$798,246Average Value$459Average Price per Sq Ft6Homes For Sale
Community spirit is exemplified on Fanny Wood Day
In the fall, “Fanny Wood Day” brings Fanwood residents out onto the streets in droves. Vendors set up under white tents, live bands provide the soundtrack for a day of shopping and snacking, and the bravest in the crowd participate in spaghetti and meatball eating contests. In Fanwood, the spirit of Small-Town America is still alive and well. "In a world where cities are getting bigger, towns are getting bigger, you don't know your neighbors as well as in the past, Fanwood is preserving that past,” says Scott Shuman, a New Jersey Native who earned his real estate license at just 18 years old. He's worked with the Sue Adler Team since 2010. As legend has it, this small New Jersey borough was named after Fanny Wood, a writer who complimented the area’s natural beauty in the late 19th century. That being said, according to most, Fanny’s probably just an old wives tale… And the excuse for an annual block party. Over 150 years ago, the neighborhood was a stop along the Central Railroad of New Jersey less than 30 miles from New York City. Today, Fanwood’s original 1874 train station serves as the borough’s museum. “It's a little town with a really cool sense of community," adds Shuman.
Fanwood
Fanwood
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A white-picket-fence lifestyle on shaded streets
In Fanwood, many residents are living what can best be described as a white picket fence lifestyle. Two-bedroom classic Cape Cods and modest bungalows hover between $400,000 and $500,000, and larger Colonial Revivals, split-levels, bi-levels, traditional homes and the occasional Tudor-inspired property range from $650,000 to $850,000, with the average price resting around $675,000. Due to the age of these single-family homes — many were built during the 1930s — buyers will find plenty of detached rather than attached garages. According to Shuman, Fanwood prices are on the rise, but prices are still more accessible than in surrounding neighborhoods. Homes here are in high demand, selling over two weeks faster than the national average. Streets are wide, and century-old oak trees put even three-story houses to shame. They also result in colorful front yard leaf piles in the autumn.
Cape Cod style homes are mixed in with colonials and split level homes in Fanwood.
Picket fence
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Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Awards for Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School
The borough is also known for its top-rated public school system, and elementary options include Brunner, which received a B-plus from the educational review site, Niche, as well as Coles and School One, which both received As. Nettingham Middle and Terrill Middle also earned A-minus grades, and Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School has an A rating. SPFHS is known for its Repertory Theater, and they’ve been nominated for several Paper Mill Playhouse “Rising Star” Awards over the years; their 2022 production of “Les Miserables” was under consideration for “Outstanding Overall Production of a Musical” and SPFHS’ chorus, orchestra and lead actor were nominated for “The Drowsy Chaperone” in 2023. The high school also has a Practical Arts Department, offering classes in subjects like TV News/Broadcast Journalism and Astronomy.
The Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School has a current population of over 1500 students.
Coles
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Grape leaves, pizza and bagels along South Avenue
Fanwood’s downtown has seen plenty of new development over the last two decades. South Avenue, the town’s main thoroughfare, is lined with restaurants like Nostimo, which serves Greek specialties including spanakopita and stuffed grape leaves, and Fabio’s Bistro, where residents can pick up thin-crust New York-style pies or pizza by the slice. Bagel Cafe NJ is a go-to in the morning – bagels here are hand-rolled and fresh-baked. Residents pick up their prescriptions at Fanwood Pharmacy, and Tom the Green Grocer (a 1970s-era roadside farmstand-turned-gourmet market) has fresh produce, a bakery section and a deli counter. There’s also a Trader Joe’s about 2 miles east in Westfield, and big box retailers can be found to the north in Blue Star Shopping Center and Watchung Square.
Bagel Café NJ in Fanwood has fresh made bagels and delicious sandwiches every day.
Nostimos Mediterranean Grill in Fanwood is a town favorite for great food and friendly service.
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Town-sponsored egg hunts and movie nights
Along with Fanny Wood Day in the fall, borough residents look forward to the annual Easter Egg Hunt in Forst Road Park, where children can meet the Easter Bunny and search for close to 2,000 hidden eggs. There’s a float contest at the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Memorial Day Parade, and La Grande Park hosts a free summertime movie night series; at dusk, families lay down their blankets or set up beach chairs in front of the outdoor screen. Other annual events include the Halloween parade and costume contest, tree lighting ceremony and occasional vendor pop-up events near the historic Victorian train station. There’s also the Fanwood Fan Jam, a summer music festival in La Grande Park.
LaGrande Park is a popular spot in Fanwood for children, adults, and grandparents.
The Fanwood Egg Hunt
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Butterfly gardens and footbridges in local parks
To the north of Fanwood Avenue, skateboarders work on their tricks at Forest Road Park, which also has basketball and tennis courts. It’s not uncommon to see deer and rabbits grazing in front of the playground early in the morning. Fanwood Nature Center, which can be found south of Fanwood Avenue, has a butterfly garden and wooden footbridges. Rugged trails wind past shallow creeks. Just outside the neighborhood, the Westfield Pool Complex tends to get busy on summer days. And Milt Campbell Field is frequented by soccer and baseball players. Spanning nearly 2,000 acres, the Watchung Reservation lies a few miles north of Fanwood. Here, find what’s known as the “Enchanted” or “Magic Forest,” which has inspired local stories and whispers of witchcraft for decades.
Fanwood skate park is a great place to practice your skills on the skateboard or scooter.
Nature Center
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The Raritan Valley Line provides access to Newark
Manhattan is less than 30 miles from Fanwood, but driving along Interstate 78 usually means a heavy dose of traffic. Those hoping to avoid highways can take New Jersey Transit — specifically the Raritan Valley Line — from Fanwood Station to Newark and, from here, connect to New York City. Bus 113 also stops in Fanwood on the way to Port Authority. Nearby airports include Newark Liberty International, LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy. Medical care is readily accessible at Scotch Plain Medical Center/Urgent Care, and Muhlenberg Regional Medical Center provides emergency services about 3 miles — or 10 minutes — away.
The NJ Transit train to/from Fanwood has an express to NYC twice per day.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Michele Klug,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Farley Park
Milton Campbell Field
Green Forest Park
Fanwood Nature Center
Trails
Hiking
Forest Road Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Picnic Area
La Grande Park
Transit
Airport
Newark Liberty International
25 min drive
Train
Fanwood
Bus
South Ave & Martine Ave
Bus
South Ave & Old South Ave. West
Bus
Midway Ave & Hunter Ave
Bus
South Ave & Stagaard Pl
Bus
South Ave & Hetfield Ave
Bus
Midway Ave & Tillotson Rd
Bus
Martine Ave & Midway Ave
Reviews
Niche Reviews
4.411 Reviews
5.0Current Resident
8/7/2024Niche Review
Great, family friendly town. Lots of fun events for kids. Safe neighborhoods and great school system. Small town with friendly neighbors.
4.0Current Resident
8/18/2021Niche Review
It's a very small town; I wish the town gave more money to improve QOL stuff in public schools. I don't exactly expect much nightlife, and we're *so* far from the city; the commute is miserable and there aren't enough single ride tickets at high level commute times to make it super viable especially for younger people. Its heavily patrolled by police which may be a positive for some but is in reality a very strong negative.
5.0Current Resident
1/11/2020Niche Review
We love our little "best" small town in NJ. Amazing Neigbor's, friendly town feel. Excellent place to raise kids and raise your family. Safe, quant, refreshing suburb indeed. You'll feel right at home.
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Fanwood
US
Homicide
2
4
Sexual Assault
1
4
Assault with Weapon
2
4
Robbery
2
4
Burglary
2
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
2
4
Larceny
2
4
Crime Score
2
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Fanwood, NJ sell after 26 days on the market compared to the national average of 47 days. The average sale price for homes in Fanwood, NJ over the last 12 months is $784,396, up 15% from the average home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Immaculate split-level home. Move in condition. Nice size back yard . Kitchen updated. New appliances in Kitchen in 2021. Gas stove new 2025.Refrigerator included. Washer Dryer new in 2025 included. Built- in Heated pool with Deck and Gazebo. Pool Heater new in 2022, Vinyl pool liner new in 2021, Pool cleaning robot purchased in 2023. Driveway refinished in 2022. Home exterior painted 2022,
HOME SWEET HOME! DON'T MISS THE OPPORTUNITY TO SEE THIS WELL-MAINTAINED HOME EAGERLY AWAITING ITS NEW OWNER'S UPDATES. SET IN A HIGHLY DESIRABLE AND SOUGHT-AFTER QUIET NEIGHBORHOOD THIS WONDERFUL HOME FEATURES A BRIGHT, SPACIOUS LIVING ROOM WITH A WOOD-BURNING FIREPLACE, A DINING ROOM, A KITCHEN, FIRST FLOOR TWO BEDROOMS WITH WALK-IN CEDAR CLOSETS, A FULL BATH, AN ENCLOSED FRONT PORCH TO ENJOY
Welcome to this charming 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom Colonial located in a fantastic neighborhood with unbeatable convenience! Ideally situated close to the train station and top-rated schools, this home offers both comfort and accessibility. Step inside to find a welcoming living room that flows into the dining area, kitchen and full new bathroom perfect for everyday living and easy entertaining.
Discover this charming ranch-style home, located just steps from La Grande Park and the Fanwood Nature Center. This 2-bedroom 1.5 baths single-family home offers a sunny eat-in kitchen, updated full bath, hardwood floors, basement with garage access, half bath, laundry, storage, and flexible living space. Fenced backyard, and large deck are perfect for entertaining or relaxing outdoors. Ideal for
Discover this rare gem: a distinctive multiplex townhouse with no condo dues, your own fenced backyard, and a location that puts you just minutes from the train and town center. Step inside to an inviting open-concept main floor, featuring a newer kitchen perfect for cooking, entertaining, or just enjoying a quiet night in. Upstairs, you'll find two comfortable bedrooms and a bright,
Welcome to 14 Rainier Rd. in the charming town of Fanwood, NJ! This delightful home offers a wonderful blend of cozy comfort and modern amenities, making it a perfect choice for your next chapter. Step inside to discover a spacious and inviting living area with beautiful hardwood floors and recessed lighting that create a warm and welcoming ambiance. Bright and airy, with 3 bedrooms, and 2
ONE BEDROOM ONE BATHROOM, TWO BEDROOM ONE BATHROOM AND TWO BEDROOM TWO BATHROOM LUXURY APARTMENTS! Pet friendly beautiful newer complex with high end finishes. Spacious one and two bedroom apartments located in an electronically accessed building. Every apartment home features stainless steel kitchen suites, granite counters, hardwood floors, full front load washer/dryer and central heat/air in
Welcome to this spacious and beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home in the heart of Fanwood Borough! offering the perfect balance of comfort and convenience, this residence features generous living spaces, modern finishes, and an ideal location close to local amenities and transportation. The open-concept layout includes a large living room, dining area, and a fully equipped kitchen
MOVE RIGHT IN TO 40 SOUTH AVENUE IN FANWOOD! Unit 1G is a 1 BD / 1 BA apartment in newly constructed, highly secure, 3-story elevator building. Designed with attention to detail, this apartment features high-end finishes, an open-concept layout, and natural light. Features include in-unit Washer/Dryer, Water Heater and Furnace. 1 assigned parking spot is included. Located in a desirable location,
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Michele Klug,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
7,963
Median Age
43
Population Density
10 ppl/acre
Population under 18
26%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
17.5%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$172,743
Significantly above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$192,828
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
98%
College Graduates
70.6%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
34.6%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
75.4%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
46''
Average Winter Low Temperature
25°F
Average Summer High Temperature
85°F
Annual Snowfall
3''
Area Factors
Bikeable
Bike Score®
50/ 100
Very Walkable
Walk Score®
82/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
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.
