Home of famous racehorses, now a bustling New Jersey suburb
If the name Preakness rings any bells, it’s likely due to the Preakness Stakes, a horse race held in Baltimore, Maryland and the second jewel of the Triple Crown series. Although the race takes place some 200 miles away, it owes its namesake to a New Jersey community in Wayne Township, where winning racehorses were once bred at a stable on the corner of Valley Road and Preakness Avenue. Today, that same intersection is home to Wayne municipal buildings, schools, churches and shopping centers — a true suburban hub. “I love our proximity to big destinations, but also the rich history and all of the things we have right at home,” says John Bartlett, a Preakness resident and Passaic County Commissioner. “North Jersey has always been a destination for people seeking good schools and access to parks and open space, and that only became more true during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. We started seeing lots of new neighbors moving out of dense cities to get more elbow room.” Homes in Preakness are commonly situated on lots of one-third acre, which adds to the area’s sidewalk- and tree-lined suburban appeal.
From a bird's eye view, you can see the neatly manicured lots in Preakness, NJ.
Shai Shacknai Memorial Park has a large updated playground for children in Preakness.
1/2
Myriad ways to commute into New York City
Preakness is just north of Interstate 80 where it meets U.S. highways 46 and 202, along with numerous other state roads. St. Joseph’s Wayne Medical Center is a major health-care employer located right along Hamburg Turnpike, one of Preakness’ central thoroughfares. New York City is about 20 miles southeast, though the drive can take anywhere between 1 to 2 hours. “A generation ago, many folks went into New York City for work – and you can still get to Manhattan easily by bus, train, or automobile,” Bartlett says. “Now, people are also just as likely to be commuting to work and school elsewhere in North Jersey, like Paterson or Morristown – and, of course, many more work from home.” NJ Transit buses stop along Valley Road, while trains depart from the park-and-ride Wayne Route 23 Transit Center. The nearest international airport is 25 miles south in Newark.
The New Jersey Transit bus has a number of stops in Preakness.
The nearest airport to Preakness is Newark Liberty International Airport.
1/2
Late 20th century homes at above-average prices
Most homes in Preakness were built in the latter half of the 20th century, with a high concentration of split-level and bi-level homes. Millenium Mansions and other spacious New Traditional homes continued to be built throughout the 1990s, in addition to some townhouse and condo communities. The median price for a single-family home is $755,000, well above the national and state medians. Townhomes sell at a median price of $665,000. On average, homes sell after about 35 days on the market, slightly faster than the national average of 45 days.
Modern homes are spread throughout Preakness, NJ, offering a blend of contemporary design and comfort.
Townhouse communities are a popular choice for homebuyers in Preakness.
1/2
Shop local or head to Willowbrook Mall
Preakness is just north of Willowbrook mall, a major regional shopping center known for its name-brand retailers and surrounding big-box stores. Residents can also shop without leaving Preakness, as the area is home to numerous grocery stores and small businesses tucked into strip malls. Likewise, both chain eateries and locally owned restaurants line the area’s thoroughfares. “We have numerous growing immigrant communities, which lends itself to some really fantastic cuisines from all over,” Bartlett says. “Where I live in Preakness, I’m minutes away from amazing Peruvian lomo and chaufa, Middle Eastern sweets, Thai curries, Turkish salads and pide, and of course the nation’s best bagels and pizza.” While a range of American and international restaurants can be found along Valley Road and Hamburg Turnpike, there’s a similarly diverse array of houses of worship along Preakness Avenue, representing Christian, Hindu and Jewish faiths.
The Willowbrook Mall is just a quick drive away from Preakness, NJ.
Grab a fresh slice of pizza at Taste of Tuscany in Peakness, NJ.
1/2
Wayne Township schools score top marks
Wayne Township Public Schools receives an A rating from Niche, making it the top district out of 21 in Passaic County. Local zoning is split between Wayne Valley High and Wayne Hills High, with numerous elementary schools and private schools in the area, including DePaul Catholic High. Preakness is also home to Passaic County Technical Institute, which includes multiple academies, including one for STEM. "Our new Biotech Innovation Center, in cooperation with the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, offers students the chance to complete 12th grade with both a high school diploma and an associate degree in biotechnology – preparing them to go straight to work or giving them a two-year head start on their undergraduate education," Bartlett says.
Just northeast of Preakness’ residential streets is William Paterson University, a public university with an enrollment of more than 10,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students. The university’s Shea Center for Performing Arts is a popular venue for professional and student concerts, plus theatrical performances, lectures and sensory-friendly Symphonic Story Time concerts for families.
Wayne Hills High School in Preakness receives an A rating from Niche.
DePaul Catholic High School is a private institution near Preakness in Wayne, New Jersey.
Wayne Valley High School is home to 1,241 students.
1/3
From hiking trails to the historic Dey Mansion
Preakness has myriad indoor and outdoor recreation facilities, ranging from small playgrounds to public pools and golf courses. Notably, Preakness Valley Golf Course is adjacent to Dey Mansion, a historic house museum where George Washington once made his headquarters during the Revolutionary War. To the north, Dave Waks Memorial Park grants multi-purpose grass and turf fields, as well as a wide-open area for flying model airplanes. Rugged hiking trails are also close by at High Mountain Park Preserve, which spans over 1,000 wooded acres. On rainy days, residents keep active indoors at the Wayne Township Community Center. “In the winter, the Wayne Farmers Market is held at the Wayne Township Community Center,” Bartlett says. “During the regular season from spring to summer, it’s in the Wayne Township Municipal parking lot.” Wayne Day, hosted once a year, also brings the community together at the municipal center with vendors, live entertainment and booths for local businesses, churches and schools.
Preakness locals come to High Mountain Park Preserve to walk their dogs or enjoy the outdoors.
Local vendors set up winter market booths near Preakness at Wayne Township Community Center.
1/2
Crime rates trending downward, and four temperate seasons
According to FBI statistics, violent crime across Wayne Township decreased by about 20% between 2018 and 2023, while property crime increased by roughly 11%.
Preakness experiences four distinct seasons, with about 23 inches of annual snowfall. There is a minor risk of flooding around Preakness Brook, a small creek that runs through some of the area neighborhoods.
Written By
Elliot Schorr
Photography Contributed By
Brendan Rogers
Video By
Ellie Brown
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Angel Nolan,
an experienced agent in this area.
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
This spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhouse in the Langdale Townhomes community offers a comfortable living space in a convenient Wayne location. The main level features a welcoming foyer, bright living room, dining area, and kitchen along with a convenient powder room. Upstairs, the primary suite includes its own private bath, while two additional bedrooms and a full bathroom provide plenty of
Beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath split-level home located in the highly sought-after Rolling Hills section of Wayne. Beautifully landscaped property! This home greets you with a spacious foyer and an effortless flow throughout enhanced by hardwood floors (under carpet), decorative moldings, wainscoting, and recessed lighting. The bright eat-in kitchen offers 42-inch cabinetry, abundant
WELCOME HOME!Set on nearly half an acre in one of Wayneâ€TMs desirable residential neighborhoods, this beautifully expanded split-level home offers over 3,000sqft of versatile living space with 5 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and 2 half bathrooms across multiple functional levels.The home welcomes you with a bright foyer that flows into a formal dining room and a spacious eat-in kitchen, perfect
Mohamad SankarKeller Williams Village Square Realty - Wyckoff
This spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhouse in the Langdale Townhomes community offers a comfortable living space in a convenient Wayne location. The main level features a welcoming foyer, bright living room, dining area, and kitchen along with a convenient powder room. Upstairs, the primary suite includes its own private bath, while two additional bedrooms and a full bathroom provide plenty of
WAYNE'S BEST VALUE -- Oversized Garage Included! Welcome to this super-private one-bedroom condo in desirable Crescent Court, where only two units share a private entrance offering rare privacy and exclusivity. Enjoy peaceful mornings or relaxing evenings on your private porch with no distractions. Located on the second floor with just one unit above, this light-filled condo features a smart,
Great location for this first-floor unit! Enter into the dining area that flows into a bright living room featuring hardwood floors. The newer kitchen offers a breakfast bar, granite countertops, and wood cabinetry. The bedroom also features hardwood floors. A full bathroom includes a tub and vanity. A spacious walk-in closet off the living room provides plenty of storage. Conveniently located
Welcome to this Colonial home nestled in the Mountain View neighborhood of Wayne. The first floor features a living room, a formal dining room ideal for entertaining, kitchen, 2 bedrooms and a full bath. On the second level, you'll find 2 additional bedrooms with ample closet space, providing excellent storage. A finished street-level basement offers additional space along with a half bath.
Welcome to Resort-Style Living at the Four Seasons in Wayne! This beautifully maintained Cherry model end unit has 2-bedrooms, 2-baths and is nestled within one of Wayne's most desirable and vibrant 55+ communities offering the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience. Features include: high ceilings, abundant natural light, and an open floor. The eat-in kitchen provides ample cabinet
Beautifully maintained split-level home nestled on a corner lot on quiet cul-de-sac street. A charming porch sets the tone, offering the perfect spot for morning coffee or evening unwinding before entering. The main level welcomes you with a bright & spacious dining room that seamlessly flows into a large custom kitchen featuring rich cherry wood cabinetry, granite countertops, premium Bosch
Welcome home to this expansive New Construction 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom Colonial, ideally situated on a quiet residential street. A dramatic two-story entry foyer sets an elegant tone and opens to beautifully proportioned living spaces designed for everyday comfort and entertaining. The gracious living room is filled with natural light from oversized windows and flows seamlessly into the formal
Beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath split-level home located in the highly sought-after Rolling Hills section of Wayne. Beautifully landscaped property! This home greets you with a spacious foyer and an effortless flow throughout enhanced by hardwood floors (under carpet), decorative moldings, wainscoting, and recessed lighting. The bright eat-in kitchen offers 42-inch cabinetry, abundant
Welcome home to this beautifully maintained 3 bedroom 2 bathroom Cape Cod nestled on a quiet residential street in the heart of Wayne. Step into the inviting living room featuring a large picture window offering a bright and comfortable atmosphere perfect for effortless entertaining or everyday relaxation. Large cased opening leads into the dining room offering an elegant space for enjoying
Welcome to 12 Clinton Lane--over 2700 sq ft and a basement! The ground level welcomes you with a lovely foyer, a huge family room, and a flexible office, den, or guest room with a nearby powder room and abundant closet space. This level offers great everyday living and work-from-home options. The main living level features open-concept space with a renovated kitchen offering a breakfast bar,
Francesca MessercolaKeller Williams Prosperity Realty
Welcome to this beautifully designed three-bedroom, three and a half bathroom home that blends comfort, space, and elegance. From the moment you arrive, you're greeted by a stunning wraparound porch. Perfect for morning coffee, evening chats, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Inside, the home features a spacious and light-filled living room that flows seamlessly into a formal dining
Updated first floor unit! Very Spacious, 2 bedroom ,1 bath, open modern eat in kitchen with granite counter tops, freshly painted, refinished hardwood floors, lots of closet space, Laundry on site (Building #4). Assigned parking space #55 and Garage #70 outside the back door. Rent includes Heat, Hot Water, Cooking Gas, Sewer, Water, Common Area Maintenance. Pool available for additional fee at
48 Unit Private Luxury Residences!! Luxury 2 bedroom 2 bathroom rentals with spectacular city and mountain views. Approximately 1600 square feet with filled with natural light. 9 foot ceilings, Recessed lighting and beautiful art deco chandeliers. Gourmet kitchen with over-sized quartz island. European style 2 tone cabinetry with soft close cabinets and drawers. Primary Bedroom with
First floor 1 bedroom, 1 bath condo featuring hardwood floors throughout, stainless steel appliances, and a spacious walk-in closet. Ideally located near NYC buses, houses of worship, schools, shopping, and everyday conveniences. Rent includes heat, hot water, and access to the seasonal pool. Laundry is conveniently located in the complex. Available for immediate occupancy and perfect for a
Tudor Gardens, in Wayne New Jersey, offers the finest in convenient apartment living. Choices range from single bedroom apartments to townhouse living. Our facilities offer garages for additional parking. Please view our floor plans page for more details. There are many conveniences a short walk away.Wayne Township is a great place to be located. It is one of America’s top communities,
Welcome to this beautifully maintained second-floor, 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom condo in the highly sought-after Valley Terrace Condominiums. This inviting condo offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and modern updates. The spacious living room is filled with natural sunlight and flows seamlessly into the dining area, providing an excellent layout for everyday living or hosting guests. The
Jason RossBerkshire Hathaway Home Services Fox & Roach Realtors - Summit
Welcome to Kings Arms Apartments. Our spacious units include eat in kitchen, separate dining rooms, large living rooms & closets. Our cul-de-sac makes for privacy and quiet. Feel secure with our 24-hour in house emergency maintenance staff. Flexible lease terms make it easy to be part of the Kings Arms Community.If you schedule an appointment to see a unit, please cooperate with the
Step into modern luxury with this meticulously updated ranch-style home, now available for immediate occupancy in one of the area?s most sought-after neighborhoods. Having undergone a complete gut renovation, every inch of this residence feels brand new, blending contemporary design with the ease of single-level living. The heart of the home features a stunning open-concept layout, seamlessly
Wayne Village presents a serene living experience in Wayne, New Jersey, with a selection of upscale apartments and townhouses nestled among lush trees and manicured lawns. Wayne Village is conveniently situated just twenty miles from the vibrant heart of Manhattan, ensuring easy access to urban attractions while providing a pet-friendly environment that includes amenities such as a swimming pool,
Discover the perfect blend of space and charm in this expansive 3-bedroom Cape Cod home, ideally situated on an attractive, gently sloping lot of over 1/2 acre. Located in the heart of Wayne, NJ, this property offers a serene suburban retreat with plenty of room to breathe. Key Highlights: Stunning Sunsets: This home is perfectly positioned to capture beautiful evening light and golden-hour
Corey SturmfelsChristie's International Real Estate Group-HoHoKus-Ridgewood East
Garden Apartment Community offering 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments For Rent. Heat and Hot Water and Free Parking Included.LOCATION, VALUE AND SERVICE! Just 25 minutes away from Manhattan! Near many major corporations, major hospitals and minutes to fabulous shopping, great restaurants and top Wayne school system. Easily accessible to Routes 80, 46, 23, 3 and GS Parkway, yet tucked away in a
Welcome to this well-maintained first-floor, end-unit condo located on a quiet cul-de-sac. This 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom home offers a bright and open layout featuring a spacious living room, dining area, and an open kitchen with all appliances included, as well as an in-unit washer and dryer. Hardwood floors run throughout the unit, complemented by a large pantry closet off the living room and a
HEAT AND HOT WATER INCLUDED IN RENTAL FEE! Come to Manchester Village and be in the heart of it all. Known for it's commitment to community, Wayne Township boasts excellent schools and services. Our location offers convenient access to shopping, restaurants and entertainment, as well as close proximity to major commuting routes and mass transportation. One and two bedroom renovated garden
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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.
