Why Harding, NJ?
Harding Township has the highest per capita income in New Jersey ($109,472, ranked #1 statewide) and the most rural character within commuting distance of NYC — 3-acre minimum lot sizes (5-acre in some zones), under 4,000 residents on 20 square miles. Half of the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge lies within Harding. Jockey Hollow (Washington's 1779-1780 winter encampment) is here — America's first National Historical Park. The 1928 New Vernon Neighborhood Restrictive Agreement predated formal zoning by decades, with estate owners voluntarily preserving the rural landscape. 47% of households earn over $200K. Harding is the heart of NJ's hunt country — Essex Fox Hounds, Morris County Golf Club, bridle paths, and equestrian estates. The Wayfair co-founder lives here. Properties range from $490K to $5.26M.
Harding Real Estate Market in 2026
Harding homes sell in approximately 20 days. Typical sales $1.4M-$2.2M. Luxury median listing $2.12M. Range from $490K to $5.26M+. Cape Cod, Colonial, Federal, and custom estates, some 200+ years old. 3-acre minimum in R-1 zones, 5-acre in R-3/R-4 zones. Over 40% of undeveloped space is protected. Forbes designated part of Harding among Top 25 Richest Zip Codes.
Best Neighborhoods in Harding
4 distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and price range
New Vernon
$1,200,000 to $5,000,000+Primary village center with township offices. Colonial settlement predating the American Revolution. The 1928 Restrictive Agreement by estate owners voluntarily maintained rural character. Home to Hartley Farms (Marcellus Hartley Dodge estate). ZIP 07976.
Green Village
$900,000 to $2,500,000Straddles western Chatham Township and eastern Harding. Population 1,820. Lush greenery, mix of old farmhouses and modern homes. The 5-mile Orange Trail begins here into the Great Swamp. The Farm at Green Village (32-acre garden center). ZIP 07935.
Mount Kemble Lake
$800,000 to $1,500,000Private club community developed in the 1920s (established 1926). Mix of privately owned homes and community-owned assets.
Country Mile / Route 202
$700,000 to $1,200,000Commercial corridor along Mt. Kemble Avenue with Talbots, Country Mile Gardens, Market Taverne, and The Minuteman Family Restaurant (operating since 1962). Near Morris County Golf Club.
Commuting from Harding to NYC
Source: NJ Transit schedules, June 2026. Peak hour commute times.
Walkability and Livability in Harding
How easy is it to live car-free or car-light in Harding?
Harding vs Neighboring Towns: Cost Comparison
| City | Median Price | Tax Rate | Annual Tax | NYC Commute |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harding | $1,135,000 | 1.56% | $22,345 | 55 min |
| Mendham Borough | $1,160,000 | 1.99% | $15,123 | 60 min |
| Chatham Township | $1,686,836 | 2.18% | $22,500 | 48 min |
Where to Eat in Harding
Country Mile Corridor
The Minuteman Family Restaurant (operating since 1962 on Route 202), Market Taverne, Country Mile Gardens. Minimal commercial by design — residents dine in Morristown (100+ restaurants), Madison (Shanghai Jazz), or Chester (Black Horse Tavern).
Green Village
Green Village Deli. The Farm at Green Village (32-acre garden center with seasonal events).
Parks and Recreation in Harding
Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
7,768 acres established November 3, 1960. Half lies within Harding Township. 244+ species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians. 12+ miles of trails, boardwalks, observation platforms. Helen C. Fenske Visitor Center at 32 Pleasant Plains Rd. Remnant of Glacial Lake Passaic (30 miles long, 10 miles wide, 15,000-11,000 years ago). 26 miles west of Times Square.
Jockey Hollow / Morristown National Historical Park
Continental Army encampment site in Harding Township. Washington's winter headquarters 1779-1780. America's FIRST National Historical Park, established March 2, 1933.
Loantaka Brook Reservation
Trails, playgrounds, athletic fields, and equestrian paths.
Patriots' Path
Trail network running through the township connecting to 70+ miles of Morris County trails.
New Development and Growth in Harding
History of Harding, NJ
Created September 1, 1922 from Passaic Township by referendum (May 9, 1922). Named after President Warren G. Harding. The area was part of Hanover in Hunterdon County as early as 1720.
The Great Swamp jetport fight (1959-1968): Port Authority executive Austin Tobin proposed a 10,000-acre jetport (later 25,000-30,000 acres) in the Great Swamp. Helen Fenske organized opposition from her Green Village kitchen. Marcellus Hartley Dodge donated land to the Department of Interior. Congressman Peter Frelinghuysen Jr. led the political fight. Residents raised funds to buy 3,000 acres and donated them to the federal government. The 9-year battle required a president and an Act of Congress.
The 1928 New Vernon Neighborhood Restrictive Agreement — estate owners voluntarily placed covenants requiring future owners to maintain rural character. Predated formal zoning codes by decades. A 1973 NYT headline read: 'Town With 3-Acre Zoning Minimum.'
Heart of NJ's hunt country: Essex Fox Hounds (incorporated 1913, scarlet attire with orange collar), Morris County Golf Club, Somerset Bridle Path Association (est. 1916, 200+ miles of private trails, 300 members), Morris County Bridle Path Association (founded 1909, 400+ members). Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis rode in this hunt country.
Greeley Wells (1920-2014), Marine Corps veteran, participated in the FIRST flag-raising on Iwo Jima and later served as mayor of Harding Township.
Glen Alpin Mansion (1840) and Tunis-Ellicks Farmhouse (1790) are preserved historic landmarks. U.S. Navy operated facilities in the area during WWII.
Safety in Harding
Harding Township is extremely safe with effectively negligible crime rates. Population under 4,000 with extreme wealth and rural character.
Notable Residents
Annual Events and Festivals
Frequently Asked Questions About Harding, NJ
What is the median home price in Harding, NJ?
The median home price is $1,135,000 as of 2026, with 3.8% year-over-year appreciation. Average $380/sqft, selling in 20 days.
How long is the commute from Harding to NYC?
55 minutes via NJ Transit from on the Drive to Madison/Morristown. Transfer required.
What are property taxes in Harding, NJ?
Tax rate is 1.56%. Average homeowner pays $22,345/year. At the median price of $1,135,000, expect about $17,706/year.
What are the best neighborhoods in Harding?
New Vernon ($1,200,000 to $5,000,000+). Green Village ($900,000 to $2,500,000). Mount Kemble Lake ($800,000 to $1,500,000). Country Mile / Route 202 ($700,000 to $1,200,000). See the full guide above for all 4 neighborhoods.
Is Harding safe?
Harding Township is extremely safe with effectively negligible crime rates. Population under 4,000 with extreme wealth and rural character.
How walkable is Harding, NJ?
Walk Score of 16, rated "Car-Dependent." Median income $183,587, median age 52.0. 4% renter-occupied.
Ready to Find Your Home in Harding?
Talk to a Premier Homes agent who knows Harding inside and out. We have been serving this community for over 30 years.