The northernmost county in New Jersey, Sussex is known for its scenic mountains, lakes, and farmland. Towns such as Newton (county seat), Sparta, Vernon, and Andover are surrounded by forests and state parks like High Point and Stokes State Forest. Settled in the early 1700s by Dutch and English farmers, the county’s economy long relied on mining and dairy. Today it’s primarily rural, attracting residents who prefer open land and outdoor recreation. Housing ranges from historic farmhouses to lakeside chalets and new construction colonials. Average existing home prices are $400 k – $550 k, though lakefront or large-acre properties often exceed $700 k – $1 M. Building new costs about $225 – $325 per sq ft, depending on terrain. Roughly 60 miles from Manhattan, Sussex offers a peaceful contrast to New Jersey’s dense eastern corridor—a haven for nature lovers and equestrian enthusiasts alike.