Set in the rolling landscape of Morris County, Rockaway, NJ blends classic suburban comfort with a distinctly outdoorsy, lake-and-trails lifestyle. The area is known for its easy access to major commuter routes, neighborhood pockets with mature trees and larger lots, and everyday conveniences ranging from local dining to regional shopping. For buyers looking for space, strong community amenities, and a location within reach of New York City and North Jersey business hubs, Rockaway offers long-term livability and steady appeal.
Rockaway commonly refers to the Rockaway Township area and the neighboring Rockaway Borough, which share parks, a central lakefront, and a convenient commercial corridor. Residents enjoy quick connectivity via Interstate 80 with nearby links to Route 46 and Route 15, plus access to recreation such as Parks Lake and nearby highlands trails. From established neighborhoods and lake communities to more private homes near wooded preserves, Rockaway’s housing stock supports a range of lifestyles—from first-time buyers to move-up households seeking more land. If you’re exploring Rockaway, NJ real estate, Dupont Circle Homes for Sale can also be a useful benchmark for comparing pricing and density to a more urban lifestyle.
| Key Facts about Rockaway, NJ | |
|---|---|
| Area | ~45.89 sq mi (Rockaway Township) |
| County | Morris County |
| Established | Incorporated April 8, 1844 (Rockaway Township) • Rockaway Borough incorporated in 1894 |
| Population (recent est.) | ~26,368 (Rockaway Township, 2023 est.) |
| Notable Areas | White Meadow Lake • Lake Telemark • Green Pond • Hibernia • Mount Hope • Rockaway Borough downtown |
| Signature Attractions | Parks Lake & lakefront gazebo • Ford-Faesch House (c. 1772) • Wildcat Ridge trails nearby • Rockaway Townsquare • Picatinny Arsenal (adjacent) |
| Main Roads | Interstate 80 • U.S. 46 • NJ Route 15 • County Route 513 |
Rockaway, NJ offers a practical balance of lifestyle and accessibility—lakefront recreation, nearby highlands trails, and strong route connectivity—paired with housing options that range from established neighborhoods to more private, nature-adjacent properties.
Rockaway, NJ is located in western Morris County, offering a strategic balance between suburban living and regional connectivity. Positioned along the Interstate 80 corridor, Rockaway provides convenient access to North Jersey employment centers, nearby town hubs, and commuter routes toward New York City.
Daily transportation is largely car-based, supported by direct highway access, while NJ Transit rail and bus services in nearby communities offer public transit options for Manhattan-bound commuters. Outdoor recreation, local shopping districts, and lake communities remain easily reachable within minutes.
| Connectivity & Transportation — Rockaway, NJ | |
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| Location Map & Area Overview | Western Morris County community centered around Rockaway Township and Rockaway Borough. Defined by suburban neighborhoods, lake communities, and wooded preserves, with Interstate 80 serving as the primary regional artery. |
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| Parking | Ample residential driveways and street parking throughout Rockaway neighborhoods. Retail centers, parks, and lake facilities typically provide on-site parking with minimal congestion. |
| Walking & Cycling | Walkable pockets near schools, parks, and lake communities. Cycling and hiking are popular along local roads and nearby county trail systems rather than urban bike corridors. |
| Taxi & Ride Apps | Uber and Lyft operate throughout Rockaway and surrounding Morris County, commonly used for short trips, station drop-offs, and airport transfers. |
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| Accessibility & EV | Public facilities and shopping centers generally offer ADA-compliant access. EV charging stations are available at select shopping centers, municipal locations, and along the I-80 corridor. |
Rockaway, NJ delivers practical connectivity without sacrificing lifestyle—highway access, nearby rail options, and proximity to major employment centers make it an appealing base for buyers seeking space, convenience, and long-term stability.
Rockaway, NJ’s real estate market reflects steady suburban demand driven by location, lot size, and access to Morris County amenities. Housing inventory is dominated by single-family homes, lake community residences, and a smaller share of townhomes and condos. As of mid–late 2025, the median sale price sits around $565K, with a median price per square foot near $295. Homes typically spend 30–45 days on market, with well-maintained properties in established neighborhoods moving more quickly. Buyer interest remains supported by commuter access, limited new construction, and the area’s appeal to move-up households.
| Property Type | Median Price (USD) | Price per Sq.Ft (USD) | Average Rent (USD/month) | Rental Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR Condo / Townhome | $420,000 (est.) | $305 | $2,450 | 4.9% (est.) |
| 3BR Single-Family Home | $545,000 (est.) | $295 | $3,100 | 4.6% (est.) |
| 4BR Single-Family Home | $675,000 (est.) | $285 | $3,600 | 4.3% (est.) |
| Lake Community Home | $725,000 (est.) | $300 | $4,000 | 4.1% (est.) |
Methodology & Notes: Median pricing (~$565K) and average price per sq. ft. (~$295) reflect 2025 Morris County market trends applied to typical Rockaway housing profiles. Rental estimates are based on mid-2025 North Jersey suburban averages. Yields vary by neighborhood, lake access, home condition, and proximity to commuter routes.
Life in Rockaway, NJ centers on space, nature access, and everyday convenience. Set in Morris County’s wooded landscape, Rockaway blends established neighborhoods, lake communities, and a practical commuter footprint—close to I-80, Route 46, and Route 15—while still feeling comfortably residential. Weekend rhythms often revolve around parks and trails, community sports, local dining, and quick trips to nearby town centers like Denville and Morristown.
Western Morris County setting with quick access to I-80, Route 46, and Route 15. Convenient positioning for regional commuting while maintaining a low-density, neighborhood feel.
Family-oriented and neighborly, with recreation leagues, community events, and a strong “local” rhythm. Lake communities add a seasonal, outdoors-forward layer to everyday living.
A mix of casual favorites and local staples—pizzerias, diners, cafés, and global cuisines—plus easy access to a deeper restaurant scene in nearby Denville and Morristown.
Served by local public school districts (Rockaway Township and Rockaway Borough) with additional options across Morris County, including private and parochial schools in surrounding communities.
Primarily single-family homes, with select condos and townhomes. Lake-area properties can offer unique lifestyle value (water access, community amenities). Condition, lot size, and neighborhood setting shape pricing.
Most day-to-day errands are car-based. Commuters often use nearby NJ Transit rail stations in Dover, Denville, or Mount Arlington for regional service and NYC connections.
Four-season North Jersey climate: warm summers, colorful falls, and snowy winters. Seasonal outdoor activities are a major lifestyle feature—especially near lakes, parks, and wooded preserves.
Strong everyday convenience: grocery, retail, fitness, and services close by, including Rockaway Townsquare. Parks, fields, and lakefront recreation support an active routine.
A mix of long-time residents, young families, and move-up buyers seeking more space. Many households commute to Morris County employment hubs, Newark-area business centers, or NYC.
Space and privacy, lake-community lifestyle options, access to parks and trails, strong commuter routes, and proximity to top Morris County towns for dining and culture.
Car dependency for most errands, traffic pressure along Route 46/I-80 during peak hours, and higher winter maintenance considerations (snow, driveways, older homes).
Lake days at community beaches, hiking nearby ridges and preserves, fishing, local sports fields, and year-round recreation across Morris County parks.
Rockaway, NJ offers a grounded, outdoors-friendly lifestyle with everyday convenience—lake communities, nearby trail systems, and strong regional access make it an appealing choice for buyers who want space without feeling far from everything.
Rockaway, NJ offers a well-rounded mix of amenities that support comfortable suburban living—ranging from healthcare and retail to recreation, fitness, and community services. These amenities contribute to Rockaway’s appeal as a practical, livable Morris County location.
Families in Rockaway, NJ are served by the Rockaway Township Public Schools and Rockaway Borough Public Schools, with additional secondary options through the Morris Hills Regional High School District. The area is also supported by private, parochial, and early childhood education centers across Morris County.
Local schools emphasize strong foundational academics, enrichment programs, athletics, and community involvement. Many families value Rockaway’s access to well-rated regional high schools, along with proximity to specialized private and preparatory options nearby. As always, confirm current attendance boundaries and program availability prior to enrollment.
| School / Preschool | Type | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dennis B. O’Brien Elementary School | Public (K–5) — Rockaway Township | Rockaway Township | Neighborhood elementary with strong academics, enrichment activities, and community involvement. |
| Lincoln School | Public (PreK–3) — Rockaway Borough | Rockaway Borough | Early childhood focus with small-school environment and strong family engagement. |
| Copeland Middle School | Public (6–8) — Rockaway Township | Rockaway Township | Broad curriculum with arts, athletics, and academic support programs. |
| Thomas Jefferson Middle School | Public (4–5) — Rockaway Borough | Rockaway Borough | Bridge program emphasizing academic readiness and social development. |
| Morris Hills High School | Public (9–12) — Morris Hills Regional | Rockaway Borough | Comprehensive high school offering AP courses, athletics, performing arts, and extracurriculars. |
| Morris Knolls High School | Public (9–12) — Morris Hills Regional | Denville (nearby) | Strong college-prep focus, STEM programs, and competitive sports teams. |
| St. Cecilia School | Private Catholic (PreK–8) | Denville | Faith-based education with academic rigor and community values. |
| Delbarton School | Private Catholic (9–12, boys) | Morristown | Highly regarded preparatory school known for academics, leadership, and athletics. |
| Rockaway Township Preschool Program | Public Preschool | Rockaway Township | Early learning with structured curriculum and developmental support. |
| Local Montessori & Early Learning Centers | Private Preschool | Rockaway • Denville • Parsippany | Montessori-inspired and play-based programs focused on independence and social growth. |
Districts: Rockaway Township Public Schools, Rockaway Borough Public Schools, Morris Hills Regional High School District. Tip: Attendance zones, transfers, and program offerings may change—always verify details directly with each school or district.
Rockaway, NJ sits in Morris County—one of North Jersey’s most consistently in-demand markets—supported by strong commuter access, limited land for new development, and a buyer pool that prioritizes space, schools, and lifestyle convenience. Demand is anchored by proximity to business hubs in Parsippany, Morristown, and the broader Newark–NYC corridor, while local quality-of-life drivers (parks, lake communities, and retail amenities) help maintain long-term value. Recent market signals point to steady appreciation with competitive buyer activity for well-priced homes, especially in established neighborhoods and lake-adjacent pockets.
Why Rockaway? The market typically rewards homes with strong condition, functional layouts, and commuter-friendly positioning near major routes like I-80 and Route 46. Rockaway’s housing mix—primarily single-family homes with selective townhome/condo inventory—supports both owner-occupant demand and stable rental interest. Lake community properties can command additional premiums due to lifestyle value and limited inventory, while nearby rail access (via stations in Dover, Denville, and Mount Arlington) strengthens the area’s appeal for Manhattan-bound commuters.
| Market Segment | Median Price | YOY Change | Days on Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rockaway Borough | ~$485K | +4–5% | ~14–25 days |
| Rockaway Township | ~$590K | +3–5% | ~20–35 days |
| Denville (Nearby) | ~$650K | +3–6% | ~15–30 days |
| Morristown (Nearby) | ~$700K | +3–6% | ~15–30 days |
From an investment perspective, Rockaway tends to behave like a “fundamentals-first” market: properties that align with local demand (updated kitchens/baths, functional layouts, garages/driveways, and strong neighborhood positioning) can attract faster offers and maintain price resilience. Lake community homes may see outsized premiums when inventory is tight, while well-located condos and townhomes can perform well for buyers seeking lower-maintenance ownership. The area’s commuter profile—supported by major highways and nearby NJ Transit access—continues to broaden the buyer pool and sustain rental demand.
Key Investment Highlights:
Whether the goal is long-term appreciation, a lifestyle-forward lake-area property, or a practical suburban rental near commuter routes, Rockaway, NJ offers a balanced investment profile—supported by Morris County demand, strong everyday amenities, and a market that tends to reward quality, condition, and location.
In Morris County, Rockaway offers a lifestyle that balances suburban comfort with an outdoors-forward setting. Neighborhoods range from tree-lined streets and classic colonials to lake communities that bring a relaxed, seasonal feel. With quick access to nearby town centers like Denville and Morristown, residents enjoy a strong mix of day-to-day convenience and weekend energy.
Housing options include single-family homes with generous lots, select townhomes and condos, and lake-area residences that can carry lifestyle-driven premiums. Buyers often prioritize practical features like updated interiors, garage/driveway parking, and proximity to commuter routes. Inventory can be competitive for move-in-ready homes in established neighborhoods.
Daily life in Rockaway centers around parks, community sports, and easy access to retail and services, including the Route 46 corridor and Rockaway Townsquare. Outdoor time is a major draw—lake activities, local trails, and Morris County parkland create year-round options. Commuters benefit from direct highway connectivity (I-80, Route 46, Route 15) and nearby NJ Transit rail stations for broader regional access.
With its blend of space, accessibility, and long-term livability, Rockaway remains a compelling choice for buyers seeking a grounded North Jersey home base—close to major employment hubs without losing the neighborhood feel.
Explore Rockaway, NJ Real Estate →Rockaway, NJ combines space, accessibility, and everyday livability—making it a practical and appealing choice for buyers, renters, and long-term homeowners.
22,632 people live in Rockaway, where the median age is 45.3 and the average individual income is $62,446. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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There's plenty to do around Rockaway, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Dash of Thyme, Purity Water, and Matthew Vincent Hair Studio.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
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| Dining · $$ | 4.35 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 4.6 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.23 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.82 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.71 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.34 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Rockaway has 8,687 households, with an average household size of 2.6. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Rockaway do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 22,632 people call Rockaway home. The population density is 983.7 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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