Berkeley Heights Real Estate: CNN/Money Magazine’s #6 Best Place to Live

“Some may say I’m biased, but I really do believe Berkeley Heights is the best town in the state,” says local real estate owner John Smith, who was raised in the community and chose to remain and start his own family here. “I had the privilege of being blessed with an excellent education and, in choosing to raise my own children here, I send them to those same great schools. I love spending weekends here because there’s always something to do for the whole family. More importantly, here in Berkeley Heights, we believe in working hard for what we earn, but at the same time we love our leisure time and truly respect our strong community.”

Embrace Adventure Close to Home

Travelers enjoy the luxury of numerous attractions within easy reach. Newark Liberty International Airport is located less than 20 minutes east via Rt. 78. The bright lights and allure of Atlantic City glitter just two hours south, while northern shore points of interest can be reached within the hour from Berkeley Heights. And venturing into Manhattan couldn’t be easier. Local real estate owners take advantage of NJ Transit rail service to the Big Apple from the convenient park and ride on Springfield Avenue, in the heart of Berkeley Heights. Commuters arrive in the city in under an hour at peak times.

Upon returning home, residents are enveloped in comfort and style. Real estate listings for sale include timeless Colonials and Cape Cods to modernized split levels and twin home designs. The average real estate listing for sale is priced in the mid to upper $500,000s, while more upscale residences range upwards to $1.4 million.

Bolstering real estate values is the township’s well-regarded school system. Governor Livingston High School placed in the top 10 percent of the state’s public schools twice within the past four years as ranked by New Jersey Monthly magazine. Students not only receive a first-rate education but also have an opportunity to participate in award-winning athletic programs and the school’s extremely competitive marching band.

Enjoy Fun in the Sun at Popular Local Parks

Area real estate owners appreciate the stunning views and variety of amenities found in the area’s dozen well-maintained local parks. In particular, the newly-constructed Snyder Spray Park, built on 17-acres, features a fun-filled water theme in addition to baseball and softball diamonds.

Year-round, homeowners stay active by participating in the many programs offered by the local YMCA. Some of the most popular offerings include childcare and early education programs, a dance academy, book and chess clubs, arts and crafts, yoga and a variety of fitness and nutrition programs, as well as sports classes, clinics and leagues.

Not to be outdone, local golfers love living so close to Baltusrol Golf Club, which will once again host the PGA Championship in 2016. Located in nearby Springfield, the club has a rich history, dating back to 1895, and is designated a National Historic Landmark. Both the upper and lower courses are ranked among the Top 100 in the U.S. by Golf Digest, Golfweek and Golf Magazine.

Support Independently-Owned Shops and Restaurants

Area real estate owners take pride in supporting Berkeley Heights’ unique shopping and dining destinations. More than 30 independent retailers, specializing in sporting goods, clothing, and housewares, are located within the town. Just five minutes west is the expansive Valley Mall. With more than two dozen stores and eateries, the complex is anchored by TJ Maxx, Old Navy and Home Goods. Panera, Starbucks and Bensi serve up flavorful fare for those on the go. Residents can multiply their shopping and dining possibilities at the impressive Mall at Short Hills, home to 160 high-end stores and restaurants, including Saks, Nordstrom, and Bloomingdale’s.

Foodies find dozens of tasty choices close to home. Marcello’s, known for its Italian cuisine, offers al fresco dining on its romantic patio. The BYOB is a favorite among residents. Delicious Heights boasts a spacious bar with ample seating, making it an ideal spot to catch a sporting event with friends. The restaurant’s menu offers a wide selection of seafood, steaks and signature salads. Those looking for an energetic, exotic, and out-of-the-box dining experience visit East Asian Fusion where hibachi artistry comes to life. Fresh steak, seafood and chicken are prepared table-side, while the eatery’s traditional dining area and sushi bar enchant a variety of palates.

See Why Berkeley Heights Is Consistently Named a Top Place to Live

With its enviable proximity to New York City and the Jersey shore, Berkeley Heights is the ideal location for commuters and fun loving folks who maintain an active lifestyle. Known for its enviable selection of local restaurants and popular parks, the community’s small town feel, high quality schools and variety of real estate listings for sale consistently draw home buyers to town.

“Sometimes I honestly wish I could rewind time and start my family in Berkeley Heights,” says local real estate owner Mary Smith, who moved to Berkeley Heights five years ago. “But at the same time I am so grateful to be living here now because I’ve found a place I am finally proud to call home. With the valuable education I am now providing my children, the social life my husband and I enjoy without having to travel a long distance – and the wonderful people we have met here – moving to Berkley Heights was the simply the best decision we’ve ever made.”