Why Pemberton
What Is Pemberton Like?
Pemberton is a nature-oriented community in Burlington County, South Jersey, known for its spring-fed lakes, Pinelands forest, and the historic Pemberton Borough. Pemberton Township, at 64 square miles, is one of the largest municipalities in Burlington County by land area, encompassing a vast landscape of pine forests, lakes, farmland, and residential neighborhoods. The historic Borough of Pemberton, originally known as "New Mills," is a compact, walkable community along the Rancocas Creek with a proud history dating to the early 1800s.
What sets Pemberton apart is its connection to the land. The township sits within the northwestern Pinelands region, and much of the area is protected or preserved. You will find spring-fed lakes like Mirror Lake, Little Pine Lake, Big Pine Lake, Country Lakes, Presidential Lakes, and Lake Pemberton, many of which offer municipal beaches and swimming during the summer months. This is lake living without leaving New Jersey.
Pemberton is also home to portions of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, a major military installation that brings a diverse and patriotic community to the area. The presence of the base adds economic stability and a strong sense of service to the local character. The Whitesbog Historic Village and Brendan T. Byrne State Forest offer additional opportunities for hiking, history, and outdoor exploration.
Lifestyle
Living in Pemberton
Life in Pemberton is shaped by water and woods. On a warm summer weekend, families head to one of the community lakes for swimming, kayaking, or just relaxing on the beach. The lake communities each have their own character and identity, from the sprawling Presidential Lakes development to the more intimate Country Lakes and the wooded lots of Lake Pemberton.
The historic Pemberton Borough offers a different experience. Its walkable streets with historic homes, the Pemberton Library, and local businesses along Hanover Street and Lakeview Avenue create a small-town atmosphere that is increasingly rare. The Borough is just a few minutes from the township's lakes and preserves, giving residents access to both village convenience and natural escape.
Pemberton is a community where people know their neighbors. The schools are deeply tied to the community, the recreation department keeps residents active, and the proximity to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst means there is a constant flow of military families who bring new energy and perspectives. If you want a home where you can actually use a canoe on the weekend and still get to Philadelphia in under an hour, Pemberton is hard to beat.
Nearby Communities
Explore Neighboring Towns
Pemberton is surrounded by some of Burlington County's most desirable communities.
Eastampton
Historic Smithville Park, rural character, and excellent Northern Burlington County schools just minutes away.
ExploreSouthampton
Rural character, larger properties, and a quiet lifestyle. A peaceful Burlington County community.
ExploreTabernacle
Rural Pine Barrens community with large properties, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community.
ExploreMount Holly
Historic county seat with vibrant downtown and cultural attractions. A short drive from Pemberton.
ExploreMedford
Historic downtown, excellent schools, and larger properties. A top choice for Burlington County buyers.
ExploreWestampton
Rancocas State Park, the Burlington County Farm Fair, and excellent schools. Convenient and community-oriented.
ExploreEducation
Pemberton Schools
The Pemberton Township School District serves approximately 4,400 students across nine schools, from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The district is one of the largest in Burlington County by area and offers a comprehensive educational experience with a focus on academic achievement and career readiness.
Pemberton Township High School is organized around three specialized academies: the Academy of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (ASTEM), the Medical Arts Academy, and the Fine and Musical Arts Academy. These programs allow students to pursue their interests in depth while completing a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum. The school also offers over 30 College Accelerated Program (CAP) courses through Rowan College at Burlington County, giving students a head start on college credits.
Nine out of the district's nine schools have received national recognition, reflecting the dedication of the faculty and the community's investment in education. Private educational options in the area include Catholic and Montessori schools. For families stationed at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, additional school options are available through the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA).
Commute
Commute Times from Pemberton
Pemberton offers a manageable commute to Philadelphia and other major employment centers, with the added benefit of being immediately adjacent to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. The township is located near the intersection of Route 206, Route 38, and the NJ Turnpike, providing multiple commuting routes.
38-50 min
To Philadelphia by car
5-10 min
To Joint Base MDL
50-60 min
To the Jersey Shore
NJ Transit bus service along Route 38 provides connections to Philadelphia and other regional destinations. For rail commuters, the NJ Transit River LINE stations in Burlington City and the Northeast Corridor stations in Trenton and Hamilton are about 25-35 minutes away, offering service to New York and Philadelphia. For those working at Joint Base MDL, the commute is just minutes from most parts of Pemberton Township.
Market Insights
The Pemberton Real Estate Market
Pemberton's real estate market is one of the most affordable in Burlington County, particularly for buyers who want water access, space, and a connection to nature. The housing stock is diverse, reflecting the township's size and varied geography. You will find charming historic homes in Pemberton Borough, lakefront and lake-community properties in the townships, and newer construction in developing areas.
Price points in Pemberton are generally lower than in Burlington County's more prestigious suburban towns, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers, military families, and anyone looking for more home for their money. Lakefront properties command a premium, while homes in the established neighborhoods and the Borough offer excellent value. Typical price points range from the low $200,000s for fixer-uppers and smaller homes to the mid $400,000s for lakefront and larger properties.
With 20 years in the market and more than 600 homes sold across Burlington County, I have helped many families buy and sell in Pemberton. 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 Pemberton
Pemberton offers a wealth of outdoor and historic activities that make it one of Burlington County's most engaging communities.
Lakes & Beaches
Mirror Lake, Little Pine Lake, Big Pine Lake, Country Lakes, Presidential Lakes, and Lake Pemberton all offer swimming beaches, boating, and fishing. Many have municipal beaches with lifeguards during the summer season. Lakefront living is the defining lifestyle of Pemberton.
Whitesbog Historic Village
A preserved Pinelands village that was once the center of cranberry farming in New Jersey. Walking trails wind through the cranberry bogs and blueberry fields. The village hosts seasonal events like the Whitesbog Blueberry Festival and offers a fascinating look at Pine Barrens history.
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest
Over 5,000 acres of protected Pine Barrens forest with hiking trails, mountain biking, horseback riding, and the historic Fire Tower. The forest is a haven for hikers, birders, and anyone who wants to experience the wild beauty of the New Jersey Pinelands.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Pemberton
What is it like living in Pemberton?
Pemberton is defined by its lakes, pine forests, and nature-oriented lifestyle. The township is one of Burlington County's largest by area, with multiple lake communities offering swimming beaches and boating. The historic Borough of Pemberton offers a more traditional small-town feel. The area also has strong ties to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, bringing a patriotic and diverse community.
How are the schools in Pemberton?
Pemberton Township School District serves about 4,400 students across nine schools. Pemberton Township High School offers three specialized academies (ASTEM, Medical Arts, and Fine/Musical Arts) and over 30 CAP courses through Rowan College at Burlington County. All nine schools in the district have received national recognition.
How is the commute from Pemberton to Philadelphia?
The drive from Pemberton to Center City Philadelphia takes about 38-50 minutes depending on the route and traffic. NJ Transit bus service is available along the Route 38 corridor. Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst is just 5-10 minutes from most parts of the township.
What types of homes are available in Pemberton?
Pemberton offers an exceptionally diverse housing stock for Burlington County. You will find historic homes in Pemberton Borough, lakefront and lake-community properties in the township's various lake developments, mid-century ranches and colonials in established neighborhoods, and some newer construction. Price points typically range from the low $200,000s to the mid $400,000s.
Which lakes in Pemberton have swimming beaches?
Mirror Lake, Little Pine Lake, Big Pine Lake, Country Lakes, Presidential Lakes, and Lake Pemberton all offer municipal beaches and swimming during the summer months. Many of these lake communities are private associations with their own beaches, boat launches, and recreation areas. This makes Pemberton one of the best places in Burlington County for lakefront living.
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 Pemberton 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 Pemberton?
Whether you are buying, selling, or just getting to know Pemberton, 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