New Providence

WELCOME TO NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ!

New Providence is a borough of New Jersey and is situated at the western portion of Union County. The small town covers a mere 3.7 square miles, but has a growing population of more than 13,000 individuals.

Living in New Providence puts residents close to some of Union County’s busier neighborhoods. It’s bordered by the Passaic River and Chatham Township to the north, Berkeley Heights to the south, and Summit to the east. Surrounding it are the ridges of the beautiful Watchung Mountains.

It’s no surprise that New Providence is considered one of the best places to live in Union County. Its laid-back charm and quaint residential feel offer both old and new homeowners a chance to immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty, while still being close to the excitement and bustle of the metropolis.

The town boasts a wide range of amenities, from well-maintained parks and recreational facilities to top-rated schools and diverse dining options. Whether strolling along its tree-lined streets or participating in community events, residents find ample opportunities for relaxation and entertainment. It’s also a great place to live if you’re working outside of town, thanks to convenient public transportation and ease of access to major cities.

A brief history of New Providence, NJ

Why the town was once called Turkey. It’s well-known among locals that New Providence used to be called “Turkey”. In the 1720s, a Puritan colony settled in the area and named the scenic place after the plentiful wild turkeys they encountered.

Why the town changed its name to New Providence. But that’s not the only interesting thing about the town’s name. Beginning in the 1730s, much of life in the area revolved around the Presbyterian Church. It’s said that one fateful day in 1759, the church balcony collapsed under the weight of too many people. Miraculously, no one was injured. The townsfolk called this an act of providence, and soon enough, the town name was changed to New Providence.

How the town became its own borough. New Providence officially became a township on November 8, 1809. At the time, this township included Summit and Berkeley Heights, until Summit withdrew in 1869. On March 14, 1899, New Providence also withdrew from the township and reincorporated as its own borough. Since then, it has grown into the thriving community we know today.

HOMES FOR SALE IN NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ

The New Providence housing market is predominantly made up of single-family homes, although you’ll also find some apartments, row houses, and duplexes in the mix. Despite the relatively higher costs, the town boasts an impressive homeownership rate of 71%, a testament to the appeal of owning a home in this affluent community. Investing in a New Providence home also makes good financial sense – since 2000, the market has seen an appreciation rate of 132.67%.

A large portion of the housing stock in New Providence was built between the 1940s and 1960s, and they typically offer around 3 bedrooms each. Architecturally, the town showcases a charming mix of Colonial-style residences, along with Ranch, split-level, and townhomes, providing a diverse range of options for potential homeowners.

LIVING IN NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ

New Providence is the perfect place to call home if you’re looking for a town that has it all: a friendly and welcoming community, a rich and fascinating history, and a stunning natural environment. There’s plenty to see and do here, from hiking the Watchung Reservation to exploring the Salt Box Museum. And if you need a change of scenery, you can easily hop on a train to New York City or other nearby destinations.

Cost of living

There’s no question as to the quality of life that New Providence provides. However, this does translate into a higher cost of living, primarily driven by the area’s competitive housing market. With the median home price nearly double that of New Jersey’s average, housing costs can be steep. Transportation is another factor, as increasing gas prices have made getting around New Providence more expensive.

There are a few silver linings, though. While groceries and utilities are slightly pricier, residents enjoy more affordable healthcare than the national average, reflecting the overall cheaper cost of healthcare in New Jersey.

Overall, living in New Providence is more expensive than average, but this is typical of an affluent community. The unparalleled lifestyle and opportunities make it a worthwhile investment, especially for residents who value quality, comfort, and convenience above all.

Climate

New Providence has a temperate climate with cool winters and warm summers. It’s hottest and most humid from June to August, with temperatures averaging 80 degrees. But summer is still the best time to visit, as it’s also the sunniest. Fall starts in mid-September, with temperatures dropping from around 70 degrees to nearly 50 degrees by November. This also marks the beginning of the town’s coldest and snowiest season, which lasts until April.

Employment and business opportunities

New Providence boasts a dynamic job market across finance, information, education, and professional sectors, with ample opportunities for career growth. It’s also an excellent environment for business owners. The town provides all the essential ingredients for businesses and entrepreneurs to succeed, including programs and organizations like New Providence Business that foster growth and innovation.

Additionally, residents of New Providence benefit from the diverse economy of Union County. The county is perfectly situated for manufacturing and logistics industries, being near major ports and airports. It’s also close to New York City, making it attractive to the finance industry.

Education

The New Providence School District offers top-tier education and recreational programs, and has been recognized both nationally and locally for its academic excellence. New Providence High School was awarded the prestigious Blue Ribbon School Award of Excellence in 2011, and Salt Brook Elementary was selected a National School of Character in the same year. Other reputable schools within the district include Allen W. Roberts Elementary School and New Providence Middle School.

If you’re looking to enroll your children in a private school, there are several wonderful options just a few minutes from town. These include Newark Academy in Livingston, Kent Place School in Summit, The Pingry School in Basking Ridge, and Morristown Beard School.

Dining

Offering a variety of cuisines to sample and a restaurant scene that ranges from upscale eateries to family-owned businesses, New Providence opens up residents to a diverse and satisfying culinary experience.

• Mediterranean fare at Moe’s Bistro and Bar.  Helmed by Chef Moe Elghettey, this popular local restaurant serves Mediterranean fare and features a 250-year-old antique full bar. Here, diners can indulge in carefully-prepared, flavorful dishes such as steaks, ribs, and salmon, as well as an extensive selection of wines.
• Serving comfort food for 50 years at Prestige Diner.  Dubbed the neighborhood meeting spot, Prestige Diner is a homey local restaurant that has catered to New Providence residents and visitors for more than 50 years. The diner proudly features some of the best comfort food in town, including burgers, sandwiches, and pasta. Whether you’re here for their all-day breakfast or to indulge in a special dinner, Prestige Diner is the place to go.
• Classic Italian and contemporary fusion at Providence Bar and Kitchen.  Known as the town’s first ever full bar, Providence Bar and Kitchen is a contemporary fusion restaurant established in 2014. Specializing in classic Italian fare and fresh seafood, its diverse menu includes beloved dishes like short ribs, sushi pizza, and tuna tartare, along with an array of gluten-free and vegetarian options.
• The best pizza in town at Bacci Brick Oven & Italian Grill.  For a taste of the best pizza in town, look no further than Bacci. This pizzeria serves up delicious oven-baked pizza with fresh local ingredients, including a best-selling pizza margherita. Pasta, salads, and chicken-based dishes are also available here.
• Authentic Mexican at Jose’s Mexican Cantina.  Fresh, lively, and authentic, Jose’s Mexican Cantina takes pride in its dynamic atmosphere and mouthwatering Mexican food. It’s one of the longest-running Mexican restaurants in the neighborhood and features classics like burritos, tacos, and enchiladas, as well as restaurant specialties like sizzling fajitas and carne al ranchero.

Retail

Whether you’re shopping for necessities or for leisure, New Providence has a host of retail centers to satisfy your needs. The Shoppes at New Providence is a quaint shopping area perfect for running a quick errand, featuring a grocery store, restaurants, and a bank. It’s also the venue for the Central Farmers Market where you can purchase fresh local produce and other goods at an affordable price.

In South Pass Village, you’ll find a mixed-use development with restaurants, cafes, and a pharmacy.

History and culture

New Providence takes pride in its heritage, and these establishments allow new and old residents a glimpse into the town’s rich history.

Salt Box Museum

The Salt Box Museum is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious minds alike. Situated in two historic houses on Springfield Avenue, this museum offers a fascinating look into the past, with many artifacts from even before the American Revolution.  The museum is completely free. Visitors can choose to stop by on the first Sunday of each month from 1-3 p.m., or set an appointment.

New Providence Memorial Library

The New Providence Memorial Library is the town’s cornerstone of culture and learning. Since joining the MAIN Library Alliance, it now offers an expanded catalog featuring a vast selection of titles and digital materials. The library is completely fine-free, encouraging patrons to borrow books and materials without worrying about overdue fines. Additionally, the library hosts several events throughout the year, including art exhibits, author talks, book groups, movies, and children’s story times.

Local parks

New Providence has several acres dedicated to parkland and green spaces, providing residents easy access to the outdoors.

Oakwood Park is one such peaceful area. On a sunny day, you can find residents going on a leisurely stroll through the park’s walking trails, having a quick snack in the covered picnic sites, or enjoying an exciting game of basketball with their friends. Closer to the city center is Harmony Park, a lush green space on South Street featuring various public art installations from local artists.

On Springfield Avenue, behind New Providence High School, is Jaycees Park, a tranquil open area perfect for connecting with nature. A footbridge connects it to the New Providence Community Pool, a private facility that features two Olympic-sized pools and a kiddie pool. It also features a playground and several basketball courts, in addition to picnic groves and a Snack Shack.

Other beautiful local parks worth visiting include Centennial Park, Veterans Park, Lions Park/Playground, and the New Providence Municipal Center.

Outdoor recreation

Venture outside of New Providence and you’ll find incredible nature trails, wildlife observation opportunities, and a chance to explore some of the most stunning parks in the region.

Watchung Reservation

Four miles south of New Providence is the Watchung Reservation, the biggest nature reserve in Union County. It lies in Mountainside Township and encompasses 6,200 acres of open space, which is ideal for those who enjoy birdwatching, trekking, and horseback riding. Several bodies of water within the reserve’s boundaries are open for recreational fishing and boating, including Moxon Pond, Lake Surprise, and Seeley’s Pond.

Perhaps the most popular attraction in the reservation is the six-mile History Trail. This beautiful trail winds through the park and incorporates various sites of historic interest, telling the story of Watchung Reservation’s past. The trail begins and ends at the Trailside Nature & Science Center, a 4,500-square-foot facility featuring a collection of interactive exhibits.

Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge 

Only 10 miles east of New Providence is the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, a 7,680-acre preservation area in Morris County. The oasis was first established in 1960 and has since become a beloved destination for nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and hikers alike.

The refuge has a fascinating history. Initially, the land surrounding the Great Swamp was slated to become a major regional airport. However, thanks to the efforts of various opposing groups, it was ultimately acquired and donated to the federal government to be preserved as a refuge.

Today, guests can get to know the refuge through various facilities, including the informative Wildlife Observation Center and the wilderness area that doubles as an outdoor classroom. There’s also the Helen Fenske Visitor Center, which offers immersive exhibits dedicated to the refuge’s history and habitats. Just outside is a lush garden with native plants, birds, and butterflies.

Events and festivals

New Providence is a town that loves its community events. Some of the past gatherings include the Earth Day Green Fair held at Centennial Park, an educational event centered on sustainability and green practices; Fishing Derby at Oakwood Park for young children aged 15 and below; and the annual Downtown Fireworks show held every 3rd of July.

The community also hosts seasonal events, including a Trick-or-Treat, Scarecrow Contest, Pumpkin Decorating Event, and Holiday Festival.

EXPLORE THE FINEST HOMES IN NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ WITH ALYSSA STANEK

If you’re ready to explore the best homes for sale in New Providence, NJ, let Alyssa Stanek be your guide. As a top-producing agent, Alyssa knows the New Providence market inside and out. Her commitment to providing top-notch customer service allows her to put her clients first in every transaction.

Work with an agent who gives you the service you deserve. Get in touch with Alyssa Stanek today! Give her a call at 201.888.3507 or send her an email here.