Fair Haven Real Estate

It is renowned for its strong sense of community, excellent public schools, and a quintessential walkable "River Town" feel. Fair Haven attracts families seeking a high quality of life, beautiful surroundings, and easy access to both the Jersey Shore beaches and commuter links to Manhattan. Here is a comprehensive look at what makes this peaceful and affluent community so appealing.

​

Architectural Styles & Housing Stock

Fair Haven's residential areas are defined by a mix of charming older homes and newer, high-end construction, all situated on well-maintained, often generous lots.

• Classic Suburban Charm: The majority of the housing stock consists of traditional styles, including well-kept Colonial Revival homes, classic Cape Cods, and some historic Victorian properties, especially in the core village area.

• New Construction Trend: Like its neighbor Rumson, Fair Haven has seen significant investment in new construction and large-scale renovations, leading to many expansive, custom-built homes, often in the Shingle Style or modern Farmhouse aesthetic.

• Waterfront Access: While Rumson is known for large riverfront estates, Fair Haven features numerous homes with river views and is celebrated for its public access to the Navesink River, offering parks and docks for residents.

• Walkability: The borough’s small size fosters a highly walkable environment, with many residents able to stroll to the local schools, parks, and the small business district along River Road.

​

The Schools: Exceptional Educational Partnership

The Fair Haven public school system is a primary factor in the borough's high desirability, known for its strong K-8 education and regional high school placement.

• Fair Haven School District (PK-8): The local K-8 district, including Sickles School and Knollwood School, is highly rated for academics. It maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio (around 13:1) and boasts high proficiency rates.

• Regional High School: Fair Haven students attend the highly prestigious Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School (RFH). RFH is consistently ranked among the top public high schools in New Jersey for its rigorous curriculum, competitive athletics, and strong college placement.

• Private Options: The borough has a noticeable percentage of students attending excellent private schools, reflecting the community's commitment to education.

​

Real Estate Market: Prices for Sale & Rent

Fair Haven is an expensive and competitive market, reflecting its exceptional schools, highly sought-after location, and overall prestige within the Jersey Shore area.

• For Sale: As of late 2025, the median sold home price in Fair Haven is approximately $1,190,000, while the median listing price hovers around $1,349,000.

• Luxury/New Construction: High-end and custom-built new construction homes frequently sell for $1.8 million to over $3 million+.

• Entry-Level: Smaller Cape Cods or older colonials generally start in the $750,000 - $850,000 range.

• Market Competition: The market is highly competitive, with homes often selling quickly and over the asking price. Consistent demand keeps inventory tight.

• For Rent: The rental market is scarce, largely consisting of high-end rentals. Multi-bedroom properties can range from $4,000 to over $8,000 per month.

​

The Commute to NYC

The proximity to the high-speed ferry offers Fair Haven a premium commuting option, providing a scenic alternative to traditional rail travel.

• Ferry (Popular Option): High-speed ferry service is available from nearby Atlantic Highlands or Highlands via SeaStreak.

• Time: The ferry provides a direct route to Pier 11/Wall Street or Midtown in approximately 40–55 minutes.

• Train/Driving: Residents drive to the Red Bank Station on NJ Transit's North Jersey Coast Line. The train ride to NY Penn Station takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes.

• Driving: The drive to Manhattan is about 50 miles, typically taking over an hour depending on traffic.

​

Safety & Community

Fair Haven is known for its exceptional safety record, vibrant community life, and focus on outdoor recreation.

• Exceptional Safety: The borough maintains a remarkably low crime rate, contributing to its reputation as a safe and stable environment for families.

• Community Vibe: Social life is centered around the downtown and the river. Residents enjoy public river access, parks, and a highly active community schedule, including annual town-wide events and strong local sports leagues. The atmosphere is notably tight-knit and civic-minded.

​

Fair Haven Property Value Appreciation Chart (2015-2025)