Why Berkeley Heights, NJ?
Berkeley Heights sits at the foot of the Watchung Mountains, offering wooded lots, nature-oriented living, and top-rated Governor Livingston High School — all with NJ Transit access on the Gladstone Branch. The township's hilly terrain gives many homes elevation and views that are rare in Union County. The growing Asian-American community adds cultural diversity, while the Watchung Reservation at the northern border provides 2,065 acres of hiking, nature, and open space. It's the most nature-forward community in Union County.
Berkeley Heights Real Estate Market in 2026
Berkeley Heights homes sell in 25 days at a $780K median. The market is driven by families seeking Governor Livingston HS and the unique wooded character. Larger lots (quarter-acre to full-acre) command premiums. Prices range from $575K split-levels to $1.5M+ custom homes on the mountainside. The growing biotech and pharma employer base along I-78 creates local demand beyond NYC commuters.
Best Neighborhoods in Berkeley Heights
3 distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and price range
Watchung Border / Mountain Area
$900,000 to $1,500,000Northern section with elevation, wooded lots, and proximity to Watchung Reservation. Custom homes and newer construction. The premium residential area.
Downtown / Station Area
$625,000 to $850,000Near the train station and Springfield Avenue commercial area. Split-levels and colonials on moderate lots. Walkable to the train.
Murray Hill Border
$600,000 to $800,000Southern section near the New Providence border. Established neighborhoods with good access to I-78. More affordable entry into the GL school district.
Commuting from Berkeley Heights to NYC
Source: NJ Transit schedules, June 2026. Peak hour commute times.
Walkability and Livability in Berkeley Heights
How easy is it to live car-free or car-light in Berkeley Heights?
Berkeley Heights Schools and Ratings
Berkeley Heights Public Schools feeds into Governor Livingston High School (shared with Mountainside) — consistently ranked in NJ's top 30. The district includes Columbia Middle School, Mountain Park Elementary, and Thomas P. Hughes Elementary. Strong STEM programs and competitive athletics.
Source: NCES CCD 2023 to 2024, NJDOE NJSLA 2024 to 2025
Mary Kay McMillin Early Childhood Center
Governor Livingston High School
Berkeley Heights vs Neighboring Towns: Cost Comparison
| City | Median Price | Tax Rate | Annual Tax | NYC Commute |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Berkeley Heights | $780,000 | 2.47% | $14,237 | 52 min |
| New Providence | $740,000 | 2.31% | $14,102 | 50 min |
| Mountainside | $735,000 | 2.05% | $13,467 | 48 min |
Where to Eat in Berkeley Heights
Local Dining
Delicious Heights (gastropub, locally celebrated), Trap Rock Restaurant (farm-to-table in a historic building), Vine Ripe Markets (gourmet grocery and prepared foods). Growing restaurant scene along Springfield Avenue.
Parks and Recreation in Berkeley Heights
Watchung Reservation
2,065-acre Union County park at Berkeley Heights' northern border. Hiking trails, Surprise Lake, Deserted Village of Feltville, and Trailside Nature Center. The largest open space in Union County.
Columbia Park
Community park with sports fields, tennis courts, and playground.
Passaic River Park
Linear park following the Passaic River through the township.
New Development and Growth in Berkeley Heights
Connell Corporate Center Redevelopment
Plans for the former Connell Company campus to add mixed-use development with residential, retail, and office space.
History of Berkeley Heights, NJ
Separated from New Providence Township in 1952 — one of the youngest municipalities in Union County.
Named for John Berkeley, one of the original proprietors of the Province of New Jersey.
Bell Labs' Murray Hill campus straddled the Berkeley Heights-New Providence border, making both towns part of the telecommunications revolution.
Safety in Berkeley Heights
Berkeley Heights has very low crime rates. The wooded, residential character and active community associations create a safe environment.
Notable Residents
Annual Events and Festivals
Recently Sold Homes in Berkeley Heights, NJ
Public record data from NJ Division of Taxation SR1A filings.
| Address | Sale Price | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 133 MURRAY HILL BLVD | $1,145,000 | 260625 |
| 285 PLAINFIELD AVENUE | $1,275,000 | 260618 |
| 83 CAMBRIDGE DR | $850,000 | 260615 |
| 101 MAPLE AVE | $1,055,000 | 260615 |
| 152 MURRAY HILL BLVD | $1,650,000 | 260613 |
| 236 SPRING RIDGE DR | $1,502,000 | 260612 |
| 64 HAMPTON DR | $1,040,000 | 260611 |
| 62 FOREST AVE | $890,000 | 260605 |
| 34 BERKSHIRE DR | $750,000 | 260604 |
| 239 WASHINGTON STREET | $559,000 | 260603 |
| 42 ARDEN COURT | $1,100,000 | 260602 |
| 27 BRAMBLING RD | $1,385,000 | 260527 |
Source: NJ Division of Taxation, SR1A 2024-2026.
Frequently Asked Questions About Berkeley Heights, NJ
What is the median home price in Berkeley Heights, NJ?
The median home price is $780,000 as of 2026, with 5.6% year-over-year appreciation. Average $330/sqft, selling in 25 days.
How long is the commute from Berkeley Heights to NYC?
52 minutes via NJ Transit from Berkeley Heights Station on the Gladstone Branch. Transfer required.
What are property taxes in Berkeley Heights, NJ?
Tax rate is 2.47%. Average homeowner pays $14,237/year. At the median price of $780,000, expect about $19,266/year.
What are the best neighborhoods in Berkeley Heights?
Watchung Border / Mountain Area ($900,000 to $1,500,000). Downtown / Station Area ($625,000 to $850,000). Murray Hill Border ($600,000 to $800,000). See the full guide above for all 3 neighborhoods.
Is Berkeley Heights safe?
Berkeley Heights has very low crime rates. The wooded, residential character and active community associations create a safe environment.
How walkable is Berkeley Heights, NJ?
Walk Score of 28, rated "Car-Dependent." Median income $162,000, median age 43.5. 8% renter-occupied.
Ready to Find Your Home in Berkeley Heights?
Talk to a Premier Homes agent who knows Berkeley Heights inside and out. We have been serving this community for over 30 years.