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 Villages – Howell, 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.
Covered Bridge – Manalapan, 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.
