Ocean County, NJ

Living in Lacey, NJ: The Complete Neighborhood Guide

Forked River. Double Trouble State Park. Quiet Shore Living.

Last updated: September 2026

$400,000
Median Home Price
90 min
To Penn Station
29,348
Population
1871
Founded
7.2%
YoY Appreciation

Why Lacey, NJ?

Lacey Township encompasses the Forked River and Lanoka Harbor sections — 29,348 residents with Barnegat Bay access, Double Trouble State Park (historic cranberry bogs and Pine Barrens hiking), and a quieter alternative to neighboring Toms River. Forked River provides direct bay access for boaters. Lanoka Harbor is a waterfront community on Barnegat Bay. At $400K with 7.2% appreciation, shore living without shore prices.

Lacey Real Estate Market in 2026

Lacey homes sell in 18 days at a $400K median.

$400,000
Median Price
$235/sqft
Price Per Sq Ft
18 days
Avg Days on Market
+7.2%
Year Over Year

Best Neighborhoods in Lacey

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

Forked River

$375,000 to $550,000

Bay access and waterfront.

Best for: Boaters, waterfront seekers

Lanoka Harbor

$350,000 to $475,000

Barnegat Bay community.

Best for: Families

Commuting from Lacey to NYC

90
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 Lacey

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

10
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
90 min
NYC Commute
2.01%
Property Tax Rate
$5,890/year avg
8.4%
Hispanic/Latino
6.8% foreign-born

Lacey vs Neighboring Towns: Cost Comparison

City Median Price Tax Rate Annual Tax NYC Commute
Lacey $400,000 2.01% $5,890 90 min
Toms River $450,000 2.12% $6,234 85 min
Barnegat $370,000 2.12% $5,890 92 min

Where to Eat in Lacey

Route 9

Local dining.

Parks and Recreation in Lacey

Double Trouble State Park

Historic cranberry bogs and Pine Barrens nature area with hiking.

New Development and Growth in Lacey

History of Lacey, NJ

Founded in 1871. Double Trouble cranberry bogs operated from the 1860s.

Safety in Lacey

Lacey is a safe community.

Notable Residents

Annual Events and Festivals

Lacey Day (annual community celebration)

Frequently Asked Questions About Lacey, NJ

What is the median home price in Lacey, NJ?

The median home price is $400,000 as of 2026, with 7.2% year-over-year appreciation. Average $235/sqft, selling in 18 days.

How long is the commute from Lacey to NYC?

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

What are property taxes in Lacey, NJ?

Tax rate is 2.01%. Average homeowner pays $5,890/year. At the median price of $400,000, expect about $8,040/year.

What are the best neighborhoods in Lacey?

Forked River ($375,000 to $550,000). Lanoka Harbor ($350,000 to $475,000). See the full guide above for all 2 neighborhoods.

Is Lacey safe?

Lacey is a safe community.

How walkable is Lacey, NJ?

Walk Score of 10, rated "Car-Dependent." Median income $78,000, median age 44.8. 10% renter-occupied.

Ready to Find Your Home in Lacey?

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

Explore Nearby Communities

Toms River $450,000 85 min Barnegat $370,000 92 min