Welcome back to part two of my series on the top towns in Monmouth County, New Jersey! In part one, we explored some of the best cities in northern Monmouth County. Now, we’re heading west to discover what makes Marlboro Township, Manalapan, Freehold, and Millstone some of the region’s most desirable places to live.   The way I broke down the map, there are 9 towns or municipalities I am referring to in the western section.  But if you look closely, you’ll notice there are municipalities located within municipalities, so it can get confusing. I wrote a short blog article explaining what that means, and I’ll leave a link to it in the description box below!  So, let’s peek at some of the desirable towns in the western portion of Monmouth County.  These are in no particular order, so let’s get started.  Up first.

Marlboro Township

Marlboro Township, my hometown, is a fabulous town in western Monmouth County. Known for its stunning real estate, excellent schools, location, and suburban charm, Marlboro offers something for almost everyone. Spanning approximately 30 square miles and home to around 40,000 residents, it perfectly balances rural and suburban life.

Real Estate & Lifestyle: Marlboro has various housing options, from spacious single-family homes to upscale townhouses. The real estate market leans toward the higher end, with the median home price around $750,000. But for that, you get larger lot sizes, quiet streets, and proximity to parks, shopping, and top-rated schools. Marlboro’s school system consistently ranks among the best in New Jersey, which is a major draw for families.

Manalapan Township

Just south of Marlboro is Manalapan Township, another sought-after area in Monmouth County. Manalapan offers a beautiful community, excellent schools, and a growing real estate market, making it a top choice for families.

Real Estate & Lifestyle: Manalapan has a diverse range of homes, from luxury properties to more affordable single-family homes and townhouses. The median home price hovers around $650,000, but you can find many options to suit different budgets. Many homes in Manalapan offer generous lot sizes and access to beautiful parks and recreational areas. 

Schools & Community: Manalapan’s school system is another major family draw. It consistently earns high marks for academic excellence. The town is also known for its active community involvement, with many events, sports leagues, and local activities throughout the year.

Shopping & Dining: Residents enjoy a variety of shopping centers and dining options. Freehold Raceway Mall is just a short drive away, offering many stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Manalapan also boasts several parks and outdoor spaces, perfect for family outings and recreational activities.

Commuting: Like Marlboro, Manalapan offers convenient commuting options. It’s located near major highways, including Route 9 and Route 33, making traveling to New York City, northern New Jersey, or the Jersey Shore easy.

Freehold Township

Freehold Township is often considered the heart of Monmouth County. It offers a mix of historical charm and modern convenience. With a population of around 35,000, Freehold combines suburban living with a vibrant downtown area, making it a dynamic place to live.

Real Estate & Lifestyle: The median home price in Freehold is $600,000, making it more affordable than Marlboro and Manalapan. The real estate market here offers a blend of older, charming homes near downtown and newer developments in the outer areas. Freehold has various housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and 55+ communities.

Historic Downtown: Freehold’s historic downtown area is a highlight, offering residents a unique shopping and dining experience. Main Street is lined with locally-owned shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a lively spot to visit. Freehold is also home to the famous Freehold Raceway Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in New Jersey, offering everything from big-name retailers to entertainment options.

Recreation: For outdoor activities, residents can easily access parks like Michael J. Tighe Park, offering sports fields, walking trails, and playgrounds. In the summer, Freehold hosts various community events, including free concerts and festivals, making it a great place for families to enjoy the outdoors.

Commuting: Freehold is centrally located with access to major highways like Route 9 and Route 33, providing convenient commuting options to New York City, northern New Jersey, and the Jersey Shore.

Millstone Township

Millstone Township is perfect for those seeking a more rural and serene environment. Located in the westernmost part of Monmouth County, Millstone offers a peaceful, country-like atmosphere while still being close enough to enjoy modern conveniences.

Real Estate & Lifestyle: The real estate in Millstone is known for its large lot sizes and stunning landscapes. Homes here typically sit on multi-acre properties, offering privacy and tranquility. The median home price in Millstone is around $850,000, with a mix of luxury homes, equestrian properties, and more traditional single-family residences.

Rural Charm: Millstone’s rural setting is ideal for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of suburban life. The township is surrounded by farms, horse properties, and preserved open spaces, giving it a unique charm compared to the more developed towns in the area. If you’re looking for space and nature, Millstone is the perfect spot.

Recreation & Schools: Residents enjoy access to several parks, including the stunning Perrineville Lake Park, ideal for hiking, fishing, and nature walks. The school system in Millstone is highly rated, with small class sizes and a focus on individual student success, making it attractive for families.

Commuting: While Millstone offers a more rural lifestyle, it’s still conveniently located near major highways, including I-195 and the New Jersey Turnpike, making commuting to northern New Jersey or Philadelphia manageable.

Final Thoughts

Whether looking for a suburban lifestyle with top-notch schools, convenient commuting, or a more rural setting with large properties and natural beauty, western Monmouth County has something for everyone. Marlboro, Manalapan, Freehold, and Millstone each offer unique charm and lifestyle options, making them top choices for anyone considering moving to Monmouth County. Feel free to reach out if you want to learn more about these towns or need help finding your dream home!

Stay tuned for part three of this series, where we’ll explore some of the top towns in southern Monmouth County.