Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey

Little Egg Harbor Community Information

Mystic Island | Mystic Shores | Osborn Island | Nugentown |  Parkertown | Bass River

Little Egg Harbor Township is situated in southern Ocean County along the coast of New Jersey and is the southern most township on the Ocean County portion of the Jersey Shore. The township encompasses areas surrounding Great Bay and includes communities such as Mystic Island, many of which feature lagoon-front or waterfront properties. As of the 2020 U.S. Census, the population was approximately 20,784, marking modest growth over previous decades. The region offers a blend of coastal, suburban, and rural zones, with many homes boasting water access and others surrounded by forested or open land. The township derives its name from Little Egg Harbor Bay—early Dutch sailors named the area after noticing the abundance of seagull nests.

There are a large number of waterfront homes located on lagoons and bayfronts.  Little Egg Harbor is home to boating, fishing, crabbing, beach lovers and outdoor etthusiasts.  The township surrounds the borough of Tuckerton which is home to the historic Tuckerton Seaport.  The Garden State Parkway passes through Little Egg Harbor at Exit 58.  Only 30 minutes (28.5 miles) to Atlantic City and about 1:15 minutes to Philadelphia.

 

Home Values & Trends

In May 2025, the median listing price for homes in Little Egg Harbor was around $450,000, with an average price per square foot of approximately $266. The median sold price was reported at about $422,500. Properties typically remain on the market for 58 days before selling, and the sale-to-list price ratio is near 98.8%, suggesting that homes frequently sell close to their asking price. Overall, the real estate market is stable and remains competitive.

The majority of residents in Little Egg Harbor own their homes, with about 86% homeowners and 14% renters. The median home value is listed at approximately $326,200, which may reflect older or more affordable segments of the housing market. Median rent stands at about $1,773 per month. The area is characterized by its rural ambiance, appealing to those who prefer a quieter lifestyle. Demographically, the population tends to be older, with around 27% of residents aged 65 and above.

Lifestyle & Community Highlights

Geography, Nature & Water Access

A key attraction of Little Egg Harbor Township is its waterfront and lagoon communities, which provide residents with direct access to boating and water recreation. Mystic Island is notably one of the township’s most prominent waterfront subdivisions. In addition to coastal areas, the township extends into woodlands and natural spaces, offering a mix of scenic coastal and forested environments.

Schools & Education

Public education in Little Egg Harbor Township is served by local elementary and middle schools, and students attend regional high schools. The area features several public schools with ratings of “good & higher.” Notable schools include the Marine Academy of Technology & Environmental Science, Pinelands Regional High School, George J. Mitchell Elementary School, and Frog Pond Elementary School.

Safety & Community Feel

Little Egg Harbor Township has a relatively low violent crime rate, with about 10.9 incidents per 100,000 people, which is below national averages. Property crime rates are somewhat higher but still below the national average. Residents describe the township as a “clean, quiet little town in the Pinelands and by the Bay.” The local police department is actively involved in community programs, including “Blue Envelope” support for individuals on the autism spectrum. Emergency medical services are provided by the Great Bay Regional Volunteer EMS, serving Little Egg Harbor and neighboring townships.

History & Culture

The township’s historical roots are reflected in sites such as the Little Egg Harbor Friends Meeting House, built in 1863 and located in nearby Tuckerton, highlighting the area’s Quaker heritage. The name and early settlement stories date back to colonial and precolonial times.

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Buying a Home in Little Egg Harbor: Tips & Considerations

  1. Define Your Desired Setting: Decide whether you prefer waterfront or lagoon access, which typically commands premium pricing, or an inland wooded lot that may offer more land for the price.
  2. Check for Flood Insurance / Elevation: For homes near the waterfront or at lower elevations, assess the risk of flooding and storms. Review FEMA flood maps and consider whether the home is elevated or includes flood mitigation features.
  3. Work with Realtors Experienced in the Area: Local real estate agents can provide insights into neighborhood stability, water-related challenges, and help navigate permitting for docks and bulkheads.
  4. Get Financially Prepared & Inspections: Obtain mortgage pre-approval, budget for inspections (including foundation, water intrusion, HVAC, dock integrity), and factor in additional costs such as flood insurance, bulkhead repairs, and seawall maintenance.
  5. Understand Market Timing & Demand: While supply and demand appear balanced as of early 2025, waterfront and lagoon homes are typically in higher demand and tend to sell faster.
  6. Evaluate Schools and Commute: For families, check school district boundaries and consider commute times, as the region’s coastal location may mean moderate travel distances depending on job location.

Little Egg Harbor Community Information

Recreation & Attractions

Dining & Shopping 

Dining

Shopping

  • Walmark

Annual Events

  • Decoy and Gunning Show
  • Harvest Festival 
  • Holiday Spectacular
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Little Egg Harbor Clubs & Organizations

Little Egg Harbor Real Estate Affordability Demographics

Average Home Price

$395,500

Property Tax Rate

2.0%

Appreciation Rate

7.0%

Price Per Sq Ft

$248.51

Average median home price as provided by the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey, with 5-year estimates adjusted by current housing values on Feb 25, 2025.

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Property tax average based upon data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey, with 5-year  estimates adjusted by current housing values and calculated on 2-25-2025.

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Average home appreciaion over one year as proodided by the U.S. Census Bureau, American Comunity Survey, 5-year estimated adjusted by current housing values and calculated on 2-25-2025.

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Average Sale Price per sq. ft based upon city level data, calculated by using tax information capturing square footage of all properties available and dividing by average home price of the same area and calculated on 2-25-2025.

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Coldwell Banker Riviera Realty is a full service real estate company offering real estate brokerage services to home sellers, buyer, tenants and landlords in Toms River, NJ and in the surrounding communities.

Our Tuckerton Little Egg Harbor Office is Located at

600 N. Green Street, Little Egg Harbor, NJ 98987  |  Phone 609-296-7111  | eMail:  Tuckerton@RivieraRealty.com