Today we are going to take a deep dive into Monmouth County New Jersey. Monmouth County is located in Central New Jersey with many towns located right along the beautiful New Jersey Shore. There are many amazing things to say about Monmouth County but there are also a few cons about the area as well. Today, I’m going to talk about it all, so let’s get started.
Welcome to Monmouth County New Jersey
Monmouth County NJ
The first thing I want to talk about regarding Monmouth County New Jersey is the location. Monmouth County is obviously in New Jersey and is positioned along the eastern coastline, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east. Monmouth County is conveniently located south of New York City and is easily accessible from Philadelphia. So, if you’re looking for a prime spot in the Garden State with a perfect blend of coastal charm and city proximity, Monmouth County New Jersey is the perfect location!
This leads me to my next Pro about Monmouth County, the commute. Now let’s be honest, I’m sure we all wish we didn’t have to work, and commute, well that’s a whole different type of stress BUT commuting from Monmouth County New Jersey is pretty easy because of the options. New Jersey Transit provides North Jersey Coast Line service to fourteen stations in Monmouth County. They are Matawan, Hazlet Township, Middletown Township, Red Bank, Little Silver, Oceanport, Long Branch, Elberon, Allenhurst, Asbury Park, Bradley Beach, Belmar, Spring Lake, and Manasquan, Bay Head station in Ocean County is the end of the passenger rail line on the North Jersey Coast Line.
Fast Ferry
There is also New York Waterways operating service from Belford to Manhattan’s Pier 11 and the World Financial Center as well as the Sea Streak operating from Highlands and Atlantic Highlands to Pier 11. So if you prefer a ferry, you have options for that as well. There are so many bus stops scattered throughout Monmouth County. I” ‘m not going to list them all, but I’ll leave a link to all of public transportation offered in the description below this video!
Don’t worry I am going to get to the cons about Monmouth County but there are a few more great things I want to mention.
The next BIG pro about Monmouth County New Jersey is the school districts. Monmouth County is home to some incredible schools. According to Niche.com MANY of the schools and entire districts receive B+ and A ratings. Holmdel, Upper Freehold, Freehold Regional, Manasquan, Wall, Matawan / Aberdeen, Rumson, Fairhaven, Little Silver and Marlboro just to name a few consistently receive extremely high ratings when it comes to education.
Here’s an interesting fact I found while researching Education in our area:
New Jersey has the best state education system in the country thanks largely to the high amount of money it spends on its schools, according to a new national ranking. Pretty exciting.
So this next amazing thing about living in Monmouth County seems to be a popular reason so many people choose to call this area home. Can you guess what it is? The Jersey Shore and the beaches! I don’t care what people say, we have some of the most incredible beaches in the country. You do have to pay a fee to get onto the beach during the summer months from Memorial Day to Labor Day, that’ part stinks, but buy a season badge and you’re set to go for the entire summer. Monmouth County has over 20 beaches, and there is a beach for everyone. Some beaches offer things like a boardwalk and amusements while others offer nothing but pure peace. I do have a guide to all the beaches here in Monmouth County and if you’d like to grab a free copy of it, I’ll also link that in the description box below.
Now let’s touch on some of the cons of Monmouth County New Jersey, because no matter what there are always things about an area that are not going to be so great. I want to point these things out because it’s important to know as much as possible if you are thinking of making a move here.
The first con on the list is the congestion. If you have been to New Jersey and specifically our area, you probably noticed quickly that Monmouth County is crowded. Not in fairness, it was always a popular spot in New Jersey but since 2020, more and more people have been leaving New York and settling in Monmouth County.
New Jersey Traffic
Traffic in Monmouth County, NJ can be noticed during rush hours, especially when commuting to and from major cities like New York, Jersey City and even Philadelphia. You may also experience traffic simply by navigating busy shopping centers or some roadways. It’s a common aspect of living in a sought-after location, and while it exists, it’s manageable. Residents often adapt to the flow of traffic and know the best times and routes to take.
I’m going to be honest, traffic in and around the summer and the shore towns, it’s pretty brutal, but those of us who live here, are used to it and we plan accordingly.
Another not-so-great thing about Monmouth County and New Jersey in general, is the home prices. Home prices in Monmouth County can be a bit on the higher side compared to some neighboring areas. The county’s proximity to the coast, excellent schools, and overall quality of life contribute to the demand for real estate, influencing property values. While these factors make it an attractive place to live, the higher cost of living, including property prices, can be considered a drawback for some. However, many find that the investment is worth it for the lifestyle and amenities Monmouth County offers. It’s a balancing act between the initial expense and the long-term benefits of residing in this picturesque part of New Jersey.
Monmouth County and New Jersey overall aren’t known for being budget-friendly. The cost of living, especially home prices, reflects that. Currently, the average home price in Monmouth County is around $750K, trending up 13.7% year-over-year. The median home sold price was $ 635K post-pandemic. The housing market witnessed a significant 20% increase during this period. Although the county offers fantastic opportunities and activities, it’s worth noting that it comes at a cost. The average home price here is notably higher than the national average, standing at $50,000 more, with the country’s average being $374,000. While the higher average salary in the area, often linked to working in Philly or New York, helps residents afford living here, it’s still not the most affordable option. Please keep in mind, there are over 50 municipalities here in Monmouth County. You can find a home under the Median price of $750,000, you just have to understand what prices are in each town!
The final and only other con I can think of regarding Monmouth County New Jersey is Property Taxes.
If the houses are expensive, so are the taxes. Taxes in Monmouth County New Jersey can be a bit hefty, and it’s a factor some might consider a downside. Property taxes, in particular, are a significant part of the financial equation for homeowners. The cost of living is influenced by these taxes, and it’s something to factor into the overall budget. While the county offers various amenities and a high quality of life, the higher tax burden can be a concern for residents looking to manage their expenses effectively. It’s essential to weigh the benefits against the financial considerations when considering Monmouth County as your home.
I can’t help myself, I’m going to give you another Pro of living here in Monmouth County. Activities and Amenities.
Yoga in the Park
Monmouth County New Jersey offers a range of activities and amenities, making it an attractive place to call home. The county’s well-maintained park system offers fantastic outdoor spaces, complemented by beautiful beaches. The area is a shopper’s paradise, featuring a mix of chain stores, charming mom-and-pop shops, and fabulous supermarkets. Additionally, golf enthusiasts can enjoy top-notch courses, while those seeking a quaint experience can explore small downtown areas. With an abundance of options, from recreational activities to diverse shopping and dining scenes, Monmouth County provides a well-rounded and enjoyable lifestyle. There is so much to do and see right here in Monmouth County NJ.
So there you have it. My updated 2024 Pros and Cons of Living in Monmouth County New Jersey. If you have any questions about anything I spoke about or if you are thinking of making the move to Monmouth County, Middlesex, Ocean Counties, or anywhere in the State of New Jersey and you would like my help, just reach out. I have videos on all different things related to Real Estate and New Jersey so please check out a few other videos.
