East Freehold, New Jersey, on the cusp of farmlands' never-ending greenery, is a picturesque suburb surrounded by preserved open spaces. Boasting large residences that commonly sit on an acre or more, highly-ranked schools that offer specialized magnet programs, and everyday amenities a quick drive away, locals here enjoy the tranquility and privacy that come with living on the edge of the exurbs. “East Freehold borders Colts Neck and Marlboro, which means that you are slightly closer to New York City and are surrounded by vast open green spaces and parks,” says Josette McClaren, Realtor with Weichert Realtors, who has been in the industry for over 15 years.
Well-manicured homes on large lots
Wandering along the quiet streets, an array of traditional colonials, ranch-style homes and charming Cape Cods dot the landscape. Large lots are characteristic of East Freehold, providing ample space for kids and furry friends to run around. Prospective homebuyers can expect a median sales price for a single-family home to hover around $760,000, with average living spaces well above the national average at around 3,530 square feet. Homes can range from a two-bedroom rambler with an attached one-car garage for $400,000 to a center hall colonial showcasing an inviting wraparound porch with glossy, hardwood floors for $765,000. Houses can also commonly sell for over $1 million, such as a traditional five-bedroom home on almost 2 acres, boasting a heated inground pool and high ceilings for $1.5 million.
Large homes with traditional architecture can be found in East Freehold.
Colonial homes on wooded streets are a common sight in East Freehold.
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Top-rated schools in Freehold Township
The Freehold Township School District and the Freehold Regional High School District serve the neighborhood, receiving high ratings on Niche. Students attend C. Richard Applegate Elementary School and Dwight D. Eisenhower Middle School, both scoring a B-plus rating. Freehold Township High School boasts an A-minus and offers Advanced Placement courses, with 50% of the student population participating. “The school district is also known for its magnet programs. We have classes that range from the culinary arts to the medical sciences to the ROTC program,” McClaren says.
Residents in East Freehold send their children to Freehold Township High School.
Biotechnology High School is another option in East Freehold.
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Serene trails all around
Durrand Park and its surrounding trails offer a serene escape into nature filled with hikers, while the Conservation Area allows for peaceful walks and wildlife watching. Sandy Brook Park along Parkside Avenue is known for its well-equipped playground and basketball and tennis courts. Just outside the neighborhood, Opatut Park, spanning 130 acres, offers amenities such as a playground and football, softball and soccer fields. Locals can also meander around the remaining 84 acres of undeveloped open space and woods for an afternoon spent under the canopy of oak trees.
Gather with friends at the tennis courts in Sandy Brook Park.
Bella Vista Country Club is a private golf club in East Freehold.
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Mom and pop shops
Although locals can always venture downtown, quite a few restaurants line the streets, from Fred and Murry’s Kosher Delicatessen serving classic deli fare and huge sandwiches to Cuzin’s Seafood & Clam Bar for an upscale evening. Panda House is the go-to place for those nights when ordering takeout, with dishes like chicken lo mein and Shanghai spring rolls. For shopping needs, the Manalapan EpiCentre, on the neighborhood’s edge, features a range of stores such as Target, Marshalls and Wegmans, while Trader Joe’s is just next door. Freehold Raceway Mall is also nearby, offering an escape on a rainy day.
Cuzin's Seafood and Clam Bar is a popular spot in East Freehold.
Bruzzese's Italian Gourmet Salumeria features Italian specialties in East Freehold.
Locals have the option to shop for groceries at Trader Joe's in East Freehold.
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Cruising along Main Street
Transportation in and around East Freehold is convenient, with major thoroughfares such as US Route 33 and 18 providing easy access to neighboring areas. Main Street, which transforms into Colts Neck Road, runs through the heart of the neighborhood and features various bus stops, making it easy to access the larger Monmouth County region.
Gatherings at the Monmouth County Fair
Residents can enjoy the peace that comes along with large, secluded lots. But they can also head to one of the various community events that Freehold Township holds, such as the Food Truck Festival every October, showcasing a range of small businesses from around the region to seasonal farmers markets. "The area also borders the East Freehold Showgrounds, which hosts the annual Monmouth County Fair,” McClaren says. With over 60,000 attendees each year, locals can enjoy a range of rides and entertainment, delicious food, and leave with a grand prize for the largest squash in one of the home and garden competitions.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
