New Jersey is a state of contrasts, from bustling cities to quiet suburbs and shore towns that draw summer crowds.
Yet, hidden within the Garden State are towns where wealth, education, and a certain air of superiority create an unmistakable vibe of snobbery. High home prices, lofty incomes, and a touch of social attitude define these places.
Here are New Jersey’s five snobbiest towns for 2025, each with its own brand of exclusivity.
Chatham, a picturesque borough in Morris County, claims the top spot. With median home values around a million dollars and household incomes deep in the six figures, this town is the epitome of upscale. Its pristine streets, top-rated schools, and easy commute to New York City attract wealthy professionals who crave the best of both worlds.
But it’s not just the money. Chatham’s polished demeanor and “perfect” atmosphere can feel like a country club with an invisible barrier. Locals quietly judge everything from your lawn to your lifestyle, and diversity isn’t exactly the town’s strong suit. Chatham likes its bubble just the way it is.
Down by the Jersey Shore, Rumson in Monmouth County is where old money meets new in a parade of waterfront estates and gated properties. Median home values soar past a million and a half, showcasing sprawling homes that scream wealth.
Nestled along the Navesink River, Rumson offers coastal charm, but its snobbery comes from the attitude. Residents cherish their privacy and have a knack for making outsiders feel out of place, whether at the yacht club or a local café. If you’re not part of the inner circle, don’t expect an invite to the gala. Rumson’s vibe says it’s better than the other shore towns, and it knows it.
Perched along the Hudson River in Bergen County, Englewood Cliffs draws affluent professionals who want luxury without Manhattan’s chaos.
With median home prices around one point four million, the town boasts sprawling homes and a serene, almost secretive atmosphere. Its proximity to New York City makes it a favorite for CEOs and finance types, but the snobbery lies in its exclusivity. Englewood Cliffs feels like a members-only club, with residents who prioritize privacy and high-end living. Park your non-luxury car in the wrong spot, and you might catch a side-eye. It’s quiet wealth with a touch of judgment.
Ridgewood, another Bergen County gem, is often called the “perfect” suburb. Its schools, homes, and even its people seem flawless, but perfection comes with a price.
Median home values push past a million, and the town’s charming downtown and top-tier education system attract families who want it all. Yet, Ridgewood’s snobbery shines through in its social scene.
The community can feel cliquish, with parents and locals who set high standards for everything from extracurriculars to social status. Outsiders might feel like they’re auditioning for a role they’ll never get. Ridgewood’s polish comes with an unspoken rule: keep up or stand out.
Finally, Short Hills in Essex County rounds out the list with its reputation for unrelenting wealth. Part of Millburn Township, this enclave is synonymous with luxury, boasting median home prices well above two million. Its proximity to Manhattan and top-notch schools make it a magnet for elite professionals.
But Short Hills’ snobbery is in its unabashed exclusivity. The town’s shopping scene, anchored by the high-end Mall at Short Hills, caters to those who think nothing of dropping thousands on a whim. Residents carry an air of superiority, and the community feels like a gated fortress, even without the gates. Short Hills doesn’t just live large—it looks down on those who don’t.
These five towns—Chatham, Rumson, Englewood Cliffs, Ridgewood, and Short Hills—represent New Jersey’s pinnacle of wealth and attitude.
Each has its own flavor of snobbery, from quiet judgment to outright exclusivity. Whether it’s the pristine lawns or the unspoken social codes, these towns remind us that in the Garden State, some places are a little more “garden” than others.