Though New Jersey can be expensive, it’s one of the most popular states for retirement in the U.S. Over a third of its active adult neighborhoods are in Central New Jersey, and many have available homes for sale.
Looking at a map, one can see what makes Central New Jersey so appealing to 55+ homebuyers. To begin with, it’s close to New York City and Philadelphia; both of which offer world-class medical organizations, universities, cultural attractions, and restaurants. Within the state, there are spots like Wharton State Forest, charming Cape May, and the amazing Newark Museum of Art. Plus, since it’s a small state with an extensive highway system, these landmarks are all within driving distance.
The four 55+ neighborhoods we’ve chosen are all large, established, and welcoming communities with on-site amenities. Here’s what they offer:
Marlboro Greens – Englishtown, NJ
High $100s – Low $400s
Located about 12 miles from Union Beach, Marlboro Greens is an excellent choice for active adults who want to live near New York City. It’s easy to get from Englishtown to the Staten Island Ferry, which goes right into the city. Route 9 is also nearby, with ShopRite, Dollar Tree, Home Depot, Kohls, and other stores lining the roadway.
This gated active adult community offers 341 resale condo and attached homes, modern amenities, and social activities. The two condo models range from 1,080 to 1,332 square feet with one or two bedrooms, one-and-a-half or two-and-a-half baths, and one-car garages or assigned parking. The four townhome models range from about 1,200 to 1,500 square feet with two to three bedrooms, two-and-a-half or three baths, and either one-car garages or assigned parking spaces. Some have desirable extras like dens, lofts, and patios. The HOA fee provides for lawn care, snow removal, and common area maintenance.
The clubhouse is designed for indoor and outdoor fun, with an exercise room, game rooms, and a multi-purpose room. You can also find residents spending quality time at the basketball court, bocce ball court, outdoor pool, and tennis practice facilities. There’s even a playground for grandchildren. Year-round activities include day trips, holiday parties, golf outings, and cookouts.
Request more information about Marlboro Greens.
Cheesequake Village – Old Bridge, NJ
High $100s – High $200s
Cheesequake Village is located just outside of the eponymous Cheesequake State Park, a 1,610-acre outdoor recreation area for swimming, boating, camping, and fishing. The community is also just minutes from the Garden State Parkway and Route 34, which is lined with grocery stores, pharmacies, specialty shops, and restaurants.
There are 713 resale condo and attached homes on this lovely property, with many floor plans available. Condo units are sized from 708 to 976 square feet with one or two bedrooms, one or two baths, and parking in front of each building. The attached homes range from about 700 to 1,000 square feet, also with one or two bedrooms, one or two bathrooms, and lot parking in front of the units. Certain homes include upgrades such as hardwood floors, crown molding, updated kitchens, and patios. The reasonable homeowners’ association (HOA) fee covers trash pickup, snow removal, and exterior maintenance.
Residents can take advantage of the community bus, which provides transport for local errands and services. There’s also a modern clubhouse, with a ballroom, an exercise room, bocce ball and shuffleboard courts, and an outdoor pool. Well-attended activities like parties, dances, and neighborhood gatherings also help keep everyone here well-connected and socially active.
Request more information about Cheesequake Village.
Concordia – Monroe, NJ
Low $200s – High $400s
If you like living large, you’ll want to look at Concordia, an established and gated golf course community with 1,757 resale condo, attached, and single-family homes. Located in Monroe, Concordia has everything active adults need on community grounds, including its own shopping center with a grocery store, medical offices, and a UPS Store.
Buyers have their choice of 14 floor plans, ranging from the cozy 951-square-foot condo to the more spacious 1,700 square foot single-family home. Models offer one to two bedrooms, one to two bathrooms, and attached garages. Models may have dens, patios, stainless steel appliances, and hardwood floors. A monthly HOA fee covers trash and snow removal as well as other services.
The highly-rated, 18-hole Concordia Golf Club has reasonable fees and a popular cafe. The community clubhouse, known as Club Concordia, is home to additional amenities, including lighted tennis courts, an indoor pool, a sauna, an arts and crafts studio, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Plus, with clubs and events like free movies, ceramic workshops, and Aquacise, rest assured the social calendar will be full to the brim.
Request more information about Concordia.
Shadow Lake Village – Red Bank, NJ
High $100s – High $400s
This gated, established retirement community of 952 resale attached homes is in desirable Red Bank, known for its gourmet restaurants, art galleries, and world-class shopping. It’s also close to beach towns like Sea Bright, great for homeowners looking to spend time in the sun.
There are over a dozen floor plans ranging from 909 to 1,391 square feet with one to two bedrooms, one to two bathrooms, and garages or parking spots. Options include dens, patios, and screened-in porches. The HOA fee covers a community shuttle, snow and trash removal, and landscaping.
Community clubs include golf, Kiwanis, a pet club, and a gardening group. Neighbors can meet at the private clubhouse, which has a meeting room, a fitness center, a sauna, an outdoor pool, and sports courts. There’s also a 9-hole golf course on the grounds.
