutes from Seastreak Ferry to New York City, this home offers the perfect balance of tranquility and an effortless commute. The planned home will feature four spacious bedrooms ,three full baths and
Helen MarescaHeritage House Sotheby's International Realty
Watch the sun rise over the ocean from this beautiful condo in Easpointe, perched atop the hills of Highlands. This 2BR/2BA unit features 9' ceilings, an updated kitchen with granite countertops, quality custom cabinetry, tile backsplash, SS appliances, LVP flooring, elegant bath vanities, a spacious primary suite, private balcony, covered garage parking & storage, and 24-hour security. Enjoy a
Beth JustinBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach - Ocean
The one that could get away!! A charming 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath coastal retreat nestled in the scenic Highlands. Perched High With Views of NYC, The Atlantic Ocean, Navesink River & Sea Bright Beaches! Filled with character and natural light, this inviting home features a beautifully appointed kitchen with quartz countertops, farmhouse sink, stainless steel appliances and subway tile. Spacious
Enjoy a lifestyle surrounded by stunning views of the NYC skyline, Sandy Hook, and the Atlantic Ocean. This beautifully maintained, move-in ready 1-bedroom condo offers effortless coastal living with a private balcony perfect for relaxing and taking in the scenery. The kitchen features brand-new stainless steel appliances, while an in-unit washer/dryer, assigned parking, and 24-hour security add
Exceptional Buildable Lot in Highlands, NJ! Rare opportunity to build a custom home in one of Monmouth County's most desirable coastal communities. This 50' x 100' (approx. 5,000 SF) lot, located in the R-2.03 Residential Zone, offers an incredible opportunity for a builder, investor, or end user looking to create a beautiful new construction residence at the Jersey Shore. The lot's dimensions
This is a Coming Soon listing and cannot be shown until 9/18/2026. Welcome to 241 Shore Drive, a beautifully maintained 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home in one of Jersey Shore's most desirable coastal towns. Warm hardwood floors, freshly painted areas and thoughtfully maintained living spaces create a welcoming, move-in-ready home. The lower level offers flexible bonus space ideal for a home office,
Emily RossHeritage House Sotheby's International Realty
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! No Pets... Winter Rental $2500 Annual Rental $3100
Garden Apartments in Monmouth CountyYou'll love living near the shore at Shore Landing. Our spacious two-bedroom apartments put you within minutes of beach bliss as well as easy commuting on the Seastreak Ferries. Enjoy in-home laundry, a private balcony/deck, and professionally landscaped grounds at a community close to everything you need and want.
ALL UTILITIES & private high speed WIFI INCLUDED. PRIVATE beach cottage w/ amazing water views of Sandy Hook Beach and NYC skyline. Newly renovated, FULLY FURNISHED, fresh and stylish w/ Beachy decor. Located in a friendly community w/ plenty of outdoor space. Just a few blocks to Seastreak Ferry, Downtown Dining/hiking /biking & Sandy Hook beach. You will have full access to a beautiful
Christine Morford
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach - Rumson
Property Id: 2284672 Newly renovated 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom apartment in Highlands, NJ - easy commuting to NYC via the Seastreak Ferry and Jersey Shore beaches!
Just listed: yearly rental in Highlands! Renovated 2 bed, 1 bath single-family cottage featuring an updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances and dishwasher, hardwood floors throughout, washer and dryer in unit, and a charming covered front porch. One off-street parking spot included. Great location close to restaurants, shops, beaches, and the NYC ferry. Available for an annual lease. Pets
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
Welcome to this beautifully updated unit in the hills of Highlands! Newly renovated with incredible kitchen with quiet close cabinets, stainless steel GE slimline appliances, glass backsplash. 2 rooms can be used as individual bedrooms or one bedroom and one living room. Nice full bath completes this unit. Parking lot in the back of the building with assigned parking. A/C units needed in summer
Incredible opportunity in this lovingly updated unit with deck and views of NYC, Sandy Hook & the shoreline of the Highlands. Enjoy waking up to a view from the back sunroom of the water and city in this 1-2 bedroom apartment. Great laminate hardwoods throughout the home with updated glass stall shower, kitchen with stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, quiet close light cabinets and
Beautifully renovated one-bedroom, second-floor apartment in the heart of Downtown Highlands, NJ. This apartment offers convenient access to local restaurants, shops, and everyday amenities. Enjoy the vibrant downtown lifestyle while being just a short distance from the NYC ferry service, making commuting to New York City convenient. A great opportunity for those who enjoy shore living and a
Panoramic WATER VIEWS!Fully furnished lower level Winter rental with AMAZING VIEWS of the river,Ocean & Sandy Hook National Park.High in the hills of Highlands near the Twinlights lighthouses. Large entertainment room with wood floors,recessed lighting,gas fireplace & flat screen TV.Dining room with wood floors & room for 8-10 guests.Gourmet kitchen with ceramic tile,quartz countertops, stainless
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