8 Things to Know Before Moving to Atlantic Highlands, NJ
Atlantic Highlands is one of the most exciting and distinctive communities in New Jersey, earning it the nickname “Jewel of the Bayshore.” The Atlantic Ocean, New York Bay, and Manhattan can all be seen from this gorgeous Victorian town on the Jersey Shore. The town’s hills contain the eastern seaboard’s highest elevation south of Maine. Atlantic Highlands has wonderful restaurants, theaters, and unique stores in addition to its beautiful location and rich history.
Let’s talk about eight things to know before moving to Atlantic Highlands, NJ.
1. The city has a rich history
Take a walking tour of the city to learn about its fascinating past. Take a trip down memory lane while strolling through the “old town” section of Atlantic Highlands and check out mansions that date back to the 1800s and stately summer cottages with multiple porches, turrets, and towers.
There are two noteworthy churches on the road, one Gothic and one Romanesque, and both are well worth a visit. Don’t forget to check out the Strauss Family home. It is Monmouth County’s sole publicly accessible Queen Anne Victorian Mansion, and visitors are welcome on Sundays between the hours of 1 and 4 p.m.
2. Explore the outdoors at Hartshorne Woods Trail or The Henry Hudson route
In Atlantic Highlands, you can trek along one of many beautiful routes and take in the natural scenery and scenic vistas. Looping through both Navesink and the Highlands, the Hartshorne Woods Trail is a popular hiking destination. Hiking, biking, and running enthusiasts will love that it is accessible all year.
The Henry Hudson route, a 10-foot wide, 24-mile route encompassing much of Monmouth County, also travels through the Highlands. This tree-lined path offers glimpses of nearby marshes, streams, and farmland and was once used as a railroad right of way. It’s a fantastic spot for a bike ride with the kids.
3. Eat at Zoe’s Vintage Kitchen, On the Deck Restaurant, or The Flaky Tart
There are a ton of places to eat and satisfy your taste buds in Atlantic Highlands. Visit Zoe’s Vintage Kitchen for breakfast. NJ Monthly Magazine has deemed this quaint cafe a top choice for brunch. This hidden treasure is a fantastic option for breakfast and brunch because of its quirky 1960s design and helpful staff.
Lunch or dinner can be enjoyed with the whole family at On the Deck Restaurant. Overlooking the water, On the Deck provides a menu that includes steaks, seafood, sandwiches, and pasta. They also provide a terrific kids’ menu.
The Flaky Tart has desserts to satisfy your sweet craving. Pastries, sweets, and custom cakes can all be found in this unique bakery run by award-winning baker Marie Jackson. The frozen delicacies at Nancie’s Ice Cream and Cafe are some of the best around. The brownie sundae and the extra-thick milkshake are not to be missed.
4. Go shopping at The Vintage Variety Shop, The Painted Frame, or The Cloud Kissed Kids Store
The Cloud Kissed Kids Store is a perfect store for parents looking for toys, furniture, and gifts for their children. Drop by to check out the distinctive organic and free-trade things for newborns, toddlers and older children.
The Painted Frame sells local artwork and environmentally friendly products. They sell unique items such as paintings, sculptures, prints, antiques, t-shirts, and even art supplies. The Vintage Variety Shop is the place to go if you’re looking for antiques or retro apparel. The friendly staff will assist you in sorting through the thousands of items of vintage outfits, accessories, homeware, and toys.
5. Attend festivals like Halloween Parade, Arts & Crafts Festival, or FilmOneFest
FilmOneFest is an annual film festival hosted in Atlantic Highlands Marina. Over one hundred films are shown each year at this free, family-oriented regional event. Festival-goers can shop for unique handmade goods, snack on delicious festival fare, and listen to live music.
There are several other community-wide events held each year in Atlantic Highlands. Some examples are the Annual Car Show, Halloween Parade, Arts & Crafts Festival, Easter Egg Hunt, Farmer’s Market, and Summer Concert Series.
6. A low crime rate
This town, despite its size, has a lower crime rate than the national average. Atlantic Highlands has a far lower violent crime rate of 9.5 compared to the rest of the country and a property crime rate of 21.5 compared to the national average of 35.4.
This bodes well for residents and visitors of Atlantic Highlands, as it suggests the area is relatively free from crime.
7. Summers are hot and humid
Atlantic Highlands has a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and moderate winters. High humidity and temperatures of up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit are common during the summer. The winters are mild but can occasionally drop to freezing—annual snowfall totals in the region average two feet.
On average, Atlantic Highlands receives 47 inches of rain annually. The annual average rainfall in the United States is 38 inches.
8. Living costs are 29% higher than the national average
With an overall Cost of Living index of 129.1, Atlantic Highlands, NJ, is 29.1% more expensive than the national average.
An annual salary of $40,555 in Atlantic Highlands is needed to cover the cost of housing, food, child care, transportation, healthcare, taxes, and other essentials for a single person. This is higher than the national average of $38,433. On average, a home in this city is worth $686,050.
You’ll have to be prepared for the high cost of living in this city.
To Sum it All Up
In conclusion, Atlantic Highlands, NJ, stands as a captivating gem along the Jersey Shore, offering a blend of scenic beauty, rich history, and a vibrant community. While boasting a low crime rate and a desirable climate, it’s essential to consider the higher living costs compared to the national average.
Nevertheless, for those seeking a distinctive coastal town with character and allure, Atlantic Highlands welcomes you to explore its many wonders and make it your home.
