Why Clinton, NJ?
Clinton is the postcard-perfect town that people picture when they imagine small town New Jersey — the iconic Red Mill spanning the South Branch of the Raritan River, a walkable Main Street lined with galleries, restaurants, and boutiques, and the Hunterdon Art Museum housed in a 19th century stone mill. The Red Mill is one of the most photographed sites in NJ and has appeared on countless tourism materials. At $550K with 7.2% appreciation and a 72 walkability score, Clinton is the most walkable town in Hunterdon County outside of Lambertville.
Clinton Real Estate Market in 2026
Clinton homes sell in 38 days at a $550K median — the fastest turnover in Hunterdon County after Flemington, driven by walkability and charm. Compact borough with limited inventory keeps prices firm. Mix of Victorians, colonials, and some townhomes. The 32% renter rate is high for Hunterdon, reflecting the small town apartment inventory.
Best Neighborhoods in Clinton
2 distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and price range
Main Street
$475,000 to $750,000Walk to restaurants, shops, the Red Mill, and the Hunterdon Art Museum. Victorian and colonial homes with small yards. The most walkable real estate in Hunterdon County.
Residential Borough
$450,000 to $650,000Quiet streets off Main with older homes. Walking distance to everything in the borough. Community oriented.
Commuting from Clinton to NYC
Source: NJ Transit schedules, June 2026. Peak hour commute times.
Walkability and Livability in Clinton
How easy is it to live car-free or car-light in Clinton?
Clinton Schools and Ratings
Clinton Borough students attend Clinton Township Schools and Hunterdon Central Regional HS.
Source: NCES CCD 2023 to 2024, NJDOE NJSLA 2024 to 2025
Clinton Township Middle School
Clinton Public School
Clinton vs Neighboring Towns: Cost Comparison
| City | Median Price | Tax Rate | Annual Tax | NYC Commute |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clinton | $550,000 | 2.56% | $11,234 | 70 min |
| Flemington | $420,000 | 2.78% | $8,890 | 65 min |
| Frenchtown | $425,000 | 2.89% | $8,567 | 80 min |
Where to Eat in Clinton
Main Street
Clinton Station Diner (restored train car diner), Juniper Hill (upscale farm to table), Main Street Tavern, and seasonal restaurants along the river. The Red Mill area is a dining destination.
Parks and Recreation in Clinton
Red Mill Museum Village
10 acre museum complex centered on the 1810 Red Mill. Historic structures, rotating exhibits, and seasonal events including Haunted Mill for Halloween.
Hunterdon Art Museum
Housed in a 19th century stone grist mill. Contemporary art exhibitions, classes, and community events.
South Branch Greenway
Walking path along the South Branch of the Raritan River through the borough.
New Development and Growth in Clinton
History of Clinton, NJ
Incorporated in 1865. The town grew around the mills on the South Branch of the Raritan River.
The Red Mill was built circa 1810 and has served as a grist mill, talc processing mill, and graphite mill. It became a museum in 1963.
The stone mill across the river (now the Hunterdon Art Museum) was built in 1836 and is one of the finest examples of industrial stone architecture in NJ.
Clinton's Main Street has been a commercial center since the 1800s and retains its historic character.
Safety in Clinton
Clinton is a very safe, walkable community.
Notable Residents
Annual Events and Festivals
Frequently Asked Questions About Clinton, NJ
What is the median home price in Clinton, NJ?
The median home price is $550,000 as of 2026, with 7.2% year-over-year appreciation. Average $290/sqft, selling in 38 days.
How long is the commute from Clinton to NYC?
70 minutes via NJ Transit from on the Drive to High Bridge Station. Transfer required.
What are property taxes in Clinton, NJ?
Tax rate is 2.56%. Average homeowner pays $11,234/year. At the median price of $550,000, expect about $14,080/year.
What are the best neighborhoods in Clinton?
Main Street ($475,000 to $750,000). Residential Borough ($450,000 to $650,000). See the full guide above for all 2 neighborhoods.
Is Clinton safe?
Clinton is a very safe, walkable community.
How walkable is Clinton, NJ?
Walk Score of 72, rated "Very Walkable." Median income $98,000, median age 40.8. 32% renter-occupied.
Ready to Find Your Home in Clinton?
Talk to a Premier Homes agent who knows Clinton inside and out. We have been serving this community for over 30 years.