Hunterdon County

Overview for Hunterdon County, NJ

5,567 people live in Hunterdon County, where the median age is 49.2 and the average individual income is $62,107. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

5,567

Total Population

49.2 years

Median Age

Low

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$62,107

Average individual Income

Welcome to Hunterdon County

Thrilling outdoor adventure with picturesque homes

Hunterdon County is one of the most picturesque regions in New Jersey. It is well-known for its beautiful vineyards and outdoor scenery, including lovely rivers and green mountains. The county has many historic sites, from taverns to schools to homes. When in Hunterdon County, there is always something fun to do or something stunning to behold.

There are various styles of home architecture to select from when homebuying in Hunterdon County. Greek Revival homes are quite common and beautiful with their exquisite columns and distinct symmetry. Victorian homes with Gothic influences and unique wraparound porches are stunning sights to behold in the Hunterdon County community. Given the area’s rural nature, farmhouse-style homes characterized by large, open spaces and wooden features are also available. No matter the style, you are guaranteed to find some gorgeous homes in Hunterdon County.

Hunterdon County has a dynamic, exciting community culture. The area is very neighborly and attracts artistic values such as dance, photography, and writing. Its intense natural beauty is inspiring for many creatives, allowing Hunterdon County to be rich with art galleries and museums.

What to Love

  • Historic sites like the Doric House
  • Stunning landscapes full of rolling hills and lakes
  • Incredible school system
  • Over 8,500 acres of parks
  • Over 350 farms to visit

Local Culture

Hunterdon County’s culture is a vibrant fusion of rural sophistication, artistic expression, and community spirit. Residents enjoy a lifestyle rooted in nature, history, and small-town values, with a creative energy that draws both long-time locals and newcomers seeking a slower, richer pace of life.

 

The arts scene is especially robust in towns like Lambertville, often dubbed the “Antiques Capital of New Jersey,” where vintage galleries, artisan studios, and indie boutiques line the streets. The area supports a growing number of local artists, painters, sculptors, and mixed media creators who exhibit at venues like the ACME Screening Room, Gallery Piquel, and during annual open studio events. The Hunterdon Art Museum in Clinton, housed in a historic stone mill, offers contemporary exhibitions and community programs that foster a deep connection between residents and the arts.

 

Cultural celebrations are woven into the seasonal calendar. Signature events include the Shad Festival in Lambertville, which combines local seafood traditions with crafts, music, and environmental awareness; and the Hunterdon County 4-H & Agricultural Fair, a celebration of the county’s agrarian roots featuring livestock competitions, artisan vendors, and family fun. In Flemington, the Central Jersey Jazz Festival brings smooth sounds to the historic downtown each September, drawing music lovers from across the state.

 

Nonprofits and grassroots organizations are central to Hunterdon’s identity. The Hunterdon Land Trust works tirelessly to preserve open space and farmland, while groups like Flemington DIY and ArtsBridge provide platforms for emerging artists, youth programs, and creative workshops. Community-driven and collaborative, these organizations reflect the county's deep investment in both its people and its environment.

 

From rustic farm stands to gallery openings and music festivals, Hunterdon County’s local culture is rich, warm, and unmistakably authentic—offering a lifestyle where creativity thrives alongside tradition.

 

History & Heritage

Nestled in the heart of western New Jersey, Hunterdon County boasts a rich and storied past that dates back to its official founding in 1714, when it was carved out of Burlington County and named in honor of Robert Hunter, the then-governor of New Jersey. The county quickly became a hub for agrarian life, with fertile soil and an abundance of water sources from the Delaware River and Raritan River fueling farming communities and mills.

 

During the 18th and early 19th centuries, Hunterdon flourished with small villages developing around these natural resources. Clinton, Flemington, and Lambertville became key centers of commerce, aided by the growth of the Delaware and Raritan Canal and the arrival of the railroad in the mid-1800s. These towns still reflect their historic roots, with well-preserved Victorian storefronts, Federal-style homes, and colonial estates that echo the architectural influence of early builders and stonemasons who left their mark on the region.

 

Hunterdon is also home to a number of landmark properties, such as the Red Mill in Clinton, one of the most photographed buildings in the state and a symbol of the county’s industrial heritage. Another iconic estate is Solitude House in High Bridge, a Georgian-style manor that dates back to 1710 and hosted notable guests like George Washington and Marquis de Lafayette.

 

In the Revolutionary era, Hunterdon’s rural landscape played a strategic role, offering refuge and resources. Many historic churches, taverns, and private homes were sites of military planning or hospitality for Continental soldiers. Today, the county embraces its colonial past, with heritage societies and preservation groups working to maintain these priceless links to New Jersey’s formation.

 

Local Attractions

Hunterdon County offers a refined yet laid-back lifestyle, shaped by nature, history, and small-town charm. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or peaceful retreats, the region is rich with attractions that appeal to both residents and visitors alike.

 

Nature lovers will find endless inspiration in the Spruce Run Recreation Area, one of the largest reservoirs in New Jersey, offering fishing, boating, swimming, and scenic picnic spots. For hikers, the Columbia Trail provides 15 miles of tree-lined pathways stretching from High Bridge into Morris County, perfect for walking, biking, or cross-country skiing in winter. Meanwhile, the Ken Lockwood Gorge, tucked between High Bridge and Califon, is a hidden gem renowned for fly-fishing, cascading waters, and tranquil forested trails.

 

History and architecture buffs are drawn to the Red Mill Museum Village in Clinton, a 19th-century industrial mill and historic village that’s become an iconic photo stop and a cultural hub. For sweeping views and family-friendly exploration, Round Valley Reservoir in Lebanon offers kayaking, camping, and crystal-clear waters that rival those found in more coastal destinations—even though the county itself is inland.

 

For those seeking manicured greens and an upscale recreational experience, Beaver Brook Country Club in Annandale offers an 18-hole championship course with panoramic views, while Heron Glen Golf Course in Ringoes is consistently rated among the top public golf courses in the state. Many of these clubs also offer elegant clubhouses and fine dining, making them social as well as sporting destinations.

 

From riverfront parks to historic downtowns, Hunterdon County’s attractions reflect a lifestyle that values outdoor beauty, heritage, and refined recreation.

 

Dining & Entertainment

The culinary scene in Hunterdon County is a delightful blend of upscale indulgence and local charm, with a strong emphasis on farm-to-table dining and independently owned establishments. Whether you're enjoying a fine vintage at a countryside vineyard or indulging in gourmet cuisine downtown, the area caters to a refined palate.

 

In Lambertville, Hamilton's Grill Room offers riverside dining with Mediterranean flair, while Lambertville Station Restaurant—a converted 19th-century train station—serves contemporary American fare with unmatched ambiance. Across the river in Stockton, Market Pizza at the Stockton Market takes local ingredients to new creative heights, often rotating its seasonal offerings.

 

Flemington’s 90 Acres at Natirar, located within a restored estate, is a destination all its own—featuring high-end cuisine with ingredients sourced from its onsite sustainable farm. For wine lovers, Old York Cellars in Ringoes and Unionville Vineyards offer tastings, live music, and scenic vineyard views, ideal for a romantic outing or group event.

 

Entertainment-wise, Hunterdon offers intimate, community-rooted experiences. The Music Mountain Theatre in Lambertville presents year-round Broadway-style productions and local talent, while the ACME Screening Room delivers a curated selection of indie films, documentaries, and speaker events. For a touch of resort luxury, Chimney Hill Estate Inn provides a charming countryside getaway with historic elegance, and nearby Woolverton Inn offers a romantic retreat surrounded by acres of gardens and trails.

 

Whether you're in the mood for a five-star meal, a night at the theater, or a relaxing winery afternoon, Hunterdon County’s dining and entertainment scene blends luxury with authenticity in a way that’s distinctly its own.

 

Parks & Recreation

Hunterdon County offers an exceptional outdoor lifestyle, with expansive green spaces, equestrian trails, and serene water features that encourage exploration, wellness, and family fun year-round. This is a region where nature isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a way of life.

 

Hikers, runners, and bikers frequent the Columbia Trail, a 15-mile path that stretches through shaded woodlands and historic towns from High Bridge to Long Valley. Equally beloved is Ken Lockwood Gorge, a hidden, mossy paradise carved by the South Branch of the Raritan River, known for its dramatic ravines, waterfalls, and top-tier fly-fishing.

 

Water recreation is abundant in Hunterdon thanks to two major reservoirs. Round Valley Recreation Area in Lebanon offers crystal-clear waters ideal for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming, and even scuba diving—a rare inland experience. For families looking for beach-style fun without leaving the county, Spruce Run Recreation Area provides a sandy lakeside beach, playgrounds, picnic areas, and boat launches.

 

Equestrian culture is deeply rooted in the county's lifestyle. Horseback riding trails and private stables can be found throughout Readington, Tewksbury, and East Amwell, with miles of open countryside perfect for riding. The Landsdown Trail and Capoolong Creek Trail offer quieter paths ideal for both riders and hikers seeking solitude and natural beauty.

 

From weekend picnics to year-round trail adventures, Hunterdon County is a haven for outdoor lovers and families who value open space, fresh air, and an active lifestyle.

 

Schools & Education

For families considering a move to Hunterdon County, the area's high-performing school systems are a major draw. Known for academic excellence, safe campuses, and strong community involvement, local schools here consistently rank among the best in the state.

 

One of the most recognized districts is the Hunterdon Central Regional High School District, serving several municipalities including Raritan Township and Flemington. The school is known for its broad curriculum, advanced placement offerings, and award-winning arts and athletics programs. North Hunterdon-Voorhees Regional High School District also serves the northern portion of the county, earning accolades for its student achievement, college readiness, and STEM programs.

 

For younger students, Readington Township Public Schools, Tewksbury Township Schools, and Clinton-Glen Gardner School District all boast high GreatSchools ratings and strong reputations for individualized instruction and nurturing learning environments.

 

Hunterdon is also home to prestigious private education options, including The Pingry School (with a nearby lower campus in Short Hills and upper campus in Basking Ridge), Flemington Baptist Christian Academy, and Immaculate Conception School. These schools provide families with smaller class sizes, faith-based or college preparatory curricula, and a variety of enrichment opportunities.

 

With many schools offering top-tier extracurriculars, including music, robotics, and environmental science, Hunterdon County provides an educational ecosystem where children are supported to thrive academically, socially, and creatively.

 

Commute & Accessibility

Despite its pastoral charm and rural beauty, Hunterdon County is remarkably well-connected—making it an ideal location for those who crave tranquility without sacrificing convenience. Whether you’re commuting to nearby urban centers or catching a flight, the area offers solid infrastructure to support a modern, mobile lifestyle.

 

For car commuters, Hunterdon is served by several key highways, including Interstate 78, which cuts directly through the county and provides a straight shot east to Newark and New York City (approximately 60–75 minutes during standard commute hours). Route 31, Route 22, and Route 202 connect the county to neighboring municipalities and regional job hubs like Bridgewater, Princeton, and Somerville.

 

If public transit is preferred, NJ Transit offers rail service from the nearby Raritan Valley Line, with stations in High Bridge, Annandale, and Lebanon, leading toward Newark and Manhattan (with transfers). Commuter buses also service parts of the county, especially along I-78 corridors.

 

For frequent flyers, Newark Liberty International Airport is just under an hour away, offering a wide range of domestic and international connections. Smaller regional options like Lehigh Valley International Airport and Trenton-Mercer Airport provide additional convenience, especially for business travelers or quick getaways.

 

With its strategic location and stress-free access to both urban workspaces and weekend escapes, Hunterdon County makes balancing life and logistics seamless.

 

Real Estate in Hunterdon County

Hunterdon County offers a diverse and desirable housing market that blends rural luxury, historical elegance, and modern suburban comfort. Whether you're searching for a charming colonial farmhouse, a custom-built estate with equestrian amenities, or a newly constructed single-family home in a quiet neighborhood, the area offers options to suit a variety of tastes and lifestyles.

 

The median home price in Hunterdon County was $585K as of February 2025, marking a significant year-over-year increase of 16.2%. Despite its growing demand, the area still presents value compared to nearby counties like Somerset or Morris—especially when you factor in land, privacy, and overall quality of life.

 

Popular towns like Lambertville, Clinton, and Flemington offer walkable downtowns, historic homes, and a strong sense of community, while Readington and Tewksbury provide expansive properties ideal for families, nature lovers, or those seeking serene retreats with modern amenities.

 

If you're ready to explore available properties, check out the main Hunterdon County MLS page for the latest listings. Interested in a specific lifestyle? Browse our curated selections, including condos, luxury homes, commercial properties, farms & ranches, new homes, and more, tailored to match your vision of home in Hunterdon County.

 

For personal guidance, market insights, or to schedule a private showing, reach out to Freeman Smith—your trusted real estate expert in Hunterdon County.

 

Architectural Styles

Hunterdon County’s architectural landscape is a harmonious blend of historical preservation and refined modern living, offering homebuyers a wide array of styles that reflect the area’s evolution over centuries.

 

In town centers like Lambertville and Flemington, you’ll find Federal-style row homes, Victorian-era cottages, and Second Empire homes with mansard roofs and ornate ironwork—many of which have been lovingly restored while preserving original millwork, stone foundations, and leaded glass windows. Architects during the late 1800s and early 1900s helped shape these historic districts with attention to symmetry, craftsmanship, and locally sourced materials.

 

Moving into the countryside, sprawling Colonial Revival estates, Georgian mansions, and Dutch stone farmhouses are common. Many were originally built in the 18th and 19th centuries and are now updated with contemporary interiors while retaining authentic exteriors—exposed beams, wide plank floors, and central hearths. In more modern neighborhoods, you’ll find custom Craftsman-style homes, shingle-style estates, and transitional farmhouses that merge classic architecture with modern layout trends such as open-concept kitchens, smart home technology, and indoor-outdoor living spaces.

 

Architects such as Charles Detwiller Jr., known for restorations of historic properties throughout New Jersey, have had a hand in preserving the county’s architectural richness. Whether you’re drawn to rustic character or refined modernism, Hunterdon County offers an architectural style to match nearly every aesthetic.

 

Most Coveted Streets & Estates

Certain pockets of Hunterdon County are especially renowned for their prestige, privacy, and enduring desirability. These streets and estates command attention not only for their homes but for their elevated lifestyle offerings and exclusivity.

 

In Tewksbury Township, Pottersville Road and Rockaway Road are lined with equestrian estates and gated properties, offering sweeping mountain views and tree-lined acreage. Homes here rarely hit the market, and when they do, they often feature custom barns, stables, and riding trails—ideal for horse lovers or those seeking serene luxury.

 

In Readington, Dreahook Road is beloved for its blend of modern farmhouses and heritage homes on large lots, while in Clinton Township, Round Top Drive and West Street provide upscale suburban living within close reach of downtown amenities and top schools.

 

Lambertville’s Cottage Hill neighborhood is a hidden gem, perched above the river and offering historic charm with elevated privacy. Nearby, Delaware Township’s Covered Bridge section, sometimes affectionately referred to as “Hunterdon’s Hamptons,” boasts multi-million-dollar estates with sweeping views and architectural distinction.

 

Whether it's the proximity to nature, architectural pedigree, or sheer curb appeal, these micro-locations define luxury living in Hunterdon County.

 

Who is Hunterdon County For?

Hunterdon County is ideal for those who value space, serenity, and sophistication—without being disconnected from culture, commerce, or connectivity. It's a place where affluent professionals, remote executives, and creative entrepreneurs find balance between work and well-being. The area's expansive homes, pastoral settings, and upscale amenities attract those who want more than a home—they seek a lifestyle.

 

Families are drawn to the top-ranked schools, safe neighborhoods, and year-round outdoor recreation, from soccer leagues to kayaking weekends. Meanwhile, empty nesters and retirees find solace in the region’s quiet country roads, vineyard tastings, and charming downtowns filled with art galleries and coffee shops.

 

Equestrian enthusiasts and hobby farmers are right at home here, taking advantage of the wide-open landscapes and heritage farms, while New York City transplants choose Hunterdon for its restorative pace and refined rural living—often trading cramped urban apartments for rolling hills, wraparound porches, and room to breathe.

 

Whether you’re seeking a forever home, a weekend estate, or a new chapter rooted in nature and culture, Hunterdon County is for those who want space to grow and a community that feels like home.

 

Demographics and Employment Data for Hunterdon County, NJ

Hunterdon County has 1,975 households, with an average household size of 2.82. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Hunterdon County do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 5,567 people call Hunterdon County home. The population density is 212.37 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

5,567

Total Population

Low

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

49.2

Median Age

46.09 / 53.91%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
1,975

Total Households

2.82

Average Household Size

$62,107

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Hunterdon County, NJ

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Hunterdon County. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating

Featured Properties

For Sale
For Lease
Sold

Work With Freeman (Jeff)

Freeman's goal is to simplify a very complicated process and arrive at the very best for you, the client. With over 40 years of sales and negotiating experience, your needs will be placed before everything else.

Follow Me on Instagram