Salem County, NJ

Living in Penns Grove, NJ: The Complete Neighborhood Guide

Most Affordable in NJ. Delaware River Borough. DuPont Heritage.

Last updated: September 2026

$160,000
Median Home Price
38 min
To Penn Station
4,792
Population
1894
Founded
10.4%
YoY Appreciation

Why Penns Grove, NJ?

Penns Grove has the most affordable homes in all of New Jersey — a Delaware River borough with a $160K median that is appreciating at 10.4% annually, the fastest in Salem County. The compact, walkable borough has a historic Main Street and DuPont industrial heritage. At $160K, a single family home costs less than a parking spot in Hoboken. The 10.4% appreciation shows this floor is rising fast.

Penns Grove Real Estate Market in 2026

Penns Grove homes sell in 22 days at a $160K median — the absolute floor of the NJ market. Older homes, multi family, and some with renovation potential. Strong investor interest. Highest appreciation in the county.

$160,000
Median Price
$105/sqft
Price Per Sq Ft
22 days
Avg Days on Market
+10.4%
Year Over Year

Best Neighborhoods in Penns Grove

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

Main Street Area

$125,000 to $225,000

Walkable downtown with historic homes. Compact lots. Village character.

Best for: Investors, first-time buyers

River Area

$140,000 to $200,000

Near the Delaware River. Older homes.

Best for: Value seekers

Commuting from Penns Grove to NYC

38
Minutes to Penn Station
Drive to Delaware Memorial Bridge
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 Penns Grove

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

52
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
38 min
NYC Commute
3.45%
Property Tax Rate
$2,890/year avg
18.4%
Hispanic/Latino
12.8% foreign-born

Penns Grove Schools and Ratings

Penns Grove-Carneys Point Regional Schools.

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

Penns Grove Middle School

PENNS GROVE, NJ · Middle · Grades 6-8
F
11.9:1 ratio 465 students Score: 37/100

Paul W Carleton

PENNS GROVE, NJ · Elementary · Grades 4-5
F
11.4:1 ratio 319 students Score: 35/100
View all Penns Grove schools with full ratings →

Penns Grove vs Neighboring Towns: Cost Comparison

City Median Price Tax Rate Annual Tax NYC Commute
Penns Grove $160,000 3.45% $2,890 38 min
Salem $180,000 3.23% $3,234 45 min
Carneys Point $250,000 2.45% $4,890 35 min

Where to Eat in Penns Grove

Main Street

Local restaurants and shops.

Parks and Recreation in Penns Grove

Delaware River

River access and views.

New Development and Growth in Penns Grove

History of Penns Grove, NJ

Incorporated in 1894. Named after William Penn.

DuPont Company operations employed thousands of Penns Grove residents for decades.

Penns Grove was a thriving industrial town in the early 1900s.

Safety in Penns Grove

Penns Grove has a higher crime rate than rural Salem County. Police presence is active.

Notable Residents

Annual Events and Festivals

Frequently Asked Questions About Penns Grove, NJ

What is the median home price in Penns Grove, NJ?

The median home price is $160,000 as of 2026, with 10.4% year-over-year appreciation. Average $105/sqft, selling in 22 days.

How long is the commute from Penns Grove to NYC?

38 minutes via NJ Transit from on the Drive to Delaware Memorial Bridge. Transfer required.

What are property taxes in Penns Grove, NJ?

Tax rate is 3.45%. Average homeowner pays $2,890/year. At the median price of $160,000, expect about $5,520/year.

What are the best neighborhoods in Penns Grove?

Main Street Area ($125,000 to $225,000). River Area ($140,000 to $200,000). See the full guide above for all 2 neighborhoods.

Is Penns Grove safe?

Penns Grove has a higher crime rate than rural Salem County. Police presence is active.

How walkable is Penns Grove, NJ?

Walk Score of 52, rated "Somewhat Walkable." Median income $38,000, median age 34.8. 58% renter-occupied.

Ready to Find Your Home in Penns Grove?

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

Explore Nearby Communities

Salem $180,000 45 min Carneys Point $250,000 35 min