🟦 Wanaque, NJ – Community Overview
Located in the scenic foothills of the Highlands region, Wanaque, New Jersey is a peaceful suburban community known for its natural beauty, charming neighborhoods, and strong sense of local pride. With a population of just under 12,000 residents, Wanaque offers a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle while still providing convenient access to major highways, shopping hubs, and nearby North Jersey towns.

Made up of two main sections — Wanaque and Haskell — the borough features picturesque landscapes, vibrant community programs, excellent public services, and close proximity to lakes, parks, and mountain recreation. Its blend of affordability, natural surroundings, and small-town atmosphere makes Wanaque a highly appealing destination for families, commuters, and anyone looking for a peaceful suburban environment.

 
🟦 Lifestyle & Community Atmosphere
Wanaque offers a warm, neighbor-focused lifestyle where community involvement and outdoor living take center stage. The town maintains a quiet residential feel, featuring tree-lined streets, welcoming neighborhoods, and a slower pace than many surrounding areas.

Residents enjoy:

A friendly, tight-knit community
Access to local events, recreation programs, and seasonal celebrations
Walkable neighborhoods and beautiful natural scenery
A charming small-town downtown area in Haskell
Quick access to outdoor activities in the Highlands and surrounding parks
Whether enjoying a coffee at a local café, walking along the river, or participating in borough-hosted events, Wanaque’s community-centered lifestyle appeals to families and long-time residents alike.

 
🟦 Wanaque Neighborhoods & Housing
Wanaque offers a diverse selection of housing options, with many homes featuring beautiful views of the nearby mountains or lake regions.

Popular neighborhoods and housing styles include:

Wanaque Midvale Area – Quiet residential streets with a variety of traditional home styles
Haskell – A walkable, historic downtown district with shops, restaurants, and convenient commuting options
Stony Ridge / Ringwood Ave Corridors – Attractive homes close to parks and recreation
The Highlands Community – Modern townhomes and single-family homes with desirable amenities
Condo & Townhome Communities – Popular among first-time buyers and downsizers
The town's housing market offers excellent value compared to nearby Bergen County communities, while still providing commuting access, neighborhood charm, and steady demand.

 
🟦 Schools in Wanaque, NJ
Wanaque is served by Wanaque Public Schools, offering strong academic programs, supportive staff, and a close-knit educational environment.

The district includes:

Haskell Elementary School
Wanaque Elementary School
High school students attend Lakeland Regional High School, shared with nearby Ringwood. Known for its strong academics, athletics, and extracurricular programs, Lakeland High is a major draw for families moving into the area.

Parents appreciate the community feel of Wanaque’s schools, safe learning environments, and personalized attention typical of smaller districts.

 
🟦 Commuting & Transportation
Wanaque offers convenient commuting options while maintaining a peaceful suburban environment.

Residents benefit from access to:

Route 287, running north–south through the borough
Route 23, a major commuter corridor
Bus service to NYC and local destinations
Nearby NJ Transit rail stations in Pompton Lakes, Lincoln Park, or Ridgewood
Its central location makes travel to Wayne, Oakland, Ringwood, Butler, and Bergen County straightforward, while still offering the quiet charm of a smaller town.

 
🟦 Parks, Lakes & Outdoor Recreation
Wanaque is surrounded by some of the best natural landscapes in northern New Jersey.

Highlights include:

🌊 Wanaque Reservoir
One of the region’s most significant water sources, offering stunning views and protected natural areas.

🪵 Norvin Green State Forest
Thousands of acres of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, forests, and wildlife.

🚣 Greenwood Lake & Surrounding Lakes
Minutes away — offering boating, fishing, kayaking, and seasonal activities.

🎣 Wanaque River
A peaceful area for fishing and riverside walking.

⚽ Wanaque Recreation Programs
Youth sports leagues, senior programs, community events, and seasonal festivals.

Outdoor lovers appreciate Wanaque’s blend of mountain terrain, lakes, and open green space — all easily accessible within minutes of town.

 
🟦 Local Businesses & Community Highlights
Wanaque and Haskell offer a charming mix of local restaurants, family-owned shops, and small businesses that serve as gathering spots for residents.

Popular destinations include:

Local pizzerias and cafés
Independent retail shops
Small business services
Neighborhood delis and restaurants
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🟦 Why People Love Living in Wanaque
Residents choose Wanaque for:

Peaceful suburban living
Affordable homes relative to surrounding towns
Beautiful natural surroundings
Strong community involvement
Safe neighborhoods
Convenient access to major highways
A slower, more relaxed pace than bigger North Jersey communities
Wanaque offers exceptional quality of life without sacrificing convenience or connectivity.

 
🟦 Wanaque Real Estate Market Overview
Wanaque’s real estate market is consistently active, offering strong value and affordability in a region where home prices can be significantly higher.

Buyers are drawn to:

Well-sized single-family homes
Quiet, residential streets
Scenic mountain and lake surroundings
Easy access to highways
Attractive townhome communities
Sellers benefit from:

Steady buyer interest
Strong demand from first-time buyers and downsizers
Relative affordability compared to Bergen and Morris counties
The market’s stability and appeal make Wanaque a smart choice for long-term homeowners and investors.

 
🟦 Conclusion
Offering beautiful natural settings, a friendly small-town feel, strong schools, and easy access to North Jersey’s major routes, Wanaque, NJ delivers a relaxed suburban lifestyle that appeals to a wide range of homebuyers. Whether you’re exploring the outdoors, raising a family, or seeking a peaceful retreat with convenient commuting options, Wanaque offers exceptional value and charm.