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Nestled between the Navesink River and Sandy Hook Bay, Middletown Township is a community that offers an exceptional quality of life in a beautiful coastal setting. It’s widely regarded as one of the best places to live in Monmouth County thanks to its highly rated schools, diverse real estate options, easy access to the beach, and array of recreational activities for all ages.
Residents of Middletown get a perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. The town’s proximity to New York City makes it an ideal location for those who want to live close to the Big Apple’s lively cityscape while enjoying a laidback lifestyle amidst stunning natural scenery.
Are you interested in homes for sale in Middletown, NJ? Here, you’ll learn more about the lifestyle, the homes, the attractions, and all of the best things that make Middletown an outstanding place to call home.
A quick look at Middletown’s history
- Middletown was originally formed in 1683 and incorporated as a township in 1798 through the New Jersey Legislature.
- The township was formed from sections of other townships and communities including the Atlantic Township, Atlantic Highlands, Raritan Township, Highlands, and Keansburg.
- The completion of a railroad junction in 1875 helped Middletown transition from a small group of loosely connected fishing and agricultural villages into a rapidly growing suburban community. The opening of the Central Railroad of New Jersey’s Atlantic Highland Division line in 1892 spurred further development in Middletown’s Bayshore area.
- In the first decade of the 20th century, the opening of a trolley network connected Middletown to the Highlands, Red Bank, and communities to the north. The expansion of the New Jersey state highway system in the 1920s aided the township’s development, facilitating the construction of numerous summer houses in the area.
- After the Civil War, many farms and country houses were built along the Navesink River shore. Residents sought to preserve the idyllic charm of this area, which led to the adoption of Middletown’s first zoning laws in 1935.
Location
Middletown is within northern Monmouth County, encompassing over 58 square miles. The township is one of the larger municipalities in New Jersey, with a population of more than 66,800 residents.
Middletown offers a convenient central location alongside Raritan Bay, giving residents easy access to excellent public schools, cultural destinations, recreational activities on the Raritan Bayshore, and many of New York City’s world-class attractions.
Climate
Middletown experiences a humid subtropical climate with weather patterns fluctuating between warmer summers and moderately cool winters.
July and August are typically the hottest months when temperatures reach highs of 80°F and lows of 70°F. Temperatures average about 27°F to 40°F with occasional snowfall during the winter months of December to February.
Humidity is consistent throughout the year, ranging from 73% to 79%. Rainfall occurs throughout all seasons, averaging 6.6 days in January and reaching a maximum of 15.3 days in July. Snowfall levels in Middletown are generally moderate and rarely accumulate, peaking at 0.47 inches in January and December.
Transportation
The largest highway passing through Middletown is the Garden State Parkway, connecting the township to Holmdel Township in the north and Tinton Falls in the south.
The Middletown Station operated by NJ Transit provides commuter rail service, with routes running between Pennsylvania Station in New York City and Bay Head along the North Jersey Coast Line.
Middletown residents can commute via ferry to and from New York City on the NY Waterway. A ferry trip takes around 50 minutes from the ferry dock in the Belford neighborhood to the West Midtown Ferry Terminal in Manhattan.
Education
Public schools in Middletown are administered by the Middletown Township School District, which is comprised of over 9,000 students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12 and more than 1,600 staff members throughout 16 schools.
Among the top-rated public schools in Middletown are:
- Navesink Elementary School
- Nut Swamp Elementary School
- Middletown Village Elementary School
- River Plaza Elementary School
- Thompson Middle School
- Bayshore Middle School
- Middletown High School South
- Middletown High School North
In addition to its outstanding public schools, several renowned private schools are located in and around the township as well, such as:
- Ranney School
- Red Bank Catholic High School
- Christian Brothers Academy
- Saint John Vianney High School
- Voyagers’ Community School
Employment
With the community’s prime location, many residents of Middletown work in New York City.
Although the city is a short commute away, Monmouth County has a highly robust economy, presenting plenty of excellent employment opportunities for residents. Monmouth County ranks among one of the strongest in New Jersey, with a per capita income that’s around 25% higher than the state average.
More than 20 companies in various industries such as communications, technology, healthcare, and manufacturing have corporate headquarters in Monmouth County. Major employers throughout the county include:
Those in the market for homes for sale in Middletown, NJ will be able to choose from a diverse selection of real estate options ranging from comfortable condos and townhomes to magnificent estates overlooking tranquil bays and the majestic New York City skyline. Middletown’s real estate market caters to a wide range of preferences and lifestyles, giving prospective home buyers terrific opportunities to find their dream home.
Homes in Middletown come in a wide variety of elegant architectural styles including Tudor Revival, Colonial Revival, Ranch, Craftsman, and Queen Anne. Many of the finest residences are located on the banks of the Navesink River and the shores of Sandy Hook Bay. These exquisite properties offer a seamless blend of modern luxury and countryside living, with uninterrupted water vistas that provide a breathtaking backdrop.
You’ll find many homes designed to take full advantage of the township’s gorgeous setting, with features like large windows, spacious balconies, and sprawling patio areas perfect for al fresco dinners and outdoor gatherings.
Take a look at some of the best homes for sale in Middletown, NJ by browsing our Featured Listings.
Top-rated neighborhoods in Middletown, NJ
Those interested in homes for sale in Middletown, NJ are spoiled for choice when it comes to location, as the township has plenty of charming neighborhoods that can suit any type of lifestyle. The ambiance varies depending on where you are, from the sprawling estates along the Navesink River and equestrian ranches in the south to the lively marina communities along Sandy Hook Bay.
Some of Middletown’s most sought-after neighborhoods are:
Belford. Located between Port Monmouth and Leonardo, Belford is a waterfront community featuring a diverse selection of stylish and well-built homes. Part of the Jersey Bayshore area, the community offers panoramic views and proximity to many popular outdoor destinations like the Henry Hudson Trail and the Bayshore Waterfront County Park. It's also home to the Port of Belford, where you can take the ferry to and from Manhattan and Jersey City.
Lincroft. This laid-back residential community offers easy access to scenic outdoor attractions such as Lincroft Park, Thompson Park, and the Sunnyside Equestrian Center. There's a fantastic selection of restaurants throughout the neighborhood as well, which makes it a delightful place to live for families who love dining out.
Locust. This neighborhood is a superb choice if you want to live in an idyllic setting along the banks of the Navesink River. Many residences are set far from roads and surrounded by thick hedges and mature trees, ideal for those looking for a secluded atmosphere. Families who enjoy fishing and boating will feel right at home in one of the neighborhood's riverfront estates.
Navesink. Situated along the Navesink River, Navesink is a historic district comprised of older homes with classic architectural styles such as Victorian, Greek Revival, and Craftsman. This idyllic community offers picture-perfect water vistas and easy access to many first-rate amenities including Huber Woods Park, Beacon Hill Country Club, and the Navesink Country Club.
Oak Hill. A popular choice for many luxury home buyers, Oak Hill boasts an impressive selection of beautiful colonial and ranch-style homes situated along quiet tree-lined streets. The neighborhood is ideally situated to offer easy access to outstanding public schools, the Middletown train station, and all of the fun recreational activities available near the Navesink River.
River Plaza. Located between Lincroft and Red Bank, River Plaza is an excellent option for buyers seeking affordable modern homes. The neighborhood is conveniently accessible to the Garden State Parkway and Red Bank Station, putting many of the best amenities and destinations minutes away. River Plaza is a popular choice for families as it's located close to several top-performing schools like River Plaza Elementary School, Thompson Middle School, and Middletown High School South.
Outdoor Recreation
Love spending time outdoors? There’s a wide array of outdoor activities to enjoy in Middletown!
Being a coastal town, many of Middletown’s best activities and destinations are centered on the water. A short drive takes you to Sandy Hook, a 2,044-acre barrier beach peninsula featuring salt and freshwater marshes, lush maritime forests, a network of hiking and biking trails, and miles of pristine ocean and bayside beaches. Sandy Hook is a favorite destination for history buffs as well. Go on a self-guided 39-stop walking tour of Fort Hancock, see the first disappearing gun battery built in the US, or climb to the top of the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, the oldest operating lighthouse in the country.
The region’s rich agricultural past gives way to sprawling parks and open spaces set amidst open meadows, dense woodlands, and rolling hills. One of the township’s most popular parks is Tatum Park, a 366-acre park with more than six miles of picturesque trails. The trails meander throughout verdant meadows and stands of chestnut oaks and tulip trees, perfect for walking, running, and biking. The park is a renowned birdwatching destination, with many fascinating avian species like cedar waxwing, Carolina wren, red-bellied woodpecker, and northern cardinal populating its woods.
Right next to Tatum Park is Deep Cut Gardens, which features 54 acres of landscaped gardens, vibrant flower beds, and greenhouses housing an extensive variety of native and cultivated plants that change with each season. The park’s main highlight is the Parterre, a meticulously designed formal garden containing over 50 varieties of roses and perennials planted in an intricate pattern.
Just off of Navesink River Rd. is Huber Woods Park. Covering nearly 400 acres of preserved open space, the park was gifted by the Huber family in 1978. Visitors can explore its park and meadows through eight multi-use trails that criss-cross around the park. And since it’s open all year round, you can observe a variety of seasonal changes.
Looking forward to a fun day at the beach? Head to Bayshore Waterfront Park to take in panoramic views of Sandy Hook Bay and the New York City skyline while exploring tidal creeks, marine shrublands, dunes, and salt marshes. Bayshore Waterfront Park is also home to the Seabrook-Wilson House, one of the earliest buildings in the Raritan Bayshore region.
Dining
Whether you’re looking for a perfect brunch spot, celebrating a special occasion, or just out to grab a quick bite, Middletown’s wide selection of dining destinations is sure to satisfy.
Below are some top-rated restaurants that are worth a visit:
Whether you’re looking for a perfect brunch spot, celebrating a special occasion, or just out to grab a quick bite, Middletown’s wide selection of dining destinations is sure to satisfy.
Below are some top-rated restaurants that are worth a visit:
- Nicholas Barrel & Roost. Originally known as Restaurant Nicholas, Barrel & Roost treats diners to an unforgettable fine dining feast in an inviting modern farmhouse setting. Barrel & Roost is one of Zagat’s highest-rated restaurants for 15 consecutive years.
- Meemom’s Breakfast & Lunch. Start your day with a hearty feast at Meemom’s, known for their innovative twists on traditional breakfast and lunch dishes.
- MJ’s Restaurant. Enjoy classic pub grub together with live music and sports at MJ’s Restaurant. Among the standout palate pleasers at MJ’s is their honey garlic salmon, a flavorful seafood dish pan-seared to perfection and topped with their signature honey garlic sauce.
- Toscanella Village Café. Craving pizza? Toscanella Village Café is the perfect choice! This local favorite has been delighting diners for more than a decade with their delicious fresh-from-the-oven pies made with top-quality ingredients.
- Nana’s Kitchen. Savor authentic Italian and Mediterranean fare at Nana’s Kitchen, where traditional recipes meet innovative flavors in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Special Events and Festivals
There’s always something happening in Middletown no matter what season! Some exciting community events to look forward to include:
- Eggstravaganza. Middletown residents come together in spring for a fun-filled day of activities, craft sessions, and games at the Middletown Arts Center. Highlights of the town’s much-anticipated family-friendly Easter event include a science show, a petting zoo, and photos with the Easter Bunny.
- Music in the Park Summer Concert Series.Pull up a lawn chair, pack some snacks and refreshments, and enjoy live performances by local artists at the Middletown Arts Center’s northern lawn.
- Christmas in July Beach Party & Movie. Make your way to Ideal Beach for an exciting evening with free snacks, a DJ, Beach Santa, and lots of fun activities! Remember to bring your chair or blanket to enjoy a Christmas movie at the beach.
- Middletown Day. Join the community to celebrate the best of Middletown at this beloved fall tradition. The festival delights residents of all ages with live entertainment, games, inflatables, and a smorgasbord of tasty snacks and drinks at the food court.
- Winter Solstice Hike. Get in the mood for the holidays by joining the other residents on an outdoor adventure during the longest night of the year. This yearly tradition takes you on an unforgettable evening journey through Poricy Park capped off by steaming cups of hot cocoa by the fire.
- Christmas Tree Lighting. Head to the Middletown Arts Center for the annual tree-lighting ceremony. This fun holiday event features an arts and crafts bazaar, photos with Santa, Christmas cartoons by the bonfire, and a giant snow globe inflatable.
- Letters from Santa. Help your kids write a letter to Santa and drop it off at one of the special mailboxes placed around town. By Christmas, you and your kids will get a personalized letter from Santa himself!
For more information on Middletown’s special events, head to this page.
Interested in homes for sale in Middletown, NJ? Get in touch with me, Mario Venancio to navigate this exciting market with ease!
As the #1 agent in Monmouth County for more than a decade, you can count on my experience, deep local knowledge, unparalleled negotiation skills, and extensive resources to help you realize your real estate goals in Middletown and other sought-after communities in New Jersey.
Get in touch today by calling 732.881.4306 or by sending an email.