I’ve been diving deep into the latest data from the Zillow Home Value Index, and what I discovered about New Jersey’s premium real estate market absolutely blew my mind. The numbers tell a story of unprecedented growth, coastal dominance, and investment opportunities that most people completely overlook.
What struck me most was how dramatically these markets have transformed over the past 15 years. I’m seeing percentage gains that would make even the most seasoned real estate investors take notice. The coastal towns, in particular, have experienced growth patterns that seem almost too good to be true.
The data reveals fascinating patterns about wealth concentration, market resilience, and the enduring appeal of New Jersey’s most exclusive communities. Here’s my analysis of the 18 most expensive towns, ranked from least to most expensive based on current home values.
18. Barnegat Light
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $1,483,742
- 2020 Home Value: $860,062
- 2015 Home Value: $745,980
- 2010 Home Value: $731,737
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 72.52%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: 98.90%
- % Change 2010 to 2025: 102.77%
About Barnegat Light
In Barnegat Light, the median home price of $1,483,742 represents exceptional investment performance with over 72% appreciation in just five years. This coastal enclave has delivered remarkable returns, doubling in value since 2010 with a stunning 102.77% total gain. The consistent upward trajectory demonstrates strong market fundamentals and sustained investor confidence. Cash flow potential remains robust given the premium location and limited inventory driving continued price appreciation.
17. Beach Haven
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $1,528,828
- 2020 Home Value: $875,444
- 2015 Home Value: $701,682
- 2010 Home Value: $751,085
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 74.63%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: 117.88%
- % Change 2010 to 2025: 103.55%
About Beach Haven
In Beach Haven, the median home price of $1,528,828 showcases exceptional capital appreciation with 74.63% growth in the last five years alone. Property values have more than doubled since 2015, delivering an impressive 117.88% return on investment. The market demonstrates resilience with steady appreciation despite temporary setbacks, recovering fully from the 2008-2010 period. Strong rental yields combined with capital gains make this an attractive proposition for both primary residence buyers and investment portfolios.
16. Englewood Cliffs
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $1,613,441
- 2020 Home Value: $1,231,118
- 2015 Home Value: $1,190,184
- 2010 Home Value: $1,019,538
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 31.05%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: 35.56%
- % Change 2010 to 2025: 58.25%
About Englewood Cliffs
In Englewood Cliffs, the median home price of $1,613,441 reflects steady, sustainable growth with a solid 31.05% appreciation over five years. This Bergen County location offers more conservative but reliable returns compared to volatile coastal markets, with 58.25% total gains since 2010. The market appeals to affluent professionals seeking proximity to Manhattan while maintaining wealth preservation through real estate. Lower volatility makes it an ideal hedge against market uncertainty while still providing meaningful capital appreciation potential.
15. Avon by the Sea
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $1,641,756
- 2020 Home Value: $1,036,777
- 2015 Home Value: $886,602
- 2010 Home Value: $881,730
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 58.35%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: 85.17%
- % Change 2010 to 2025: 86.20%
About Avon by the Sea
In Avon by the Sea, the median home price of $1,641,756 demonstrates strong market momentum with 58.35% appreciation in five years. Property values have surged 85.17% since 2015, indicating accelerating demand for this premier shore destination. The 86.20% total return since 2010 reflects sustained investor confidence and the enduring appeal of oceanfront living. Limited development opportunities and strict zoning create natural supply constraints that support premium valuations and future growth potential.
14. Long Beach Township
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $1,852,957
- 2020 Home Value: $1,039,827
- 2015 Home Value: $869,921
- 2010 Home Value: $1,025,188
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 78.20%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: 113.00%
- % Change 2010 to 2025: 80.74%
About Long Beach Township
In Long Beach Township, the median home price of $1,852,957 represents extraordinary growth with 78.20% appreciation over five years. The market has more than doubled since 2015 with 113.00% gains, showcasing the township’s transformation into a premium destination. Recovery from the 2010 baseline shows 80.74% total returns, demonstrating resilience and long-term value creation. Diverse property types from beachfront estates to bay-side retreats offer multiple investment strategies within this high-appreciation market.
13. Mantoloking
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $1,867,572
- 2020 Home Value: $1,089,776
- 2015 Home Value: $850,703
- 2010 Home Value: $969,519
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 71.37%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: 119.53%
- % Change 2010 to 2025: 92.63%
About Mantoloking
In Mantoloking, the median home price of $1,867,572 reflects exceptional market performance with 71.37% appreciation in five years. Property values have skyrocketed 119.53% since 2015, making it one of the strongest-performing coastal markets in New Jersey. The 92.63% return since 2010 demonstrates remarkable resilience despite Hurricane Sandy’s impact on the area. Rebuilt with modern construction standards and enhanced flood protection, properties now command premium prices while offering superior investment security.
12. Rumson
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $2,011,630
- 2020 Home Value: $1,212,385
- 2015 Home Value: $1,127,791
- 2010 Home Value: $1,053,730
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 65.92%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: 78.37%
- % Change 2010 to 2025: 90.91%
About Rumson
In Rumson, the median home price of $2,011,630 showcases steady wealth building with 65.92% growth over five years. This Monmouth County enclave has delivered consistent returns with 78.37% appreciation since 2015 and nearly doubling in value since 2010. The market attracts high-net-worth individuals seeking riverfront estates and equestrian properties with proximity to Manhattan. Strong fundamentals including top-rated schools, historic charm, and limited inventory support continued price appreciation and investment stability.
11. Harvey Cedars
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $2,017,388
- 2020 Home Value: $1,180,787
- 2015 Home Value: $1,056,916
- 2010 Home Value: $1,132,510
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 70.85%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: 90.87%
- % Change 2010 to 2025: 78.13%
About Harvey Cedars
In Harvey Cedars, the median home price of $2,017,388 represents significant capital appreciation with 70.85% growth in the past five years. The market has surged 90.87% since 2015, reflecting this Long Beach Island community’s growing prestige among affluent buyers. With 78.13% total returns since 2010, the area demonstrates consistent value creation despite market cycles. Oceanfront properties with private beach access command premium prices while offering excellent rental income potential during peak summer seasons.
10. Saddle River
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $2,108,177
- 2020 Home Value: $1,537,350
- 2015 Home Value: $1,570,870
- 2010 Home Value: $1,327,090
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 37.13%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: 34.20%
- % Change 2010 to 2025: 58.86%
About Saddle River
In Saddle River, the median home price of $2,108,177 reflects moderate but steady appreciation with 37.13% growth over five years. This Bergen County borough offers stability with 58.86% total returns since 2010, appealing to investors seeking conservative wealth preservation. The market attracts celebrities and business executives with large estates, private roads, and equestrian facilities creating unique lifestyle value. Lower volatility compared to coastal markets makes it attractive for portfolio diversification while maintaining exposure to New Jersey’s luxury segment.
9. Allenhurst
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $2,115,410
- 2020 Home Value: $962,057
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 119.88%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Allenhurst
In Allenhurst, the median home price of $2,115,410 showcases explosive growth with an extraordinary 119.88% appreciation in just five years. This small borough has emerged as a hot investment destination, more than doubling property values since 2020. Limited historical data suggests recent market transformation, with sophisticated buyers recognizing the value proposition of this intimate coastal community. The dramatic price appreciation reflects pent-up demand, limited inventory, and strategic positioning between larger shore destinations creating exceptional investment opportunities.
8. Sea Girt
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $2,146,749
- 2020 Home Value: $1,209,376
- 2015 Home Value: $1,021,900
- 2010 Home Value: $894,323
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 77.51%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: 110.07%
- % Change 2010 to 2025: 140.04%
About Sea Girt
In Sea Girt, the median home price of $2,146,749 demonstrates exceptional investment performance with 77.51% appreciation over five years. Property values have more than doubled since 2015 with remarkable 110.07% gains, while the 140.04% total return since 2010 ranks among the best in the state. This military beach town offers unique character with pristine beaches and historic charm that commands premium pricing. Strong market fundamentals including limited development, military heritage, and proximity to Manasquan support continued appreciation and rental income potential.
7. Bay Head
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $2,152,570
- 2020 Home Value: $1,372,612
- 2015 Home Value: $1,161,689
- 2010 Home Value: $1,122,372
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 56.82%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: 85.30%
- % Change 2010 to 2025: 91.79%
About Bay Head
In Bay Head, the median home price of $2,152,570 represents solid wealth building with 56.82% appreciation in five years. The market has delivered strong returns of 85.30% since 2015 and nearly doubled since 2010 with 91.79% total gains. This historic Victorian seaside community attracts discerning buyers seeking authentic shore character combined with modern amenities. Limited inventory, strict architectural guidelines, and proximity to Point Pleasant create natural supply constraints that support premium valuations and stable investment returns.
6. Short Hills
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $2,175,609
- 2020 Home Value: $1,382,814
- 2015 Home Value: $1,449,417
- 2010 Home Value: $1,215,731
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 57.33%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: 50.10%
- % Change 2010 to 2025: 78.95%
About Short Hills
In Short Hills, the median home price of $2,175,609 reflects consistent market strength with 57.33% appreciation over five years. This Essex County enclave has delivered steady growth of 50.10% since 2015 and solid 78.95% returns since 2010. The market benefits from exceptional schools, direct Manhattan train access, and corporate executive demand creating stable investment fundamentals. Lower volatility compared to coastal markets combined with strong rental potential makes it attractive for conservative investors seeking reliable appreciation in New Jersey’s premier suburban market.
5. Stone Harbor
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $2,367,776
- 2020 Home Value: $1,372,286
- 2015 Home Value: $1,028,110
- 2010 Home Value: $949,603
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 72.54%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: 130.30%
- % Change 2010 to 2025: 149.34%
About Stone Harbor
In Stone Harbor, the median home price of $2,367,776 showcases extraordinary growth with 72.54% appreciation in five years. Property values have more than doubled since 2015 with spectacular 130.30% gains, while the 149.34% total return since 2010 demonstrates exceptional investment performance. This Seven Mile Island destination commands premium prices for its pristine beaches, upscale amenities, and family-friendly atmosphere. Strong seasonal rental demand combined with rapid appreciation creates compelling investment opportunities for both cash flow and capital gains strategies.
4. Avalon
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $2,534,463
- 2020 Home Value: $1,508,499
- 2015 Home Value: $1,095,180
- 2010 Home Value: $869,324
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 68.01%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: 131.42%
- % Change 2010 to 2025: 191.54%
About Avalon
In Avalon, the median home price of $2,534,463 represents phenomenal investment success with 68.01% appreciation over five years. The market has delivered exceptional 131.42% returns since 2015 and nearly tripled in value since 2010 with remarkable 191.54% total gains. This “Cooler by a Mile” destination attracts affluent families seeking pristine beaches and sophisticated amenities, driving sustained demand and price appreciation. Strong rental yields during peak season combined with spectacular capital gains make Avalon one of New Jersey’s most compelling luxury real estate investments.
3. Loch Arbour
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $2,819,287
- 2020 Home Value: $1,234,167
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 128.44%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: N/A
- % Change 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Loch Arbour
In Loch Arbour, the median home price of $2,819,287 showcases explosive growth with an astounding 128.44% appreciation in just five years. This small enclave has more than doubled in value since 2020, representing one of the most dramatic price appreciations in the state. Limited historical data suggests recent market transformation as sophisticated buyers discover this hidden gem adjacent to Asbury Park’s cultural renaissance. The extraordinary appreciation reflects the community’s transformation, limited inventory, and strategic positioning in Monmouth County’s luxury coastal market.
2. Alpine
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $2,833,067
- 2020 Home Value: $2,023,680
- 2015 Home Value: $2,205,272
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 40.00%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: 28.47%
- % Change 2010 to 2025: N/A
About Alpine
In Alpine, the median home price of $2,833,067 reflects steady appreciation with 40.00% growth over five years. This Bergen County borough offers conservative but reliable returns with 28.47% gains since 2015, appealing to ultra-high-net-worth individuals seeking stability. The market caters to celebrities, business leaders, and international buyers with sprawling estates, privacy, and Manhattan proximity creating unique investment appeal. Lower volatility compared to coastal markets makes it ideal for wealth preservation while maintaining exposure to New Jersey’s most exclusive residential market.
1. Deal
Historic home prices and percent change over time:
- 2025 Home Value: $3,884,550
- 2020 Home Value: $1,992,820
- 2015 Home Value: $1,399,936
- 2010 Home Value: $1,546,319
- % Change 2020 to 2025: 94.93%
- % Change 2015 to 2025: 177.48%
- % Change 2010 to 2025: 151.21%
About Deal
In Deal, the median home price of $3,884,550 represents the pinnacle of New Jersey luxury real estate with extraordinary 94.93% appreciation in five years. Property values have nearly tripled since 2015 with spectacular 177.48% gains, while the 151.21% return since 2010 demonstrates sustained investment excellence. This Orthodox Jewish enclave commands the state’s highest prices through limited inventory, religious community appeal, and oceanfront prestige. Strong cultural ties, multi-generational wealth transfer, and international buyer interest create unique market dynamics supporting continued premium pricing and exceptional investment returns.
