Thinking about moving to Monmouth County, New Jersey? Before you fall in love with a beautiful kitchen, a backyard, or a neighborhood, there are a few things you should know about what it's really like to live here.
Monmouth County offers a mix of Jersey Shore living, suburban neighborhoods, walkable downtowns, rural properties, restaurants, parks, and access to New York City. But choosing the right town matters just as much as choosing the right house. Property taxes, traffic, commuting, walkability, and everyday lifestyle can vary considerably depending on where you live.
I'm Cori Dunphy, a longtime New Jersey Realtor and Marlboro Township resident. I've spent more than 25 years helping buyers and sellers navigate the local real estate market, and one thing I've learned is that the people who are happiest with their move aren't necessarily the ones who bought the biggest house.
They're the ones who found the community that matched the life they wanted.
So, let's talk about what nobody tells you before moving to Monmouth County, NJ — the good, the challenges, and the things you really need to consider.
1. Monmouth County Is Not One Lifestyle — It's Dozens of Different Ones
One of the biggest misconceptions about Monmouth County is that it's simply one large suburban area.
It isn't. Not even close.
Depending on where you live, your everyday surroundings might include beaches, busy downtowns, quiet residential neighborhoods, horse farms, wooded properties, or waterfront communities.
That's one of the things I love most about living here. You have options!
What are the best Monmouth County towns for beach living?
If you dream of spending evenings by the ocean, walking along a boardwalk, or having dinner near the water, some of the shore towns worth exploring include:
Asbury Park: Known for its boardwalk, music scene, restaurants, and lively downtown atmosphere.
Long Branch: Offers oceanfront living, beaches, dining, and shopping around Pier Village.
Belmar: A popular beach community with restaurants, recreation, and a lively summer atmosphere.
Spring Lake: Known for its beautiful residential streets, beaches, and charming downtown.
Sea Girt: A smaller coastal community with a quieter residential character.
These towns may share the same coastline, but they don't all offer the same lifestyle.
Which Monmouth County towns offer suburban living?
If you're looking for residential neighborhoods, shopping, recreation, and a more traditional suburban setting, consider exploring Marlboro, Manalapan, Holmdel, Middletown, and Freehold Township.
Each has its own housing options, neighborhoods, school districts, commuting considerations, and local amenities.
For example, living in Marlboro can feel quite different from living in Middletown, even though both are in Monmouth County.
Where can you find larger properties and a rural atmosphere?
If you're dreaming of more land, larger properties, horse farms, and a quieter setting, Colts Neck is a town worth exploring.
Which Monmouth County towns have walkable downtowns?
If you want to grab coffee, walk to dinner, browse shops, and enjoy a lively downtown atmosphere, Red Bank and Freehold Borough are excellent places to start your search.
My advice: Don't begin by asking, "What's the best town in Monmouth County?"
Instead, ask, "What kind of lifestyle do I want?"
Because there isn't one perfect town for everyone.
There's the town that's the best fit for you.
2. Living Near the Jersey Shore Changes Your Everyday Lifestyle
One of the biggest benefits of living in Monmouth County is access to the Jersey Shore.
When you live farther away, going to the beach can feel like a major event. You pack the car, plan the day, and turn it into an entire trip.
When you live in Monmouth County, depending on your location, the beach can become a regular part of your routine.
Maybe it's an afternoon at the ocean, an evening walk along the boardwalk, dinner with friends near the water, or simply enjoying the coastal atmosphere.
And here's something people don't always realize: You don't necessarily have to live directly on the beach to enjoy the Jersey Shore lifestyle.
Many inland Monmouth County communities provide access to shore destinations while offering a different type of housing and neighborhood environment.
Of course, beach traffic, parking, and seasonal crowds are important considerations, especially during the summer.
But for many residents, having the Jersey Shore nearby is one of the biggest reasons they love calling Monmouth County home.
3. There Is Much More to Do in Monmouth County Than Go to the Beach
People often associate Monmouth County with summer vacations and the Jersey Shore.
But one of the things that surprises newcomers is how much there is to do throughout the year.
What is there to do in Monmouth County, NJ?
Depending on the season, you can enjoy local festivals, farmers markets, outdoor concerts, parks, restaurants, shopping, farm markets, holiday events, and community activities.
During warmer months, local downtowns and parks often host outdoor dining, markets, and community gatherings.
In the fall, residents visit farms and orchards for apple picking, pumpkin patches, fresh cider, and seasonal treats.
And when the holidays arrive, many downtowns and local businesses celebrate with decorations, shopping events, and community traditions.
One of my longtime favorites is Delicious Orchards in Colts Neck, which I'll tell you more about later in this article.
Here's what I find interesting.
People often move to Monmouth County because they're looking for a particular house, school district, or commute.
Then they discover that what makes them stay is the community and the lifestyle.
4. Property Taxes Are an Important Part of Living in Monmouth County
Let's talk about something nearly every buyer asks me about.
New Jersey property taxes.
Yes, property taxes can be a significant expense, and Monmouth County is no exception.
But one of the biggest mistakes buyers make is comparing homes based only on the purchase price without looking carefully at the property taxes.
Are property taxes high in Monmouth County, NJ?
Property taxes vary by municipality and property. The amount you pay depends on the property's assessed value and applicable tax rates.
Two homes with similar asking prices may have very different annual tax bills.
That's why I always encourage buyers to consider the total monthly cost of homeownership, including mortgage payments, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and any applicable association fees.
Are Monmouth County property taxes worth it?
That's a personal decision, and it depends on what matters most to you.
Many buyers value access to local schools, parks, libraries, recreation programs, shopping, healthcare, and community amenities.
However, those services and amenities vary by town, and a higher tax bill doesn't automatically mean a particular home is the right choice.
The key is understanding both the cost of owning the property and the lifestyle you'll have in that community.
My advice: Don't choose a home based solely on the lowest property taxes. Look at the entire picture and make sure the ongoing expenses fit comfortably within your budget.
5. Traffic and Commuting Can Make a Big Difference in Where You Live
Now let's discuss another question I hear constantly.
"How bad is the traffic in Monmouth County?"
The answer?
It depends on where you live, where you're going, and what time you're traveling.
Is traffic bad in Monmouth County, NJ?
Certain roads can experience significant congestion, particularly during rush hour and busy travel periods.
Some of the major roads buyers should become familiar with include:
Route 9: An important north-south corridor serving communities such as Marlboro, Manalapan, and Freehold.
Garden State Parkway: A major route for commuting and traveling throughout New Jersey.
Route 18: Another important roadway connecting parts of Monmouth County and surrounding areas.
And if you've ever driven Route 9 during rush hour, you know exactly what I'm talking about!
Residents often learn alternate routes and adjust their schedules, but traffic is still something you should consider before choosing a home.
Can you commute from Monmouth County to New York City?
Yes. Depending on where you live and where you work, commuting options may include NJ Transit rail service, commuter buses, driving, and ferry service from certain locations.
For example, the Aberdeen-Matawan, Middletown, and Red Bank train stations are worth researching if rail commuting is part of your plan.
But here's something I always tell buyers:
Don't assume that two towns in Monmouth County offer the same commute.
A home's proximity to a train station, bus route, highway, or ferry terminal can make a meaningful difference in your daily routine.
Before buying, test your commute during the hours you'll actually be traveling.
A beautiful house won't feel quite as wonderful if you're spending more time in traffic than you expected.
6. You'll Quickly Develop Strong Opinions About Restaurants
Here's something nobody warns you about when moving to Monmouth County.
You're going to become very opinionated about food!
Everyone has a favorite pizza place.
A favorite bagel shop.
A favorite Italian restaurant.
A favorite breakfast spot.
Ask five locals where to get the best slice of pizza, and you'll probably get five different answers.
And that's part of the fun!
Monmouth County has a wonderful mix of locally owned restaurants, neighborhood favorites, casual dining, and special-occasion destinations.
Whether you're grabbing breakfast after the gym, meeting friends for lunch, or heading out for dinner, exploring the local restaurant scene can become part of your routine.
And over time, those routines help turn a new place into home.
You find your favorite coffee shop.
You start recognizing familiar faces.
You discover restaurants you want to bring visiting friends and family to.
Those little things matter more than people realize.
7. The Best Town in Monmouth County Depends on Your Lifestyle
This might be the most important thing I can tell anyone considering a move to Monmouth County.
Don't just shop for a house. Shop for your life.
Think about your everyday routine.
Where will you get coffee? Where will you walk your dog? Where will you shop for groceries? Where will you meet friends for dinner? What will your commute look like? How close do you want to be to the beach?
Those questions are just as important as the number of bedrooms or the size of the kitchen.
How do you choose the right Monmouth County town?
Start by identifying your biggest priorities.
| If you want... | Towns worth exploring |
|---|---|
| Jersey Shore lifestyle | Asbury Park, Long Branch, Belmar, Spring Lake, Sea Girt |
| Traditional suburban neighborhoods | Marlboro, Manalapan, Holmdel, Freehold Township |
| Walkable downtown atmosphere | Red Bank, Freehold Borough |
| Larger properties and rural surroundings | Colts Neck |
| Access to rail commuting | Aberdeen, Matawan, Middletown, Red Bank |
| A variety of residential and waterfront settings | Middletown |
These are starting points, not guarantees that every neighborhood within a town will offer the same experience.
Once you've narrowed your options, spend time exploring the actual neighborhoods.
Drive through during different times of day. Visit the downtown. Check the commute. Look at nearby shopping, parks, and everyday conveniences.
Because the right house in the wrong location can quickly become the wrong decision.
Cori's Pick of the Week: The Rum Runner in Sea Bright, NJ
One of my favorite things about living in Monmouth County is discovering all the incredible local restaurants, especially the ones with beautiful waterfront views.
And this week's pick is one of my favorites — The Rum Runner in Sea Bright, New Jersey!
Located right along the Shrewsbury River, The Rum Runner is one of those places that reminds you why living near the Jersey Shore is so special.
With indoor and outdoor dining, beautiful waterfront views, and a wonderful coastal atmosphere, it's a great spot to meet friends, enjoy dinner, or simply relax with a drink while watching the boats go by.
And here's a little local history: The Rum Runner was rebuilt after Superstorm Sandy, making it part of Sea Bright's story of recovery and resilience.
Whether you've lived in Monmouth County for years or you're just getting to know the area, The Rum Runner is definitely worth adding to your list.
That's Cori's Pick of the Week — just one more reason I love living here in Monmouth County!
Location: 816 Ocean Avenue, Sea Bright, NJ 07760
Website: https://mcloonesrumrunner.com/
And if you already live in Monmouth County, tell me — what's your favorite local restaurant or hidden gem? I might feature it in an upcoming Cori's Pick of the Week!
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Monmouth County, NJ
Is Monmouth County, NJ, a good place to live?
Monmouth County can be a great place to live for people who value a combination of suburban communities, coastal recreation, local downtowns, parks, restaurants, and transportation options. Whether it's the right fit depends on your budget, commute, housing preferences, and desired lifestyle.
What are the best towns to live in Monmouth County, NJ?
There isn't one best town for everyone. Marlboro, Manalapan, Holmdel, Middletown, and Freehold Township are worth exploring for suburban living. Red Bank and Freehold Borough offer walkable downtown areas, while Asbury Park, Long Branch, Belmar, Spring Lake, and Sea Girt appeal to buyers interested in coastal communities.
Is Monmouth County expensive to live in?
Housing prices, property taxes, insurance, and everyday expenses can make Monmouth County relatively expensive, depending on the town and property. Costs vary considerably, so buyers should compare the full cost of homeownership rather than looking only at asking prices.
How far is Monmouth County from New York City?
Distance and travel time depend on your starting town, destination in New York City, transportation method, and traffic or transit conditions. Some communities offer access to trains, buses, and ferries, while others are more car-dependent.
Can you live in Monmouth County and commute to NYC?
Yes. Many residents commute to New York City using rail, buses, ferries, or personal vehicles. The most practical option depends on your exact neighborhood and workplace, so researching the commute before purchasing is essential.
What is the difference between living near the Jersey Shore and living inland in Monmouth County?
Shore communities may provide closer access to beaches, boardwalks, waterfront dining, and coastal recreation, but can also experience seasonal crowds and parking challenges. Inland communities often offer different neighborhood settings, property types, and daily commuting patterns.
Is Marlboro Township a good place to live in Monmouth County?
Marlboro Township is worth considering for buyers looking for a suburban community with residential neighborhoods, shopping, recreation, and access to major roadways. As with any town, it's important to evaluate individual neighborhoods, home prices, property taxes, and commuting needs.
What should I know before buying a home in Monmouth County?
Research property taxes, total monthly housing costs, commute times, school district boundaries if relevant, neighborhood characteristics, transportation options, and access to the amenities you use most often. Visiting several towns before making a decision can help you identify the right fit.
Thinking About Moving to Monmouth County, NJ? Let's Talk!
After more than 25 years helping buyers and sellers throughout New Jersey, I've learned that finding the right community is every bit as important as finding the right home.
And that's why I love helping people discover everything Monmouth County has to offer.
Whether you're relocating from New York, moving from another part of New Jersey, downsizing, looking for a larger home, or simply exploring your options, I'd love to help you narrow down the towns and neighborhoods that make the most sense for your lifestyle.
You don't have to figure it all out on your own.
I'm Cori Dunphy, a full-time REALTOR® with RE/MAX Central and a Marlboro Township resident.
If you have questions about living in Marlboro, Manalapan, Holmdel, Colts Neck, Freehold, Middletown, Red Bank, or anywhere else in Monmouth County, reach out anytime.
Let's find the community that feels like home.
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About Cori Dunphy
Hi, I’m Cori Dunphy — a lifelong Monmouth County resident, Marlboro homeowner, and full-time REALTOR® with RE/MAX Central.
For more than 25 years, I’ve helped buyers and sellers throughout Monmouth, Middlesex, and Ocean Counties navigate one of life’s biggest decisions with confidence. Whether you’re purchasing your very first home, relocating to New Jersey, moving into a 55+ community, upgrading to your forever home, or preparing to sell, my goal is simple: to give you honest advice, expert guidance, and the local knowledge you won’t find on a national real estate website.
I created this website to be more than just a place to search for homes. It’s a growing resource filled with neighborhood guides, local market updates, buyer and seller tips, community spotlights, and everything you need to make informed real estate decisions right here in Monmouth County.
If you’re still researching, keep exploring. If you’re ready to make your move, I’d be honored to help.
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Real estate is about so much more than contracts and closing dates—it’s about finding the place where your next chapter begins.
Whether you’re ready to buy next week, sell next year, or you’re simply looking for honest answers from someone who truly knows Monmouth County, I’m here whenever you need me.
I look forward to helping you make your next move your best move.
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