Thinking about a move to Holmdel and wondering what day-to-day life really feels like? You are not alone. Many buyers look here for space, parks, and flexible commute options within the New York metro. In this guide, you will get a clear look at homes and neighborhoods, commuting, parks and culture, schools, and practical costs so you can decide if Holmdel fits your lifestyle. Let’s dive in.
Holmdel at a glance
- Population: about 17,488 (2024 estimate).
- Median household income: about $172,566.
- Owner-occupied housing: roughly 91% of homes.
- Mean travel time to work: about 37 minutes.
- Home value context: as of December 2025, Zillow’s ZHVI placed Holmdel’s typical home value around $1.03M; median list and sold prices vary by data source and date.
These figures come from U.S. Census QuickFacts and market snapshots. Use them as a starting point, then confirm current pricing with live MLS data when you are ready to shop or sell. For demographics and commute averages, see the latest Census profile for Holmdel Township QuickFacts.
Reference: U.S. Census QuickFacts for Holmdel Township
Housing and neighborhoods
Holmdel is a mature, low-density suburb with a strong single-family profile. You will see classic colonials and split-levels from the post-war era, ranches, and a healthy number of larger custom homes and estates. Lots tend to be generous, and many streets feel quiet and residential.
Buyers often choose Holmdel for space, schools, and proximity to parks and shore towns. Inventory can be tight relative to demand across Monmouth County’s affluent suburbs. Pricing varies by home type, location, and condition. As a general guide, late-2025 snapshots showed many list prices in the high six to low seven figures, with the broad ZHVI index near $1.03M in December 2025. Always compare snapshot numbers by date and method, since median list, median sold, and value indexes can differ.
If you are selling, preparation and presentation matter in this market. Well-priced, well-presented homes tend to attract strong interest, especially in family-friendly pockets with convenient access to commuter routes and parks. If you are buying, plan to get fully pre-approved and be ready to evaluate tradeoffs between lot size, updates, and commute.
Getting around
Holmdel sits within the New York metro and offers several commute paths. Your best option depends on where you work and your schedule.
By car and major roads
Holmdel is close to the Garden State Parkway, with common access points near Exits 114 and 116. Most residents drive for local errands and many commute by car using Route 34 and Route 35. Expect door-to-door trips to Manhattan by car to range from about 60 to 90 minutes at peak times, depending on traffic and your start time.
Rail and park-and-ride
Holmdel does not have its own rail station. Most commuters drive to nearby North Jersey Coast Line stations such as Aberdeen–Matawan, Hazlet, or Middletown. Aberdeen–Matawan is a frequent choice for service to New York Penn Station. Review schedules, parking, and ticket options before you lock in a routine.
Reference: NJ Transit — Aberdeen–Matawan Station
Ferries to Manhattan
For a more relaxed ride, many residents drive to Raritan Bayshore ferry terminals in Highlands, Atlantic Highlands, or Belford. Weekday commuter runs go to multiple Manhattan terminals. Ferry travel can be competitive door-to-door, especially if you value a less-crowded commute.
Reference: Seastreak route planner
Tip: Concert nights at the PNC Bank Arts Center can create short-term traffic spikes. If you head home late or use rideshares, plan around the show schedule.
Reference: PNC Bank Arts Center events
Parks and outdoor life
Holmdel Park is the township’s signature green space, with roughly 664 acres, about 10 miles of trails, ponds, playgrounds, tennis courts, and plenty of picnic spots. The David C. Shaw Arboretum offers a peaceful stroll among labeled plantings, while Historic Longstreet Farm brings the 1890s to life with seasonal programs and demonstrations. It is a year-round favorite for walkers, runners, families, and cross-country meets.
Reference: Monmouth County Park System — Holmdel Park
Holmdel is inland, but you are a short drive from the Bayshore and the Atlantic. Summer beach days are easy, and so are quick trips to the Highlands or Red Bank waterfronts. Just remember that summer weekends bring more traffic on coastal routes.
Culture and community
Holmdel’s character blends quiet neighborhoods with a few standout destinations.
Bell Works: The former Bell Labs campus is now a striking mixed-use “metroburb” with offices, coworking, dining, retail, and public events inside a restored Saarinen-designed landmark. It is a daytime hub for work, coffee, and community programming.
Reference: Bell Works — Explore
PNC Bank Arts Center: This outdoor amphitheater brings national touring acts every warm season. Many residents love the easy show access, while others simply plan around event-night traffic.
Reference: PNC Bank Arts Center events
Scientific heritage: The Holmdel Horn Antenna is a noted landmark in the history of cosmology. It is a reminder of the township’s unique place in scientific discovery.
Reference: APS — Holmdel Horn Antenna
Nearby Red Bank adds theaters, galleries, and a walkable dining scene. Many Holmdel residents split their free time between the calm of local parks and the energy of regional arts venues.
Schools and learning
Holmdel Township School District (PK–12) is a central part of community life. Independent profiles consistently rate the district highly, and families often cite academics, arts, and athletics among their reasons for moving here. For the latest program details and enrollment, check the district’s official site.
References:
Note: Use school reviews as one input among many. Visit schools, speak with the district, and review current data to understand fit for your student.
Is Holmdel a fit for you?
- Families who want space and parks: A strong match. You will find large yards, low-density neighborhoods, Holmdel Park, and community programming at Bell Works and the park system.
- Commuters to NYC or northern NJ: A mixed fit. You will likely drive to a nearby rail station or ferry terminal, or use the Parkway for flexibility. Door-to-door times vary by schedule and weather.
- Remote or hybrid workers: A good fit when you want quiet neighborhoods and room to spread out, with coworking and meeting options at Bell Works. Broadband adoption is high across the township.
- Retirees and downsizers: Also a fit for those who prefer a quieter suburban pace with strong parks and regional healthcare access. Plan for the area’s property tax environment in your budget.
Practical costs and tips
Property taxes: Holmdel’s average bill is high relative to many places in New Jersey. Patch reported the township’s 2022 average around $14,118 based on state DCA tables. Your actual tax bill will depend on your home’s assessed value, so factor taxes into your monthly budget early.
Reference: Patch reporting on NJ property taxes
Market numbers: Pricing snapshots differ by method. A ZHVI index is not the same as a median sold price or a median list price. Always date the number and confirm with current MLS data when you are ready to act.
Commute planning: Try a few routes and modes before you commit. Test rail from Aberdeen–Matawan, try a ferry run from Highlands or Belford, and drive your likely route at your real commute time.
Park updates: Before big outings, check Monmouth County Park System advisories for any closures or seasonal changes.
Ready to explore Holmdel?
If you want a clear plan for buying or selling in Holmdel, I can help you compare neighborhoods, weigh commute tradeoffs, and price or position your home with confidence. Reach out to Doreen DeMarco for local guidance or to get a Free Home Valuation.
FAQs
What are typical Holmdel property taxes?
- Patch reported Holmdel’s average property tax bill around $14,118 in 2022 based on state DCA tables. Actual taxes vary by assessed value, exemptions, and any updates to rates.
How long is the commute from Holmdel to NYC?
- By car, plan on roughly 60 to 90 minutes at peak times; by rail, most residents drive to Aberdeen–Matawan or nearby stations for service to New York Penn; ferries from Highlands, Atlantic Highlands, or Belford are a comfortable option and can be time-competitive door-to-door.
What kinds of homes will I find in Holmdel?
- Predominantly single-family homes on medium to large lots, including colonials, split-levels, ranches, and custom estates. As of December 2025, a broad value index placed typical values around $1.03M, while list and sold medians vary by source and date.
Is Holmdel good for families and schools?
- Many families choose Holmdel for its parks, low-density neighborhoods, and a district that independent profiles rate highly. Visit schools, review current data, and tour neighborhoods to confirm the right fit for your household.