Dreaming of Utopia: Discovering the Borough of Roosevelt, NJ

Welcome to Roosevelt, a small and utterly unique borough in western Monmouth County, New Jersey. Originally established in the 1930s as Jersey Homesteads, this community is one of the most fascinating social and architectural experiments of the New Deal era. It is the only entire municipality in New Jersey listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Defined by its pioneering Modernist architecture, agricultural greenbelt, and thriving artist colony, Roosevelt is an exceptionally desirable place for those seeking a highly intellectual, progressive, and historically rich lifestyle.

A Legacy of Land and Living

From New Deal Experiment to Artist Colony

Roosevelt's history is rooted in a vision of self-sustaining cooperative living. Founded in 1937 for Jewish garment workers from New York City, the town was designed as a triple cooperative of a factory, farm, and retail store. Although the economic experiment ultimately failed, the artistic and intellectual energy remained. The town became a haven for artists, most notably renowned painter Ben Shahn, who created a famous mural inside the public school. Today, Roosevelt continues to attract creatives and remains a progressive community dedicated to preserving its unique heritage and open spaces.

A Community That Cultivates and Connects

Roosevelt fosters a strong, proud, and notably involved community feel. Residents benefit from a safe, small-town atmosphere where civic engagement is high, often revolving around the Roosevelt Arts Project. The community's intellectual and cultural life is rich, driven by its unique history and the presence of numerous artists and thinkers. With a high homeownership rate, residents are deeply committed to maintaining the town's highly-prized character.

Architectural Diversity and Open Spaces

The visual appeal of Roosevelt is singular. The original 200 residential units, designed by architect Alfred Kastner with assistant Louis Kahn, are famous for their Bauhaus-influenced, flat-roofed Modernist architecture. These homes are situated on half-acre lots designed in the "Garden City" model, backing onto communal green spaces and woods. The entire borough is surrounded by a preserved greenbelt of farmland and conservation areas, ensuring a low-density, tranquil environment.

Real Estate in Roosevelt, NJ

Classic Homes and Competitive Options

Real estate in Roosevelt features properties with a distinctive modern aesthetic, though they are often subject to historic preservation guidelines. The median sale price for homes is competitive for the area, often around $555,515 to $757,000, which is generally lower than some surrounding Monmouth County suburbs. The market is active, with homes that do become available selling quickly, especially the unique Bauhaus-style originals.

Properties for All Lifestyles

The market caters to buyers seeking history, unique architecture, and a quiet, artistic lifestyle. The relative affordability of the housing stock, combined with its high quality of life and proximity to major roads, makes it an attractive choice for commuters and families who appreciate its low-density, protected setting.

Amenities and Connectivity

Experience Village Life with Suburban Access

Roosevelt’s small size means its amenities are locally focused, including the historic school and the Roosevelt Arts Project. The town is a short drive from major retail and commercial centers along Route 9 in Manalapan and Freehold.

A Thriving Local Scene and Nearby Hotspots

The local scene is centered on arts and culture, with the Ben Shahn mural in the public school serving as a major historic landmark. The adjacent Assunpink Wildlife Management Area provides expansive natural recreational space.

Proximity to Green Spaces and Community Hubs

The preserved greenbelt and Lake Drive provide ample space for walking, biking, and enjoying nature. The town’s founding commitment to green space ensures its enduring natural appeal.

Exceptional Accessibility

Roosevelt is a highly commuter-friendly borough. With easy access to I-195, residents have quick routes to the New Jersey Turnpike and major highways connecting to New York City and Philadelphia.

Roosevelt, New Jersey, offers a truly special opportunity to experience a historic, conveniently located, and exceptionally unique suburban lifestyle. It's a place where pioneering architecture, intellectual community, and a commitment to preservation converge, creating an exceptionally desirable and engaging environment to call home.

HOA: No (The borough was designed as a cooperative, but there is no mandatory neighborhood-wide Homeowners Association governing the single-family homes.)

55+ Community: No (While Portland Pointe and other affordable senior housing options are available, Roosevelt itself is not a designated 55+ community.)