New Providence Real Estate: Small Town Charm, Big City Convenience and “Best of State” Education

“This is a warm, welcoming community, you’ll find friendly store owners and nice neighbors,” said Doug Marvin, local real estate owner who grew up in the borough and chose to start his own family in his beloved hometown. “We are particularly proud of our vibrant downtown business district.”

Nationally-Recognized High School, Easy Access to Manhattan

Located less than 20 minutes west of Newark Liberty International Airport, under 30 miles west of Manhattan and two hours north of Atlantic City, residents of New Providence appreciate the borough’s easy access to world-class destinations.

Commuters have their choice of mass transit options. NJ Transit provides two rail stations within the borough, delivering passengers to the heart of Manhattan in about an hour. Lakeland Bus offers direct service to Port Authority from South Street, a main thoroughfare in downtown New Providence.

Split-levels homes, featuring ample living space, are the most popular style within the borough. Cape Cod designs, Colonials and ranches, many recently built, are also available. Average home prices are in the mid-$500,000s, while larger, more highly upgraded homes range up to around $2 million.

With an enrollment of approximately 600 students, New Providence High School was named among “America’s Best High Schools” for 2013 by Newsweek. New Jersey Monthly magazine awarded it the prestigious title of “Best in the State” in 2012. Students from preschool age through 12th grade attend one of two elementary schools before graduating to the middle school, housed in the same building as the award-winning high school.

In addition to their academic prowess, students are recognized for their excellence in the arts and athletics as well. Residents not only take pride in the excellent school system but also enjoy attending sporting events, concerts and theatrical presentations throughout the school year.

Stunning Parks and Gorgeous Community Pool Cater to an Active, Outdoor Lifestyle

New Providence boasts three playgrounds, an ice-skating rink, eight ball fields, and eight public tennis courts, giving residents ample opportunity to enjoy fresh air, sunshine and recreation.

The borough’s Community Pool is widely regarded as “the country club of community pools” among neighboring towns. The lavish complex is home to two approximately Olympic-sized pools. The facility supports two swim teams as well as a dive team, grooming local champions who inspire younger residents.

Nature lovers adore the nearby Watchung Reservation. Set on more than 2,000 acres, the park is a woodland paradise filled with 13 miles of bridle and hiking trails, perfect for exploring on foot or horseback. Three ponds are ideal for fishing. “The Loop,” an elaborate playground, featuring two fort-like structures designed for preschoolers and older children, is outfitted with gas grills and makes the perfect setting for a picnic. Trailside Nature & Science Center, a 4,500-square-foot interactive, state-of-the art facility opened in 2006, serves as a classroom for learning about the outdoor world.

Shop at Unique Boutiques and Dine in Family-Owned Restaurants

Downtown New Providence features independently-owned clothing boutiques, jewelers, and sporting goods stores, offering residents a chance to shop locally and support their neighbors. The Village Shopping Center, also located downtown, is home to more than a dozen shops and eateries and is anchored by A&P, Smashburger and Starbucks.

Coppola’s Ristorante, known for its Italian fare, Jose’s Mexican Cantina, serving up flavorful Mexican cuisine, and The Prestige Diner, a breakfast mainstay, are among local favorite dining options. Dim Sum Villa, home to authentic Cantonese sweet and savory delights, is renowned for its stir fries and seafood delicacies.

A weekly Jersey Fresh Farmers Market is held during the mild weather months showcases the area’s freshest produce and a variety of unique local creations. During July, local business owners sponsor a weekly outdoor concert series in Centennial Park. Fun for the whole community, in addition to music, residents enjoy free hot dogs and ice cream while a magician and face painter entertain young children.

Shoppers and foodies have even more choices in the neighboring town of Summit, which features a thriving business district filled with hundreds of one-of-a-kind shops and restaurants. A cinema with five screens and two local playhouses make it a fun destination for all ages.

Excellent Schools, Shopping and Dining Amid Small Town Charm

The award-winning school district, convenient location and charming neighborhoods attract real estate buyers to the borough of New Providence. And there’s a tangible sense of community that makes them want to stay.

“We are very proud of our fine specialty shops and wonderful restaurants,” Marvin says. “Our motto is: ‘New Providence, Nice People – Nice Place,’ where you’ll feel the sense of community that makes New Providence special.”