$898,934Average Value$341Average Price per Sq Ft5Homes For Sale
'A peaceful lifestyle' in Pines Lake
Started as a collection of log cabin vacation homes around a man-made lake in 1927, Pines Lake is now a year-round lakeside community. One of the three private lake communities in Wayne, a township that made Travel + Leisure Magazine’s list of New Jersey’s top 10 towns to live in, life here truly revolves around the water. “They have two beaches at the lake. They teach swimming lessons, sailing, they have barbecues, they have events for the holidays,” says Joseph Simone, a licensed real estate salesperson at Howard Hanna who has sold homes here for 35 years. “So the whole lake community gets involved and if you’re looking for outdoor recreational opportunities, it’s just a peaceful lifestyle.”
Swimming and boating at Pines Lake, nature trails and community clubs
Carrying the same name as the community, Pines Lake is the literal and metaphorical center of the community. "It's a really clean lake with a lot of social activities like tennis courts and pickleball, sailing and a swim team," says Carole Lynn Brescia, a Pines Lake resident for almost four decades and a broker sales associate at Coldwell Banker Realty. Residents swim at the lake’s two beaches, and sailing, kayaking and boating are all popular, though there’s a rule that only three powerboats or jet skis can be out on the water at a time. Catch-and-release fishing is another favorite activity, including ice fishing during the winter. The community cares a lot about its lake, which is home to rare tiger salamanders as well as several other species of salamanders, frogs and toads. Amphibians are considered an ecological indicator species, which means that they’re highly sensitive to pollutants in water sources, so their presence is a testament to the lake’s health.
The Laurelwood Arboretum is a 30-acre botanical park with gardens, ponds, and hundreds of plants, trees and wildlife species. Hikers and runners enjoy setting out on its wooded trails for a little exercise and exploration. Terhune Memorial Park is another favorite spot for its dog-friendly wooded trails and views of Pompton Lake. Pines Lake residents often participate in clubs centered around fishing and conservation, gardening and sailing, plus a women's and seniors club. You also have access to the lake, where you can go boating, swimming, fishing, and play tennis, pickleball and basketball. There's also an annual summer program for kids. Even more parks featuring ball fields, playgrounds, basketball courts and dog runs are located throughout Wayne, and the Wayne Community Center opened in November 2024 in place of the old YMCA just 5 miles away; it offers much of the services the old gym used to, just through the town. “There’s just so much for the families in town that Wayne is probably one of the strongest communities in northern New Jersey,” Simone says.
The Pines Lake Association maintains a beach and tennis courts for local residents.
Terhune Memorial Park sits on the banks of beautiful Pompton Lake.
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Small fixer-uppers starting around $450,000
Pines Lake still has a few of its original little wood cabins, but many of those houses have been replaced. Today, the neighborhood has wide range of home styles — anything from the Cape Cods, colonials and more recently built new traditionals so common on Long Island to Mediterranean, Tudor and contemporary-style homes. Contemporary homes in particular could date anywhere from the 1990s to the present. “A lot of the homes have been knocked down and they’re building brand new homes on the lake,” Simone says. “They’re putting in beautiful homes where the entire back of the homes are all windows overlooking the lake with huge decks and patios to appreciate the waterfront.”
Homes here start as low as $450,000, but bigger, newer houses can climb to about $2 million. Homes directly on the water typically cost between $850,000 and $2 million, depending on size and renovation needs. As a private lakefront community, all homeowners pay dues to the Pines Lake Association. Pines Lake’s CAP Index crime score is 1 out of 10, below the national average of 4.
This cute Cape Cod in Pines Lake is nestled into the scenery.
There are many newly constructed homes in Pines Lake.
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Potential impacts of hurricane season
Hurricane season can bring major storms to Pines Lake, but it doesn’t always. When these storms do hit, Pines Lake has a moderate risk of flooding and a major risk of high winds.
Regular community events, Wayne Day
The Pines Lake Association hosts frequent events, especially during the summer. Pickleball happens twice a week, and during the summer there are regular “Fun Nights” dedicated to different ideas, from painting to dessert competitions. There are plenty of holiday events, too, including a Fourth of July parade and picnic. According to Simone, residents from throughout the township participate in Wayne Day, where local businesses set up tents alongside a petting zoo, carnival rides, live music and more.
Nearby shopping and dining in Wayne, Pompton Lake
Pines Lake itself is entirely residential, so residents need to get in their cars and drive for a few minutes if they want to enjoy a meal out or need to go shopping. Villa Verde Restaurant and Novelli are both popular spots just outside the neighborhood. For more options, the more commercial parts of Wayne are about 4 miles away. Maggies Town Tavern is known for its ribs and its bar, while Viaggio is an Italian restaurant known for its BYOB policy. The restaurant doesn't sell alcohol, but customers are welcome to bring their own. Shopping is abundant in Wayne, especially when it comes to grocery stores, which include a ShopRite, Stop & Shop, Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods. “Anything you want in town, we have it,” Simone says. Pines Lake is also less than 3 miles from Pompton Lakes, which has even more shopping and entertainment like the Pompton Lakes Towne Square mall and a Rage Room.
Pines Lake residents can get there groceries at ShopRite in Wayne.
Maggies Town Tavern is popular with Pines Lake residents.
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Highly rated Wayne schools, William Paterson University
The Wayne Township Public School District is also a major draw for the community. Niche gives it an A and lists it as the best school district in Passaic County as well as the state's best district for student athletes. Children can attend Pine Lakes Elementary, which has a B-plus, before moving on to Schuyler-Colfax Middle and Wayne Hills High School, which both have A ratings. Niche lists Wayne Hills High as the third best public high school in Passaic County. The high school has a long-standing football rivalry with the other high school in the district, Wayne Valley High School.
William Paterson University is also in Wayne — about 5 miles from Pines Lake. Educating over 11,000 undergraduate and graduate students, William Paterson University has received national recognition as one of the most diverse colleges and universities in New Jersey. Lectures and events are open to the public, like the annual Jazz Room Series event, a 45-year tradition.
Wayne Hills High School in Pines Lake receives an A rating from Niche.
has 387 students in grades K-5.
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Nearby hospital, highway access
Wayne General Hospital is about 6 miles away. U.S. Route 202, also called Terhune Drive, edges Pines Lake, and it takes only a few minutes to get onto Interstate 287. Midtown Manhattan is about 27 miles away, a drive that can take about an hour and 30 minutes.
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
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Colin Somerville,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Stiles Park
Hershfield Park
Dave Walks Memorial Park
Baseball/Softball
Bike Trails
Trails
Lakeside Park
Terhune Memorial Park
Fishing
Lake
Picnic Area
Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park
Wayne Friends and Family Park
Dog Park
Playground
Parking Lot
Laurelwood Arboretum
High Mountain Park Preserve
Trails
Hiking
Walking Paths
Transit
Airport
Newark Liberty International
40 min drive
Bus
Black Oak Ridge Rd & Jackson Ave
Bus
Paterson Hamburg Tpke & Dawes HWY
Bus
Black Oak Ridge Rd & Mandeville Dr
Bus
Paterson Hamburg Tpke 258'W Of Jackson Ave
Bus
Paterson Hamburg Tpke & Jackson Ave
Bus
Paterson Hamburg Tpke & Terhune Dr
Bus
Black Oak Ridge Rd & South Rd
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Pines Lake
US
Homicide
1
4
Sexual Assault
1
4
Assault with Weapon
1
4
Robbery
1
4
Burglary
1
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
1
4
Larceny
2
4
Crime Score
1
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Pines Lake, Wayne sell after 31 days on the market compared to the national average of 47 days. The average sale price for homes in Pines Lake, Wayne over the last 12 months is $790,458, down 18% from the average home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This exquisite 6 Bed 4 full 2 half Baths estate defines luxury, craftsmanship, and modern comfort. Upon entering, you're greeted by a grand foyer with custom iron railings, setting the tone for expansive, sun-filled living spaces. The kitchen features custom cabinetry, granite countertops, and an oversized 8-seat island. 1st level has a formal living room, dining room, grand living room, rec room
Danielle FedericoKeller Williams Prosperity Realty
Stunning 4,664+ sq ft custom lakefront home in prestigious Pines Lake! Built in 2015, this 4-5 bedroom, 4.5 bath residence offers the ultimate indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Circular driveway & welcoming front porch lead to a grand foyer with elegant staircase, millwork, & hardwood floors throughout.Main floor features a formal living room with gas FP & built-ins, a great room with wood-burning
Francesca MessercolaKELLER WILLIAMS PROSPERITY REALTY
Welcome to your dream home in one of Wayne's most sought-after area just steps from the serene shores of beautiful Pines Lake! This completely renovated gem offers modern luxury, timeless elegance, and a location that's second to none. Step inside and be greeted by gleaming hardwood floors throughout and an abundance of natural light that fills every corner of the home. The heart of the home the
Looking for a recreational and or hunting retreat? This getaway is located between Challis and Salmon in the heart of the mountains, on the border of hunting units 27 and 28, and not far from Panther Creek and the Salmon River. The cabin is heated by propane and a wood stove with power generated by 2 350w solar panels and a 2000w inverter. Community water is supplied from a spring. Wifi through
PINES LAKE! Nestled in this sought after neighborhood is this coveted log house, 2 blocks from pines lake drive and a slight view of lake from the deck. This unique property front door entry leads to a living room, kitchen, dining area, storage loft, 1 bedroom and newly renovated bathroom on the first floor. Fireplace with stones to cathedral ceiling in the living room and large windows facing
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Colin Somerville,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
3,366
Median Age
51
Population Density
1 person/acre
Population under 18
19.2%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
29.4%
Above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$163,526
Significantly above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$178,494
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
96.2%
College Graduates
58.8%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
23.5%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
58.6%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
44''
Average Winter Low Temperature
23°F
Average Summer High Temperature
85°F
Annual Snowfall
4''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
14/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
3/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
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.
