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- 🏠Prices in Monmouth County 55+ communities soar
🏠Prices in Monmouth County 55+ communities soar
Plus: Many fun summer events happening this week for Monmouth County seniors.
Better With Age NJ team
July 09, 2025
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It’s Wednesday, New Jersey!
🏠Sticker Shock? Welcome to the 55+ Market!
Turns out the only thing retiring in New Jersey is the word “affordable.” Home prices in Monmouth County’s 55+ communities are skyrocketing faster than your grandkid’s rent. From cozy condos to luxe layouts, see below what a cool $400K to $850K gets you this week.
👀What’s on tap today
Mark your calendar: Plenty of events for seniors in Monmouth County and beyond this week
SeniorWise AI: Say Hello to ChatGPT—Your Friendly AI Helper
Day Trippin’: Lakeside Leisure: Relax & Reconnect at Lake Hopatcong
Up first…
🌻 Where to Find Sunflower Magic in New Jersey
Get ready to bask in the golden glow—sunflower season is officially underway in the Garden State! These cheerful blooms, which brighten fields from late summer through October, are now popping up at farms across New Jersey. From charming u-pick experiences to stunning sunflower mazes and photo-worthy backdrops, there’s no better time to plan a sunny day out. Here our favorite spots in and near Monmouth County.
🌻 Happy Day Farm
📍 106 Iron Ore Rd, Manalapan, NJ
📅 Early July – TBD
Fields of sunflowers and zinnias, sweet treats, and friendly farm animals await! Enjoy a tractor ride to the flower fields, feed goats and chickens, and cool off with refreshing lemonade. Open Wednesday–Friday (10am–5pm), Saturday (10am–7pm), and Sunday (10am–5pm). Admission is $18 per person (cash only). Bring your own shears and water bucket — or purchase a galvanized bucket onsite!
🌻Argos Farm Sunflower Festival
📍 1250 Lacey Rd, Forked River, NJ
📅 Late Summer/Fall
A fun-filled festival featuring live music, sunflower fields, blueberry treats, and family attractions like hay slides, a bee zip line, peddle carts, corn hole, and more! Admission includes unlimited access to activity zones and photo ops.
🌻 Holland Ridge Farms
📍 86 Rues Rd, Cream Ridge, NJ (Monmouth County)
📅 September & October
This dazzling destination is home to massive flower fields filled with sunflowers, dahlias, gladiolus, mums, and lilies. Special themed weekends include food truck festivals, live music, crafts, and family fun — perfect for a day out surrounded by blooms.
🌻 Bullock Farms & Barnyard
📍 83 Emleys Hill Rd, Cream Ridge, NJ (Monmouth County)
📅 Fall TBD
Families will love the Corn Crib, Straw Mountain, and Kids Maze, plus a converted grain truck turned slide. Say hello to donkeys, goats, rabbits, and more in the barnyard — and wander through gorgeous fields of sunflowers and zinnias, camera in hand!
🗞️ News & Notes
🦟 Mosquito Alert: Don’t Let Standing Water Bug You!
The NJ Departments of Health, Environmental Protection, and Agriculture are urging residents to eliminate standing water to help stop the spread of mosquitoes — and the serious diseases they can carry, like West Nile Virus, EEE, and Jamestown Canyon Virus.
Why it matters:
🧓 Adults over 55 are most at risk for severe illness from mosquito-borne viruses.
Protect yourself in 3 steps:
✅ Dump it! Empty water from birdbaths, buckets, flowerpots, and pool covers at least twice a week.
✅ Dress smart: Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors — and use EPA-registered insect repellent.
✅ Defend your space: Clean clogged gutters, turn over wheelbarrows and kiddie pools, and fix window screens.
🦠 Even an inch of water can breed hundreds of mosquitoes — don’t give them a home!
📞 Still seeing swarms? Call Monmouth County Mosquito Control or visit the state site:
🔗 NJ Mosquito Control Commission »
🕯️ Sept. 11: County Day of Remembrance
Monmouth County has officially declared Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, as a Day of Remembrance to honor the victims, first responders, and all those affected by the 9/11 attacks. County offices will be closed that day to allow employees — and the community — time to reflect. Commissioner Director Tom Arnone encourages residents to attend a memorial, visit a local tribute, or simply reach out to thank a first responder.
👉 Read the full resolution: visitmonmouth.com
🌡️ Beat the Heat: Stay Safe This Summer
The NJ Department of Health is reminding residents to stay hydrated and cool as summer temperatures rise. Older adults, especially those with heart or respiratory conditions, are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
✔️ Avoid outdoor activity during peak heat
✔️ Use air conditioning or visit a cooling center
✔️ Drink water — even if you don’t feel thirsty
✔️ Check in on neighbors or loved ones
📞 Need help finding a cooling center? Call 2-1-1 or visit NJ 211 Cooling Sites
📅Mark Your Calendar
Looking for fun ways to enjoy summer in the Garden State? Here are some great events happening this week that offer a mix of music, food, nature, and nostalgia — perfect for seniors and their families!
🎆 Freehold Township Day & Concert
🗓️ Saturday, July 13, 2025
🕐 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Celebrate summer at Michael J. Tighe Park with rides, vendors, kids’ activities, and a free concert by The Nerds. The evening ends with a dazzling fireworks display. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and your whole crew for this fun-filled community favorite.
📍 Michael J. Tighe Park, Freehold Township
🎸 Music, food, family fun & fireworks!
🎭 "Annie" Lights Up Spring Lake Theatre
Take the grandkids! The beloved musical Annie returns to the stage at Spring Lake Theatre with timeless songs, heartwarming characters, and toe-tapping energy. Perfect for all ages, this production promises big talent, a lovable redhead, and a reminder that “the sun’ll come out tomorrow.” Catch performances this week in the charming Jersey Shore town of Spring Lake.
🎟️ Get tickets & showtimes
🎅 Christmas in July: Santa Paddle in Spring Lake
Take the grandkids! Grab your paddleboard, don your Santa hat, and join a festive holiday-in-summer event on Spring Lake! This joyful gathering blends beach-town fun with a touch of North Pole spirit, all for a good cause. Expect a sea of Santas, smiles, and seasonal cheer — even if it’s 85 degrees.
📍 Spring Lake, NJ
🛶 Family-friendly & Instagram-worthy!
🎭 Summer Shakespeare Under the Stars at Brookdale
The Summer Shakespeare Ensemble returns to Brookdale Performing Arts Center with an energetic outdoor production sure to thrill fans of the Bard. Pack a picnic, bring a chair, and enjoy classic theatre in a relaxed setting under the summer sky. It’s a great night out for families, date nights, or anyone who loves timeless drama with a local twist.
🕯️ Candlelight Tribute to Queen & The Beatles
Experience the music of two legendary bands like never before — by candlelight. This elegant tribute concert, held at the Pollack Theater in West Long Branch, blends classical instrumentation with iconic rock anthems from Queen and The Beatles. Expect stunning ambiance, top-notch musicianship, and unforgettable melodies in a one-of-a-kind setting.
📍 Pollack Theater, Monmouth University, West Long Branch
🎶 One night only!
Statewide events:
🎡 July 9–13 – Ocean County Fair
Bayville, Ocean County
Enjoy classic fair fun, live music, agricultural exhibits, and tasty treats in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
🎆 July 10–12 – Randolph Freedom Festival
Randolph, Morris County
A festive celebration with fireworks, carnival rides, food vendors, and local entertainment.
🫐 July 11 – Whitesbog’s Blueberry Summer Fest
Browns Mills, Burlington County
Celebrate the birthplace of the cultivated blueberry with live music, wagon rides, crafts, and blueberry everything!
🏖️ July 11 – Wildwood Crest Sand Sculpting Festival
Wildwood, Cape May County
Stroll along the beach and marvel at incredible sand sculptures — or join in the fun and sculpt your own!
🎷 July 11–13 – NJ State Barbecue Championship & Angelsea Blues Festival
Wildwood, Cape May County
Three days of mouthwatering BBQ and live blues performances by the beach. A delicious and soulful summer treat!
🫐 July 12 & 13 – Terhune Orchards’ Blueberry Bash
Princeton, Mercer County
Live music, farm fun, and blueberry-themed goodies in a beautiful country setting.
🌳 In the Parks
Looking to enjoy the great outdoors this summer? Monmouth County’s parks offer guided nature tours, historic demos, music, and hands-on fun — perfect for a peaceful outing or a family-friendly weekend. Here’s what’s happening this week.
🚤 Manasquan Reservoir Boat Tours
Manasquan Reservoir, Howell – Tours leave from the Visitor Center
Join a Park System Naturalist for a 45-minute narrated boat tour filled with wildlife spotting and scenic views. A relaxing way to enjoy nature up close!
Tour Schedule:
Friday: July 11 at 6 & 7 p.m.
Saturdays & Sundays: July 12–13, 19–20, 26–27 at 2, 3, 4 & 5 p.m.
🎟️ $6 adults | $4 kids (12 & under). Tickets sold day-of. Lifejackets required. Weather/water dependent.
⚙️ Milling Demonstrations
Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold
Watch the 19th-century gristmill in action as corn is ground into meal.
📅 Saturdays & Sundays: July 5–6, 12–13, 19–20, 26–27
🕐 12:30, 1:30, 2:30 & 3:30 p.m.
💲FREE!
🧺 Basket Weaving Demonstration
Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold
The Penn/Jersey Basket Weaving Guild showcases their time-honored craft.
📅 Saturday, July 12
🕙 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
💲FREE!
🪵 19th Century Woodworking Demo
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
See traditional woodworking techniques come to life with hand tools and craftsmanship.
📅 Saturday, July 12
🕛 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.
💲FREE!
⛵ Rigging 101: Learn to Sail
Manasquan Reservoir, Howell – West Dock/Ramp
A free session for experienced (but uncertified) sailors. Learn to rig a 15’ American sailboat and qualify to rent one!
📅 Saturday, July 12 from 1–3 p.m.
📅 Tuesday, July 15 from 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
💲FREE!
🎶 Music on the Porch
Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold
Relax with the acoustic sounds of a local duo on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
📅 Sunday, July 13
🕐 1–3 p.m.
💲FREE!
🌟 Seasonal Bonus
🏊 Get in an early bird workout in the lap lanes at the Fort Monmouth Recreation Center pool Monday through Friday from 7-10 a.m. through Aug. 29. Get the details here.
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🏠Boomers, Bungalows & Bidding Wars!
Home prices in Monmouth County's 55+ communities are stratospheric because of one golden combination: baby boomers with serious money chasing a finite supply of desirable properties. Monmouth County's median sale price is 61% higher than the national average, and the typical home value is $628,038. In the adult communities specifically, prices range from $650,000 to around $850,000 at premium developments like Four Seasons at Manalapan, while even the median sales price for 55+ housing hit $547,915 despite a recent dip.
The perfect storm driving these sky-high prices is location, location, location. Monmouth County is famed for its picturesque beaches, rich history, and proximity to New York City, making it a magnet for affluent retirees who want beach access without sacrificing urban convenience. The supply can't keep up with demand – closed sales soared 51.5%, showing a strong demand for 55+ housing, and 55.7% of homes here sold above asking price last month. Add in the area's stunning beaches in towns like Asbury Park, Manasquan, and Sea Girt, and you have a recipe for prices that would make even Manhattan residents wince.
From cozy condos to luxe layouts, homes in 55+ communities in New Jersey are hotter than ever. Here’s a sampling of this week’s listings.
🏡 Charming Ranch in The Villages – $384,900
2 beds • 2 baths • 1,168 sq ft
📍 154 Rue De St Germaine B, Freehold, NJ 07728
This sunny 2-bedroom ranch in The Villages 55+ community features spacious living, 2 full baths, and low-maintenance comfort — all just minutes from shops and parks. Built in 1967 and full of potential! See photos here.
💰 Taxes: $5,055/yr | HOA: $441 per month
🌿 Spacious Greenbriar Gem – $529,900
2 beds • 2 baths • 1,552 sq ft
📍 14 Weston Ct, Marlboro, NJ 07746
Located in the sought-after Greenbriar at Marlboro 55+ community, this roomy ranch offers 2 full baths, generous living space, and a private lot (7,841 sq ft). Built in 1981 with classic charm and a low-maintenance lifestyle. See photos here.
💰 Taxes: $6,262/yr | HOA: $230 per month
✨ Elegant Living in Four Seasons – $850,000
3 beds • 2 baths • 2,386 sq ft
📍 90 Wintergreen Dr, Manalapan, NJ 07726
This beautifully maintained ranch in the prestigious Four Seasons at Manalapan 55+ community offers nearly 2,400 sq ft of open, airy living. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and a lovely 6,970 sq ft lot, this 2011-built home combines space, style, and serenity. See photos here
💰 Taxes: $11,421/yr | HOA: $425 per month
📚 Beyond the Books
Fun, fitness, and fresh ideas — there’s more than just books available for seniors at Monmouth County libraries this week!
🧷 Mini Button Notebook Craft
Wed, July 9 · 1:30–2:30 PM
Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
Craft a tiny notebook fit for a fairy! All supplies provided. Register
🚑 Stop the Bleed: Be a Lifesaver
Wed, July 9 · 1:30–2:30 PM
Holmdel Branch
Learn to save a life with emergency bleeding control techniques. Register
🪑 Chair Yoga (Two options!)
Wed, July 9 · 2–3 PM at Colts Neck Branch Register
Mon, July 14 · 10–11 AM at Holmdel Branch Register
Gentle movement, breathing, and balance — all from a chair.
👟 Six Pillars of Brain Health (AARP)
Fri, July 11 · 10:30–11:30 AM
Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
Explore simple habits that support memory and cognition.
🎸 Live: Randal Graves Band!
Sat, July 12 · 2–4 PM
Hazlet Township Branch
From the ’60s to the 2000s — a rock show for every generation!
📱 Getting to Know Your Smartphone
Thu, July 10 · 7–8 PM
Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
iPhone or Android? Either way, get confident with tech! Register
🧶 Knit Wits: Craft Night
Thu, July 10 · 6:30–8:30 PM
Library HQ, Manalapan
Bring your yarn, your needles, and your inspiration.
🧠 Creative Writer’s Workshop
Thu, July 10 · 7–8:45 PM
Allentown Branch
Bring pages to share and join a warm writing group.
🖼️ Watercolor for Beginners
Tue, July 15 · 6–8 PM
Wall Township Branch
Loose flowers, urban sketching, and watercolor play. Register
🐝 Beekeeping & Honey Talk (Outdoors!)
Wed, July 16 · 12–1 PM
West Long Branch
See live bees in an observation hive and meet Ray the Beekeeper.
Rain date: July 17
🎨 Make Your Own Greeting Cards
Wed, July 16 · 6:30–7:30 PM
Hazlet Township Branch
Supplies + ideas = five handmade cards to brighten someone’s day. Register
🐜 Tick Safety Display & Talk
Now through Aug 1
Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
Learn how to protect yourself from ticks this summer.
Special presentation: Wed, July 23 · 1:30 PM
🤖 Seniors & AI – Week 2
Say Hello to ChatGPT—Your Friendly AI Helper
This week, let’s meet an AI tool you’re already using right now: ChatGPT! Think of it like a helpful assistant or pen pal. You type in a question or request, and it gives you answers, ideas, or even recipes.
Here’s what you can ask ChatGPT to do:
Write a birthday poem for your grandchild 🎂
Explain how to use your iPhone 📱
Suggest simple exercises or low-sodium meals 🥗
Tell you a clean joke or uplifting quote 😊
You don’t need to be a computer whiz—just type like you would in an email. You can even say, "I don't understand this—can you explain it again?"
💡 Tip: Save ChatGPT on your phone or computer as a shortcut, so you can talk to it whenever you want.
Next week: 5 Real Ways AI Can Make Your Day Easier
Day Trippin’
🛶 Lakeside Leisure: Relax & Reconnect at Lake Hopatcong
Looking for a scenic, senior-friendly day trip or weekend getaway? Say hello to Lake Hopatcong — New Jersey’s largest freshwater lake, just a short ride from home. With 2,500 acres of water and 45 miles of shoreline, this peaceful spot is made for gentle adventure, good food, and lasting memories.
🌅 Cruise the lake in style on the Miss Lotta with Lake Hopatcong Cruises (May–October). Choose from historical tours, wine & dinner nights, and even themed events like “Studio 54 on the Water.”
🎣 Cast a line for bass, trout, or catfish—or just enjoy the view. Seniors 70+ fish for free (no license needed!).
🍽️ Dine dockside at local favorites like Stone Water, The Jefferson House, or Mason Street Grille—most with boat access and beautiful sunset views.
🌳 Explore Hopatcong State Park with its picnic areas, walking trails, clean restrooms, and calm swimming beach.
👣 Travel back in time at the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum, where you'll discover the area's heyday as a summer escape for the rich and famous.
Whether you're cruising, relaxing, or just soaking in the view, Lake Hopatcong is a close-to-home gem worth exploring.
🎉 Happy Birthday, Lisa Jeffries of Hazlet! 🎂🎈
Wishing you a fabulous birthday on July 10 filled with sunshine, smiles, and sweet surprises! ☀️💐🍰
You're in good company—Jessica Simpson, Sofia Vergara, and even Nikola Tesla share your special day! 🎤⚡🌟
Fun fact: On this day in 1962, the world’s first satellite TV transmission beamed across the Atlantic! So you're basically born to shine on screen. 😄📺
Have a sparkling day, Lisa — you deserve all the love and cake! 🎁🎊🥳
🎬That’s a wrap
🕯️ Our shoutout this week goes to Monmouth County for declaring September 11 a County Day of Remembrance for the third year in a row. We join in honoring the victims, first responders, volunteers, and families impacted by the tragic events of 9/11. Let this day be one of reflection, unity, and gratitude for the heroes among us.
❓Questions, comments or news to share? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at [email protected]
👀First time reading? Join thousands of Monmouth County seniors. Sign up for our free weekly newsletter here.
😎See you next week. And remember, life keeps getting better with age, especially in Monmouth County!
The Better With Age New Jersey team