Manufacturing, big transportation routes and a touch of nature in commuter-friendly Old Bridge
Old Bridge is often considered a bedroom community of Manhattan, which is only 25 miles away. But this city of 68,000 people has a diverse local economy that generates buzz, including a popular dining and nightlife scene. Manufacturing is in the spotlight too, thanks to Old Bridge Chemicals, one of North America's biggest producers of zinc and copper compounds. Health care shares the stage, given the presence of Old Bridge Medical Center and Raritan Bay Medical Center. But there’s an earthy quality to the area as well, with the Cottrell Homestead standing since 1831, marking the site of what used to be an apple orchard. The farmland was turned into a public park in 2024. “Old Bridge used to be a lot of farmland but it still has campgrounds and some of the biggest park space in all of New Jersey,” says Richard Adamski, Realtor with Re/Max First Realty. “It has an agricultural feel in parts.”
Just 30 miles from Newark, it’s important for the township to stay connected with modern transportation amenities – especially since this expansive suburb spreads across 42 square miles. In 2023 the mayor touted infrastructure improvements, including guardrails on U.S. Route 9 and electric vehicle charging stations throughout town.
There are many murals around town celebrating the history of Old Bridge Township.
Raritan Bay Medical Center is one of the larger hospitals in the area in Perth Amboy, NJ.
Cottrell Farm Park in Old Bridge was opened to much fanfare in 2024 on the site of an old orchard.
Celebrate the fall in Old Bridge with colorful flowers and fresh farm goods.
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Waterfront ranch-style homes and larger split-levels farther inland
One of Old Bridge’s more unique neighborhoods is Laurence Harbor, which borders Raritan Bay and a waterfront park. It’s hugged on the west side by Cheesequake State Park. Ranch-style properties and assorted single-level homes are common here. Prices range from $300,000 to $600,000. But prices change for similar styles if homebuyers are willing to explore farther inland. South of the Garden State Parkway on streets like Glenwood Drive, ranch-style homes range from $250,000 to $280,000. Farther south still, off Old Bridge Matawan Road, are larger suburban styles that sell for $550,000 to $650,000. Homebuyers can expect to see split-levels on broad lots with plenty of decorative plantings.
Laurence Harbor is a quiet suburban beach community.
A pretty ranch home is decorated for the fall season in Old Bridge.
Laurence Harbor’s housing stock consists almost entirely of ranch-style homes.
Cute and colorful houses are found throughout Laurence Harbor.
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Highly rated Old Bridge Township Public Schools
Old Bridge Township Public Schools earns an A rating overall from Niche. Over 8,000 students attend and there’s a 15-to-1 student-teacher ratio. “For people leaving New York, it’s one of the first towns they’ll encounter that has a really good school system,” says Adamski. There are several religious private education options, including Saint Thomas the Apostle School.
Students in Old Bridge attend Old Bridge High School.
Welcome to Carl Sandburg Middle School.
James McDivitt Elementary School in Old Bridge.
Alan B. Shepard Elementary School serves students grades K-5.
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Old Bridge Golf Course brings $15 million facility to community
Access to nature is part of the city’s identity. Cheesequake State Park offers an immersive experience, spreading across 1,600 acres and offering a chance to camp, boat and go on nature walks. It’s right next to the Laurence Harbor neighborhood, which has a 3-mile stretch along Raritan Bay open to joggers and bikers. Dog owners can enjoy Mannino Park, which separates its two dog parks by pet size. This is also the site of the Old Bridge YMCA. Athletic facilities and playgrounds are scattered across town in places like Veterans Park and Geick Park. In fall 2023, the city opened Old Bridge Golf Course, which was the state’s first municipal golf course in a decade. The resulting $15 million dollar complex has an 18-hole course, driving range and mini-golf course. For fun off the beaten path, Old Bridge Township Raceway Park has events for motocross and Formula 1 racing. Skaters and youth league hockey players can make use of the John Piccolo Ice Arena.
Cheesequake State Park in Old Bridge has many paths for walking and exercising.
Mannino Park in Old Bridge is a sprawling park with a dog park, sport courts anf a playground.
Old Bridge Waterfront Park in Laurence Harbor has a walking path that offers amazing views of New York.
There is plenty of room to walk your dog at Cheesequake State Park
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Live music at Café Luna and expanding shopping choices
Even though Manhattan offers glitzy fun just a short distance away, Old Bridge has its own nightlife. “Café Luna is a spot you go to near the end of the week. It has live DJ sets on Thursdays, and you’ll see valet out front,” says Adamski. “But then we have diners and pizzerias. The scene covers everything from upscale places to everyday places.” U.S. Route 9 is a commercial corridor with plenty of national retailers. Spring 2024 brought expansion to the Glenwood Green Shopping Center, which added a Target and a Shop Rite grocery store. There’s much anticipation around Riverton, a major commercial center under construction in Sayreville, five miles north. “This is a huge $2.5 billion mixed-use project. It’s the biggest restaurant and retail development going on in the state,” says Joe DeVizio, Realtor with J.J. Elek Realty. Anchored by Bass Pro Shop, the complex is expected to open in 2025.
Shop Rite in Old Bridge always has a nice selection of fresh flowers.
Fine Wine and Grill in Lawrence Harbor offers a great deli selection and grocery items.
Cafe Luna in Old Bridge is a favorite among locals for its restaurant and lounge atmosphere.
The Old Bridge Diner is a "Where the Locals Go" to enjoy breakfast and lunch all day long.
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Plenty of key roadways for commuters who drive
Several busy pathways cross Old Bridge: U.S. Route 9 and state Route 18, plus the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway. Commuters can expect a roughly 90-minute drive to New York City during peak hours, but closer to 50 minutes during quieter stretches. NJ Transit buses along U.S. Route 9 go to Midtown Manhattan, or commuters can take a train. There are stations in Aberdeen-Matawan, South Amboy and New Brunswick. One of the most popular stations in the area is in Woodbridge. “The Metro Park train station in Iselin goes all the way up to Boston,” says Robert Durso, Realtor with Re/Max Select.
New police chief after three-year search
In March 2024, the township settled on a new police chief, ending a three-year search. According to data reported to the FBI by the Old Bridge Township Police Department, violent crime decreased nearly 5% from 2022 to 2023. Property crime increased 15% during the same period.
Written By
Paul Spencer
Video By
Brandon Flash Craigie
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Peter Hunt,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Old Bridge, NJ sell after 32 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Old Bridge, NJ over the last 12 months is $620,000, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Exceptionally well-maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home situated on just under an acre in a fantastic location! This spacious property offers the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and room to grow. The impressive primary suite features a WIC and a private full bath, creating a relaxing retreat. The updated kitchen flows seamlessly into the dining room, both showcasing beautiful hardwood
Welcome to President's Estates, one of Old Bridge Township's most sought after neighborhoods. This spacious four bedroom, two and one half bath Colonial offers the perfect blend of comfort, space, and opportunity to make it your own. Enjoy an inviting layout with generous room sizes, ideal for everyday living and entertaining. Major updates have already been completed, including a new roof (2025)
WOODED LOT on the Old Bridge/Marlboro border NOT on a main road,but sits behind another house Down a Paved Driveway on a secluded 1.41 acre lot backing to trees*Electric and Public Water at property*Gaze Scattered sunlight with the sunsets out Back*Land is cleared and ready to build*Deep private lot reaches into the woods leading towards recreation Soccer Fields*Awesome Location!!
Discover the charm of this delightful end-of-row townhouse nestled in the serene community of Maiden Woods. Built in 1987, this Colonial-style gem offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a cozy retreat with modern amenities. Step inside to find a well-designed layout that maximizes space and functionality. With 968 square feet of finished
A must-see, this highly desirable 2nd floor Harrington model is a winner indeed! The living room with its gleaming wood floors and recessed lighting is complemented by its sunny octagonal window views. The dining room opens to a private terrace with cool exterior views of greenery. Our wonderful condo kitchen has a pantry PLUS a window (a rarity in condo living) overlooking the development.
Raritan Bay waterfront opportunities like this one are genuinely rare, and this is your chance to secure one. 283 Bayview Avenue in Laurence Harbor is a prime waterfront lot measuring 35 x 80 feet, perfectly positioned to capture sweeping Raritan Bay water views and set just steps from the beloved Old Bridge Waterfront Park. The hard work has already been done for you. A fully developed set of
Great opportunity to build your dream home in Old Bridge. this lot has many possibilities. Don't miss out on this opportunity, Buyer is responsible for all due deligence and city's approvals.
Located within the highly sought-after Plaza Grande, a premier over-55 community in Marlboro, this desirable Harrington model offers 1,599 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. Perfectly positioned as a third-floor corner unit, the residence enjoys exceptional privacy along with peaceful, wooded views. Priced with future updates in mind, this home presents an outstanding opportunity
Luxury, space, and exceptional craftsmanship define this one-of-a-kind 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in the highly sought-after Sayrewoods South community. Featuring premium upgrades, this turnkey residence showcases a timeless organic modern design and one of the largest kitchens in Sayrewoods South, complete with a stunning 10-foot quartz island and an open-concept layout designed for effortless
Beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home in a prime Old Bridge location! The brand-new kitchen features quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and recessed lighting. Hardwood floors throughout the living room, dining room, stairs, hallway, and bedrooms have been professionally refinished and restored to their original beauty! Both bathrooms have been tastefully updated, and major
Luxury, privacy, and modern elegance come together in this stunning, renovated end-unit townhome in the sought-after Heritage Woods community! Set in a quiet, private location backing to mature trees and a serene creek, this beautifully refreshed home offers the perfect peaceful retreat with stylish finishes throughout. Step inside to find LVP flooring throughout the first and second floors, an
Welcome to a home where modern updates and everyday comfort come together seamlessly.Set in a quiet, private location backing to mature trees, this beautifully refreshed townhome offers a peaceful retreat while remaining close to everything you need. Inside, a bright open-concept layout unfolds, enhanced by architectural details and anchored by a dramatic two-story great room filled with
Need Flexibility, short-term lease available. All Utilities included in Rent. Spacious split-level home in very nice neighborhood. Home can be furnished, utilities included in rent (Up to $300) & flexible lease options. Hardwood floors, backyard deck and fenced-in yard. The landlord will consider a pet. Located near NYC buses, trains, shopping & dining. Ideal for a short-term need if needed. All
Garden apartment living at an affordable price!Spread out amidst the quiet greenery of Old Bridge, Madison Gardens offers unparalleled comfort and convenience at an extremely reasonable price. Each beautifully bright and spacious apartment is packed with a multitude of features. The warm and cozy environment created makes it a pleasure to come home to at the end of a hard day on the job.
Rental opportunity. Welcome to this beautifully appointed townhome located in a desirable luxury community in Old Bridge. Offering 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and exceptional attention to detail, this spacious residence features upscale finishes and a thoughtfully designed floor plan. The gourmet kitchen is perfect for entertaining and opens seamlessly to the bright living room, formal dining
Stratford Apartments offers easy access to the world with a premium location directly off US Highway 9 and just a 45 minute ride to the city. Our garden style apartments in Old Bridge, NJ are located in close proximity to fine shopping and dining and just a few minutes from state parks and Old Bridge Waterfront. Choose from 1 Bedroom or 2 Bedroom apartments with semi-private entrances and elegant
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE...at Glenwood Apartments. We provide you a convenient location, quiet and gracious living, recreation, superior service and free heat, hot water and cooking gas! With access to all major highways, you'll start your day with an easy commute to New York City, Staten Island, New Brunswick or Trenton. You'll end your day relaxed in our spacious apartments with private patio or
Welcome to 99 Bridge Apartments, the luxury community you've been seeking offering 1 & 2 bedroom apartments for rent in Old Bridge, NJ. With brand-new interiors, fantastic amenities, and sought-after location, our homes will give you the sense of sophistication that you can only expect on the East Coast. For complete and up-to-date information regarding fees and standards, please visit our
Madison Arms Apartments is conveniently located in Old Bridge near shopping, dining and public transportation. Close to everything you want need to feel at home, these residences offer bright and spacious floor plans with modern kitchens, generous closet space, and hardwood or carpeted floors based on availability. With heat, hot water and cooking gas included, Madison Arms you will experience
We are proud to offer Brentwood Gardens as your next home. We're conveniently located on Rt 516 in the 08857 area of Old Bridge. Our community has a top selection of amenities. Enjoy email, surf the web and get some work done with high speed internet access, and feel the warmth of an apartment with hardwood floors. Other features include: available parking options, intercoms, and eat-in kitchen
Welcome to Middlesex County's premier location for all of Central New Jersey. Close to everything you need, including Shopping, Entertainment, Restaurants, Golf, Recreation and more. Commuters especially will enjoy the proximity to convenient service to Manhattan. Easy access to NJ Turnpike, Rt. 9, Rt. 18 and Rt. 1. You're close to all major roadways for quick trips to everywhere! Luxurious 1 and
Woodhaven Commons is a brand new enclave of two-story apartment buildings offering a choice of two- and three-bedroom, two-bath apartments for rent in Old Bridge, NJ. Each Old Bridge apartment home is open, spacious and graced with large windows and balconies that make Woodhaven's natural beauty an integral part of the Woodhaven Commons experience. From the private entry and luxurious finishes
NEWLY RENOVATED UNITS! At Claridge Court in Old Bridge, NJ, find your new home. The professional leasing team will assist you in finding the perfect place. Come by to check out the apartment floorplan options. At this community, you'll have a wide selection of amenities like basketball courts, swimming pool, dog park, play ground and convenient on-site parking. Schedule your tour today!
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