A connected and engaged community in central New Jersey
South River, New Jersey’s small-town vibe comes from its big-hearted residents who give back to their community, whether that’s planting seeds at the community garden or supporting a church bake sale. “It’s obvious that you’re surrounded by people that want to help, want to care, want to reach out,” says Peter Guindi, the borough's mayor and a lifelong resident. “I could take you to any church in town and you’ll feel the energy.” Several historic Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches serve as pillars of the Eastern European immigrant communities that arrived here in the 1890s and continue to thrive. Today, the town's places of worship offer services in many different languages, reflecting the diversity of its residents. That diversity is also showcased in the dozens of local culinary spots, from Portuguese bakeries to Polish markets.
Novice and seasoned farmers will find the Community Garden very desirable in South River, NJ.
An aerial view of the west side of South River, NJ.
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Delicious diversity in South River
The town's multicultural vibe is most evident along Main Street, where many local restaurants, bakeries and markets are concentrated, including Portuguese and Brazilian bakeries, Mexican restaurants and Eastern European delis. Residents can start their day with a cappuccino and a pastry from Nossa Aldeia Bakery & Barbecue and return for savory empanadas and croquettes for lunch. When the dinner bell rings, locals jockey for seats at Ria Mar or The Portuguese Fisherman for fresh seafood and steaks. While specialty grocers and bodegas are in town, most residents head to East Brunswick to run everyday errands. Nearby Route 18 is lined with shopping centers and grocery stores like Walmart and ShopRite.
Camillo's Italian Restaurant offers private parties opportunities in South River, NJ.
Cafe Cirino offers plenty of delicasies for its patrons in South River, NJ.
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Established single-family homes populate South River
South River’s history is reflected in its homes, many of which were built between 1910 and 1960. “You don’t have as many new homes, with the exception of one or two new sections in town,” says Andrew Zastko, broker and owner of Gloria Zastko Realtors. “They’re going to traditionally be some older colonials, split-level homes, some ranch-style bungalow homes. There’s not many condos or townhomes because the town was built out.” Homes typically sell for around $450,000. A fixer-upper can go for $175,000, while a newly constructed colonial-style home can cost upwards of $800,000.
1920's era style homes such as these can be found in South River, NJ.
1950's era homes are predominant in South River, NJ.
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Winning high school team, the South River Rams
Students can attend South River Public Schools. Kids in pre-school through first grade can start at South River Primary School, which receives a B-minus from Niche. Students progress to South River Elementary School before heading to South River Middle School, which both receive a C from Niche. The B-graded South River High School has one of the most storied football dynasties in the state, the South River Rams, producing several NFL greats including former Washington quarterback Joe Theismann and football hall of famer Drew Pearson.
South River Middle school is a fine learning institution located in South River, NJ.
Welcome to South River High School in New Jersey.
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Close to Route 18 and the New Jersey Turnpike
South River is in the heart of Middlesex County, placing residents near the New Jersey Turnpike and less than 2 miles from East Brunswick and Sayreville. Locals know to take Old Bridge Turnpike when traffic snarls on Route 18. Residents can take a local bus to New Brunswick, North Brunswick, Milltown and East Brunswick. There’s also a shuttle provided by the Middlesex County Area Transit that can connect residents to the South Amboy Rail train station.
Bus lines are readily available in South River, NJ.
South River has quite a few throughways to be taken such as the GSP and NJ Turnpike.
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Walking along the South River and other area green spaces
Residents can go to Edward A. Grekoski Park and play a pick-up game of basketball, enjoy a picnic or stroll the banks of the namesake South River. Locals enjoy jogging along the peaceful waterfront of Dailey’s Pond and watching the ducks, geese and other wildlife that gather there. Neighbors roll up their sleeves at the South River Community Garden in Causeway Park and plant tomatoes, bell peppers and flowers in raised beds.
The entrance to Edward A. Grekoski Park is very inviting for peace and serenity in South River.
Edward A. Grekoski Park has a calming lake for all to enjoy.
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Planning for flooding
Parts of the borough located closest to the river have been historically susceptible to flooding. Depending on ground elevation, flood water can fill streets and low-lying areas with six inches to two feet of water during normal rain events with increased flooding during major storms. The South River government regulates construction in floodplains. Guindi says officials are working with homeowners to raise houses to withstand flooding, as well as working alongside FEMA for long-term planning.
An aerial of the north side of South River, NJ.
Causeway Park sits along the river in South River.
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Written By
Tina Davis
Photography Contributed By
John Georgiadis
Video By
Dan Mack
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
John Wuertz,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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Welcome to this elegant and spacious Center Hall Colonial nestled in the sought-after Heritage Landing community. Featuring a dramatic two-story foyer and a layout designed for comfortable living and entertaining, this 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home offers space, style, and functionality. The main level includes formal living and dining rooms with oak hardwood flooring, a dedicated home office with
Welcome to 23 Kathryn Street, South River, NJ a beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom home with a spacious backyard perfect for entertaining or relaxing. Enjoy a brand-new interior, a clean, unfinished basement with a separate entry door, and move-in-ready comfort in a quiet neighborhood. Laminate floors! Conveniently located near major highways and shopping. Don't miss this gem schedule your tour
BACK ON MARKET! Beautiful neighborhood & low taxes! Step inside this sun-filled, beautifully updated center hall colonial at 96 Lark! NORTHWEST-facing and offering over 2,700 sq ft of living space, this 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath home blends comfort, space, and functionality. The main level features stylish high-end flooring, recessed lighting, and a layout perfect for entertaining. A formal living room
Welcome to this elegant and spacious Center Hall Colonial nestled in the sought-after Heritage Landing community. Featuring a dramatic two-story foyer and a layout designed for comfortable living and entertaining, this 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home offers space, style, and functionality. The main level includes formal living and dining rooms with oak hardwood flooring, a dedicated home office with
Welcome to 23 Kathryn Street, South River, NJ a beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom home with a spacious backyard perfect for entertaining or relaxing. Enjoy a brand-new interior, a clean, unfinished basement with a separate entry door, and move-in-ready comfort in a quiet neighborhood. Laminate floors! Conveniently located near major highways and shopping. Don't miss this gem schedule your tour
BACK ON MARKET! Beautiful neighborhood & low taxes! Step inside this sun-filled, beautifully updated center hall colonial at 96 Lark! NORTHWEST-facing and offering over 2,700 sq ft of living space, this 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath home blends comfort, space, and functionality. The main level features stylish high-end flooring, recessed lighting, and a layout perfect for entertaining. A formal living room
Move in ready, larger than appears, must see rental has so much to offer. Freshly painted, gleaming hardwood floors, eat-in-kitchen w/granite countertops, wine rack and stainless steel appliances. The generously sized, main floor primary bedroom has en-suite half bath, step-in-closet and laminate floors. The additional bonus room downstairs can be used as a dining room, home office or a
Welcome to colonial specious beautiful 2356 sqft home, 4 bedrooms 2 1/2 bathrooms, near shopping centers, major highways and public transportation to NYC. This home offers plenty of space for comfortable living. The elegant formal dining room open to the living room for entertaining. The spacious upgraded kitchen boasts a center island, quartz countertops, a tiled backsplash, and stainless steel
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