With its small-town charm, excellent school system, a bevy of recreational opportunities, and easy access to urban amenities, Chatham, New Jersey is an exceptional place to call home.
Located about 26 miles west of New York City, Chatham is on the eastern edge of Morris County and has long been a destination for people escaping the grind of big-city living. With a legitimately down-to-earth vibe, a rich history, and a variety of architecture styles throughout town, Chatham has become an attractive place for individuals and families alike.
Here, we explore the many reasons to give it a look if you haven’t already.
Overview of Chatham, New Jersey
The land that comprises Chatham today was once an important fixture in the Revolutionary War, as George Washington moved thousands of troops across the Passaic River as part of a strategic ploy to deceive the British.
To this day, that revolutionary-era history can be seen throughout town. Like many nearby villages in the 19th and 20th centuries, Chatham flourished as railroads and merchant routes extended deeper into New Jersey, making the region a destination for both real estate developers and vacationers.
In the late 1800s, locals established a new form of government, which created Chatham Borough in addition to Chatham Township. Today, both municipalities still exist but share many resources, including a school district and library system.
Chatham Borough has the larger commercial center and enjoys more modern amenities with a population just under 10,000 full-time residents. Plus, with two train lines—the Morristown Line and the Gladstone Branch Line—Chatham Borough provides easy access to all points east, including New York City.
Neighborhoods and Real Estate in Chatham, NJ
Known for historic architecture and high-end real estate, Chatham is home to walkable neighborhoods featuring large, landscaped properties and antique homes dating back to the 19th century. Prospective buyers can also find many modern homes on the market, including new builds and houses constructed in the mid-to-late 20th century.
The Manor Section, close to the boutiques and restaurants of downtown Chatham Borough, features properties dating back to the Revolutionary War era. It’s also centrally located near the community’s pulse and the train station.
The Rolling Hills and Lafayette neighborhoods, closer to Chatham Township, are known for elegant properties with quick access to top-rated schools, the Colony Pool Club, and the Fairmount Country Club.
While properties in Chatham Township are typically grander, those located in Chatham Borough feature a variety of styles, including apartments, condos, and smaller single-family homes.
The Chatham Schools
The School District of the Chathams, which serves both Chatham Borough and Township, is highly rated. In fact, in 2024, Niche ranked it the ninth best school district in the state of New Jersey.
With about 3,600 students and an 11:1 teacher-student ratio, all six of the public schools (including four elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school) rank above state averages.
Private school options are also available, particularly for early childhood education through elementary and middle school. Chatham Day School, an independent private institution, serves preschoolers through eighth grade, as does St. Patrick School, a co-ed Catholic school.
The overall quality of Chatham’s public and private schools has made the community an attractive destination for families with children of all ages.
Park Space and Recreational Opportunities
Chatham is an ideal landing pad for those who want to stay active. Park space is abundant throughout the community. At Shepard Kollock Park, visitors will find picnic shelters, baseball and softball diamonds, and even a boat launch on the Passaic River.
Memorial Park features athletic fields and a swimming pool, while Garden Park has tennis, pickleball, and basketball courts, a playground, and walking paths. In the heart of Chatham Borough is the Village Play Cafe, an indoor playspace for kids and a coffee shop for adults.
One of the greatest community attractions in Chatham Township is the Colony Pool Club, which features a spring-fed clear-water pond. The large playground at Castle Park is also a major draw for families with young children.
To the West, the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge offers residents the chance to unplug and engage with nature. The 12-square mile open space is home to 8.5 miles of walking paths as well as a visitor center where families can learn more about the area’s wildlife and ecology.
Community Events in Chatham, New Jersey
Throughout the year, Chatham is buzzing with social events. For those new to the area—or for folks just looking to better engage with their neighbors— the Chatham Newcomers and Social Club hosts gatherings like book clubs, ladies nights, and children’s events. The Library of the Chathams also keeps a robust event calendar and helps residents stay engaged.
Perhaps the most raucous celebration each year is the Fishawack Festival, which takes place downtown each June and includes live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities over the course of a weekend. Gazebo concerts also mark summers in Chatham on Thursdays and Farmer’s Markets on Saturday mornings from June through November.
Dining and Shopping Experiences
The downtown core of Chatham Borough is highly walkable, featuring a tree-lined Main Street replete with shops, restaurants, and cafes.
For the foodies, Restaurant Serenade, an upscale French dining experience from chefs James and Nancy Laird, will set the bar high with local produce and fresh meat. But you also won’t want to miss Sorriso Italian Kitchen, Fleur de Sol Bistro, or more casual joints like Chatham Sandwich Shop and Charley’s Aunt.
Flanking all of these spots to eat and drink are boutiques like the Purple Aardvark for gifts, the Blue Iris for women’s clothing, and Jabberwocky for children’s books and toys.
The Commute and Transportation Network
Part of what makes Chatham extraordinary is that it feels like a true escape from the city, but—thanks to convenient public transportation—you can still take advantage of all New York has to offer.
Two train lines service Chatham, the Gladstone Branch Line and the Morristown Line (also called the Midtown Direct), meaning commuters can get into the city in about 45 minutes with no transfers.
Chatham is also conveniently located alongside Route 24 and very close to Interstate 78 to the south, which means residents can access the city by car in about 35 minutes and make it to Newark Liberty International Airport in less than 30.
Are you Ready to Move to Chatham, NJ?
Whether it’s for the rich community spirit, the active lifestyle, or the abundance of family-friendly events, the quality of life offered via a move to Chatham, New Jersey might make sense for individuals or families alike. And those amenities are only buoyed by top-rated schools, a convenient public transportation system, and exceptional dining and shopping.
Living in Chatham offers a unique experience that combines small-town charm with big-city advantages. So, if you’re considering making the move, explore local real estate listings today and discover your dream home in this beautiful town.
Contact a local expert strategist for more information on living in Chatham or to get started on your home search!
