5 Active Adult Communities Along Route 9 in Central NJ

rte9-c54b94775f6163550194c961f350e47d

The longest U.S. highway in New Jersey, U.S. Route 9 begins at the Cape May–Lewes Ferry Terminal in Cape May and runs north all the way to the George Washington Bridge in Fort Lee. For most of the way, it consists of a two-lane road that runs parallel to the Garden State Parkway.

However, upon entering Monmouth County, the road transitions into a multilane highway as it snakes its way through Freehold, Manalapan, Old Bridge, and Woodbridge before merging with U.S. Route 1. For much of this stretch through Monmouth and Middlesex counties, the roadway is lined with businesses, shopping centers, master-planned communities, and much more. Chances are if you live in Central New Jersey, you take Route 9 to where you’re going almost daily.

If you’re considering living in an active adult community in Central New Jersey, it makes good sense to live close to Route 9. You’ll have easy access to the main artery that connects you to everything you need and you’ll be able to reach the NJ Turnpike and Garden State Parkway quickly and easily. Besides, Route 9 gets mentioned in Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run.” What’s more New Jersey than that?

Here are five active adult communities close to Route 9 worth considering.

The VillagesHowell, NJ

Low $100s – High $200s

Not to be confused with the sprawling The Villages community in Florida, this one is a bit more intimate, checking in at 670 homes total. The Villages in Howell has a lot to offer within the community borders, including a clubhouse with a fitness center, woodworking shop, and cards room. Outside, residents get to relax at the pool or play some bocce and tennis when the weather’s nice. Cross over Route 9 and you’ll find yourself in Manasquan River Linear Park. Or, head north and you’ll be at Freehold Raceway or Freehold Raceway Mall in just ten minutes.

Learn more information about The Villages here.

Renaissance at ManalapanManalapan, NJ

Mid $300s – High $400s

We head north on Route 9 to Renaissance at Manalapan, an upscale 127-home community built between 2000 and 2001. You won’t ever have to go far for whatever you need as two large shopping centers, including Manalapan EpiCentre, are located just around the corner. This stretch of Route 9 is peppered with retailers and restaurants throughout, including Manalapan Diner (because what’s the point of living in NJ if you’re not close to a diner?). You’re also directly between Manalapan and Freehold to maximize your options. There are also plenty of good reasons not to leave the community too, including an extensive clubhouse and a heated pool.

Learn more information about Renaissance at Manalapan here.

Covered BridgeManalapan, NJ

Low $100s – Low $200s

Staying in Manalapan, we head to Covered Bridge. Longtime residents of the area have no-doubt driven past the community, seen the actual covered bridge out front, and wondered what’s going on inside the community. Turns out, a lot. Covered Bridge includes over 1,500 condos and townhomes, two clubhouses, two pools, lots of sports courts, and plenty more. It’s also right next door to Pine Brook Golf Course where residents receive a discount. A five-to-ten minute drive in either direction on Route 9 reveals a multitude of dining and shopping options, including Jerry & Harvey’s for all your deli favorites.

Learn more information about Covered Bridge here.

Madison Crossing at Birch HillOld Bridge, NJ

Mid $200s – Low $500s

Just a few minutes up Route 9 will take us to Madison Crossing at Birch Hill, a 55+ community just off the highway that includes 228 residences, ranging between condos, townhomes, and villas. The community is across the road from a Costco and IHOP while The Shoppes at Old Bridge, featuring some of the top retailers, is a five-minute drive away. The community itself includes a stylish 7,500 square-foot clubhouse that offers a fitness center, arts and crafts studio, grand ballroom, and more. Outdoors, residents can lounge by the heated outdoor pool, play tennis or bocce, or dig around the community gardening plots.

Learn more information about Madison Crossing at Birch Hill here.

The Plaza Grande at Old BridgeOld Bridge, NJ

Mid $200s – Mid $400s

We head just a little bit north on Route 9 and end up in The Plaza Grande at Old Bridge, an age-restricted community boasting 279 condo residences in three buildings that include elevators, tastefully designed lobbies, lounges, and club rooms. The community also includes a 7,000 square-foot Grande Club, outdoor pool, community pond, and putting green among its amenities. Pretty much all your retail and restaurant options are available via Route 9 and there is also a public bus stop just next to the community that heads north to New York City.

Learn more information about Plaza Grande at Old Bridge here.

Can you spot the $207,744 difference between these identical homes?

Financing is the difference!

Get the details in The 62+ Loan Homebuyers Guide.

55places Mortgage is a joint venture between Mutual of Omaha Mortgage and 55places.com.
Details here.

Share this post:

We're here to help! (800) 928-2055

Call us to speak with a customer service representative.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get Weekly Updates

I agree that 55places and its affiliates, partner providers or agents may call, text, or email me about my inquiry, which may be made with automated means. I understand that my consent is not a prerequisite for buying a property. I may revoke my consent at any time by contacting optout@55places.com. Message/data rates may apply. I also agree to 55places.com’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

The Best Places to Snowbird in 2021

We’ve gathered 25 of the best places for snowbirds, including cities in Florida, Arizona, California, Texas, South Carolina, and Nevada. For each entry, we’ve also provided a list of recommended 55+ communities in the area. If you’re ready to find your own winter retreat this season, here are some of the best places to consider.

Older couple sits on couching doing their taxes in a no income tax state.

Should You Retire to a State With No Income Tax?

Unfortunately, retiring doesn’t always mean you can stop worrying about taxes. Depending on the source of your income, you might still have to pay both federal and state income tax. Let’s weigh up the pros and cons.

A 55+ adult woman plays pickleball outside.

Tennis vs. Pickleball: What’s Your Net Game?

Tennis has long been a favorite pastime for many adults, and pickleball is growing in popularity. What is the difference between these two sports, and how do you pick the right one for you? Here’s the breakdown to help you choose which is right for you.

A 55+ couple relaxing in lounge chairs on the beach.

25 Cheap Active Adult Communities for an Affordable Retirement

From scenic locations to impressive amenities, these communities provide a range of opportunities for active adults to enjoy their golden years while staying within their budget. Let’s explore 25 active adult communities that offer an affordable retirement experience.

Interest Rate vs. APR (And Other Mortgage Questions)

The mortgage process is pretty complicated. Even if you’ve gone through it before, it’s easy to get tripped up with all the steps, documentation, and financial jargon of it all. Are you planning on applying for a mortgage soon? Before diving straight in, here are some answers to commonly asked mortgage questions.

Two 55+ active adults relaxing in lounge chairs by the beach.

How to Decide Which State to Retire In

It’s common for active adults to relocate to a new state for retirement, and with thousands of 55+ communities across the country, it’s difficult to find the perfect place without narrowing the search first by state. The best guideline is to move to a state that can provide the lifestyle you’re looking for.

About 55places

We’re changing the way people 55 and older are searching for their perfect next place. With a national network of hand-selected real estate experts, plus comprehensive information, unbiased content, and on-the-go insight about thousands of communities across the country, we’re a trusted resource paving the way from here to home. Whether you’re interested in a low-maintenance single-level residence, an active lifestyle or age-qualified community, an intimate enclave, or anything in between, we can help you make your next move the best one yet.

Scroll to Top