6 Exciting Towns in New Jersey Everyone Will Be Talking About This Year

Whether or not these towns offer something new, something fun, something historic, or something unusual, they’re all standouts in New Jersey, highlighted for being places that make you want to visit over and over again, or make you want to buy the next available house.

1. Red Bank

Location: Eastern New Jersey on the Navesink River

Known For: Being a small town with the perks of a big city

This town’s popularity is not a recent occurrence, but rather the product of years of high praise. As a result, the small stature has remained, but the amenities and perks have significantly improved. It has everything—historic buildings, restaurants that range from hidden gems to top-tier cuisine, shopping that spans high-end to thrift stores, galleries, theaters, and more.

2. Lambertville

Location: Western New Jersey on the Pennsylvania border

Known For: Antiques, historic charm, riverfront position 

This town is a magnet for an older crowd determined to find antiques, take in the art scene, soak in a bit of small-town charm, or visit historical buildings. But, for those who can’t find what they want in Lamberville, part of the town’s appeal is that they have a sister town just across the river in New Hope, Pennsylvania!

3. Frenchtown

Location: Western New Jersey on the Pennsylvania Border

Known For: Shopping, outdoor activities, walkability

Some towns are just plain cute. There’s no other way to say it. Frenchtown is definitely such a town that you can’t help but marvel at some of its architecture. Then, to make it even better, this town is practically a shopper’s haven with multiple excellent stores to choose from, and all of them within walking distance of each other. 

4. Chatham

Location: Northern New Jersey

Known For: A strong and competitive community perfect for families, small town charm

This is the place to live if you want the Hallmark-like charm that comes with small towns, great options for families (schools, programs, etc), and a location far enough away from the big cities to afford a bit of space and peace, but close enough to use amenities such as major airports. Honestly, the downtown of this town, with its brick stores and white gazebo, looks like something straight out of Stars Hollow in Gilmore Girls.

5. Asbury Park

Location: Eastern New Jersey on the Atlantic Ocean

Known For: An inclusive and diverse beach town, creativity, and artistry

This beach town has recently been recognized as one of the best small beach towns in the United States; as such, it stands to reason that its popularity is only going to continue to grow. Part of this is due to the views, of course, but a bigger part of the charm is attributed to the residents who make this town a welcoming space for everyone, regardless of their appearance or romantic orientation. Here, art and creativity are put at the forefront of all projects, and the love and care that goes into the town is palpable. 

6. Harrison

Location: Northern New Jersey between New York City and Newark

Known For: Its location, the food scene, and a strong community

This is a clear "up and coming" option, and one driven by location. As cities grow, so do suburbs and the places in between. Since New York City is a notoriously expensive place to live, Harrison (already a suburb of Newark) has seen significant growth at only thirty to forty-five minutes away from NYC. Population growth means new restaurants and amenities, and close proximity to two major cities means many options for transportation and travel.