Why Pitman
What Is Pitman Like?
Pitman is a charming historic borough in Gloucester County, South Jersey, known for its unique origins as a Methodist camp meeting site, the historic Pitman Grove district with Victorian cottages, the beloved Broadway Theatre, and a walkable downtown. It was founded in 1871 as Pitman Grove, a Methodist camp meeting site where families would gather for summer religious revivals. What began as a seasonal encampment of tents gradually became a permanent community of Victorian cottages, and by 1905, Pitman was officially incorporated as a borough. The town's unique origins are still visible today in its distinctive wheel-shaped street layout, radiating from the original central auditorium, and in the historic Pitman Grove district, where Victorian cottages with ornate gingerbread trim line the tree-shaded streets.
What makes Pitman special is the combination of its historic character, its thriving downtown, and its strong sense of community. South Broadway is a walkable, postcard-perfect downtown with a "Hallmark movie" feel, featuring restaurants, antique shops, and pedestrian-friendly sidewalks. The Broadway Theatre of Pitman, opened in 1926 as a vaudeville and silent film house, anchors the downtown and has hosted legends from Abbott and Costello to Johnny Cash.
Pitman is a town that has carefully preserved its heritage while embracing the future. The downtown revitalization has brought new restaurants and businesses, and the historic neighborhoods are meticulously maintained. For buyers who want a community with character, a walkable downtown, and a genuine sense of place, Pitman is a destination, not just a place to live.
Downtown & Lifestyle
Living in Pitman
Life in Pitman revolves around South Broadway and the historic downtown. The Broadway Theatre is the cultural heart of the community, hosting concerts, films, and live performances in its beautifully restored 1,000-seat venue with its ornate hand-painted plaster ceiling. The theater celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2026, a testament to the community's commitment to preserving this beloved landmark.
The downtown has experienced a remarkable revitalization in recent years. New restaurants have opened, offering al fresco dining on the sidewalk. Antique shops and boutiques draw visitors from across the region. The pedestrian-friendly streets are perfect for an afternoon stroll, and the sense of community is palpable. Pitman is the kind of town where you run into neighbors when you walk downtown, where local businesses know your name, and where community events are well-attended and cherished.
The historic Pitman Grove neighborhood is a treasure. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it features Victorian-style cottages with ornate gingerbread trim, picket fences, and porches, all arranged around the original camp meeting grounds. The wheel-shaped street layout is unique in South Jersey, and walking through the Grove feels like stepping into a different era. Alcyon Park and the Pitman Historical Museum on Circle Avenue offer additional opportunities for recreation and exploration.
History
Pitman's Unique History
Pitman's story begins in 1871, when a group of Methodist ministers from the New Jersey Conference purchased land for annual summer religious revivals. The site was named Pitman Grove, and it quickly became a popular destination for families seeking spiritual renewal and summer recreation. Initially, the Grove was a seasonal encampment of tents, but by the 1880s, about 400 permanent cottages had been built, and residents began living there year-round.
The first public school was established in 1884, and Pitman was officially incorporated as a borough on May 24, 1905. The town was historically dry since its Methodist founding, a distinction that lasted for more than a century. In a November 2016 referendum, residents voted 2-to-1 to allow alcohol sales, marking a new chapter in the town's history while preserving its unique character.
The Broadway Theatre of Pitman opened on May 19, 1926, as a vaudeville and silent film house. Over the decades, it hosted an incredible array of entertainers including Abbott and Costello, Bing Crosby, Shirley Jones, Johnny Cash, and Tammy Wynette. The theater underwent $1 million in community-driven renovations and celebrated its 100th anniversary in May 2026. It remains the heart of the downtown and a source of immense community pride.
Nearby Communities
Explore Neighboring Towns
Pitman is centrally located in Gloucester County, close to several other excellent communities.
Glassboro
Home to Rowan University, with a revitalized downtown, strong sense of community, and growing housing market. Just minutes from Pitman.
ExploreWoodbury
Historic Gloucester County seat with Victorian architecture, a charming downtown, and deep South Jersey roots. A short drive from Pitman.
ExploreWashington Township
Family-friendly community with excellent schools, abundant amenities, and a wide range of housing options. Minutes from Pitman.
ExploreEducation
Pitman Schools
Pitman is served by the Pitman Public Schools district, which provides a strong educational foundation for students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The district is known for its commitment to academic excellence and its supportive community environment.
Pitman High School, home of the Panthers, has a proud tradition of academic and athletic achievement. The school has produced notable alumni, including Joe Crispin, Gloucester County's all-time leading high school basketball scorer who went on to play in the NBA for the Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns. The school offers a comprehensive academic program with honors courses, competitive athletics, and a variety of extracurricular activities.
Pitman's close proximity to Rowan University in Glassboro provides additional educational opportunities for residents. The university's partnership with the community offers access to college-level coursework, cultural events, and lifelong learning programs. For families who value education, Pitman's schools and its proximity to higher education are significant advantages.
Commute
Commute Times from Pitman
Pitman offers convenient access to Philadelphia and the surrounding region. The town is located near Route 55, which provides quick connections to the region's major highways.
20-25 min
To Philadelphia by car
5-10 min
To Rowan University / Glassboro
50-65 min
To the Jersey Shore
The drive to Center City Philadelphia typically takes 20-25 minutes via Route 55 and Route 42, or via Route 322 and I-295. Pitman is also just minutes from Glassboro and Rowan University, making it a convenient choice for faculty, staff, and students. The PATCO Speedline is accessible in nearby Lindenwold, about 15 minutes from Pitman, providing rail service to Philadelphia.
Market Insights
The Pitman Real Estate Market
Pitman's real estate market is unique in Gloucester County. The town's historic character, its walkable downtown, and its strong sense of community create a distinctive market that appeals to buyers who value character and authenticity over cookie-cutter suburban development.
The housing stock in Pitman is defined by its historic character. The Pitman Grove historic district features Victorian cottages with ornate gingerbread trim, wraparound porches, and picket fences. The rest of the borough offers a mix of historic homes, mid-century ranches, and newer construction. Many homes feature the kind of craftsmanship and detail that is hard to find in newer developments. Price points are generally accessible, with homes ranging from the $250,000s to the $400,000s and above for larger or fully restored historic properties.
With 20 years of experience and more than 600 homes sold across South Jersey, I have helped many families buy and sell in Pitman. The market here requires precision pricing, strategic marketing, 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 Pitman
Pitman offers a charming mix of historic exploration, live entertainment, dining, and community events. From the Broadway Theatre to the historic Grove, there is always something to do.
The Broadway Theatre
The heart of downtown Pitman, the Broadway Theatre opened in 1926 and has hosted legends from Abbott and Costello to Johnny Cash. With its ornate hand-painted plaster ceiling and 1,000-seat capacity, it is one of South Jersey's most beloved performing arts venues. The theatre celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2026.
Historic Downtown & Dining
South Broadway is a walkable, pedestrian-friendly downtown with a "Hallmark movie" feel. It features restaurants with al fresco dining, antique shops, and boutiques. The downtown has undergone a revitalization, bringing new energy and new businesses to this historic commercial district.
Pitman Grove & Alcyon Park
The historic Pitman Grove district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, features Victorian cottages with gingerbread trim arranged around a unique wheel-shaped street layout. Alcyon Park offers green space and recreation. The Pitman Historical Museum on Circle Avenue documents the town's fascinating history.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Pitman
What is Pitman known for?
Pitman is known for its unique history as a Methodist camp meeting site, its historic Pitman Grove district with Victorian cottages, and the Broadway Theatre, a 1,000-seat venue that opened in 1926 and has hosted legends from Johnny Cash to Bing Crosby. The town also has a charming downtown with a thriving restaurant scene.
Is Pitman a dry town?
Pitman was historically dry since its founding as a Methodist camp meeting site, but in November 2016, residents voted 2-to-1 to allow alcohol sales. Today, several restaurants in the downtown serve beer and wine, and the town has embraced its new status while preserving its historic character.
How are the schools in Pitman?
Pitman Public Schools serve students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Pitman High School has a proud tradition of academic and athletic achievement and has produced notable alumni including NBA player Joe Crispin. The district is known for its supportive community environment.
How long is the commute from Pitman to Philadelphia?
The drive from Pitman to Center City Philadelphia typically takes 20-25 minutes via Route 55 and Route 42, or via Route 322 and I-295. PATCO rail service is available from the Lindenwold station, about 15 minutes from Pitman.
What types of homes are available in Pitman?
Pitman is known for its historic Victorian cottages in the Pitman Grove district, featuring ornate gingerbread trim and wraparound porches. The borough also offers mid-century homes and newer construction. Price points range from the $250,000s to the $400,000s and above for larger restored historic properties.
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 Pitman and Gloucester County inside and out. I have helped many families find their place in this charming 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 Pitman?
Whether you are buying, selling, or just getting to know Pitman, 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