Have you ever wondered which towns in New Jersey are the wealthiest? The Garden State, known for its diverse landscapes and bustling cities, also boasts some of the most affluent communities in the United States. From luxurious estates to high-quality schools, these towns offer a glimpse into the lifestyle of the well-to-do. Whether you're considering a move, or just curious about where the wealthiest New Jerseyans reside, this list of the top 20 richest towns in NJ will provide you with all the information you need. The wealth of these towns isn't just measured in terms of dollars and cents—it's also reflected in the quality of life, community amenities, and the opportunities they offer. With a range of elegant homes, renowned dining, and exclusive shopping, these towns attract a discerning crowd seeking the best that life can offer.
New Jersey's proximity to New York City makes it an ideal location for affluent individuals who desire a suburban lifestyle while maintaining easy access to the city. The state's rich history and cultural diversity further enhance its appeal, creating a unique blend of tradition and modernity. This article delves into the top 20 richest towns in NJ, exploring what makes each town special and why they are highly sought-after by the elite.
As we journey through these towns, we'll uncover the factors that contribute to their prosperity, including strong local economies, excellent educational institutions, and vibrant cultural scenes. Whether you're interested in the architectural beauty of Alpine or the coastal charm of Rumson, each town has a story to tell. So, let's embark on this exploration of New Jersey's wealthiest towns and discover what sets them apart.
Table of Contents
- Alpine: A Haven for the Elite
- Short Hills: Luxurious Living and Top-Notch Education
- Rumson: Coastal Charm and Historical Elegance
- Saddle River: Tranquility and Elegance
- Millburn: A Blend of Culture and Community
- Chatham: Suburban Bliss with Urban Proximity
- Montclair: Arts, Culture, and Affluence
- Livingston: A Community of Success
- Warren: Peaceful Living and Strong Community
- Madison: Historical Charm Meets Modern Living
- Princeton: Academic Excellence and Economic Prosperity
- Bernardsville: Scenic Beauty and Wealth
- Englewood Cliffs: Business Hub and Residential Luxury
- Westfield: Classic Suburbia with a Modern Twist
- Bernards: Rich History and Modern Amenities
- Ridgewood: Family-Friendly and Affluent
- Tenafly: Diversity and Prosperity
- Tinton Falls: A Growing Community with Affluence
- Haddonfield: A Blend of Past and Present
- Moorestown: A Town Steeped in Affluence and History
Alpine: A Haven for the Elite
Alpine, New Jersey, is often synonymous with luxury and exclusivity. Nestled in Bergen County, this town is renowned for its sprawling estates, privacy, and celebrity residents. With a population of just over 1,800, Alpine offers a serene environment that appeals to those seeking a respite from the bustling city life of nearby New York. The real estate market in Alpine is characterized by opulent mansions, expansive properties, and architectural marvels that attract the elite from across the globe.
The town's affluence is further highlighted by its high median household income, which consistently ranks among the highest in the nation. This financial prosperity is supported by a strong local economy, excellent educational institutions, and a community that values privacy and security. Alpine's residents enjoy exclusive amenities, including country clubs, private golf courses, and proximity to the picturesque Palisades Interstate Park.
Despite its exclusivity, Alpine maintains a sense of community and charm. The town's history dates back to the late 19th century when it served as a summer retreat for New York's wealthy elite. Today, Alpine's legacy of luxury and sophistication continues to thrive, making it a top contender on the list of the richest towns in NJ.
Real Estate and Architectural Splendor
Alpine's real estate market is a testament to the town's affluence. The properties here are nothing short of spectacular, with many boasting breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the New York City skyline. Architectural styles range from classic to contemporary, with each home designed to offer the utmost in comfort and elegance. The demand for homes in Alpine remains high, driven by its reputation as a haven for the rich and famous.
Notable Residents and Community Life
Alpine's allure extends beyond its real estate, attracting high-profile residents from the worlds of entertainment, sports, and business. The town's commitment to privacy and security makes it an ideal choice for those seeking anonymity and exclusivity. Despite its exclusivity, Alpine fosters a sense of community through local events, cultural activities, and philanthropic endeavors that bring residents together.
Short Hills: Luxurious Living and Top-Notch Education
Short Hills, a section of Millburn Township in Essex County, is another jewel in New Jersey's crown of wealthiest towns. Known for its luxurious homes, top-notch schools, and upscale shopping, Short Hills attracts families and professionals seeking a high quality of life. The town's proximity to New York City adds to its appeal, making it a preferred location for commuters looking for a suburban lifestyle with urban conveniences.
Education and Community Excellence
One of the key factors contributing to Short Hills' affluence is its exceptional educational system. The Millburn Township Public Schools consistently rank among the best in the state, offering students a rigorous academic curriculum and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The emphasis on education extends beyond the classroom, with a community that values lifelong learning and cultural enrichment.
Real Estate and Lifestyle
Short Hills' real estate market is characterized by elegant homes, tree-lined streets, and meticulously landscaped properties. The town's architectural diversity includes Colonial, Tudor, and modern styles, each offering a unique blend of comfort and sophistication. The Short Hills Mall, one of the region's premier shopping destinations, further enhances the town's appeal, offering residents access to luxury brands and fine dining.
In addition to its material wealth, Short Hills boasts a strong sense of community. Local events, cultural activities, and recreational opportunities provide residents with numerous ways to connect and engage with one another. The town's residents take pride in their community, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Rumson: Coastal Charm and Historical Elegance
Situated along the coast of Monmouth County, Rumson is a picturesque town known for its coastal charm and historical elegance. With its stunning waterfront properties, tree-lined streets, and a strong sense of community, Rumson offers a tranquil lifestyle that attracts those seeking both beauty and affluence. The town's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Navesink River provides residents with ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Historical Significance and Architectural Beauty
Rumson's history dates back to the late 19th century when it served as a summer retreat for wealthy New Yorkers. The town's historical significance is reflected in its well-preserved architecture, with many homes showcasing Victorian, Colonial, and Georgian styles. These architectural gems add to the town's charm, making it a visually captivating place to live.
Community and Lifestyle
Rumson's strong sense of community is one of its defining characteristics. Local events, cultural activities, and recreational opportunities foster a sense of belonging among residents. The town's schools are renowned for their academic excellence, contributing to its reputation as a great place to raise a family. Rumson's residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to beautiful parks, beaches, and a vibrant local economy.
Saddle River: Tranquility and Elegance
Saddle River, located in Bergen County, is a town defined by tranquility and elegance. Known for its large estates, luxurious homes, and serene environment, Saddle River offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking privacy and exclusivity. The town's rural charm, combined with its proximity to New York City, makes it an attractive destination for affluent individuals looking for a balance between city and suburban life.
Real Estate and Community Appeal
The real estate market in Saddle River is characterized by expansive properties, lush landscapes, and architectural diversity. From sprawling estates to elegant mansions, the homes in Saddle River are designed to offer residents the utmost in comfort and luxury. The town's commitment to preserving its natural beauty adds to its appeal, with many properties offering scenic views and access to nature trails.
Community and Lifestyle
Saddle River's sense of community is evident in its local events, cultural activities, and recreational opportunities. The town's residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to excellent schools, beautiful parks, and a vibrant local economy. Saddle River's commitment to preserving its rural charm and natural beauty makes it a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Millburn: A Blend of Culture and Community
Millburn, located in Essex County, is a town known for its blend of culture and community. With its vibrant arts scene, top-notch schools, and diverse population, Millburn offers a high quality of life that attracts families and professionals alike. The town's proximity to New York City makes it an ideal location for commuters seeking a suburban lifestyle with urban conveniences.
Arts and Culture
Millburn's arts scene is one of its defining characteristics, with a range of cultural activities and events that cater to residents of all ages. The Paper Mill Playhouse, a renowned regional theater, is a cultural gem that draws visitors from across the region. The town's commitment to the arts is further reflected in its public art installations, galleries, and community events that celebrate creativity and expression.
Education and Community Life
Millburn's educational system is highly regarded, with the Millburn Township Public Schools consistently ranking among the best in the state. The town's schools offer a rigorous academic curriculum, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a commitment to student success. Millburn's residents take pride in their community, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Chatham: Suburban Bliss with Urban Proximity
Chatham, located in Morris County, is a town known for its suburban bliss and urban proximity. With its charming neighborhoods, excellent schools, and strong sense of community, Chatham offers a high quality of life that attracts families and professionals seeking a balance between city and suburban living. The town's convenient location provides easy access to New York City, making it a preferred destination for commuters.
Real Estate and Community Appeal
Chatham's real estate market is characterized by charming homes, tree-lined streets, and well-maintained properties. The town's architectural diversity includes Colonial, Victorian, and modern styles, each offering a unique blend of comfort and elegance. Chatham's residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to beautiful parks, recreational opportunities, and a vibrant local economy.
Community and Lifestyle
Chatham's sense of community is one of its defining characteristics, with local events, cultural activities, and recreational opportunities that foster a sense of belonging among residents. The town's schools are renowned for their academic excellence, contributing to its reputation as a great place to raise a family. Chatham's residents take pride in their community, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place to live and work.
Montclair: Arts, Culture, and Affluence
Montclair, located in Essex County, is a town known for its arts, culture, and affluence. With its vibrant arts scene, diverse population, and strong sense of community, Montclair offers a high quality of life that attracts families and professionals alike. The town's proximity to New York City adds to its appeal, making it an ideal location for commuters seeking a suburban lifestyle with urban conveniences.
Arts and Culture
Montclair's arts scene is one of its defining characteristics, with a range of cultural activities and events that cater to residents of all ages. The Montclair Art Museum, galleries, and community events celebrate creativity and expression. The town's commitment to the arts is further reflected in its public art installations and local festivals that draw visitors from across the region.
Education and Community Life
Montclair's educational system is highly regarded, with the Montclair Public Schools offering a rigorous academic curriculum, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a commitment to student success. Montclair's residents take pride in their community, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Livingston: A Community of Success
Livingston, located in Essex County, is a town known for its community of success. With its excellent schools, diverse population, and strong local economy, Livingston offers a high quality of life that attracts families and professionals seeking a suburban lifestyle with urban conveniences. The town's commitment to education, community engagement, and economic development has earned it a reputation as one of the wealthiest towns in New Jersey.
Education and Community Engagement
Livingston's educational system is one of its defining characteristics, with the Livingston Public Schools consistently ranking among the best in the state. The town's schools offer a rigorous academic curriculum, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a commitment to student success. Livingston's residents take pride in their community, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Local Economy and Lifestyle
Livingston's strong local economy is supported by a diverse range of businesses, from small enterprises to large corporations. The town's residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to beautiful parks, recreational opportunities, and a vibrant local economy. Livingston's commitment to community engagement and economic development makes it an attractive destination for families and professionals seeking success and stability.
Warren: Peaceful Living and Strong Community
Warren, located in Somerset County, is a town known for its peaceful living and strong community. With its beautiful landscapes, excellent schools, and close-knit community, Warren offers a high quality of life that attracts families and professionals seeking a suburban lifestyle with rural charm. The town's commitment to preserving its natural beauty and fostering community engagement makes it a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Real Estate and Community Appeal
Warren's real estate market is characterized by charming homes, tree-lined streets, and well-maintained properties. The town's architectural diversity includes Colonial, Victorian, and modern styles, each offering a unique blend of comfort and elegance. Warren's residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to beautiful parks, recreational opportunities, and a vibrant local economy.
Community and Lifestyle
Warren's sense of community is one of its defining characteristics, with local events, cultural activities, and recreational opportunities that foster a sense of belonging among residents. The town's schools are renowned for their academic excellence, contributing to its reputation as a great place to raise a family. Warren's residents take pride in their community, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place to live and work.
Madison: Historical Charm Meets Modern Living
Madison, located in Morris County, is a town known for its historical charm and modern living. With its charming neighborhoods, excellent schools, and vibrant community, Madison offers a high quality of life that attracts families and professionals seeking a balance between tradition and modernity. The town's commitment to preserving its historical heritage and fostering community engagement makes it a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Historical Significance and Architectural Beauty
Madison's history dates back to the 18th century, with many of its historical buildings and landmarks still standing today. The town's architectural beauty is reflected in its well-preserved homes, showcasing Colonial, Victorian, and Georgian styles. These architectural gems add to the town's charm, making it a visually captivating place to live.
Community and Lifestyle
Madison's sense of community is one of its defining characteristics, with local events, cultural activities, and recreational opportunities that foster a sense of belonging among residents. The town's schools are renowned for their academic excellence, contributing to its reputation as a great place to raise a family. Madison's residents take pride in their community, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place to live and work.
Princeton: Academic Excellence and Economic Prosperity
Princeton, located in Mercer County, is a town known for its academic excellence and economic prosperity. With its prestigious university, vibrant arts scene, and strong local economy, Princeton offers a high quality of life that attracts families and professionals seeking a balance between education and affluence. The town's commitment to academic excellence, cultural enrichment, and economic development makes it a desirable place to live and work.
Education and Community Engagement
Princeton's educational system is one of its defining characteristics, with Princeton University serving as a world-renowned institution of higher learning. The town's schools offer a rigorous academic curriculum, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a commitment to student success. Princeton's residents take pride in their community, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Local Economy and Lifestyle
Princeton's strong local economy is supported by a diverse range of businesses, from small enterprises to large corporations. The town's residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to beautiful parks, recreational opportunities, and a vibrant local economy. Princeton's commitment to community engagement and economic development makes it an attractive destination for families and professionals seeking success and stability.
Bernardsville: Scenic Beauty and Wealth
Bernardsville, located in Somerset County, is a town known for its scenic beauty and wealth. With its beautiful landscapes, luxurious homes, and strong sense of community, Bernardsville offers a high quality of life that attracts families and professionals seeking a suburban lifestyle with rural charm. The town's commitment to preserving its natural beauty and fostering community engagement makes it a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Real Estate and Community Appeal
Bernardsville's real estate market is characterized by charming homes, tree-lined streets, and well-maintained properties. The town's architectural diversity includes Colonial, Victorian, and modern styles, each offering a unique blend of comfort and elegance. Bernardsville's residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to beautiful parks, recreational opportunities, and a vibrant local economy.
Community and Lifestyle
Bernardsville's sense of community is one of its defining characteristics, with local events, cultural activities, and recreational opportunities that foster a sense of belonging among residents. The town's schools are renowned for their academic excellence, contributing to its reputation as a great place to raise a family. Bernardsville's residents take pride in their community, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place to live and work.
Englewood Cliffs: Business Hub and Residential Luxury
Englewood Cliffs, located in Bergen County, is a town known for its business hub and residential luxury. With its proximity to New York City, strong local economy, and luxurious homes, Englewood Cliffs offers a high quality of life that attracts families and professionals seeking a balance between work and leisure. The town's commitment to economic development and community engagement makes it a desirable place to live and work.
Business and Economic Development
Englewood Cliffs' strong local economy is supported by a diverse range of businesses, from small enterprises to large corporations. The town's proximity to New York City adds to its appeal, making it an ideal location for commuters and businesses seeking access to urban conveniences. Englewood Cliffs' commitment to economic development and community engagement makes it an attractive destination for families and professionals seeking success and stability.
Residential Luxury and Lifestyle
Englewood Cliffs' real estate market is characterized by luxurious homes, tree-lined streets, and well-maintained properties. The town's architectural diversity includes Colonial, Victorian, and modern styles, each offering a unique blend of comfort and elegance. Englewood Cliffs' residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to beautiful parks, recreational opportunities, and a vibrant local economy.
Westfield: Classic Suburbia with a Modern Twist
Westfield, located in Union County, is a town known for its classic suburbia with a modern twist. With its charming neighborhoods, excellent schools, and vibrant community, Westfield offers a high quality of life that attracts families and professionals seeking a suburban lifestyle with urban conveniences. The town's commitment to preserving its historical heritage and fostering community engagement makes it a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Historical Significance and Architectural Beauty
Westfield's history dates back to the 18th century, with many of its historical buildings and landmarks still standing today. The town's architectural beauty is reflected in its well-preserved homes, showcasing Colonial, Victorian, and Georgian styles. These architectural gems add to the town's charm, making it a visually captivating place to live.
Community and Lifestyle
Westfield's sense of community is one of its defining characteristics, with local events, cultural activities, and recreational opportunities that foster a sense of belonging among residents. The town's schools are renowned for their academic excellence, contributing to its reputation as a great place to raise a family. Westfield's residents take pride in their community, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place to live and work.
Bernards: Rich History and Modern Amenities
Bernards, located in Somerset County, is a town known for its rich history and modern amenities. With its charming neighborhoods, excellent schools, and strong sense of community, Bernards offers a high quality of life that attracts families and professionals seeking a balance between tradition and modernity. The town's commitment to preserving its historical heritage and fostering community engagement makes it a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Historical Significance and Architectural Beauty
Bernards' history dates back to the 18th century, with many of its historical buildings and landmarks still standing today. The town's architectural beauty is reflected in its well-preserved homes, showcasing Colonial, Victorian, and Georgian styles. These architectural gems add to the town's charm, making it a visually captivating place to live.
Community and Lifestyle
Bernards' sense of community is one of its defining characteristics, with local events, cultural activities, and recreational opportunities that foster a sense of belonging among residents. The town's schools are renowned for their academic excellence, contributing to its reputation as a great place to raise a family. Bernards' residents take pride in their community, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place to live and work.
Ridgewood: Family-Friendly and Affluent
Ridgewood, located in Bergen County, is a town known for its family-friendly environment and affluence. With its charming neighborhoods, excellent schools, and vibrant community, Ridgewood offers a high quality of life that attracts families and professionals seeking a suburban lifestyle with urban conveniences. The town's commitment to education, community engagement, and economic development has earned it a reputation as one of the wealthiest towns in New Jersey.
Education and Community Engagement
Ridgewood's educational system is one of its defining characteristics, with the Ridgewood Public Schools consistently ranking among the best in the state. The town's schools offer a rigorous academic curriculum, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a commitment to student success. Ridgewood's residents take pride in their community, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Local Economy and Lifestyle
Ridgewood's strong local economy is supported by a diverse range of businesses, from small enterprises to large corporations. The town's residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to beautiful parks, recreational opportunities, and a vibrant local economy. Ridgewood's commitment to community engagement and economic development makes it an attractive destination for families and professionals seeking success and stability.
Tenafly: Diversity and Prosperity
Tenafly, located in Bergen County, is a town known for its diversity and prosperity. With its charming neighborhoods, excellent schools, and vibrant community, Tenafly offers a high quality of life that attracts families and professionals seeking a suburban lifestyle with urban conveniences. The town's commitment to education, community engagement, and economic development has earned it a reputation as one of the wealthiest towns in New Jersey.
Education and Community Engagement
Tenafly's educational system is one of its defining characteristics, with the Tenafly Public Schools consistently ranking among the best in the state. The town's schools offer a rigorous academic curriculum, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a commitment to student success. Tenafly's residents take pride in their community, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Local Economy and Lifestyle
Tenafly's strong local economy is supported by a diverse range of businesses, from small enterprises to large corporations. The town's residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to beautiful parks, recreational opportunities, and a vibrant local economy. Tenafly's commitment to community engagement and economic development makes it an attractive destination for families and professionals seeking success and stability.
Tinton Falls: A Growing Community with Affluence
Tinton Falls, located in Monmouth County, is a town known for its growing community and affluence. With its charming neighborhoods, excellent schools, and vibrant community, Tinton Falls offers a high quality of life that attracts families and professionals seeking a suburban lifestyle with rural charm. The town's commitment to preserving its natural beauty and fostering community engagement makes it a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Real Estate and Community Appeal
Tinton Falls' real estate market is characterized by charming homes, tree-lined streets, and well-maintained properties. The town's architectural diversity includes Colonial, Victorian, and modern styles, each offering a unique blend of comfort and elegance. Tinton Falls' residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to beautiful parks, recreational opportunities, and a vibrant local economy.
Community and Lifestyle
Tinton Falls' sense of community is one of its defining characteristics, with local events, cultural activities, and recreational opportunities that foster a sense of belonging among residents. The town's schools are renowned for their academic excellence, contributing to its reputation as a great place to raise a family. Tinton Falls' residents take pride in their community, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place to live and work.
Haddonfield: A Blend of Past and Present
Haddonfield, located in Camden County, is a town known for its blend of past and present. With its charming neighborhoods, excellent schools, and vibrant community, Haddonfield offers a high quality of life that attracts families and professionals seeking a balance between tradition and modernity. The town's commitment to preserving its historical heritage and fostering community engagement makes it a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Historical Significance and Architectural Beauty
Haddonfield's history dates back to the 18th century, with many of its historical buildings and landmarks still standing today. The town's architectural beauty is reflected in its well-preserved homes, showcasing Colonial, Victorian, and Georgian styles. These architectural gems add to the town's charm, making it a visually captivating place to live.
Community and Lifestyle
Haddonfield's sense of community is one of its defining characteristics, with local events, cultural activities, and recreational opportunities that foster a sense of belonging among residents. The town's schools are renowned for their academic excellence, contributing to its reputation as a great place to raise a family. Haddonfield's residents take pride in their community, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place to live and work.
Moorestown: A Town Steeped in Affluence and History
Moorestown, located in Burlington County, is a town steeped in affluence and history. With its charming neighborhoods, excellent schools, and vibrant community, Moorestown offers a high quality of life that attracts families and professionals seeking a balance between tradition and modernity. The town's commitment to preserving its historical heritage and fostering community engagement makes it a desirable place to live and raise a family.
Historical Significance and Architectural Beauty
Moorestown's history dates back to the 17th century, with many of its historical buildings and landmarks still standing today. The town's architectural beauty is reflected in its well-preserved homes, showcasing Colonial, Victorian, and Georgian styles. These architectural gems add to the town's charm, making it a visually captivating place to live.
Community and Lifestyle
Moorestown's sense of community is one of its defining characteristics, with local events, cultural activities, and recreational opportunities that foster a sense of belonging among residents. The town's schools are renowned for their academic excellence, contributing to its reputation as a great place to raise a family. Moorestown's residents take pride in their community, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place to live and work.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the top 20 richest towns in NJ?
These towns include Alpine, Short Hills, Rumson, Saddle River, Millburn, Chatham, Montclair, Livingston, Warren, Madison, Princeton, Bernardsville, Englewood Cliffs, Westfield, Bernards, Ridgewood, Tenafly, Tinton Falls, Haddonfield, and Moorestown.
2. What factors contribute to the wealth of these towns?
The wealth of these towns is influenced by strong local economies, excellent educational institutions, high-quality real estate, and a high quality of life.
3. Are these towns close to New York City?
Many of these towns are located within a convenient commuting distance to New York City, making them ideal for those who work in the city but prefer suburban living.
4. Do these towns offer good educational opportunities?
Yes, these towns are known for their excellent educational systems, with schools that consistently rank among the best in the state.
5. What types of real estate are available in these towns?
These towns offer a variety of real estate options, including luxurious homes, sprawling estates, and charming historic properties.
6. How do these towns maintain their community appeal?
The towns maintain their community appeal through local events, cultural activities, recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community engagement.
For more insights into the affluent communities of New Jersey, you may find it helpful to explore resources such as the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. Their website offers valuable information about living and working in New Jersey's diverse and prosperous towns.