Vernon
Vernon New Jersey is tucked away in the northeast corner of Sussex County while sharing its northern.
Vernon New Jersey is tucked away in the northeast corner of Sussex County while sharing its northern.
A vibrant rural community with incredible recreational activities and events
Vernon New Jersey is tucked away in the northeast corner of Sussex County while sharing its northern border with New York state. Living up to its reputation as New Jersey’s four-season community, Vernon puts you amid stunning mountain adventures and dozens of things to do. Whether you’re aiming to embark on snow activities or waterpark fun at Mountain Creek, a leisurely day visiting the many local orchards, pampering yourself at the spa, or an adventurous hike through the mountains or Appalachian Trail, Vernon is the ideal place for your next dream home. Vernon Township and the surrounding area are considered a rural area and are home to numerous working farms offering ‘pick your own’ for every season, fruits, grass-fed beef/pork, vegetables, and even Christmas trees.
An hour's drive from New York City and an estimated 25,000-person population with roughly 70 square miles, Vernon is both the most populous municipality and the largest in the county. Vernon is home to many lake communities, including Highland Lakes, Barry Lakes, Cliffwood Lake, High Breeze, Lake Conway, Lake Wanda, Laurel Lake, Lake Wildwood, Lake Panorama, Lake Pochung, Lake Wallkill, Pleasant Valley Lake, Scenic Lakes, and Vernon Valley Lake.
Vernon offers an array of residential homes including lakefront homes and community living, country and estate, luxury homes, condos, investment opportunities, and more. Take a look at why our neighbors chose Vernon, New Jersey to settle and grow by browsing the beautiful properties currently for sale. Then, book an appointment with one of The Sold Collective’s award-winning agents to experience our incredible lifestyle for yourself.
Set in the rolling hills of Sussex County, Vernon Township combines natural beauty with a close-knit suburban feel. Known for its ski resorts, hiking trails, and lake communities, Vernon appeals to those seeking year-round recreation and a peaceful lifestyle. Its real estate market offers a range of property types, from cozy cabins and condos near Mountain Creek to luxury lakefront homes, single-family residences, and new construction developments across the township.
Vernon is one of northern New Jersey’s most scenic townships, offering quick access to the Appalachian Trail, Crystal Springs Golf Resort, and Mountain Creek Ski Resort. It attracts both full-time residents and second-home buyers looking for a weekend escape. With direct access to Route 94, Route 23, and proximity to I-80, Vernon is well connected to nearby towns and within commuting distance to New York City.
| Key Facts about Vernon, NJ | |
|---|---|
| Area | Approx. 70 sq miles |
| County | Sussex County |
| Founded | 1793 |
| Population (2024) | ~22,000+ |
| Main Roads | Route 94, Route 23, Route 515; access to I-80 |
| Notable Features | Mountain Creek Resort, Crystal Springs, Appalachian Trail, Highland Lakes |
Whether you are looking for a primary residence, a ski-in retreat, or a lakefront property, Vernon offers a rare balance of recreation, natural surroundings, and residential charm. Its variety of homes—from rustic cabins to upscale golf community estates—make it a versatile choice for families, retirees, and investors alike.
Vernon offers a lifestyle defined by natural beauty, recreation, and a strong sense of community. With four-season attractions like Mountain Creek Resort, hiking on the Appalachian Trail, and golf at Crystal Springs, the township appeals to outdoor enthusiasts, families, and retirees alike. Residents enjoy the peaceful setting of Sussex County while remaining within commuting distance to New York City, making Vernon ideal for those who want the balance of rural charm and metropolitan access.
The housing market in Vernon is diverse, featuring everything from rustic ski condos and mountain chalets to lakefront homes, townhouses, and spacious single-family properties. With multiple school options, community amenities, and easy access to shopping and dining, Vernon delivers a lifestyle that blends recreation, comfort, and long-term value.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Community Type | Suburban-rural mix with lake communities, ski resorts, and residential neighborhoods |
| Popular For | Families, second-home buyers, outdoor enthusiasts, retirees |
| Main Housing Types | Lakefront homes, ski condos, mountain chalets, townhouses, single-family houses |
| Parks & Outdoor Areas | Appalachian Trail, Mountain Creek Resort, Wawayanda State Park, Crystal Springs Golf |
| Shopping & Dining | Vernon Town Center: Grocery, local shops, casual dining Nearby Warwick, NY: Boutique shopping, farm-to-table restaurants |
| Health & Wellness | Local clinics, Sussex County healthcare centers, fitness clubs, outdoor recreation for year-round wellness |
| Schools & Education | Vernon Township Public Schools, private and charter options in Sussex County, nearby higher education in NJ & NY |
| Transportation | Route 94, Route 23, Route 515; bus access to NYC; proximity to I-80 and NJ Transit stations in nearby towns |
From ski-in condos to tranquil lakefront homes, Vernon offers a lifestyle where outdoor adventure meets everyday comfort. Its housing diversity and recreational amenities make it an attractive choice for buyers and investors alike.
Vernon’s real estate market in 2024 reflects its unique position as a four-season recreational destination in northern New Jersey. Demand remains steady for vacation homes, ski condos, and lakefront properties, while year-round residents value affordable single-family homes and townhouses. With its proximity to Mountain Creek Resort, Crystal Springs, and the Appalachian Trail, Vernon attracts both primary buyers and investors seeking rental opportunities in short-term and seasonal markets.
| Property Type | Median Price (USD) | Price per Sq.Ft (USD) | Average Rent (USD/year) | Rental Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR Ski Condo | $190,000 | $195 | $15,600 | 8.2% |
| 2BR Townhome | $280,000 | $185 | $20,400 | 7.3% |
| 3BR Single-Family Home | $375,000 | $205 | $26,400 | 7.0% |
| Lakefront Property | $520,000 | $245 | $39,000 | 7.5% |
| Luxury Chalet (4BR+) | $750,000 | $260 | $52,000 | 6.9% |
Source: New Jersey Realtors® Market Data & Sussex County MLS, Q2 2024. Figures represent average trends and may vary by neighborhood, lakefront access, or proximity to ski resorts.
Vernon offers a range of accommodations for visitors, from ski-in/ski-out lodges and golf resort hotels to cozy mountain inns and family-friendly rentals. Its hospitality scene caters to outdoor enthusiasts year-round, with easy access to Mountain Creek Resort, Crystal Springs, and scenic lakes.
Whether you're planning a winter ski trip, a summer hike, or scouting neighborhoods before buying a home, Vernon provides both short-term and long-term lodging options that combine comfort with mountain charm.
Vernon Township is a year-round destination for outdoor adventure, relaxation, and family fun. From skiing in the winter to hiking and golfing in the warmer months, Vernon offers activities for every lifestyle. With Mountain Creek Resort, the Appalachian Trail, and scenic lakes, the township provides countless ways to enjoy nature while also hosting local festivals, farm markets, and entertainment spots.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or considering Vernon as your next home, the area’s mix of outdoor recreation, community events, and charming local dining makes it a vibrant place to explore and live.
Whether it’s skiing down snowy slopes, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying farm-fresh dining, Vernon offers a balance of adventure and relaxation that makes it a sought-after lifestyle destination in northern New Jersey.
Vernon Township provides families with access to a strong public school system, several nearby private and parochial schools, and quality early childhood centers. With an emphasis on community and well-rounded education, the area appeals to families seeking both academic opportunity and a safe, nature-rich environment for children.
Explore Vernon’s schools and nurseries, along with local demographics, to understand why many families choose to call this scenic Sussex County township home.
| School / Nursery | Type | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vernon Township High School | Public / Grades 9–12 | In-town |
Comprehensive high school with strong athletics, arts, and extracurricular programs; known for community involvement and outdoor education opportunities.
|
| Lounsberry Hollow Middle School | Public / Grades 4–6 | Central Vernon |
Focuses on core academics, technology integration, and character education in a supportive environment.
|
| Cedar Mountain Primary School | Public / Pre-K–Grade 1 | 5–10 min drive |
Early childhood education with small class sizes, developmental programs, and strong parent-teacher collaboration.
|
| Pope John XXIII Regional High School (Sparta) | Private / Catholic, Grades 8–12 | 15–20 min drive |
College preparatory curriculum, faith-based instruction, and extensive extracurricular activities; popular choice for Vernon families seeking private education.
|
| Little Learners Academy | Private / Preschool & Nursery | Within Vernon Township |
Nursery and preschool program offering play-based learning, early literacy, and structured developmental activities.
|
Vernon Township is a four-seasons, outdoors-focused community in Sussex County with car-centric access to North Jersey and the Hudson Valley. Daily life revolves around state and county routes that link lake communities, mountain neighborhoods, and the Mountain Creek resort area to major employment and shopping hubs in Morris, Passaic, and Bergen counties.
Most residents drive, though limited regional bus options exist and rideshare coverage is improving. Nearby commuter rail and multiple airports offer broader regional connectivity for work and travel.
Major Highways |
Primary corridors include NJ-94 (to Warwick, NY and Newton, NJ), NJ-23 (south to Wayne and connections to I-80/I-287), and county routes CR-515 (Vernon–Hamburg connector) and CR-517 (to Sparta and Route 15). Typical drive times: ~35–45 min to I-80 (via Rt 15/23), ~50–70 min to I-287, ~75–100 min to Midtown Manhattan (traffic dependent). |
Public Transit |
Limited regional bus access; select NJ TRANSIT routes serve nearby West Milford/Warwick corridors with service to the Port Authority. Most commuters drive to park-and-ride lots or to rail stations in Dover (Morris & Essex Line) or Middletown, NY (Port Jervis Line) for trips to Hoboken/NYC. |
Biking & Walking |
The Appalachian Trail passes through Vernon (including the Pochuck Boardwalk), and Wawayanda State Park offers miles of hiking and mountain-biking trails. Sidewalks exist in parts of Vernon Town Center; most lake and mountain neighborhoods are rural with winding roads—great for recreation, limited for daily walkability. |
Airport |
Newark Liberty (EWR) ~60–80 min; Stewart (SWF) ~55–70 min; Morristown (MMU) ~50–65 min for corporate/general aviation; Sussex Airport (FWN) ~20–25 min for local GA. |
Ride Sharing |
Uber/Lyft are available with variable wait times; coverage improves during peak ski and summer seasons near Mountain Creek and lake communities. Local taxis and private shuttles operate seasonally. |
Property Access Notes |
Property types: slopeside resort condos (Mountain Creek), lakefront and lake-access homes (Highland Lakes, Barry Lakes, Lake Wallkill), chalet-style single-family houses, and rural equestrian/estate parcels. Many HOA communities use private roads; some steep/seasonal roads favor AWD/4WD in winter. Short-term rental rules vary by neighborhood—confirm HOA and township regulations when purchasing investment or vacation properties. |
Vernon’s trailheads, lakes, and ski slopes are minutes from home, while regional highways and nearby rail hubs keep North Jersey employment centers and NYC within practical reach for hybrid commuters, second-home owners, and full-time residents alike.
Vernon Township blends four-season recreation with relative affordability compared to closer-in North Jersey markets. Demand is driven by Mountain Creek (ski, bike park, and waterpark), the Appalachian Trail and state parks, lakeside communities, and steady weekender traffic from the NYC metro. Investors look at a mix of resort condos, lakefront homes, townhomes, and small multifamily near Vernon Town Center, with opportunities for both short-term and long-term rentals depending on neighborhood rules.
Why Vernon? A broad range of property types (slopeside condos, chalet-style single-family, lake cabins, townhomes, and buildable lots) supports diversified strategies—from STRs serving ski/bike seasons to traditional annual leases. Proximity to Warwick, Sparta, and the Route 23/15 corridors expands the rental pool, while price points remain accessible for first-time investors and second-home buyers. Due diligence on HOA/STR regulations, septic/well systems, and seasonal access is essential.
*Illustrative ranges based on common Vernon strategies (short-term ski/lake rentals and traditional annual leases). Actual returns depend on purchase price, financing, seasonality, fees, and local regulations.
Whether your focus is a slopeside STR, a lakefront second home with hybrid renting, or a low-maintenance townhome for long-term tenants, Vernon offers accessible entry points with strong recreational demand and practical upside for well-researched, well-managed investments.
Choosing where to buy or invest in Sussex County depends on priorities—affordability, access to recreation, school systems, or second-home potential. Vernon offers strong seasonal demand from its ski, lake, and trail amenities, while neighboring towns like Sparta, Hardyston, Warwick (NY), and Jefferson provide different property mixes and lifestyle perks. The table below highlights how Vernon compares with its peers.
| Town | Median Home Price | Avg. Annual Appreciation | Main Appeal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vernon | $375,000 | 4–6% | Mountain Creek, lakes, second homes, ski/lake rentals |
| Sparta | $580,000 | 3–5% | Lake Mohawk luxury homes, top-rated schools, suburban lifestyle |
| Hardyston | $415,000 | 4–5% | Golf communities, townhomes, Crystal Springs resort appeal |
| Warwick, NY | $560,000 | 4–6% | Historic charm, vineyards, vibrant downtown, weekenders from NYC |
| Jefferson | $525,000 | 3–5% | Lake Hopatcong waterfronts, commuting access, family neighborhoods |
| West Milford | $440,000 | 3–4% | Large wooded lots, affordability, lakeside cabins |
Key Takeaways: Vernon delivers accessible pricing and strong seasonal rental demand compared to higher-cost Sparta and Warwick. Hardyston appeals to golf and resort buyers, while Jefferson and West Milford attract year-round residents with lake and wooded properties. Investors should consider their goals—whether affordable STR entry, family-friendly suburban stability, or higher-end lakefront holdings.
Data: Bright MLS, NJ Realtors, NYSAR, Q2 2024
Vernon, NJ is a four-season destination community offering a balance of outdoor adventure, small-town charm, and convenient access to New York City. From skiing at Mountain Creek in the winter to hiking, golfing, and lake activities in the summer, Vernon attracts both year-round residents and second-home buyers looking for a vibrant lifestyle close to nature.
Families appreciate Vernon’s excellent school system and welcoming neighborhoods, while buyers and investors are drawn to its variety of housing—ranging from cozy lakefront cabins and mountain chalets to modern townhomes and spacious single-family homes near resort areas. Rental potential is strong thanks to seasonal tourism and vacation demand.
If you’re planning a move, Vernon provides the perfect mix of recreation, community, and real estate opportunities for full-time living or investment.
Read the Complete Vernon Relocation Guide →22,513 people live in Vernon, where the median age is 44.7 and the average individual income is $54,234. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
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There's plenty to do around Vernon, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Mitch's Roadside Grill, Scout Goods 1831, and FAS Training.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining | 2.27 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 3.74 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 4.37 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Vernon has 8,986 households, with an average household size of 2.5. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Vernon do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 22,513 people call Vernon home. The population density is 333.06 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
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