Section Image

Stafford

Stafford

Located in Ocean County

$687,286 Average Value
$288 Average Price per Sq Ft
4 Homes For Sale

Coastal atmosphere, small-town lifestyle

Though it sits less than 40 miles from Atlantic City, Stafford offers residents a blend of rural and coastal life. Removed from its urban neighbors but not so far that amenities are hard to reach, the township is a popular spot for commuters or those looking more room. “People have always moved to Stafford to get out of the city,” says Kevin Bergin, Broker-owner with Beach House Realty LLC and president of nearby Long Beach Island’s chamber of commerce. “Then the pandemic came along and taught us all that if we’re going to be stuck at home – might as well live next to a beach.”

Sunset colors reflect across waterways in Stafford Township.
Sunset colors reflect across waterways in Stafford Township.
Entry signage marks the start of Stafford Township.
Entry signage marks the start of Stafford Township.
1/2

Active or relaxing waterfront recreation

Whether it’s boating, crabbing or fishing, Stafford offers easy access to waterfront recreation. Those looking for a more relaxing kind of waterfront fun can enjoy a day on the beach at Paul King Park or Manahawkin Lake Park, both bordering Manahawkin Lake and offering sandy beaches. Manahawkin Lake Park is also home to a series of summer concerts, festivals and farmers markets. The Doc Cramer Sports Complex features over a dozen fields for play, and active types can find even more fields at Nautilus Park. “I think we all realized during the pandemic that people really need to get out and get active just as a basic need,” says Bergin. “The number of options provided by the sports complex and the local parks has really increased since then as a result.” Route 72 Waverunner and Kayak lets visitors rent out jet skis, kayaks or paddleboards.

Nautilus Park provides fields and a loop trail in Stafford Township.
Nautilus Park provides fields and a loop trail in Stafford Township.
Residents kayak, fish, and crab along Stafford’s lagoons and bays.
Residents kayak, fish, and crab along Stafford’s lagoons and bays.
1/2

Large lots, many with waterfront access

Cape Cods and Colonial Revivals are common throughout Stafford, especially in communities such as Beach Haven West – one of several to feature saltwater lagoons and some homes with their own docks. Homes near the waterfront typically start at just under $1 million and reach up to $2 million, with some custom estates going for as high as $3.5 million. Further inland, residents can still find Colonial Revivals – along with ranch-style, modern contemporary, and even Victorian-inspired traditional homes. Though lacking direct waterfront access, homes like these (in communities such as Cedar Run, Mayetta or Ocean Acres) typically sit on large plots of land and offer plenty of space for landscaping, front porches and driveways. Prices for ranch-style and Colonial Revival homes range from $350,000 to $550,000, while modern contemporary and Victorian-style homes sell for between $575,000 and $850,000.

Elevated beach homes line Stafford’s canals to manage flood risk.
Elevated beach homes line Stafford’s canals to manage flood risk.
Stafford neighborhoods mix Colonial Revival and ranch‑style homes.
Stafford neighborhoods mix Colonial Revival and ranch‑style homes.
1/2

Shopping and dining in Stafford

Residents have a mix of local establishments and well-known chains. The Stafford Park shopping mall features a Best Buy, Costco and PetSmart, while Barnegat Road is home to the township’s two main grocery stores – ALDI and ShopRite. Mud City Crab House is a beloved local institution that serves fresh seafood and cocktails on its outdoor patio. The restaurant also features an attached fish market, allowing visitors to take home the catch of the day. The Stafford Diner serves classic diner fare and has neon accents.

Stafford Diner remains a long‑running spot for locals and commuters.
Stafford Diner remains a long‑running spot for locals and commuters.
Walmart in Stafford Township stocks groceries and household basics.
Walmart in Stafford Township stocks groceries and household basics.
1/2

Athletics at Southern Regional High

Students in Stafford can begin at Ocean Acres Elementary, which serves kindergarten through second grade and earns a B from Niche. From there, students can attend McKinley Avenue Elementary, which earns a B for grades three and four. Stafford Intermediate earns a B-minus and teaches fifth and sixth grade. Southern Regional Middle School earns a B. Southern Regional High School receives a B-plus and is known for its athletics program, which has produced current NFL football players Mike Gesicki and Clark Harris. Every year, the high school receives nearly $1 million in scholarships and donations from the local community.

Southern Regional High School serves Stafford Township with strong programs.
Southern Regional High School serves Stafford Township with strong programs.
Southern Regional Middle School educates students from Stafford Township.
Southern Regional Middle School educates students from Stafford Township.
McKinley Avenue Elementary supports young learners in Stafford Township.
McKinley Avenue Elementary supports young learners in Stafford Township.
1/3

Commuting to Atlantic City, Philadelphia and NYC

Residents of Stafford have easy access to the Garden State Parkway, U.S. Route 9 and U.S. Route 72. As a result, commuting to nearby Atlantic City, Philadelphia or even New York City is a straightforward affair. “There are a number of reasons for commuters to come to Stafford,” says Smaraga “Smaggie” Ng, Realtor with EXIT Realty and longtime resident of the area. “You’re close to the beach, it feels rural and you’re right near Long Beach Island, so plenty of people are willing to make the commute if it means living in the area.”

Route 72 bridge links Stafford to Long Beach Island beaches.
Route 72 bridge links Stafford to Long Beach Island beaches.
Philadelphia, near Stafford Township, is the region’s major historic city.
Philadelphia, near Stafford Township, is the region’s major historic city.
1/2

Risk of flooding

Due to its proximity to the water, which includes natural and manufactured lagoons as well as the ocean, Stafford is under risk for flooding – a fact that’s become more apparent in recent years. Hurricane Sandy hit the community particularly hard in 2012 and led to more awareness regarding elevated housing and other measures to minimize damage. Stafford Township has received grants to assist homeowners with elevating their homes and help with the increased insurance premiums that come with flood risks.

Beach Haven West homes sit along planned saltwater lagoons in Stafford.
Beach Haven West homes sit along planned saltwater lagoons in Stafford.
Canal‑front homes in Stafford include private ramps and dock access.
Canal‑front homes in Stafford include private ramps and dock access.
1/2
Brandon Flash Craigie
Video By
Brandon Flash Craigie

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Kevin Stewart, an experienced agent in this area.

Agents Specializing in this Area

See All Agents

Schools

Source:
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

Parks in this Area

Stafford Housing Trends

Housing Trends

Median List Price
$737,450
Median Sale Price
$749,900
Median Single Family Sale Price
$749,900
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$266,200
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$184,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
0%
Last 12 months Home Sales
63
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
14%
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$288

Area Facts

Number of Homes
425
Number of Homes for Sale
4
Median Year Built
2014
Months of Supply
0.80
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
2,529
Above the national average
1,930
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
2,077
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
1,462
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
9,147

Open Houses

  • Sunday, Mar 8
    Open Sun 10AM - 2PM

    1029 Beach Ln, Manahawkin, NJ 08050

    $555,900

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,319 Sq Ft
    • 1029 Beach Ln
    • New 8 days ago

    Ten Minutes from LBI Beaches! This 3-bed, 2-bath ranch has a finished basement and a backyard designed for entertaining. This home offers exceptional bonus space and outdoor amenities. Inviting living room features a stunning wood-burning fireplace, complemented by a formal dining room and bright eat-in kitchen. The primary bedroom includes a private en-suite bath, while two additional bedrooms

    Agent Photo
    Trish Gesswein
    Houwzer Inc.
    (609) 905-5591
    Section Image
    Section Image
  • Saturday, Mar 14
    Open House 3/14

    5 Popper St, Manahawkin, NJ 08050

    $1,300,000

    • 6 Beds
    • 6.5 Baths
    • 5,229 Sq Ft
    • 5 Popper St

    Welcome to Beach View Luxury Living — an extraordinary 6-bedroom, 6.5-bath, 5,200+ sq. ft. masterpiece tucked away in one of Stafford Township’s most prestigious enclaves. Situated on 1.3 fully fenced acres, this stately residence blends architectural grandeur with thoughtful design, exceptional flow, and an abundance of smart, functional spaces designed to elevate daily living. From the moment

    Jessica DiFrancia Keller Williams Realty - Atlantic Shore

    Section Image
  • Sunday, Mar 8
    Open Sun 11AM - 1PM

    59 Ruth Dr, Manahawkin, NJ 08050

    $1,350,000

    • 5 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 2,862 Sq Ft
    • 59 Ruth Dr

    Welcome to your dream coastal retreat, just a few houses from the bay. This stunning 5-bedroom, 3-bath contemporary with an ELEVATOR offers intersecting lagoon views, exceptional craftsmanship, and a true waterfront lifestyle. Situated near the cul-de-sac and only seconds from the mouth of the bay, the home provides effortless access to boating, waterplay, and summertime fun. With approximately

    David Lazaro Keller Williams Shore Properties

    Section Image

Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Average Home Value





Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

Stafford Has More Owners

Demographics

Total Population
19,031
Median Age
50
Population under 18
20%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
29.1%
Above the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$100,195
Above the national average
$79,601
Average Household Income
$121,939

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
94.1%
Above the national average
89%
College Graduates
43.7%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
12.7%
% Population in Labor Force
61%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
49''
Average Winter Low Temperature
22°F
Average Summer High Temperature
85°F
Annual Snowfall
17''

Area Factors

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score®®

29 / 100

Car-Dependent

Walk Score®®

15 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the 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.
Stafford