New Jersey is often known for its big cities in the shadow of New York City, like Jersey City and Hoboken. But the “Garden State,” is home to green forests, nature preserves, rivers, and blue lakes. So if you’re looking for a slice of nature amidst New Jersey’s cities, look no further than the state’s lake towns.
In this Redfin article, we’ll highlight seven of the best lakes in New Jersey to live on this year. From the bustling Farrington Lake to the quaint, picturesque settings of Lake Hopatcong and Greenwood Lake, there’s a lake town for everyone. Let’s jump on and see what lakes made the list.
1. Farrington Lake (North Brunswick)
Nearest city: North Brunswick, NJ
Population: 43,000
Homes for sale in North Brunswick, NJ
Apartments for rent in North Brunswick, NJ
Farrington Lake is in the heart of North Brunswick, a vibrant community with a population of 43,000. This serene lake offers residents a peaceful retreat with opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and scenic walks along its shores. The lake is surrounded by lush parks, including Babbage Park and Renaissance Park, providing ample green space for picnics, sports, and outdoor activities. North Brunswick has a rich history and a variety of shopping and dining options, making it a great lake in New Jersey to live on.
2. Greenwood Lake (West Milford)
Nearest city: West Milford, NJ
Population: 25,000
Homes for sale in West Milford, NJ
Apartments for rent in West Milford, NJ
Greenwood Lake stretches from New Jersey into New York, so it’s an awesome choice for residents of both states. Located in West Milford, Greenwood Lake offers a picturesque setting that’s perfect for water sports, fishing, and leisurely boat rides. This lake is a hub of activity during the summer months, with residents and visitors enjoying its clear waters and scenic beauty. West Milford is also has outdoor attractions, including the nearby Apshawa Preserve and Wawayanda State Park, which offer hiking trails and stunning views. The town provides a cozy, small-town atmosphere with local eateries and shops that cater to everyone.
3. Lake Hopatcong (Hopatcong)
Nearest city: Hopatcong, NJ
Median home sale price: $379,000
Population: 14,000
Homes for sale in Hopatcong, NJ
Apartments for rent in Hopatcong, NJ
Lake Hopatcong is New Jersey’s largest freshwater body and has a wide range of activities from boating to fishing, and watersports and swimming. The lake’s vibrant community enjoys access to several parks and recreational areas, like Hopatcong State Park, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Along the lake’s western side is the town of Hopatcong, a great town to live in. With its 14,000 residents, Hopatcong is a close-knit community with local events and activities throughout the year.
4. Lake Mohawk (Sparta)
Nearest city: Sparta, NJ
Population: 19,000
Homes for sale in Sparta, NJ
Apartments for rent in Sparta, NJ
Lake Mohawk in Sparta is a private lake community that epitomizes lakeside living with its beautiful homes, boardwalk, and plaza. This area is renowned for its clear waters, boating, and luxury country club. Sparta, with a population of 19,000, surrounds the lake, offering a peaceful and scenic environment. The town is also home to several parks and nature preserves, providing plenty of outdoor activities for residents. The area around Lake Mohawk has charming castle-like properties, built to resemble a Swiss-Alpine village. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind lake town in New Jersey, then check out Lake Mohawk.
5. Manasquan Reservoir (Howell Township)
Nearest city: Howell Township, NJ
Population: 53,000
Homes for sale in Howell Township, NJ
Manasquan Reservoir is located in Howell Township and provides both the town’s water supply and a place for recreation and wildlife observation. The Manasquan Reservoir Visitor Center provides educational programs, making it a great spot to learn about the region. Howell Township, with its 53,000 residents, offers a blend of suburban living and access to natural beauty.
6. Round Valley Reservoir (Lebanon)
Nearest city: Lebanon, NJ
Median home sale price: $377,500
Population: 1,600
Homes for sale in Lebanon, NJ
Apartments for rent in Lebanon, NJ
Round Valley Reservoir is a man-made lake, known for its crystal-clear waters, so it’s great for fishing, swimming, and scuba diving. The reservoir is surrounded by Round Valley Recreation Area, which has great places for camping and hiking. The nearest town is Lebanon, home to just about 1,600 residents, which provides a quaint, close-knit community atmosphere. The lake is close to Cushetunk Mountain Preserve, another great spot for enjoying nature, and is close to Lebanon’s charming downtown area. If you’re looking for lakes in New Jersey to live on, be sure to check out Round Valley Reservoir.
7. Spruce Run Reservoir (Clinton)
Nearest city: Clinton, NJ
Median home sale price: $491,000
Population: 2,300
Homes for sale in Clinton, NJ
Apartments for rent in Clinton, NJ
Taking the final spot on our list of lakes in New Jersey to live on is Spruce Run Reservoir. Situated in Clinton, Spruce Run Reservoir is perfect for outdoor lovers as you can boat, fish, and picnic. The reservoir is adjacent to Spruce Run Recreation Area, which is popular for its vast open spaces and water activities. Clinton has a population of 2,300 and is known for its historic downtown, charming shops, and community events. The town’s proximity to Spruce Run Reservoir adds to its appeal, providing residents with a scenic backdrop and plenty of recreational activities right in their backyard.
Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the lakes in New Jersey. Median home sale price data is sourced from the Redfin Data Center during August 2024. Average rental data from Rent.com August 2024. Population data is sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
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