Discover the Charm of Medford Lakes, NJ: Rustic Lakeside Living in South Jersey

If you're looking for that rare mix of “woodsy & relaxing” with a decent commute to the city, Medford Lakes, NJ checks boxes you didn’t even know you had. Nestled in Burlington County and just about 35-45 minutes from Philadelphia, this borough delivers the peaceful-lake-community climate while still being within reach of shopping, community and commuting.

Why Medford Lakes Feels Different

• It’s literally built around nature: 22 lakes sit within the borough and its surroundings, thanks to its place in the New Jersey Pinelands Commission Preservation Area.

• Trails (not just roads), lakefront beaches, canoes in the summer, locals fishing at dawn — you’ll get those neighbor-looks of “oh hey you too” from fellow outdoor-people.

• It retains character: log cabins and rustic architecture remain a huge part of the local architecture.
  
  

Real Estate Snapshot (Fall 2025)

Here’s the market as of now — no fluff, just what you need to know.

• According to Zillow, the average home value in Medford Lakes is about $535,138, up ~2.1% over the past year.

• According to Realtor.com, the median listing home price is about $592,000, with the median sold price around $588,500. Homes typically spend ~47 days on market.

• For the zip-code 08055 (which captures the broader area around and including Medford Lakes), average values sit around $604,676, up 2.7% year-over-year.

• Lakefront or lake-view homes? Premium — you’ll typically pay much more than these averages. (Still the case.)

Takeaway for buyers/sellers:

• If you’re buying: budget for $500K-$600K+ for “average” homes; if you want lake access or views, often hit the high-six-figures or more.

• If you’re selling: solid market, but features (lake access, lot size, cabin vs modern) will separate you.

• Inventory isn’t huge — that’s part of the premium here.
  
  

Living the Life: Recreation & Local Flavor

This isn’t just a place to live — it’s a place to exist how you want (if that means outdoorsy).

• Beaches on lakes, canoes, kayaks: The local community association (Medford Lakes Colony) manages 21 lakes, 5 beaches, parks, tennis courts, etc.

• Trails & nature: You’ll find biking, hiking, canoe paths around the broader area so the lifestyle supports off-screen time.

• Local shops & eats:

  • Grab a smoothie or a healthy snack at Honey Post (20 Trading Post Way) for casual morning vibes. 

  • Dinner out? Check out P.J. Whelihan’s Pub + Restaurant – Medford Lakes at 61 Stokes Rd — relaxed, local hangout energy.

  • Want strolling local charm? Head into nearby Medford Village, with brick sidewalks, boutiques and cafés.
    
    

Schools & Community

• The borough is very family-friendly: plenty of lakeside homes with yards, community groups (women’s club, Scout programs, summer camps) and a relaxed but connected pace. 

• Schools serve the area; local reviews say schools are “good and higher” by GreatSchools standards.

• If you want more social recreation: membership access via the Colony gives you more than your standard suburban HOA.
  
  

Should You Move Here Now?

Short answer: yes, if you’re looking for a trade-off (fewer neighbors, more nature) and willing to pay for it.

Why now makes sense:

• Market is stable. Average/median values are up modestly year-over-year.

• Inventory isn’t massive, so desirable homes (lake-view, good lot, modern updates) may still command premiums.

• The lifestyle (nature, lakes, near-city) is persistent; won't disappear.

Why you might wait/careful:

• If you want brand-new, big lot, state-of-the-art amenities, you’ll pay extra.

• Commute is ~40 minutes to Philly under good traffic — so factor about an hour for daily work if you’re heading into the city.

• Lake-access homes = premium = maybe tighter financing or longer horizon for ROI.

Final Word

Medford Lakes gives you that “treehouse near the city” kind of fantasy without totally sacrificing commute or real-world amenities. If you're looking for a highly desirable place to buy a home, with a tight-knight community and lots to offer its residents... Medford Lakes could be the perfect location for you. Get in touch with our team today to discuss your options for buying a home in Medford Lakes, NJ!