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
Anne Kofsky,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Old Bridge, NJ sell after 27 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Old Bridge, NJ over the last 12 months is $610,000, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this beautifully rebuilt ranch-style home located at 1299 Englishtown Road in desirable Old Bridge. Renovated in 2026, this 3-bedroom, 2-full-bath home has been completely rehabbed from the foundation up using premium materials and high-end finishes, offering decades of worry-free living. The open and inviting layout features hardwood flooring and recessed lighting throughout. The
Beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home featuring newer flooring, fresh paint throughout, and an updated kitchen ideal for everyday living and entertaining. The outdoor space is an entertainer's dream, complete with a backyard bar and ample room to relax or host guests. The spacious primary suite offers a full private bath and an oversized walk-in closet. Enjoy low-maintenance living with
Come tour this masterfully maintained one-of-a-kind home offering 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths with a fully fenced in backyard located in one of Old Bridge’s most sought-after developments, Spring Knolls! As you enter the home, you will notice gorgeous porcelain stone floors imported from Italy within the high ceiling living room which extend past the formal dining area & family room located to the left
Welcome to this beautifully rebuilt ranch-style home located at 1299 Englishtown Road in desirable Old Bridge. Renovated in 2026, this 3-bedroom, 2-full-bath home has been completely rehabbed from the foundation up using premium materials and high-end finishes, offering decades of worry-free living. The open and inviting layout features hardwood flooring and recessed lighting throughout. The
Charming Ranch with Full Finished Basement in the Heart of Old Bridge! Welcome to 14 Brookside Avenue, a beautifully maintained one-family ranch-style home located in a quiet and desirable neighborhood of Old Bridge, NJ. This spacious property offers 3 generously sized bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms on the main level, ideal for comfortable family living. Step into a bright and inviting living room
Freshly Painted 2 Br Cape With 2 Car Garage On nice level lot ( 75 x 115 ) Clean & Ready for new buyer to bring their vision. Laminate Flooring, Access to basement from house, attic, super sized 2 car garage and lovely yard for entertaining Home Is Also Offered For Rent
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.
Rare Investors OPPORTUNITY!!!! GREAT LOCATION, Corner lot of Marlboro Rd and Texas Rd near to Rt 9 and Rt 18. High activity Developing area. Located near Old Bridge Hospital. Strong Demographics area. EDO-3 Zoning, Block 21000, Lot 20.12. Previously approved for Medical building. Buyer to conduct all due diligence.See Attached Survey and other documents.
Here is your chance to own 3.4 acress off of Texas road in Old Bridge Township NJ. Surrounded by many new construction projects this acreage has many possibilities. This sale is for two parcels of land together. First parcel is Block 20001 lot 56 2.065 acres. The second parcel is Block 20002 lot 1 with 1.363 acres.
Welcome to this beautifully decorated three-story townhome offering the perfect blend of style, space, and modern convenience. Featuring 3 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 gorgeous baths, this home is truly move-in ready. The inviting living room with custom fireplace sets the tone for comfortable living, while the show-stopping granite eat-in kitchen boasts a center island, ample cabinetry, and sleek
Calling all contractors and investors! Excellent opportunity to restore this home to its original charm. Offering 5 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, this property provides a solid footprint and endless potential. Located in the highly desirable Sayrewoods South section in the heart of Old Bridge. Sold strictly as-is; buyer responsible for all inspections and certifications. Cash or renovation
Welcome to Plaza Grande at Old Bridge, a premier 55+ community offering comfort, convenience, and an active lifestyle. This 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo features fresh paint and brand-new carpets, providing a bright, open layout and a blank canvas to make your own. Enjoy spacious rooms, high ceilings, and plenty of natural light. The community offers amazing amenities including a clubhouse, pool,
Gina TraniBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach - Manalapan
Beautifully maintained two-bedroom, two-bath residence located in the sought-after Plaza Grande, an upscale 55+ community. This elevator building offers comfort and convenience, featuring a spacious interior with a domed ceiling that enhances the open, airy feel. The unit includes a breakfast bar, abundant closet space, and a recently installed HVAC system for peace of mind. The well-maintained
Sun-filled and welcoming 4-bedroom, 2-full-bath split in Sayrewoods South offers a flexible layout with a first-level bedroom and full bath, hardwood floors throughout 2nd and 3rd level, and a private backyard with large deck. Newer furnace, hot water heater, and roof. Don't miss this opportunity for a great location in a wonderful neighborhood. Close to hwys, shopping, and schools.
RARE Beautiful 4 Bedroom 2212 sq ft Townhouse boasts 2.5 baths, spacious living and formal dining room, family room, 3 sided gas fireplace, large kitchen with 42 in tall cabinets, pantry cabinet, granite counters, and all appliances included. Primary bedroom is expansive with its own balcony, luxury bath with jetted tub, stall shower and double sinks. Oak Wood floors and carpet. Newer Goodman
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.
Welcome to Madison Crossing ,55+ Adult community. Beautiful 2 bed, 2 full bath first floor apartment has high ceiling, hardwood floor, gorgeous kitchen w/granite countertop, 42'' cabinets and stainless steel appliances, upgraded bathrooms and washer /dryer.Great location , minutes from Rt 9, shopping and restaurants.
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
A RENTER'S DREAM! Experience luxury living in this perfectly renovated 3-bedroom, 3-bath home. Step inside to find open and spacious layout, featuring a living area that is perfect for relaxing and entertaining with stunning fireplace.Brand-new modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, elegant countertop and access to the patio and large back yard.On the main floor you'll also find powder
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
For Rent 3 bed 2, 5 bath colonial style home with open floorplan , large lot , 2 car garage , basement for storage . House is Offering Open Floorplan , 2 story foyer ,Living room, dining , kitchen, half bath and family room on the 1st level . Second floor offers nice size 3 bed 2 full bath and a laundry room . Central AC and Heat, doublewide driveway for parking , nice size deck and patio, Great
AN ADDRESS OF SOPHISTICATIONWelcome to 99 Bridge Apartments, the luxury community youve been seeking. 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. In other words, you can expect sleek fixtures and finishes such as luxury plank floors, quartz countertops, and
Just Listed For Rent 2 br 1 Bath Cape With Large Driveway And Basement Rental Includes Refrigerator, stove & washer/ dryer 1 yr lease credit check income verification Home is also listed for sale see MLS# 2608703R
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
Discover this exceptionally clean and spacious end-unit duplex that offers 3 generously sized bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms with a modern, open-concept layout. Located just blocks from the NYC express bus and minutes from a variety of shopping destinations, this home is perfectly situated for convenience. The fully fenced backyard features an oversized paver patio, perfect for outdoor relaxation 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
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