Ocean County, NJ

Living in Barnegat, NJ: The Complete Neighborhood Guide

Barnegat Bay. Pine Barrens. Affordable Shore Living.

Last updated: September 2026

$370,000
Median Home Price
92 min
To Penn Station
24,392
Population
1846
Founded
7.8%
YoY Appreciation

Why Barnegat, NJ?

Barnegat is a growing township of 24,392 south of Toms River with Barnegat Bay waterfront, Pine Barrens proximity, active-adult communities, and family developments. Barnegat Lighthouse (Old Barney) is one of the most photographed landmarks on the Jersey Shore. At $370K with 7.8% appreciation, affordable shore-adjacent living with bay access for boating and fishing.

Barnegat Real Estate Market in 2026

Barnegat homes sell in 18 days at a $370K median, appreciating at 7.8%.

$370,000
Median Price
$220/sqft
Price Per Sq Ft
18 days
Avg Days on Market
+7.8%
Year Over Year

Best Neighborhoods in Barnegat

2 distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and price range

Bayfront

$375,000 to $550,000

Bay access and views.

Best for: Waterfront seekers

Central Barnegat

$325,000 to $425,000

Residential developments.

Best for: Families, retirees

Commuting from Barnegat to NYC

92
Minutes to Penn Station
Drive to Toms River
Transfer required
Peak frequency: 3 to 4 trains per hour
Also nearby
Newark Liberty Airport: 10 min drive
NJ Turnpike, I-78, Routes 1 and 9
7 NJ Transit bus routes

Source: NJ Transit schedules, June 2026. Peak hour commute times.

Walkability and Livability in Barnegat

How easy is it to live car-free or car-light in Barnegat?

15
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
92 min
NYC Commute
2.12%
Property Tax Rate
$5,890/year avg
10.4%
Hispanic/Latino
8.4% foreign-born

Barnegat Schools and Ratings

Barnegat HS serves the community.

Source: NCES CCD 2023 to 2024, NJDOE NJSLA 2024 to 2025

Cecil S. Collins Elementary

BARNEGAT, NJ · Elementary · Grades K-2
D
13.2:1 ratio 754 students Score: 66/100

Russell O. Brackman Middle School

BARNEGAT, NJ · Middle · Grades 7-8
F
8.6:1 ratio 509 students Score: 57/100

Robert L. Horbelt Elementary School

BARNEGAT, NJ · Middle · Grades 5-6
F
10.8:1 ratio 488 students Score: 54/100

Barnegat High School

BARNEGAT, NJ · High · Grades 9-12
F
12.0:1 ratio 997 students Score: 51/100

Joseph T. Donahue Elementary School

BARNEGAT, NJ · Elementary · Grades 3-4
F
12.1:1 ratio 498 students Score: 50/100
View all Barnegat schools with full ratings →

Barnegat vs Neighboring Towns: Cost Comparison

City Median Price Tax Rate Annual Tax NYC Commute
Barnegat $370,000 2.12% $5,890 92 min
Stafford $380,000 1.89% $5,456 95 min
Lacey $400,000 2.01% $5,890 90 min

Where to Eat in Barnegat

Route 9

Casual dining along Route 9.

Parks and Recreation in Barnegat

Barnegat Bay

Bay access for boating and fishing.

New Development and Growth in Barnegat

History of Barnegat, NJ

Founded in 1846. Named after Barnegat Inlet.

Safety in Barnegat

Barnegat is a safe community.

Notable Residents

Annual Events and Festivals

Barnegat Day (annual community celebration)

Frequently Asked Questions About Barnegat, NJ

What is the median home price in Barnegat, NJ?

The median home price is $370,000 as of 2026, with 7.8% year-over-year appreciation. Average $220/sqft, selling in 18 days.

How long is the commute from Barnegat to NYC?

92 minutes via NJ Transit from on the Drive to Toms River. Transfer required.

What are property taxes in Barnegat, NJ?

Tax rate is 2.12%. Average homeowner pays $5,890/year. At the median price of $370,000, expect about $7,844/year.

What are the best neighborhoods in Barnegat?

Bayfront ($375,000 to $550,000). Central Barnegat ($325,000 to $425,000). See the full guide above for all 2 neighborhoods.

Is Barnegat safe?

Barnegat is a safe community.

How walkable is Barnegat, NJ?

Walk Score of 15, rated "Car-Dependent." Median income $72,000, median age 42.4. 12% renter-occupied.

Ready to Find Your Home in Barnegat?

Talk to a Premier Homes agent who knows Barnegat inside and out. We have been serving this community for over 30 years.

Explore Nearby Communities

Stafford $380,000 95 min Lacey $400,000 90 min