$657,798Average Value$462Average Price per Sq Ft19Homes 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.
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
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Ronald Raimondo,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Huddy Park
Bike Trails
Dog Park
Trails
Dorsett Park
Tennis
Playground
Veterans Memorial Park
Bike Trails
Boating
Fishing
Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook
Picnic Area
Trails
Playground
Hartshorne Woods Park
Bike Trails
Fishing
Trails
Henry Hudson Trail / Popamora Point
Dog Park
Picnic Area
Trails
Lenape Woods Nature Preserve
Trails
Hiking
Transit
Airport
Newark Liberty International
54 min drive
Bus
Bay Ave & Rt-36 #
Bus
Rt-36 & Miller St
Bus
Bay Ave & North Ave#
Bus
Bay Ave & Atlantic St#
Bus
Shore Dr & Central Ave#
Bus
Bay Ave & Waterwitch Ave
Bus
Bay Ave & Washington Ave#
Reviews
Niche Reviews
3.519 Reviews
3.0Niche User
8/15/2014Niche Review
99% of the time the weather contributes to the good aspects of living here, but in the few cases (like Sandy) it can be devastating. Power outages usually last longer and occur more often than other places I have lived.
4.0Niche User
8/15/2014Niche Review
Generally people are friendly. In the county there is decent diversity of race and religion, though some areas have higher concentrations of religions and race and they are notable. There is a large gay and lesbian community in this area.
3.0Niche User
8/15/2014Niche Review
There is a lot of running and biking in this area. We have two major gym chains that it seems everyone belongs to; Retro and Work Out WOrld. There are also many independent gyms, and several health spas. Being a party and vacation destination there is a lot of drinking in the area, but it comes more from visitors than residents.
2.0Niche User
7/7/2016Niche Review
It is not horrible by any means, but it isn't a particularly nice neighborhood.
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Highlands
US
Homicide
3
4
Sexual Assault
2
4
Assault with Weapon
2
4
Robbery
3
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
3
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
3
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Highlands, NJ sell after 30 days on the market compared to the national average of 47 days. The average sale price for homes in Highlands, NJ over the last 12 months is $596,812, up 1% from the average home sale price over the previous 12 months.
BEACH HOUSE!! Be on vacation year-round in this lovely 3/4-bedroom 2 full bath home in ''Happening Highlands'' This spacious home boasts bright sunny rooms, hardwood floors throughout, recessed lighting, fully fenced yard and a HUGE deck for summer barbeques! The large eat in kitchen is a chef's delight with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, generous cabinets space, and a center
Welcome to this beautifully updated second-floor end unit offering seasonal views of Sandy Hook and the New York City skyline. Light-filled and airy, this newly painted home features elegant crown moldings and an upgraded kitchen and baths.Enjoy this 2 bedroom, 2 bath, spacious layout, including a large en suite bedroom, ample closet space, and a private balcony overlooking the water — perfect
Valerie VargasKeller Williams Realty West Monmouth
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!! Unparalleled Water Views & Maintenance Free Living! Experience the magic of NJ Shore living in this exquisite 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath condo. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking water views that greet you from your oversized private balcony - your personal oasis for year-round enjoyment. The spacious, open floor plan boasts a modern, open layout and inviting
NO HOA - NOT A CONDO - Enjoy complete ownership freedom without association fees or restrictions - A fantastic incentive to make this coastal retreat yours! Prime Coastal Location & Lifestyle Located just 450 feet from Seafarer Beach Bar - steps from coastal amenities. Direct access to a nearby dock - perfect for boat and jet ski owners. Stunning views of Sandy Hook & NYC Skyline right from
Waterfront 3BR/3.5 bath oasis offering waterviews from all 4 levels of living space and rooftop deck. Enjoy watching the sunrise from either level with seagulls flying in the background. Take a short walk to the adjacent beach via private access, Dog park, Henry Hudson trail, waterfront restaurant or Seastreak Ferry to NYC. Dip in the pool at the Marina or take off on your boat right outside the
SUMMER 2025 BEACHSIDE RENTAL! This 4 bed-3 full bath home offers water views from every floor and is just steps away from Miller St Beach! Take in the ocean breezes and explore nearby Sandy Hook and Hartshorne Woods. Commuting to Manhattan is easy with the NY Seastreak Ferry. Take this fantastic opportunity to spend this summer in the heart of all the action. Washer-Dryer and Off-Street Parking.
Charming, cozy, and full of characterthis 2-bedroom, 1-bath Craftsman-style bungalow is your perfect year-round beach retreat. Original pine floors add warmth and history, while the updated kitchen and bathroom bring modern comfort. Whether you're sipping coffee on the front porch or relaxing out back, peace and ocean breezes are always close by. With its inviting layout and private driveway for
Spectacular ocean view and complete privacy with 800 acre Hartshorne Woods as your backyard. Short bicycle ride to Sandy Hook and Sea Bright beaches. Great patio out back for grilling and relaxing. First and second floor porches with ocean views.Only 7-minute commute to the Manhattan SeaStreak ferry. Year around rental
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Ronald Raimondo,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
5,470
Median Age
50
Population Density
13 ppl/acre
Population under 18
15.1%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
24.7%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$96,920
Significantly above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$126,407
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
90.9%
College Graduates
45.1%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
23.4%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
69.6%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
52''
Average Winter Low Temperature
25°F
Average Summer High Temperature
84°F
Annual Snowfall
23''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
17/ 100
Somewhat Walkable
Walk Score®
53/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
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.
