Boardwalk Revival: Discovering the Borough of Keansburg, NJ

Welcome to Keansburg, a historic and resilient bayshore borough in northern Monmouth County, New Jersey. Known for its iconic Keansburg Amusement Park and Runaway Rapids Waterpark, Keansburg has long been a destination for family fun. The borough offers an affordable coastal lifestyle with stunning views of the New York City skyline and is actively engaged in revitalizing its waterfront and commercial core. If you're seeking a community with a strong sense of history, a working-class charm, and an exceptional commitment to beachfront recreation, Keansburg is an exceptionally desirable place to call home.

A Legacy of Land and Leisure

From Resort Destination to Bayshore Anchor

Keansburg was formed as a borough in 1917, carved from Middletown and Raritan (Hazlet) Townships. It rose to prominence in the early 20th century as a popular resort town, easily accessible to New Yorkers via ferry. Its lively boardwalk, complete with a carousel, dance halls, and amusements, was a major draw until a series of hurricanes in the 1950s caused significant damage. Today, the borough has dedicated substantial resources to storm protection and redevelopment, successfully restoring its amusement park and beaches to continue its legacy as a fun, family-focused shore town.

A Community That Cultivates and Connects

Keansburg fosters a strong, working-class community feel, drawing a population that values affordability, tradition, and local pride. The residents are actively engaged in civic life, working to enhance the town's quality of life. The community's social life revolves heavily around the beachfront, local events, and the family-friendly atmosphere of the amusement park.

Architectural Diversity and Bay Views

The visual appeal of Keansburg is diverse, reflecting its long history and working-class coastal roots. The housing stock is a mix of small, single-family homes, Cape Cods, and bungalows, alongside multi-family apartment buildings and new construction. A major architectural highlight is the historic nature of the Keansburg Amusement Park boardwalk structures, including the former New Point Comfort Auditorium and the vintage carousel building. The town’s location on the Raritan Bay offers priceless bay views and the distant, stunning backdrop of the Manhattan skyline.

Real Estate in Keansburg, NJ

Classic Homes and Competitive Options

Real estate in Keansburg is very competitive and offers some of the most accessible home prices in Monmouth County. The median sale price for homes is typically around $380,000, which is significantly lower than most surrounding towns. The market is fast-paced, with homes selling quickly, a testament to its affordability and coastal location. Housing types include single-family detached homes and a variety of low-cost condos and townhomes.

Properties for All Lifestyles

The market caters to families, first-time homebuyers, and investors looking for rental income. The town is highly desirable for those seeking a beach-area property on a budget. Keansburg also features various senior living facilities and low-income affordable senior housing options.

Amenities and Connectivity

Experience Coastal Life with Central Access

Keansburg’s main amenity is the Keansburg Amusement Park and Runaway Rapids Waterpark, which draw visitors from across the region. The beachfront has been extensively restored for public use, featuring a boardwalk and recreational areas.

A Thriving Local Scene and Nearby Hotspots

The local scene is centered on family entertainment and bayfront recreation. Residents are minutes away from the attractions of Route 36 and the Henry Hudson Trail, and the nightlife and dining of nearby Keyport and Atlantic Highlands.

Proximity to Green Spaces and Community Hubs

The borough has restored its beachfront and is located near various local parks. The Henry Hudson Bike Trail runs through the borough, offering miles of scenic, car-free pathways along the bay shore.

Exceptional Accessibility

Keansburg is a commuter-friendly borough. Its proximity to the Garden State Parkway and Route 36 makes road travel manageable. Furthermore, the town is close to the Hazlet Train Station and the Seastreak Ferry Terminal in Highlands, providing quick commuter options to Manhattan.

Keansburg, New Jersey, offers a truly special opportunity to experience a fun, resilient, and conveniently located coastal lifestyle. It's a place where historic amusements, affordability, and beautiful bay views converge, creating an exceptionally desirable and engaging environment to call home.

HOA: No (The majority of the single-family homes and historic residences do not have a neighborhood-wide HOA. Some condo developments may have HOAs.)

55+ Community: Yes (There are a number of senior living and assisted living facilities, such as Bayside Manor and McGrath Towers, catering to the 55+ population.)