Luxury Real Estate in Short Hills, NJ
Short Hills is one of New Jersey's most prestigious addresses — an unincorporated community within Millburn Township that consistently ranks among the wealthiest zip codes in America. As a luxury real estate specialist, I help discerning buyers and sellers navigate this exclusive market where privacy, space, and exceptional schools converge.
What sets Short Hills apart is its unique combination of estate properties on generous lots, the nation's top-rated school district, and convenient train access to Manhattan. This isn't just a neighborhood; it's a lifestyle choice for those who demand the very best.
As your Keller Williams Premier Properties luxury agent, I offer Short Hills clients:
- Luxury Market Expertise: Specialized knowledge of $2M+ properties and estate sales
- Millburn School Guidance: In-depth understanding of the #1 ranked school district in NJ
- Privacy & Discretion: Confidential representation for high-profile clients
- NYC Buyer Network: Connections to Manhattan professionals seeking suburban estates
- Custom Marketing: Luxury-focused photography, staging, and targeted campaigns
Call (908) 230-7844 for a confidential consultation.
Short Hills NJ Real Estate Market Overview 2026
The Short Hills real estate market operates at a different level than most New Jersey communities. Properties here command premium prices due to the exceptional school district, prestigious address, and the scarcity of available inventory.
Current Market Statistics
- Median Home Price: $1,350,000 – $2,200,000
- Luxury Segment: $2,500,000 – $5,000,000+
- Average Price per Sq Ft: $520 – $680
- Average Days on Market: 25 – 45 days
- Inventory Level: 2.1 months (highly competitive)
- Year-Over-Year Price Change: +5.5% to +8.2%
- Homes Selling Over Asking: 52%
Market Dynamics
Short Hills operates as a seller's market year-round. Properties that are priced correctly and presented well often receive multiple offers within days. The luxury segment ($2M+) requires sophisticated marketing to attract qualified buyers from Manhattan, Brooklyn, and international markets.
Buyers in Short Hills prioritize: updated gourmet kitchens with high-end appliances, finished basements with entertainment spaces, in-ground pools, home offices, and properties with privacy/screening from neighbors.
Short Hills Neighborhoods & Estates
Old Short Hills
Character: Historic estates, mature landscaping, most prestigious
Price Range: $1,800,000 – $4,000,000+
Best For: Buyers seeking established luxury and timeless prestige
Old Short Hills represents the original development of the community, featuring homes built between the 1920s and 1960s on generous lots ranging from 0.75 to 3+ acres. Many properties have been significantly renovated or rebuilt while maintaining the area's character. Expect to find center-hall colonials, English Tudors, and custom contemporary homes. This is where you'll find Short Hills' most expensive properties.
Deerfield
Character: Family-oriented, newer construction, excellent schools
Price Range: $1,200,000 – $2,100,000
Best For: Young families wanting modern amenities with traditional charm
Deerfield offers a mix of classic Short Hills architecture with more recent construction. Homes here typically feature open floor plans, updated kitchens, and finished basements. The neighborhood has a strong community feel with block parties and active parent networks. Lots range from 0.4 to 0.8 acres.
Greenwood
Character: Wooded lots, privacy, estate feel
Price Range: $1,500,000 – $3,000,000
Best For: Buyers prioritizing privacy and natural settings
Greenwood is known for its mature trees and wooded lots that provide exceptional privacy. Homes here often feature expansive lawns, pools, and outdoor entertaining spaces. The neighborhood has a quiet, secluded feel while being minutes from the train station and schools.
Hartshorn
Character: Rolling hills, varied architecture, family-friendly
Price Range: $1,100,000 – $1,900,000
Best For: Families seeking value within Short Hills
Hartshorn offers a range of architectural styles from colonials to contemporaries on nicely sized lots. This area provides an entry point into the Short Hills market while still offering access to Millburn's top-rated schools. Many homes have been updated with modern amenities.
Mountainside
Character: Elevated location, views, prestigious
Price Range: $1,400,000 – $2,800,000
Best For: Buyers wanting elevated locations with potential views
Mountainside properties sit on higher ground, offering some properties with views of the surrounding area. The neighborhood features larger homes on substantial lots with the privacy that comes from varied topography.
Millburn Township Schools: #1 in New Jersey
The Millburn Township Public Schools are consistently ranked as the #1 school district in New Jersey — the primary driver of Short Hills real estate values. Families move here specifically for these schools, and the investment pays dividends in educational outcomes.
District Overview
- District Rating: A+ (Niche.com) - #1 in New Jersey
- National Ranking: Top 100 school districts in America
- Total Students: Approximately 4,200
- Student-Teacher Ratio: 11:1
- Graduation Rate: 99%
- College Bound: 98% attend four-year colleges, many to Ivy League schools
Elementary Schools (K-4)
Short Hills students attend:
- Hartshorn Elementary: A+ rated, serves Hartshorn and parts of Old Short Hills
- Deerfield Elementary: A+ rated, serves Deerfield and surrounding areas
- Glenwood Elementary: A+ rated, serves parts of Short Hills and Millburn
Middle School (5-8)
Millburn Middle School earns A+ ratings and offers exceptional preparation for high school. The school features advanced math tracks, comprehensive arts programs, and competitive athletics.
Millburn High School (9-12)
Millburn High School is the crown jewel:
- National Ranking: Consistently in top 100 public high schools nationally
- NJ Ranking: #1 or #2 public high school in New Jersey
- SAT Scores: Average 1400+ (far above national average of 1060)
- AP Programs: 20+ Advanced Placement courses with high pass rates
- Ivy League Placements: Multiple students admitted to Harvard, Yale, Princeton annually
- STEM Excellence: Nationally competitive robotics and science olympiad teams
- Arts: Award-winning theater, music, and visual arts programs
- Athletics: Strong programs across multiple sports with state championships
Private School Alternatives
- Far Brook School: Prestigious private school in Short Hills (Nursery-8)
- Newark Academy: Top independent school in nearby Livingston
- Kent Place School: All-girls school in Summit
- Delbarton: Boys' preparatory school in Morristown
Commute & Transportation from Short Hills
One of Short Hills' key selling points is its exceptional commuter access to Manhattan — a major draw for finance, law, and media professionals.
NJ Transit Train Service
The Short Hills Train Station offers direct service to New York Penn Station:
- To Penn Station: 38-45 minutes (express), 45-52 minutes (local)
- Peak Hours: Trains every 15-20 minutes during rush hour
- Monthly Pass: Approximately $350-$400
- Parking: Permit parking available at the station
The train is the preferred commute method for most Short Hills residents working in Manhattan. The ability to work during the commute makes this 45-minute trip highly productive.
Driving to NYC
- To Midtown Manhattan: 22-28 miles (40-70 minutes depending on traffic)
- To Downtown Manhattan: 20-24 miles (35-60 minutes)
- To Newark Liberty Airport: 11 miles (18-25 minutes)
- To Newark: 9 miles (15-20 minutes)
Highway Access
- I-78: 5 minutes to access, direct route to NYC via Holland Tunnel
- Garden State Parkway: 10 minutes to entrances
- Route 24: 5 minutes, connects to I-287 and Morristown
- Route 124: Local thoroughfare through Millburn
Lifestyle & Amenities in Short Hills
The Mall at Short Hills
The Mall at Short Hills is one of the premier luxury shopping destinations in the United States:
- Anchor Stores: Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's, Saks Fifth Avenue
- Luxury Brands: Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Hermès
- Dining: Upscale restaurants including Legal Sea Foods, The Cheesecake Factory
- Services: Concierge, valet parking, personal shopping
Having this world-class shopping destination minutes from your home is a major convenience for Short Hills residents.
Dining Options
Short Hills and Millburn offer excellent dining:
- Restaurant Row (Millburn): Diverse options on Main Street
- Commonwealth: Upscale American in downtown Millburn
- Basilico: Authentic Italian cuisine
- Izumi: Japanese and sushi
- Near Train Station: Multiple casual and upscale options
Parks & Recreation
- Taylor Park: 43-acre park with walking trails, sports fields, playground
- Old Short Hills Park: Historic park with tennis courts and open space
- Gero Park: Recreation facilities including pool and golf course
- Private Clubs: Canoe Brook Country Club, Echo Lake Country Club nearby
Community Events
- Millburn-Short Hills Art Show: Annual juried art exhibition
- Fourth of July Parade: Traditional community celebration
- Holiday Events: Tree lighting, menorah lighting
- Sidewalk Sales: Downtown Millburn shopping events
Home Styles & Architecture in Short Hills
Architectural Styles
- Center-Hall Colonial: The most common style, elegant and traditional
- English Tudor: Distinctive Old World charm, especially in older sections
- French Provincial: Sophisticated style with steep roofs and elegant details
- Custom Contemporary: Modern designs with open floor plans and large windows
- Georgian: Symmetrical facades with classical proportions
- Ranch/Estate Ranch: Single-level living on generous lots
Typical Property Features
- Lot Sizes: 0.5 to 2+ acres (much larger than typical NJ suburbs)
- Home Sizes: 3,500 to 7,000+ sq ft
- Bedrooms: 4-6 bedrooms typical
- Bathrooms: 3.5-5.5 bathrooms
- Common Amenities: In-ground pools, finished basements, three-car garages
- Age: Mix of historic (1920s-1950s) and newer/rebuilt homes
New Construction & Renovations
Significant tear-down activity has occurred in Short Hills, with older homes being replaced by new construction featuring:
- Gourmet kitchens with professional appliances
- Master suites with luxury bathrooms and walk-in closets
- Finished basements with entertainment areas
- Home theaters and wine cellars
- Smart home technology
- Outdoor kitchens and fire pits
Who Lives in Short Hills?
Demographics
- Median Household Income: $350,000+ (among highest in NJ)
- Median Home Value: $1,500,000+
- Education: 90%+ hold bachelor's degrees, 70%+ hold advanced degrees
- Professionals: Finance, law, medicine, media, tech executives
- Homeownership: 95%+ (very high)
Typical Residents
- Wall Street Executives: Finance professionals commuting to Manhattan
- Corporate Leaders: C-suite executives at Fortune 500 companies
- Legal Professionals: Partners at major law firms
- Medical Professionals: Doctors and specialists from NYC and NJ hospitals
- Media & Entertainment: Professionals from NYC media companies
- Entrepreneurs: Successful business owners
- Diplomats & International: UN and consulate families
Why People Choose Short Hills
- Schools: The #1 ranked district in New Jersey
- Prestige: One of the most exclusive addresses in America
- Space: Large homes on generous lots with privacy
- Commute: Easy train access to Manhattan
- Community: Like-minded professionals and families
- Shopping: World-class retail at Mall at Short Hills
Property Taxes in Short Hills/Millburn
Short Hills residents pay taxes to Millburn Township. While taxes are significant, they're often lower than expected given the home values.
- Effective Tax Rate: Approximately 2.0-2.1%
- Tax Assessment: Based on market value with regular revaluations
Estimated Annual Taxes
- $1,500,000 Home: ~$30,000 - $31,500/year
- $2,000,000 Home: ~$40,000 - $42,000/year
- $3,000,000 Home: ~$60,000 - $63,000/year
- $4,000,000+ Home: ~$80,000+/year
Note: New Jersey's $10,000 SALT cap limits federal deductibility, but property taxes remain a significant deduction for many residents.
Selling Your Short Hills Home
The Short Hills luxury market requires sophisticated marketing and positioning.
What Luxury Buyers Want
- Move-in ready condition with high-end finishes
- Updated gourmet kitchens with professional appliances
- Luxury master suites with spa-like bathrooms
- Finished basements with entertainment spaces
- In-ground pools and outdoor entertaining areas
- Home offices and smart home technology
- Privacy and mature landscaping
Luxury Marketing Approach
- Professional photography and drone videography
- Virtual tours and 3D walkthroughs
- Targeted digital advertising to NYC professionals
- Luxury print marketing and direct mail
- Broker previews and exclusive showings
- Staging and interior design consultation
Short Hills Real Estate FAQs
1. What is the average home price in Short Hills NJ?
The median home price ranges from $1,350,000 to $2,200,000, with luxury properties reaching $5M+.
2. Is Short Hills its own town?
No, Short Hills is an unincorporated community within Millburn Township. It has its own zip code (07078) and identity but shares municipal services with Millburn.
3. How are the schools in Short Hills?
Exceptional. Millburn Township schools are ranked #1 in New Jersey with a 99% graduation rate and Ivy League placements.
4. What is the commute from Short Hills to NYC?
The train to Penn Station takes 38-45 minutes express. Driving takes 40-70 minutes depending on traffic.
5. What are property taxes in Short Hills?
Approximately 2.0-2.1% of assessed value. A $2M home pays roughly $40,000-$42,000 annually.
6. Is Short Hills safe?
Extremely safe. Millburn/Short Hills consistently ranks among the safest communities in New Jersey with very low crime rates.
7. What architectural styles are common in Short Hills?
Center-hall colonials, English Tudors, French Provincials, and custom contemporaries are most common.
8. How large are typical lots in Short Hills?
Typically 0.5 to 2+ acres, significantly larger than most New Jersey suburbs.
9. Is there new construction in Short Hills?
Yes, significant tear-down and rebuild activity. Many older homes have been replaced with new luxury construction.
10. What is the Mall at Short Hills?
A premier luxury shopping mall featuring Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Saks, and high-end brands like Gucci and Tiffany.
11. Are there private schools in Short Hills?
Yes, Far Brook School (Nursery-8) is located in Short Hills. Several other prestigious private schools are nearby.
12. What is the demographic of Short Hills residents?
Highly educated professionals (finance, law, medicine, media) with median household incomes of $350,000+.
13. How competitive is the Short Hills real estate market?
Very competitive. Well-priced homes often receive multiple offers within days. Inventory is consistently low.
14. What is the difference between Short Hills and Millburn?
Short Hills is an unincorporated section of Millburn Township with larger lots, higher home values, and more prestigious addresses.
15. Are there country clubs in the area?
Yes, Canoe Brook Country Club and Echo Lake Country Club are nearby, offering golf, tennis, and social amenities.
16. What should sellers know about the Short Hills market?
Buyers expect move-in ready condition, updated kitchens/baths, and premium finishes. Staging and professional marketing are essential.
17. Is there flooding in Short Hills?
Generally no. Most of Short Hills is not in a flood zone, though specific properties should be checked.
18. What utilities are available?
Public water and sewer, PSE&G for electric/gas, multiple high-speed internet providers including Fios.
19. How long do homes take to sell in Short Hills?
Typically 25-45 days for well-priced, well-marketed properties. Luxury homes ($3M+) may take longer.
20. Why should I choose Jorge Ramirez for Short Hills real estate?
I specialize in luxury properties, understand the unique Short Hills market, and have a network of qualified NYC buyers. My AI-powered marketing system targets the right buyers for your property.