Why Chesterfield
What Is Chesterfield Like?
Chesterfield Township is a historic rural community in Burlington County, South Jersey, known for its over 7,000 acres of preserved farmland, three historic villages, and strong commitment to open space. It was named after the 2nd Earl of Chesterfield, whose estate was in Derbyshire, England, where many early settlers originated. The township was one of New Jersey's original 104 townships and was reformed by Royal charter on January 10, 1713.
Today, Chesterfield is defined by its commitment to preserving its rural heritage. The township has preserved over 7,000 acres of farmland through state, county, and local preservation efforts, ensuring that the open landscapes that have defined this area for centuries will remain intact for generations to come. The community is comprised of three distinct historic villages: Chesterfield, Crosswicks, and Sykesville, each with its own unique character and history.
Crosswicks is the oldest of the three villages and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its streets are lined with beautifully preserved 18th and 19th century homes, and the village green and historic Friends Meeting House evoke the township's Quaker roots. Chesterfield Village is the commercial and civic center, while Sykesville retains a quiet, rural character. The township's special development plan directs new construction to the Old York Village area, preserving the rural landscape that defines Chesterfield.
Lifestyle
Living in Chesterfield Township
Life in Chesterfield is defined by open space. When you drive through the township, you are met with mile after mile of preserved farmland, historic farmhouses, red barns, and the kind of rural scenery that has largely disappeared from suburban New Jersey. This is a community that has made a conscious choice to protect its agricultural heritage, and that choice shapes everything about daily life here.
The three villages each offer a different experience. Crosswicks is a historic gem, with a village green, the Crosswicks Creek, and a close-knit community that hosts annual events like the Crosswicks Community Day. Chesterfield Village is home to the township's municipal offices, parks, and newer development in the Old York Village neighborhood, which was designed to blend seamlessly with the historic character of the area. Sykesville offers quiet country living with easy access to the rest of the township.
Strawberry Hill Farm is a local favorite, offering pick-your-own strawberries and produce during the growing season. The township's parks, including Fenton Lane Park and Crystal Lake Park, provide recreation space for families. For more extensive outdoor activities, Historic Smithville Park in nearby Eastampton and Historic Walnford County Park in Monmouth County are just a short drive away. Chesterfield is also located near the I-95 corridor, providing quick access to Princeton, New York, and Philadelphia.
Nearby Communities
Explore Neighboring Towns
Chesterfield is surrounded by some of the best communities in Burlington and Mercer Counties.
Bordentown
Historic river city with a walkable downtown, exceptional dining, and NJ Transit River LINE access. Just minutes from Chesterfield.
ExploreMansfield Township
Historic Columbus Farmers Market, rural character, and Northern Burlington County schools. A great neighbor to Chesterfield.
ExploreFlorence
Scenic river town with the Roebling Historic District, waterfront parks, and NJ Transit River LINE access.
ExploreHamilton Township
Mercer County's largest community with extensive parks, shopping, and direct NJ Transit access to NYC and Philadelphia.
ExploreBurlington Township
Top-ranked schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a strong community. A popular choice for Burlington County families.
ExploreWestampton
Rancocas State Park, the Burlington County Farm Fair, and excellent Rancocas Valley schools.
ExploreEducation
Chesterfield Schools
The Chesterfield School District serves students from pre-kindergarten through 6th grade at Chesterfield Township Elementary School, located on Saddle Way. The school is known for its strong academic foundation, small class sizes, and supportive learning environment. The district emphasizes a well-rounded education with programs in music, art, physical education, and technology.
For grades 7 through 12, Chesterfield students attend the Northern Burlington County Regional School District, which also serves the communities of Mansfield, North Hanover, and Springfield Townships. Students attend Northern Burlington County Regional Middle School (grades 7-8) and Northern Burlington County Regional High School (grades 9-12). NBCRHS offers a comprehensive curriculum with Advanced Placement courses, honors programs, vocational-technical education, and a wide range of extracurricular activities, athletics, and the arts.
The combination of a small, community-oriented elementary school and a larger regional high school with extensive resources gives Chesterfield students an excellent educational experience. Many families choose Chesterfield specifically for the quality of the schools and the values of the community.
Commute
Commute Times from Chesterfield
Chesterfield's location in northern Burlington County provides excellent access to the I-95/NJ Turnpike corridor, making it a practical choice for commuters who work in Philadelphia, New York, Princeton, or Trenton. The township is approximately 30 miles northeast of Philadelphia and about 70 miles southwest of New York City.
48-51 min
To Philadelphia by car
20-25 min
To Trenton / Princeton
70-80 min
To New York City by car
For rail commuters, the Bordentown station on NJ Transit's River LINE and the Hamilton station on the Northeast Corridor Line are both about 15-20 minutes from Chesterfield. From Hamilton, NJ Transit provides direct service to New York Penn Station (about 60 minutes) and Trenton Transit Center (about 10 minutes), with connections to SEPTA for Philadelphia. The Bordentown station on the River LINE provides service to Trenton and Camden.
Market Insights
The Chesterfield Real Estate Market
Chesterfield's real estate market is unique in Burlington County. The township's commitment to farmland preservation means that most of the land will never be developed, which limits the available housing stock and helps preserve property values. Homes here are in high demand among buyers who want the rural lifestyle, historic character, and the peace of mind that the landscape will not change.
The housing stock in Chesterfield ranges from beautifully preserved historic homes in the Crosswicks and Chesterfield Village historic districts to newer construction in the Old York Village development. Many properties sit on generous lots with views of preserved farmland. Historic homes in the villages often feature period details, wide-plank floors, and fireplaces. Price points in Chesterfield typically range from the low $300,000s for smaller homes and townhomes to over $700,000 for historic estate properties and newer homes on large lots.
With 20 years in the market and more than 600 homes sold across Burlington County, I have helped many families buy and sell in Chesterfield. The market here requires local knowledge, precision pricing, and honest guidance. That is exactly what I provide to every client.
636+
Homes Sold
$89M+
Career Sales Volume
20
Years of Experience
Things to Do
Things to Do in Chesterfield
Chesterfield's attractions are rooted in its history, farmland, and community traditions.
Historic Villages
Explore the three historic villages of Chesterfield, Crosswicks, and Sykesville. Crosswicks is a National Register Historic District with beautifully preserved 18th and 19th century homes, a village green, and the historic Friends Meeting House. Walking tours reveal 300 years of history at every turn.
Farmland & Parks
Over 7,000 acres of preserved farmland create a stunning backdrop for daily life. Strawberry Hill Farm offers pick-your-own berries and seasonal produce. Fenton Lane Park and Crystal Lake Park provide playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas for family outings.
Community Events
Chesterfield's community events bring residents together throughout the year. Crosswicks Community Day is a beloved annual tradition, and the township hosts events at the community parks. The nearby Columbus Farmers Market in Mansfield Township is a regional institution worth exploring on weekends.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Chesterfield
What is it like living in Chesterfield Township?
Chesterfield offers one of the most rural lifestyles in Burlington County, with over 7,000 acres of preserved farmland creating open views and a peaceful atmosphere. The township has three historic villages: Crosswicks (National Register), Chesterfield, and Sykesville. Despite the rural character, the I-95 corridor and major rail connections are just minutes away. It is ideal for buyers who value space, history, and the guarantee that the landscape will stay open.
How are the schools in Chesterfield?
Chesterfield operates its own K-6 elementary school, Chesterfield Township Elementary School, known for its strong academics and small class sizes. Students then attend Northern Burlington County Regional Middle School and Northern Burlington County Regional High School for grades 7-12, which offer AP courses, honors programs, and extensive extracurriculars.
How is the commute from Chesterfield to Philadelphia and New York?
The drive to Philadelphia takes about 48-51 minutes, and to New York City about 70-80 minutes via I-95 and the New Jersey Turnpike. NJ Transit rail service is available from the Hamilton station (Northeast Corridor, about 15-20 minutes from Chesterfield) and the Bordentown station (River LINE). Trains from Hamilton reach New York Penn Station in about 60 minutes.
What types of homes are available in Chesterfield?
Chesterfield offers a mix of beautifully preserved historic homes in the three villages, newer construction in the Old York Village development, and homes on large lots with farmland views. Price points typically range from the low $300,000s to over $700,000 for historic estate properties and newer homes on large lots.
What makes Chesterfield's farmland preservation unique?
Chesterfield has preserved over 7,000 acres of farmland through state, county, and local preservation programs, making it one of the most actively preserved townships in Burlington County. The township's master plan directs new development to the Old York Village area, ensuring that the vast majority of the township remains as working farmland and open space forever. This commitment to preservation is a defining feature of the community.
Meet Your Agent
Bob Millaway | Redfin Senior Agent
With 20 years of experience, over 600 homes sold, and more than $89 million in career sales, I know Chesterfield and Burlington County inside and out. I have helped hundreds of families find their place in this community, and I combine deep local expertise with the most advanced technology available to give my clients an unfair advantage in the market.
My approach is built on education, honesty, and guidance. My role is not to pressure you into a decision. It is to give you the information, perspective, and support you need to make the right choice for your family.
Ready to Make Your Move in Chesterfield?
Whether you are buying, selling, or just getting to know Chesterfield, I can help you navigate the market with confidence. No pressure. No obligation. Just honest guidance.
856.347.2002 | bob.millaway@redfin.com | NJ Lic. #791082