Toms River, NJ, a coastal community and county seat of Ocean County, offers a blend of suburban and coastal lifestyles. Known for its unique attractions, including the most UFO sightings in New Jersey and filming locations for "The Amityville Horror" and "The X Files," Toms River also hosts the second-largest Halloween parade in the world. The city is home to nearly 100,000 residents with a median age of 42, and its economy thrives on tourism, retail, education, and healthcare. Ocean First Bank is a major employer. The Toms River Regional School District is highly rated, particularly for college preparation.
Housing in Toms River ranges from seaside estates to small ranches, with homes typically set back on lots featuring minimalist landscaping. The area is walkable, with abundant sidewalks and mature shade trees. Home styles vary from small boxy cottages and ranches to Cape Cods, split-levels, and modern traditional homes. Waterfront properties and sprawling estates are also available.
Outdoor attractions include Dover Beaches North and South, Huddy Park with its Revolutionary War fort reproduction, Toms River Skatepark, and the Toms River Veterans Recreation Complex. Shelter Cove Park offers soccer, tennis, and walking trails, while the John Bennett Indoor Athletic Center is one of the state's largest indoor athletic complexes. The city also features unique attractions like Insectropolis, the Robert J. Novins Planetarium, and the Toms River Seaport Society and Maritime Museum.
Toms River's transportation network is anchored by U.S. Route 9 and state Route 37, providing access to New York City and Philadelphia. Public transportation options include New Jersey Transit buses to Jersey City, Manhattan, and Atlantic City. The Atlantic City International Airport and Trenton-Mercer Airport are about 50 miles away. Despite past concerns about drinking water, stringent tests have restored clean water to the community. The city boasts a low violent crime rate compared to the national average, adding to its appeal for potential homebuyers.
