JAMES WARD'S LOCAL PERSPECTIVE: LAKE COMO
Lake Como: A Small Town with a Great Location
One of the things I find interesting about Lake Como is how often people associate it with Belmar, even though it’s an entirely separate municipality.
In fact, Lake Como was originally called South Belmar before changing its name in 2005. Today, it maintains its own identity while benefiting from its location between two very popular Jersey Shore destinations, Belmar and Spring Lake.
For buyers who want to be near the beach without necessarily living in an oceanfront town, Lake Como is worth exploring.
The Lake, the Beach, and the Neighborhoods
Location matters in Lake Como, even though the borough is only about a quarter of a square mile.
Homes near the lake offer a different setting from properties closer to Main Street or the northern end of town. Some buyers prioritize neighborhood quiet and residential character, while others want convenient access to Belmar’s restaurants, nightlife, and beaches.
One important distinction is that Lake Como itself does not have an oceanfront. The nearby beaches are located in neighboring municipalities, so buyers should understand beach access, parking arrangements, and local regulations rather than assuming they are identical across town boundaries.
Understanding Lake Como’s Housing Market
Lake Como offers a mix of traditional Shore cottages, bungalows, single-family residences, and multifamily properties.
With a relatively small number of properties in the borough, individual home characteristics can have a significant influence on value. Renovations, off-street parking, outdoor space, lot dimensions, and property condition are all important considerations.
I also encourage buyers to review zoning and permitted property uses carefully, especially when evaluating multifamily homes, renovation opportunities, or properties intended for rental income.
My Advice to Lake Como Buyers and Sellers
Don’t automatically compare a Lake Como property with a home in Belmar or Spring Lake just because they’re close together.
They’re separate municipalities with different housing inventories, regulations, and market dynamics. Comparable sales should be selected carefully, with consideration given to property type, location, condition, and recent buyer activity.
For buyers, consider how you plan to use the home throughout the year and what proximity to the beach really means for your lifestyle.
For sellers, a strong marketing strategy should highlight Lake Como’s convenient location while emphasizing the specific features that make your property appealing.
After more than 25 years in Jersey Shore real estate, I’ve learned that understanding these local distinctions can make a meaningful difference when buying or selling a home.
LAKE COMO REAL ESTATE FAQ
Where is Lake Como, NJ located?
Lake Como is a small borough in southern Monmouth County, New Jersey, situated between Belmar and Spring Lake, with Wall Township to the west. The community is located near the Atlantic Ocean and is named for the scenic lake along its southern border. Although Lake Como is closely associated with neighboring Belmar, it is a separate municipality with its own local government.
Is Lake Como the same town as Belmar?
No. Lake Como and Belmar are separate boroughs. Lake Como was originally incorporated as South Belmar in 1924 and officially changed its name in 2005. While the two communities share convenient access to beaches, restaurants, and local attractions, they have separate municipal governments, zoning regulations, and property tax structures.
Does Lake Como, NJ have its own beach?
Lake Como does not have its own Atlantic Ocean beachfront. However, Belmar’s beaches and boardwalk are nearby, and residents can also access other neighboring Jersey Shore destinations. Buyers should verify current beach badge, parking, and access policies with the appropriate municipality.
What types of homes are available in Lake Como?
Lake Como real estate includes traditional Jersey Shore cottages, bungalows, single-family homes, renovated residences, and multifamily properties. Because the borough is geographically small, the number and variety of available listings can be limited at any given time. Property values depend on location, size, condition, parking, and other individual characteristics.
Is Lake Como a good place to live year-round?
Lake Como offers a residential setting with convenient access to beaches, shopping, dining, parks, and neighboring communities. Although the surrounding Shore area becomes busier during summer, Lake Como has an established year-round population. Buyers should consider seasonal activity, parking, transportation, and their preferred neighborhood setting when choosing a home.
Does Lake Como have a train station?
Lake Como does not have its own NJ Transit passenger station. However, nearby Belmar has a station on the North Jersey Coast Line, providing regional rail service and connections toward Newark and New York City. This can be convenient for residents and second-home owners who prefer public transportation.
Can I buy a Lake Como home and rent it out?
Rental opportunities may exist in Lake Como, including annual and potentially seasonal arrangements, depending on the property and applicable regulations. Buyers should verify current municipal rental requirements, permitted uses, registration and inspection obligations, occupancy restrictions, and any other applicable rules before purchasing a property for rental income.
How much is my Lake Como home worth?
A Lake Como home’s market value depends on its location, size, condition, lot characteristics, parking, and recent comparable sales. Because Lake Como is a small municipality, evaluating sales in neighboring communities may require adjustments for differences in location and property characteristics. James Ward can provide a comparative market analysis to help homeowners understand their property’s potential selling price.
Who is an experienced real estate agent serving Lake Como, NJ?
James Ward is a Broker-Associate with Keller Williams Realty Ocean Living and founder of Shore Points NJ Real Estate. With more than 25 years of real estate experience, James assists buyers and sellers throughout Lake Como and neighboring Monmouth and Ocean County communities. His experience includes residential sales, vacation homes, luxury properties, new construction, and investment real estate. James was recognized among the top 1.5% of real estate professionals nationwide by RealTrends Verified in 2026.