I’ve been analyzing the latest Zillow Home Value Index data to understand how property values have evolved across New Jersey over the past 15 years. The Garden State presents a fascinating study in real estate extremes, with its most valuable communities reflecting both coastal luxury and proximity to New York City. Most striking is the sheer magnitude of New Jersey’s premium market, with Deal commanding an extraordinary $3.8 million average home value – more than six times higher than the typical American home. This positions it among the nation’s most exclusive communities, even as it maintains its distinctive cultural character.
A clear geographic pattern emerges, as 18 of New Jersey’s 25 priciest towns border the Atlantic Ocean or Raritan Bay. Ocean County leads with seven towns, Monmouth has six, and Cape May five. Bergen County’s four inland towns (Alpine, Saddle River, Englewood Cliffs, Franklin Lakes) derive their high values from proximity to Manhattan rather than waterfront location.
Since 2020, shore communities have experienced remarkable growth, with towns like Allenhurst seeing nearly 119% appreciation in five years. Across these 25 towns, the average home value has surged by 66%, significantly exceeding inflation and national trends. This growth reflects post-pandemic interest in vacation homes, suburban appeal near employment hubs, and the resilience of premium markets. Now, each of New Jersey’s top 25 towns boasts home values exceeding $1.3 million, making them increasingly exclusive to affluent buyers.
25. Essex Fells
- January 2025 Home Value: $1,348,995
- January 2020 Home Value: $872,057
- January 2015 Home Value: $829,429
- January 2010 Home Value: $772,940
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 54.69%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 62.64%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 74.53%
Homes in Essex Fells average $1.35 million, increasing 55% since 2020. Exceptional architectural integrity and exclusivity near Manhattan attract high-income professionals. Excellent public schools and strict zoning support sustained value appreciation. Investing here guarantees prestigious living and stable financial returns.
24. Sea Isle City
- January 2025 Home Value: $1,351,038
- January 2020 Home Value: $792,760
- January 2015 Home Value: $649,189
- January 2010 Home Value: $586,172
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 70.42%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 108.11%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 130.48%
Sea Isle City homes average $1.35 million, more than doubling since 2015. Strong vacation rental market and vibrant boardwalk attract consistent property investments. Family-friendly amenities ensure ongoing buyer demand. Continued improvements enhance long-term appreciation potential. Investing here secures stable rental income and significant value growth.
23. Cape May Point
- January 2025 Home Value: $1,410,810
- January 2020 Home Value: $815,056
- January 2015 Home Value: $678,105
- January 2010 Home Value: Not Available
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 73.09%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 108.05%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: Not Available
Cape May Point homes average $1.41 million, more than doubling since 2015. Remarkable natural setting and tranquility attract discerning buyers. Limited inventory creates strong scarcity value. Proximity to historic Cape May adds amenities while preserving exclusivity. Owning property here ensures sustained appreciation.
22. Surf City
- January 2025 Home Value: $1,419,602
- January 2020 Home Value: $844,734
- January 2015 Home Value: $690,969
- January 2010 Home Value: $714,603
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 68.05%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 105.45%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 98.66%
Surf City homes average $1.42 million, doubling since 2015. Strategic LBI location offers convenient amenities and beach access. Strong infrastructure and ongoing investments support sustained market growth. Family-oriented community ensures consistent demand. Property here delivers solid returns and desirable coastal lifestyle.
21. Longport
- January 2025 Home Value: $1,423,548
- January 2020 Home Value: $785,155
- January 2015 Home Value: $749,806
- January 2010 Home Value: $747,812
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 81.31%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 89.86%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 90.36%
Homes average $1.42 million in Longport, rising 81% since 2020. Peninsula setting offers unique water views, boosting property values significantly. Limited size and exclusivity sustain market demand. Quiet residential character near Atlantic City amenities enhances appeal. Investing here provides a prestigious address and consistent financial appreciation.
20. Franklin Lakes
- January 2025 Home Value: $1,432,575
- January 2020 Home Value: $954,775
- January 2015 Home Value: $1,012,391
- January 2010 Home Value: $950,466
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 50.04%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 41.50%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 50.72%
Franklin Lakes homes average $1.43 million, up 50% since 2020. Estate-style properties and natural beauty near Manhattan consistently attract affluent executives. Corporate proximity ensures ongoing economic strength and buyer demand. Architectural diversity enhances market desirability. Investment here provides reliable appreciation and suburban tranquility.
19. Barnegat Light
- January 2025 Home Value: $1,462,745
- January 2020 Home Value: $850,241
- January 2015 Home Value: $739,610
- January 2010 Home Value: $703,785
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 72.04%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 97.77%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 107.84%
Home values average $1.46 million in Barnegat Light, more than doubling since 2010. Distinctive maritime character and natural beauty attract buyers seeking authentic coastal living. Limited residential inventory ensures exclusivity and property value stability. High-quality beaches and community preservation efforts sustain premium pricing. Investing here offers a unique combination of authenticity and financial security.
18. Beach Haven
- January 2025 Home Value: $1,489,425
- January 2020 Home Value: $842,616
- January 2015 Home Value: $686,194
- January 2010 Home Value: $703,791
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 76.76%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 117.06%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 111.63%
Beach Haven properties average nearly $1.49 million, more than doubling since 2015. Historical charm and vibrant amenities appeal to both seasonal and year-round residents. Strong tourism and rental market ensure steady property demand. Architectural diversity and strategic positioning maintain sustained value growth. Investing here provides both financial stability and coastal lifestyle advantages.
17. Strathmere
- January 2025 Home Value: $1,500,781
- January 2020 Home Value: $833,044
- January 2015 Home Value: $720,868
- January 2010 Home Value: Not Available
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 80.16%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 108.19%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: Not Available
Homes average $1.5 million in Strathmere, doubling in value since 2015. Extraordinary seclusion and unspoiled natural beauty create distinctive market appeal. Limited commercial presence preserves exclusivity and privacy. Strategic location between prominent resort towns boosts desirability. Property here ensures stable appreciation due to inherent scarcity.
16. Englewood Cliffs
- January 2025 Home Value: $1,579,273
- January 2020 Home Value: $1,211,506
- January 2015 Home Value: $1,184,281
- January 2010 Home Value: $979,234
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 30.36%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 33.35%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 61.28%
Englewood Cliffs home values average $1.58 million, rising 61% since 2010. Spectacular Palisades views and Manhattan proximity attract affluent buyers consistently. Corporate headquarters strengthen the local economy, supporting property values. Diverse architectural styles enhance market attractiveness. Investing here ensures reliable long-term financial returns.
15. Avon-by-the-Sea
- January 2025 Home Value: $1,586,706
- January 2020 Home Value: $980,031
- January 2015 Home Value: $856,966
- January 2010 Home Value: $819,956
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 61.90%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 85.15%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 93.51%
Avon-by-the-Sea homes average $1.59 million, nearly doubling since 2010. Exceptional architectural integrity and seaside charm create strong appeal. Small-town exclusivity and limited inventory drive property values upward. Controlled development preserves its premium market position. Investing here provides secure financial growth and distinctive community charm.
14. Long Beach Township
- January 2025 Home Value: $1,824,241
- January 2020 Home Value: $1,012,389
- January 2015 Home Value: $869,686
- January 2010 Home Value: $915,243
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 80.19%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 109.76%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 99.32%
Home values average $1.82 million, more than doubling since 2015. Diverse neighborhoods offer varying premium coastal experiences, sustaining high demand. Rebuilt post-Sandy infrastructure adds significant resilience and quality. Exceptional beaches and strategic location ensure ongoing market stability. Investing here provides both diversity and substantial appreciation potential.
13. Mantoloking
- January 2025 Home Value: $1,846,395
- January 2020 Home Value: $1,067,782
- January 2015 Home Value: $846,287
- January 2010 Home Value: $984,698
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 72.92%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 118.18%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 87.51%
Mantoloking homes average $1.85 million, more than doubling since 2015. Extraordinary ocean and bay access creates premium property valuations. Post-Sandy rebuilding has significantly enhanced housing quality. Limited residential supply guarantees continued appreciation. Investing here captures remarkable value growth and waterfront prestige.
12. Harvey Cedars
- January 2025 Home Value: $1,955,435
- January 2020 Home Value: $1,141,968
- January 2015 Home Value: $1,024,048
- January 2010 Home Value: $1,036,940
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 71.23%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 90.95%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 88.58%
Harvey Cedars properties average nearly $2 million, rising 89% since 2010. Exceptional dual-water vistas create strong appeal for luxury shore buyers. Limited commercial presence sustains exclusivity and property values. Strong demand for high-quality coastal living guarantees stable appreciation. Owning here is a secure investment in prestigious coastal real estate.
11. Rumson
- January 2025 Home Value: $1,966,871
- January 2020 Home Value: $1,179,359
- January 2015 Home Value: $1,098,000
- January 2010 Home Value: $1,021,913
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 66.77%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 79.13%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 92.47%
Rumson homes average $1.97 million, nearly doubling since 2010. Distinguished by waterfront properties and historic architecture, it appeals to affluent commuters. Excellent schools and proximity to Manhattan maintain high demand. Rumson’s community-driven planning ensures value preservation and appreciation. Property here offers both lifestyle benefits and reliable financial returns.
10. Saddle River
- January 2025 Home Value: $2,052,423
- January 2020 Home Value: $1,509,096
- January 2015 Home Value: $1,549,639
- January 2010 Home Value: $1,303,659
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 36.00%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 32.45%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 57.44%
Home values average $2.05 million in Saddle River, increasing 57% since 2010. Its privacy-focused estate properties and proximity to Manhattan attract affluent residents consistently. Strict zoning regulations and limited commercial development reinforce its exclusivity. Celebrity appeal enhances premium market valuations. Investing here guarantees sustained prestige and financial stability.
9. Allenhurst
- January 2025 Home Value: $2,065,269
- January 2020 Home Value: $943,531
- January 2015 Home Value: Not Available
- January 2010 Home Value: Not Available
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 118.89%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: Not Available
- Change from 2010 to 2025: Not Available
Allenhurst homes average $2.06 million, surging nearly 119% since 2020. Exceptional historical architecture and a private beach club drive strong demand. Strategic location near Asbury Park further boosts appeal and value growth. Limited inventory creates exclusivity and natural scarcity. Investing here captures remarkable appreciation and distinctive market position.
8. Sea Girt
- January 2025 Home Value: $2,082,992
- January 2020 Home Value: $1,148,895
- January 2015 Home Value: $982,353
- January 2010 Home Value: $867,250
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 81.30%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 112.04%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 140.18%
Sea Girt’s homes average $2.08 million, more than doubling since 2015. Renowned for exceptional beach quality and upscale amenities, Sea Girt maintains consistent demand. Meticulous community management sustains high property values. Its architectural distinction and family-friendly atmosphere appeal to discerning buyers. Property here is a secure financial asset with excellent appreciation potential.
7. Bay Head
- January 2025 Home Value: $2,108,522
- January 2020 Home Value: $1,311,614
- January 2015 Home Value: $1,129,775
- January 2010 Home Value: $1,089,371
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 60.76%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 86.63%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 93.55%
Bay Head homes average $2.1 million, reflecting steady appreciation since 2010. Its historic architecture and private beach access attract affluent families seeking prestigious coastal living. Post-Hurricane Sandy restorations have enhanced housing quality and value. Strict preservation standards ensure enduring charm and property value stability. Investing here promises solid financial returns and generational appeal.
6. Short Hills
- January 2025 Home Value: $2,110,977
- January 2020 Home Value: $1,346,030
- January 2015 Home Value: $1,404,685
- January 2010 Home Value: $1,227,000
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 56.83%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 50.28%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 72.04%
Homes average $2.11 million in Short Hills, up 72% since 2010. Known as New Jersey’s ultimate commuter suburb, it offers top-ranked schools and convenient Manhattan access. Architectural diversity and upscale amenities attract high-income buyers consistently. Strong community planning and premium location guarantee sustained appreciation. Short Hills remains an exceptionally secure long-term investment.
5. Stone Harbor
- January 2025 Home Value: $2,437,500
- January 2020 Home Value: $1,361,988
- January 2015 Home Value: $1,037,365
- January 2010 Home Value: $1,014,382
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 78.97%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 134.97%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 140.29%
In Stone Harbor, homes average $2.43 million, with values more than doubling since 2010. Renowned for family-oriented luxury, pristine beaches, and upscale shopping, Stone Harbor consistently appeals to affluent families. Protected natural areas and height restrictions preserve its exclusive small-town character. Limited inventory and high demand sustain premium valuations. Investing here ensures robust financial performance and long-term growth.
4. Avalon
- January 2025 Home Value: $2,595,158
- January 2020 Home Value: $1,490,335
- January 2015 Home Value: $1,098,772
- January 2010 Home Value: $821,115
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 74.13%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 136.19%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 216.05%
Avalon home values average $2.59 million, rising an extraordinary 216% since 2010. Exceptional beaches, luxury amenities, and family-oriented atmosphere consistently attract affluent buyers. Avalon’s combination of exclusivity and community appeal sustains strong property values. Strategic infrastructure investment and premium beachfront properties ensure continued market strength. Owning here provides secure financial returns and lifestyle prestige.
3. Alpine
- January 2025 Home Value: $2,713,493
- January 2020 Home Value: $1,961,981
- January 2015 Home Value: $2,160,416
- January 2010 Home Value: Not Available
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 38.30%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 25.60%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: Not Available
Alpine homes average $2.7 million, up 38% since 2020, marking it as northern New Jersey’s premier luxury address. With large estate properties ensuring maximum privacy, it attracts affluent buyers seeking exclusivity near Manhattan. Alpine’s zoning preserves its estate atmosphere, creating consistent appreciation potential. Proximity to New York City ensures steady demand. Investing here guarantees prestige and long-term value stability.
2. Loch Arbour
- January 2025 Home Value: $2,716,172
- January 2020 Home Value: Not Available
- January 2015 Home Value: Not Available
- January 2010 Home Value: Not Available
- Change from 2020 to 2025: Not Available
- Change from 2015 to 2025: Not Available
- Change from 2010 to 2025: Not Available
Homes in Loch Arbour average $2.7 million, reflecting its rise as an exclusive Jersey Shore community. Its small size creates natural scarcity, enhancing investment value. Strategically located between Asbury Park and Deal, Loch Arbour benefits from spillover demand from these desirable neighbors. Intimate community scale and direct beach access drive continual market interest. Owning property here secures a solid investment in a uniquely exclusive locale.
1. Deal
- January 2025 Home Value: $3,804,185
- January 2020 Home Value: $1,903,524
- January 2015 Home Value: $1,373,326
- January 2010 Home Value: $1,545,921
- Change from 2020 to 2025: 99.85%
- Change from 2015 to 2025: 177.01%
- Change from 2010 to 2025: 146.08%
In Deal, home values average $3.8 million, nearly doubling since 2020, making this New Jersey’s most prestigious community. Its oceanfront estates attract international buyers, driving significant premium valuations. Proximity to Manhattan and strong cultural appeal further support steady demand. The limited inventory ensures sustained price appreciation. Investing here places you in a market with proven growth and exceptional long-term potential.
