The Hidden Gems of New Jersey’s Elite Neighborhoods

Alpine: The crown jewel of Bergen County

Tucked discreetly away in Bergen County is one town that often comes to people’s minds when talking about New Jersey’s most prestigious enclaves. Alpine is widely regarded as one of the most exclusive zip codes in the United States – and it’s got none other than Forbes to prove it! Back in 2012, Forbes ranked Alpine as the 4th most exclusive zip code in the US – the average price of a home in Alpine cost upwards of $4.25 million. Although its status has gone down considerably since then, celebrities, business moguls, and influencers alike call this picturesque town home, and what’s not to love, when they enjoy the privacy and luxury it affords?

New Jersey Monthly has also ranked it as one of the best places to live in New Jersey, and it has remained consistent – see this article from The New York Post released in October of 2024! Properties in Alpine often feature indoor pools, perfect for year-round relaxation, and home theaters that rival the best cinemas. Aside from this, the expansive estates here sit on multiple acres, providing an oasis of peace just a short drive from Manhattan.

What makes Alpine special?

But what are the distinguishing assets of Alpine – what sets it apart from other luxurious neighborhoods out there? We’ve sifted through its plethora of exclusive homes, and here’s what we found:

• Gated mansions with vast landscapes in neighborhoods like Rio Vista Estates, Timberline, The Estates at Alpine, the Rizk Farm, Alpine Heights, Closter Road, and Old Alpine
• Lavish indoor pools with spa-like features (and, more often than not, these indoor pools are also partnered with outdoor pools!)
• Custom-designed private movie theaters with surround sound
• A close proximity to NYC while maintaining its unique exclusivity

Saddle River: the best in tranquil luxury living

Another Bergen County gem that offers close proximity to New York City, Saddle River offers a blend of pastoral beauty – in fact, Saddle River is known for its natural backdrop, and it’s a serene landscape dotted with rivers and forests. But it’s a neighborhood filled with awesome amenities as well - the sprawling estates here boast private docks for residents who own boats, giving them great access to the serene lakes and rivers. Some may not be aware of this, but Saddle River has a minimum zoning requirement consisting of at least 2 acres for homes, which adds to its appeal (and hefty price tag). As of 2022, the average home value in Saddle River was $1.9 million, while it was $596K for Bergen County and only $440K for the rest of the state. Moreover, the average price of a home in the whole United States in 2022 was $331K.

So what marks a Saddle River estate? Many homes feature resort-style indoor pools, heated for year-round enjoyment. Additionally, the town’s emphasis on privacy and quiet makes it a haven for executives and high-profile individuals looking to escape the city rush, such as Mary J. Blige, Wyclef Jean, Rosie O’Donnell, and Richard Nixon, who lived here from 1981 to 1991. Interestingly enough, Saddle River is a ‘dry town,’ which means it does not sell any alcohol.

What you’ll find in Saddle River:

• Waterfront estates with private docks, especially along Saddle River itself
• Secluded, gated, contemporary properties with lush landscapes, complemented by farmhouses and chateaus
• A lot of outdoor parks and free attractions and happenings, such as markets and bazaars
• A short drive to NYC yet worlds apart in ambiance

Rumson: coastal elegance on the Jersey Shore

There’s another noteworthy town in New Jersey, in Monmouth County, and it’s perfect for those who crave luxury with an oceanfront view. It has also achieved fame for its illustrious residents, most famous of whom are Jon Bon Jovi and The Boss, Bruce Springsteen. Rumson is THE ultimate beachfront town, and this elite neighborhood is located along the world-famous (or infamous) Jersey Shore. It is known for its historic estates and contemporary mansions, and many of its properties boast private movie theaters, perfect for hosting VIP guests, and indoor pools that provide the ultimate relaxation experience.

But aside from the usual property amenities, the homes in Rumson boast private docks – they are a major attraction for yacht owners who want direct access to the water. If you love fishing, you’ll love it in Rumson, too – it’s a place where anglers congregate, and it has amazing biking and hiking trails as well.

Why Rumson stands out:

• It has a plethora of stunning waterfront homes with private docks
• Indoor-outdoor luxury living spaces, including rivers, lots of parks, beaches, hiking trails, and biking paths. Residents can also join private beach clubs and country clubs
• An exclusive, small-town feel with easy access to New York City

Short Hills: the epitome of suburban sophistication

Short Hills is another town in New Jersey that is synonymous with affluence, and it offers some of the most stunning homes in the state. This small but upscale neighborhood in Essex County (yet it is still part of the Township of Millburn as well) attracts professionals and families who appreciate both privacy and convenience. Needless to say, Short Hills was also ranked by Forbes as one of the top towns around the country with the most exclusive zip code, and the average annual median income in the town is more than $250K. It stands to reason, then, that properties in Short Hills frequently feature custom-built home theaters, temperature-controlled indoor pools, and expansive wine cellars for connoisseurs – and the average price of a luxury home in Short Hills is between $2 to $4.5 million. Along with a top-tier school system and easy access to Manhattan, Short Hills continues to be one of the most desirable places to live in the state, especially with its famous mall, The Mall at Short Hills, and the wonderful Greenwood Gardens.

Luxury living in Short Hills includes:

• Homes with expansive lawns and gardens
• High-tech chef’s kitchens
• Large estates with state-of-the-art security systems
• Proximity to high-end shopping via The Mall at Short Hills and fine dining establishments

Colts Neck: country estate living at its finest

If you're on the lookout for equestrian estates and sprawling properties, look no further than Colts Neck – it’s the ultimate hidden paradise. Also found in Monmouth County, it is known for being one of the highest-income communities, not just in New Jersey, but the rest of the United States. Its open landscapes (it boasts easy access to the Jersey Shore) and luxurious mansions make it prime real estate for buyers, and this elite area is home to residents who appreciate the finer things in life. Because of state ordinances, many of the businesses in Colts Neck are home-grown – but it is still close to malls, movie theaters, and numerous other amenities. Also, many of the estates in Colts Neck feature private theaters, indoor and outdoor pools, and, in some cases, private docks for those with a passion for boating. There are also a lot of parks and coffee shops in Colts Neck, perfect for relaxing and watching the world go by.

What to expect in Colts Neck:

• Expansive estate homes on large plots of land; it is also home to many equestrian farms
• Lots of parks, orchards, vineyards, and niche shops where many can shop and unwind amidst a rural community feel yet convenient enough to be close to malls and theaters
• Access to private golf courses and equestrian facilities

Avalon & Stone Harbor: The Hamptons of New Jersey

Located along the southern Jersey Shore, Avalon and Stone Harbor are often referred to as the Hamptons of New Jersey – and we could certainly understand why! Avalon is actually a mile longer than its sister enclave, Stone Harbor, but these two beachfront enclaves are part of Cape May County and are known for their high-end vacation homes and the most sought-after amenities. The area also has the distinction of having a bird sanctuary and a notable museum (the Stone Harbor Museum). Many of the waterfront properties in both Stone Harbor and Avalon come with private docks, allowing residents to enjoy sailing and yachting without ever leaving their property. There are numerous indoor and outdoor pools in the area, making these beach towns a playground for the elite. But perhaps the biggest draw of them all is the closeness of the South Jersey Shore, which comprises 5 main islands, including not only Avalon & Stone Harbor but also Sea Isle City, Ocean City, Wildwood, and Cape May.

Why Avalon & Stone Harbor are unique:

• Oceanfront estates with breathtaking views and stunning public beaches, it also has numerous salt marshes and back bays
• Homes with private docks ideal for boating enthusiasts
• A bevy of high-end restaurants and casual neighborhood eateries, boutiques, and a laid-back atmosphere and cool vibe

New Jersey’s hidden luxury awaits

As anyone can clearly see, New Jersey’s elite neighborhoods offer a level of luxury and privacy that rivals the most exclusive areas in the country, such as Beverly Hills and Manhattan. Whether you want to get away from it all in an estate in Alpine, get cozy at a waterfront mansion in Rumson with a private dock, or relax at a sprawling Colts Neck property, these hidden gems redefine grandeur and opulence. New Jersey is fast rising to the top of the heap in the real estate market, and people like its nearness to big cities like New York yet relish its small-town appeal. For those who are endlessly fascinated with upscale living (and really, who isn’t?), the Garden State has much more to offer than meets the eye.

New Jersey once again proves to be a treasure trove of possibilities with each of these elite enclaves - whether nestled in the mountains, along the shore, or amid lush forests and rivers - offering a distinct blend of exclusivity and natural beauty. True enough, these neighborhoods cater to a refined lifestyle that few can experience. These hidden gems provide a sense of community, prestige, and unmatched access to top-tier schools, recreational facilities, and cultural experiences. But not only this – they each have their own unique allure, and it is entirely up to you to determine which appeals to you the most. As you explore these premier locations, it becomes evident that the Garden State is not just a commuter’s haven – it’s a sophisticated paradise in its own right.