Welcome to Hunterdon County
Hunterdon County, New Jersey – Community Overview & Real Estate Guide
In western New Jersey along the Delaware River, Hunterdon County blends historic small towns, preserved countryside, and major-market access. From charming boroughs like Flemington (the county seat) and river towns near Lambertville to rolling hills and reservoirs, residents enjoy a low-density, outdoors-forward lifestyle with convenient connections via I-78/US-22/US-202/Route 31 and NJ Transit’s Raritan Valley Line to High Bridge. Signature recreation anchors—Round Valley and Spruce Run—pair with parks and wildlife areas to create year-round appeal for primary homeowners and second-home buyers seeking space without sacrificing access.
Overview of Hunterdon County, NJ
Covering roughly 437 square miles with about 428 square miles of land, the county stretches from the Musconetcong Highlands to the Delaware River. Communities range from rural townships with equestrian properties and wooded lots to walkable downtowns with National Register landmarks (think Clinton’s Red Mill and Flemington’s historic core). Outdoor life revolves around the region’s reservoirs, gorges, and state parks—ideal for boating, hiking, fly-fishing, camping, and dark-sky stargazing—while commuters tap I-78 and the Raritan Valley Line for eastbound travel.
Historic Downtowns Reservoir Recreation Commuter Access (I-78 / RVL)
| Key Facts about Hunterdon County, NJ | |
|---|---|
| Area | ≈ 437.4 sq mi total; ≈ 427.8 sq mi land; ≈ 9.6 sq mi water |
| Founded | 1714 (formed from Burlington County; named for Gov. Robert Hunter) |
| County Seat | Flemington |
| Population (2024 est.) | ~131,700 |
| Signature Parks & Outdoors | Round Valley Recreation Area; Spruce Run Recreation Area; Ken Lockwood Gorge WMA; Voorhees State Park |
| Main Roads & Transit | I-78 / US-22; US-202; NJ-31 & NJ-12; NJ Transit Raritan Valley Line to High Bridge (western terminus) |
From sailing and scuba at Round Valley to trout fishing in the Ken Lockwood Gorge and stargazing at Voorhees State Park’s observatory, Hunterdon offers high-amenity outdoor living with quick regional access—an attractive mix for full-time residents and second-home buyers seeking space, scenery, and historic character.
Location & Connectivity in Hunterdon County, NJ
Hunterdon County sits in western New Jersey along the Delaware River, about an hour from both New York City and Philadelphia. Residents enjoy preserved farmland, historic downtowns like Flemington and Clinton, and easy access to major roads including I-78, US-202, and NJ-31. Its balance of rural beauty and commuter convenience makes it a popular choice for families, professionals, and second-home buyers seeking space without losing proximity to major markets.
Mobility is primarily by car, with NJ Transit’s Raritan Valley Line serving High Bridge and Annandale. Commuters can reach Newark, Hoboken, and NYC with transfers, while regional airports and interstate highways keep the county well connected.
| Connectivity & Transportation — Hunterdon County, NJ | |
|---|---|
| Location Map & Overview | Western New Jersey, bordered by the Delaware River to the west. Hunterdon offers scenic countryside, historic towns, and fast access to New York City, Philadelphia, and central New Jersey via interstates and state highways. |
| Nearby Areas & Communities |
|
| Attractions & Points of Interest |
|
| Public Transport |
|
| Road Access & Highways |
|
| Parking | Free and metered parking in downtown Flemington, Clinton, and Lambertville. State park and recreation areas offer large lots; permit systems may apply for extended use. |
| Walking & Cycling | Trail networks include the Columbia Trail (16.5 miles from High Bridge to Morris County), paths at Round Valley and Spruce Run, and canal towpaths along the Delaware & Raritan Canal near Lambertville. |
| Taxi & Ride Apps | Uber and Lyft operate in larger towns. Local taxi and shuttle services provide regional airport transfers and private bookings. |
| Airport Access |
|
Hunterdon County delivers a unique mix of preserved landscapes, commuter access, and outdoor lifestyle—anchored by convenient highways, NJ Transit service, and proximity to major airports.
Hunterdon County Real Estate Market Trends (2025)
In western New Jersey, Hunterdon County blends historic towns and preserved countryside with strong commuter access. As of July 2025, the county’s median sale price is about $629K and the median sale price per sq. ft. is ~$290, with homes typically selling in about 22 days. (Context: values can vary widely by town—e.g., Clinton/Readington vs. more rural townships.) :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
| Property Type | Median Price (USD) | Price per Sq.Ft (USD) | Typical Rent (USD/month) | Est. Gross Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR Condo (~1,100 sq.ft.) | $319,000 (est.) | $290 | $2,176 | ~8.2% (est.) |
| 2BR Townhome (~1,400 sq.ft.) | $406,000 (est.) | $290 | $2,176 | ~6.4% (est.) |
| 3BR Single-Family Home (~2,200 sq.ft.) | $638,000 (est.) | $290 | $2,622 | ~4.9% (est.) |
| 4BR Single-Family Home (~2,800 sq.ft.) | $812,000 (est.) | $290 | $2,885 | ~4.3% (est.) |
Methodology & notes: County-level median sale metrics from Redfin (Jul 2025: $629K median; $290/sq.ft.; 22 days on market). Property-type medians are illustrative, estimated by applying ~$290/sq.ft. to typical sizes for each type. Rents use HUD FY2025 Fair Market Rents for the Middlesex–Somerset–Hunterdon HUD Metro FMR Area (effective Oct 1, 2024): 1BR $1,731; 2BR $2,176; 3BR $2,622; 4BR $2,885. Actual results vary by town, school district, lot size, condition, and STR/HOA policies. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Lifestyle in Hunterdon County, NJ
Set along the Delaware River in western New Jersey, Hunterdon County blends preserved countryside and equestrian properties with walkable historic towns like Clinton, Flemington, and Lambertville. Life here favors trails, reservoirs, and small-town main streets—while I-78/US-22, US-202, and NJ-31 keep daily needs and regional commutes simple.
Location in Hunterdon County
Western NJ along the Delaware River, near the Musconetcong Highlands. Quick access to I-78/US-22, US-202, NJ-31, and river crossings into Bucks County, PA.
Community in Hunterdon County
Small-town charm with farmer’s markets, local festivals, antique districts, and arts scenes in Clinton, Lambertville, and Flemington—plus quiet rural townships with spacious lots.
Dining in Hunterdon County
From farm-to-table spots and riverside bistros to classic diners and cafes. Notable clusters around Clinton’s Main Street, Lambertville/New Hope, and Flemington’s historic core.
Education in Hunterdon County
Multiple well-regarded public school districts and private/charter options across the county; vocational and continuing-ed programs available in the region.
Housing in Hunterdon County
Diverse mix of historic homes, suburban neighborhoods, townhomes/condos near services, and acreage properties with barns or outbuildings. Premiums for renovated historic districts and scenic, equestrian-friendly parcels.
Transportation in Hunterdon County
Primarily by car via I-78/US-22, US-202, NJ-31. NJ Transit’s Raritan Valley Line serves towns like High Bridge and Annandale with connections east.
Climate in Hunterdon County
Four distinct seasons: warm summers, crisp autumn foliage, cold winters with occasional snow, and mild springs. Outdoor recreation is truly year-round.
Amenities in Hunterdon County
Daily needs in town centers (grocers, pharmacies), big-box convenience along major corridors, and boutique shopping in historic downtowns.
Demographics in Hunterdon County
Mix of long-time residents, NYC/Philly commuters, remote professionals, and active retirees drawn to open space and strong community ties.
Pros in Hunterdon County
Scenic countryside, reservoirs and trails, historic main streets, strong sense of community, and efficient highway/rail access to regional job centers.
Cons in Hunterdon County
Limited late-night transit, car-forward lifestyle in rural areas, winter weather prep needed, and zoning/permit nuances for barns or accessory structures.
Outdoor Activities in Hunterdon County
Boating and camping at Round Valley & Spruce Run, fly-fishing at Ken Lockwood Gorge, hiking/biking the Columbia Trail and D&R Canal Towpath, plus stargazing at Voorhees State Park.
Hunterdon County’s lifestyle pairs preserved landscapes and trail-rich parks with vibrant, walkable downtowns—ideal for buyers seeking space, character, and convenient regional access.
Amenities in Hunterdon County
Hunterdon County offers a full range of essentials close to home—from healthcare and groceries to worship centers and pet care. Use the lists below to orient buyers and residents to key amenities across the county’s towns and boroughs.
-
Hospitals & Clinics in Hunterdon County
Flemington • Clinton • LambertvilleFull-service hospital care in Flemington with urgent care and specialty practices throughout the county.- Hunterdon Medical Center — 2100 Wescott Dr, Flemington
- RWJ Primary Care – Clinton — 22 Old Hwy 22, Clinton
- Hunterdon Urgent Care — locations in Flemington, Raritan Township
- Lambertville Family Practice — 230 N Main St, Lambertville
-
Supermarkets & Shopping in Hunterdon County
Main Corridors & DowntownsNational chains on highways pair with small boutiques in historic downtowns.- ShopRite of Flemington — 272 US-202
- Wegmans — nearby Bridgewater (Somerset County)
- Walmart Supercenter — 152 NJ-31, Flemington
- Liberty Village Outlets (redevelopment) — Flemington
- Historic Clinton Main Street — boutiques, antiques, cafes
- Lambertville/New Hope — art galleries, shops, restaurants
-
Places of Worship in Hunterdon County
Community & FaithMultiple denominations and active congregations serve towns and rural areas alike.- St. Magdalen de Pazzi Catholic Church — Flemington
- Clinton United Methodist Church — Clinton
- St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church — Lambertville
- Calvary Bible Church — Whitehouse Station
-
Pet Services in Hunterdon County
Vets • Grooming • ParksCounty towns are pet-friendly with vets, groomers, and dog parks close to home.- Flemington Veterinary Hospital — Flemington
- Clinton Veterinary Center — Clinton
- Animal Alliance of Lambertville — adoption & clinic services
- Deer Path Park Dog Run — 120 W Woodschurch Rd, Flemington
Schools & Preschools in Hunterdon County
Families in Hunterdon County are served by strong public K–8 districts that feed into regional high schools—plus a range of private and faith-based options, Montessori programs, and county career & technical education (CTE) pathways.
Attendance zones vary by municipality (borough vs. township). Always verify current boundaries, school assignments, transportation, and program availability with the district.
| School / Program | Type | Municipality | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hunterdon Central Regional High School | Public (9–12) | Flemington / Raritan Twp. |
Large regional HS serving Flemington Borough, Raritan Twp., Readington Twp., Delaware Twp., and East Amwell Twp.; broad AP/arts/athletics.
|
| North Hunterdon High School | Public (9–12) | Annandale (Clinton Twp.) |
Part of North Hunterdon–Voorhees Regional; serves northern/eastern communities with extensive academics & activities.
|
| Voorhees High School | Public (9–12) | Glen Gardner |
Sister school to North Hunterdon; serves central/northwest areas (e.g., Lebanon Twp., Califon, High Bridge).
|
| Delaware Valley Regional High School | Public (9–12) | Frenchtown |
Serves Alexandria, Holland, Kingwood, Frenchtown, and Milford; strong music, athletics, and tech electives.
|
| South Hunterdon Regional High School | Public (7–12) | Lambertville |
Serves Lambertville, West Amwell, and Stockton; smaller class sizes, integrated 7–12 campus.
|
| Flemington–Raritan Regional Schools | Public (K–8) | Flemington / Raritan Twp. |
Multiple elementaries, Reading-Fleming Intermediate (5–6), and J.P. Case Middle (7–8); feeds Hunterdon Central.
|
| Readington Township Public Schools | Public (K–8) | Readington Twp. |
Whitehouse School, Three Bridges, Holland Brook, Readington Middle; strong STEM/arts; to Hunterdon Central.
|
| Clinton Public School | Public (K–8) | Clinton Town |
Neighborhood K–8; typically feeds to North Hunterdon HS.
|
| Clinton Township School District | Public (K–8) | Clinton Twp. |
Spruce Run, Patrick McGaheran, Round Valley Middle; feeds to North Hunterdon HS.
|
| Lebanon Borough School | Public (K–6) | Lebanon Borough |
Small community elementary; upper grades attend NHV regional schools.
|
| Tewksbury Township Schools | Public (K–8) | Tewksbury Twp. |
Tewksbury Elementary & Old Turnpike School; typically to Voorhees HS.
|
| Delaware Township School | Public (K–8) | Sergeantsville |
Community K–8 with outdoor/STEAM enrichment; to Hunterdon Central.
|
| East Amwell Township School | Public (PK–8) | Ringoes |
Neighborhood PK–8; to Hunterdon Central.
|
| Alexandria Township Schools | Public (K–8) | Pittstown / Milford area |
Lester D. Wilson School & Alexandria Middle; to Delaware Valley Regional HS.
|
| High Bridge School District | Public (PK–8) | High Bridge |
PK–8 programming; typically to Voorhees HS.
|
| Califon School District | Public (K–8) | Califon |
Small K–8 district; to Voorhees HS.
|
| Hunterdon County Polytech (CTE) | Public CTE (HS) | Flemington & Milford |
Career & technical programs (shared-time / full-time) partnering with area high schools.
|
| Immaculate Conception School | Private (PK–8, Catholic) | Annandale / Clinton Twp. |
Parochial academics and community programs; parish-affiliated.
|
| St. Paul Christian School | Private (Elem.) | Flemington |
Faith-based elementary programming.
|
| Montessori School of Flemington | Private Preschool / Elem. | Flemington |
Montessori early learning with multi-age classrooms.
|
| The Goddard School of Flemington | Private Preschool | Raritan Twp. |
Licensed early childhood program with development-focused curriculum.
|
- District Structure: Many municipalities run K–8 and feed into a regional high school (Hunterdon Central, North Hunterdon–Voorhees, Delaware Valley, or South Hunterdon).
- Programs: Honors/AP, arts and athletics are widely available; CTE options via Hunterdon County Polytech.
- Tip: Confirm zoning, transportation, and specialized program placement with each district before home selection.
Investment Potential in Hunterdon County, NJ
With its preserved farmland, equestrian estates, and walkable historic towns, Hunterdon County offers a distinctive balance of lifestyle appeal and commuter access. Investors find opportunities in long-term rentals, value-add renovations of historic housing stock, and equestrian or acreage properties appealing to niche buyers. Proximity to I-78/US-22 and NJ Transit service supports steady demand from New York and Philadelphia commuters.
Why Hunterdon? Strong schools, preserved open space, and proximity to both NYC and Philadelphia underpin buyer demand. A diversified housing mix—from Victorian homes in Lambertville to newer subdivisions in Raritan Township—supports rental resilience and long-term appreciation.
- Buy & Hold: 3–4BR homes in Readington, Raritan Twp., and Clinton remain attractive for commuters seeking good schools and 1-hour NYC access.
- Renovation / Flip: Historic Victorians in Lambertville or Frenchtown and mid-century homes in Clinton Twp. provide opportunities for value-add updates.
- Equestrian / Land: Larger parcels in Tewksbury, East Amwell, and Delaware Twp. appeal to horse owners and hobby farmers.
- Risk & Underwriting: Confirm septic/well conditions, zoning for accessory structures, property taxes, and potential farmland assessment eligibility.
-
Rental Snapshot (Typical Monthly Ranges)
2BR Condo/Townhome: ~$2,100–$2,400 • 3BR SFR: ~$2,600–$3,000 • 4BR SFR: ~$2,900–$3,300+
-
What Performs Well
- Updated kitchens/baths with energy-efficient systems.
- Properties with home offices, garages, or flexible layouts.
- Walkable access to town centers (Clinton, Flemington, Lambertville).
-
Compliance Checklist
- Check municipal rental ordinances and registration requirements.
- Verify septic/well permits and inspections for rural properties.
- Historic homes may require review for exterior modifications.
Whether purchasing a commuter-friendly family home, renovating a historic property, or investing in equestrian acreage, Hunterdon County offers resilient demand and long-term appreciation potential.
Thinking About Moving to Hunterdon County?
In western New Jersey along the Delaware River, Hunterdon County offers scenic countryside, preserved farmland, and historic small towns. From Flemington and Clinton to riverfront Lambertville and Frenchtown, each community blends small-town charm with easy access to I-78, US-202, and NJ Transit service. New York City and Philadelphia are both about an hour away.
Housing choices range from historic Victorians and downtown townhomes to suburban subdivisions and equestrian estates. Premiums often follow school districts, lot size, and proximity to town centers or commuter routes. Rural areas offer more land, while boroughs provide walkable streets and community amenities.
Lifestyle highlights include Round Valley & Spruce Run Reservoirs, the Columbia Trail, and the Delaware & Raritan Canal Towpath—ideal for hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. Families benefit from highly rated schools, county parks, and convenient regional airports (EWR, PHL, ABE, TTN).
Frequently Asked Questions about Hunterdon County
- How much does it cost to live in Hunterdon County?
-
- Condos / Townhomes: typically ~$300K–$450K depending on size, age, and location
- Single-family homes: ~$500K–$900K+; higher for newer builds and larger lots
- Luxury / Equestrian estates: $1M–$3M+ for acreage, barns, or custom features
Ranges reflect typical 2024–25 sales; values vary by town, school district, acreage, and condition. - Is Hunterdon County a good place for investment properties?
- Yes—its proximity to NYC and Philadelphia, high-performing schools, and preserved landscapes support stable demand. Investors often focus on long-term rentals, historic renovations, and acreage/equestrian properties.
- What is the rental market like?
-
- 2BR condo/townhome: ~$2,100–$2,400 per month
- 3BR single-family: ~$2,600–$3,000 per month
- 4BR single-family: ~$2,900–$3,300+ per month
Demand is driven by commuters, families seeking strong schools, and proximity to NJ Transit corridors. - What types of properties are common?
- A mix of historic homes (Victorians, colonials), suburban subdivisions with modern amenities, rural farmhouses, and equestrian estates. Boroughs like Clinton and Lambertville offer walkable downtown housing, while townships offer acreage and privacy.
- What makes Hunterdon County unique?
- Scenic landscapes, preserved farmland, and the Delaware River towns create a rural-suburban balance. Highlights include Round Valley & Spruce Run Reservoirs, the Columbia Trail, and vibrant downtowns like Clinton, Flemington, and Lambertville.
- How do people get around, and which airports serve the area?
- Daily travel is by car via I-78, US-22, US-202, and NJ-31. NJ Transit’s Raritan Valley Line runs to High Bridge, Annandale, and Lebanon with connections east. Nearest airports: Newark Liberty (EWR), Philadelphia (PHL), Lehigh Valley (ABE), and Trenton–Mercer (TTN).
- Which schools serve Hunterdon County?
- Strong public K–8 districts feed into regional high schools: Hunterdon Central, North Hunterdon–Voorhees, Delaware Valley, and South Hunterdon. Options include Polytech (CTE programs), parochial schools, and Montessori/early learning centers.
Hunterdon County combines open space, historic character, and commuter convenience—an attractive choice for families, professionals, and investors seeking long-term value.
