What are property taxes like in Rumson, NJ?

Rumson has the highest average property tax bill in Monmouth County, about $22,890 per year (2024), but that reflects high home values, not a high rate. Its effective tax rate of roughly 1.1% (2025) is actually one of the lowest in the county. Because the typical Rumson home is worth more than $2 million, the dollar figure is large even though the rate itself is modest.

How much do homes cost in Rumson, NJ?

The average home value in Rumson is about $2.3 million as of mid-2026, up roughly 10% over the past year. Entry-level homes generally start around $800,000 to $1.2 million, while waterfront estates and larger properties frequently sell for $3 million to $6 million or more.

What schools serve Rumson, NJ?

Rumson's public elementary students attend Deane Porter School (grades K–3) and Forrestdale School (grades 4–8), both in the Rumson Borough School District. For high school, students go to Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School, which is consistently ranked among the top public high schools in New Jersey. Several private and parochial schools are also nearby.

Is Rumson, NJ a good place to live?

Rumson is one of New Jersey's most sought-after coastal towns, known for top-rated schools, low crime, tree-lined streets, and waterfront living along the Navesink and Shrewsbury rivers. It offers a quiet, upscale lifestyle within minutes of the beaches at Sea Bright and Monmouth Beach and about an hour from New York City.

How far is Rumson from New York City, and what is the commute like?

Rumson is about 45 miles from Manhattan. Many residents commute by Seastreak ferry from nearby Atlantic Highlands, reaching Wall Street or Midtown in roughly 45 minutes. Others take NJ Transit's North Jersey Coast Line from the Red Bank or Little Silver stations (about 75–90 minutes to New York Penn Station). By car, the trip usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic.

Rumson vs. Fair Haven — which town is right for me?

Rumson and Fair Haven share the same acclaimed regional high school but suit different buyers. Rumson offers larger lots, grand waterfront estates, and a higher price point (average value above $2 million), while Fair Haven is smaller and more walkable with a lower entry price (median around $1.4 million). Buyers who want space, privacy, and waterfront tend toward Rumson; those who want a tight-knit, walk-to-town feel often choose Fair Haven.

Do homes in Rumson require flood insurance?

Many Rumson properties near the Navesink and Shrewsbury rivers sit in FEMA-designated flood zones and may require flood insurance, though this varies widely by a home's exact location and elevation. Because premiums can differ significantly from one street to the next, it's worth checking a specific property's flood zone before making an offer.