Moving to Colts Neck, NJ: Is Colts Neck a Good Place to Live? (2024)

Nestled in the heart of Monmouth County, Colts Neck, New Jersey, is more than just another town on the map — it captures upscale rural living with a delightful blend of sprawling horse farms, charming orchards, and luxury homes. Often overshadowed by its more popular neighbors, this community offers a tranquil retreat from the frenetic pace of city life without compromising on modern conveniences. Colts Neck presents an inviting landscape brimming with real estate opportunities, serene vistas, and an unparalleled quality of life for those considering a move to the Garden State.

9 Reasons to Move to Colts Neck

• Beautiful homes
• Spacious lots
• Equestrian culture and lifestyle
• Ample parks and green space
• Multiple golf courses
• Local restaurant and shopping scene
• Access to New York City/Northern NJ employment
• Convenient to Garden State Parkway
• Close to some of the best beaches in New Jersey

Cost of Living in Colts Neck

Colts Neck is known as one of Central New Jersey's top places to live, and the cost of living reflects this desirability. As one of the most expensive towns in Monmouth County, Colts Neck's higher prices are mainly linked to the cost of housing in this private, high-end community, which can be nearly three times as expensive as the national average and more than twice the average New Jersey home.

Homes for sale in Colts Neck average $1 million in price, with rentals generally ranging from approximately $3,000 per month to nearly $5,000. Property tax rates are set at 1.661, slightly below average for Monmouth County. Utilities, including heating and cooling, cost similarly to many other parts of the country, though slightly below the rest of the Garden State.

Outside of housing, the cost of living in Colts Neck falls in a more typical range. Grocery prices are slightly elevated relative to the rest of the state and the nation. However, residents pay less than other New Jerseyans for transportation. Healthcare spending is about average compared to statewide and national numbers. In other areas, Colts Neck homeowners can also expect to pay close to statewide averages or slightly more, reflecting the affluent character of many local businesses.

Colts Neck Job Market

Colts Neck and Monmouth County's economy is strong, with an unemployment rate lower than the state and national averages. As Colts Neck is a primarily residential community, most residents work in nearby areas, ranging from New York City to Philadelphia, as well as prominent New Jersey cities like Trenton, New Brunswick, and Toms River. Monmouth County also offers a diverse local economy, with large employers ranging from AIG American General to New Jersey Resources Corporation.

Educational institutions are also a significant source of jobs, from Monmouth County's public school system to the private, four-year Monmouth University. Additionally, Colts Neck is home to a notable company within its borders, Laird & Company, the nation's largest producer of the historic liquor known as applejack. However, the dense nature of central and northern New Jersey means there's a nearly limitless number of options for those willing to drive to nearby cities and towns.

Popular Industries in the Area

It may come as no surprise, but Colts Neck is known for its concentration of horse farms and other equestrian centers and facilities. Nurseries and orchards are also critical to this near-rural, semi-agricultural area.

Central New Jersey has become a regional hub for healthcare and technology in recent decades, including numerous pharmaceutical and telecommunication companies. Meanwhile, various jobs, from finance to law to real estate, are available throughout the region and stretching into the major cities nearby. Tourism related to the Jersey Shore and other nearby attractions supports a vibrant hospitality and restaurant industry and extensive retail jobs from basic to luxury.

Things to Do in Colts Neck

Despite its smaller size, there's certainly no shortage of things to keep Colts Neck residents occupied, whether they're exploring the outdoors or prefer grabbing a great meal or drink.

Outdoor Activities

The gorgeous natural landscapes surrounding Colts Neck provide some of the town's best things to do. The city is home to Dorbrook Recreation Area, which contains over 500 acres of green space, sports facilities, a swimming pool, walking trails, and more. Historic Thompson Park is just over the border in Lincroft, which houses a creative arts center and dog park. Additionally, residents are less than half an hour from top New Jersey beaches like those in the city of Long Branch, the township of Belmar, and the city of Asbury Park, the latter of which includes a thriving boardwalk with extensive dining and entertainment options just steps from the water. Golfers shouldn't miss out on the four golf courses in Colts Neck, including the public Hominy Hill.

Local Attractions

Shoppers have various choices in Colts Neck, from independent local stores to massive retail centers like the nearby Freehold Raceway Mall. Those looking for a thrill are just 20 miles from the Six Flags Great Adventure and Hurricane Harbor amusem*nt parks, offering a mix of rides, water attractions, and even a safari park. One of the state's best spaces combines learning and fun, the InfoAge Science and History Museums, which calls itself "New Jersey's mini-Smithsonian."

Restaurants & Nightlife

Colts Neck residents have a surprisingly diverse selection of restaurants, nightlife, and other food- and drink-related fun around town. These include the local winery 4JG, which offers tours and tastings and a chance to grab locally brewed beer at Source Farmhouse Brewery. There are also a surprising number of dining options in central Colts Neck, considering the town's relatively rural character, like the casual but classy Huddy's Inn and Orlando Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria. Additionally, residents are just a short drive from the hip, bustling downtown district of Red Bank, which is loaded with restaurants, bars, shops, entertainment venues, and much more.

Colts Neck Climate

Like much of New Jersey and the northeast, Colts Neck enjoys a seasonal climate with distinct springs, summers, falls, and winters. The year starts with its coldest temperatures in January, which can see lows in the 20s. January and February are also the snowiest months of the year in the Colts Neck area, averaging more than six inches of snow each month.

Temperatures rise by late March into the 50s and 60s as rain chances increase. Summer weather peaks in July when highs can reach the mid-80s, along with a relatively high humidity level. Colts Neck enjoys more than 200 sunny days yearly, slightly above the national average.

September sees temperatures begin to fall again through the mid-70s, dropping to the 50s by mid-fall. Overall, the most comfortable conditions for residents and visitors are the months of May, June, and September, which provide comfortable temperatures, lower humidity, and less rain or snowfall. Summer is also a popular time for residents to escape to the nearby Jersey Shore, which offers cooler temperatures and peak amenities around this time.

Traffic in Colts Neck

Within Colts Neck itself, traffic is typically minimal due to the relatively low population and spread-out development. This is notable compared to nearby towns that are more developed and have seen more extensive sprawl and congestion. While most of Colts Neck is serviced by smaller local roads, New Jersey Route 18 crosses the southern part of town, running east to west. On its southern end, this route ends in Wall Township, while the northern terminus merges with Interstate 287 in the township of Piscataway. Along the way, it provides access to major roadways like US Route 9, US Route 1, and the New Jersey Turnpike/Interstate 95.

The Garden State Parkway is also highly convenient to Colts Neck residents, with access less than two miles from the town's eastern border. This major roadway allows quick trips up and down the Jersey Shore, running south of Cape May on the state's southern tip. Residents can reach many shore destinations and nearby towns in 20 to 30 minutes, while New York City and Philadelphia are typically just over an hour.

As with most locations, traffic peaks during the traditional morning and afternoon rush hours, while beach traffic can also add to jams on summer weekends and around holidays.

Alternative Routes

Those looking to avoid the region's more prominent routes have several alternative options. Those traveling north or south can use State Route 34, which runs through the center of Colts Neck, as does County Route 537, which heads east-west. Further east, State Route 35 also runs parallel to much of the Garden State Parkway, providing a free local alternative to the toll road. These routes can help avoid heavily-trafficked main roads, making them ideal rush-hour choices. However, slower speed limits, stoplights, and other considerations of local roads also apply, meaning they may not be faster under average conditions.

Colts Neck Public Transportation

As might be expected of a low-density suburb like Colts Neck, public transportation options are relatively few within the town itself. NJ Transit runs a bus service with stops along County Route 537. This route, designated the 838, goes as far as the Freehold Raceway Mall in the west and downtown Red Bank in the east. Both areas offer connections to other bus routes throughout the state and region.

Red Bank also offers NJ Transit rail service on the North Jersey Coast Line, which travels between New York City's Penn Station and the shore town of Bay Head. Both forms of NJ Transit vary in price depending on the length of a trip, though multi-ride and monthly passes are also available for cheaper per-ride costs.

One of the area's more unique public transit options is also available 15 miles away in the town of Highlands, where locals can hop on the Seastreak Ferry ($28 each way) for a fast, scenic trip to New York City and other seasonal destinations. Meanwhile, those looking to travel in style can hop on a private flight from Monmouth Jet Center, a private airport just over 10 miles south of town.

Additionally, Uber and other ridesharing services operate in the Colts Neck area. However, availability and prices may vary more widely than in larger towns or cities.

Schools in Colts Neck

The Colts Neck Township School System administers public schools in Colts Neck. The organization operates three schools, Conover Road Primary and Elementary Schools and Cedar Drive Middle School, which serve students through 8th grade. Meanwhile, Colts Neck High School (part of the Freehold Regional High School District) offers public education through grade 12.

Those wanting to send their children to private schools also have numerous options. The nearby township of Tinton Falls is home to the Ranney School, serving grades K-12. Two additional private high schools in the area are Trinity Hall and Christian Brothers Academy, the former serving girls, and the latter serving boys. Hillel Yeshiva School in Ocean Township also provides K-12 education.

Higher education is also available in the area. Brookdale Community College offers one of the closest public options, while Monmouth University provides a nearby four-year private college. New Jersey's flagship public university, Rutgers, is just over 20 miles north of Colts Neck.

Colts Neck Welcomes You

Colts Neck, New Jersey, stands out as a prime destination for those seeking a blend of pastoral charm and modern conveniences. Known for its sprawling horse farms, rich history, and tight-knit community spirit, Colts Neck promises a serene living experience just a stone's throw away from the bustling metropolitan areas. The town's dedication to preserving its lush landscapes and its array of upscale homes and amenities positions it as a top choice for potential homeowners. Whether you're searching for a peaceful retreat or an active community atmosphere, Colts Neck, New Jersey, is worth your consideration.