If you’re searching for a welcoming, picturesque place to call home in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, look no further than The Knolls. This established neighborhood is a hidden gem, admired for its friendly vibe, beautiful homes, and convenient location. Here’s what you need to know about living in The Knolls—from the perspective of a local who calls Franklin Lakes home.
Community Vibe and Atmosphere
What strikes most visitors as they enter The Knolls—typically via Pulis Avenue or McCoy Road—is its peaceful charm. Tree-lined streets such as Cottage Lane, Barry Drive, and Knolls Road wind gently through the neighborhood, filled with well-tended lawns and mature landscaping. Residents wave hello on morning walks, and kids can often be found biking or playing in driveways after school.
People here genuinely care about their neighbors. It’s the sort of place where block parties, holiday decorations, and helping each other out is the norm, not the exception. Whether you’re new to town or a long-time resident, you’ll feel welcomed.
Types of Housing
The Knolls offers a diverse selection of homes that appeal to a range of buyers:
- Colonials and Cape Cods: The classic architectural styles here complement the abundant natural scenery. Many homes have been lovingly updated while retaining original charm.
- Split-levels and Ranches: Ideal for families seeking a bit more space, these homes are scattered throughout streets like Knolls Road and Farmstead Lane.
- Large lots and privacy: Many homes sit on generous lots, often half an acre or more, offering privacy and ample backyard space.
- Recent renovations: You’ll notice tasteful modern upgrades—open kitchens, finished basements, and modern bathrooms are common, yet homes seldom lose their cozy, inviting feel.
Prices in The Knolls reflect its desirability, but you’ll find a range of options suitable for growing families, professionals, and even those looking to downsize.
Walkability and Convenience
While Franklin Lakes as a whole leans suburban, The Knolls stands out for its walkability. It’s easy to stroll through the neighborhood, whether you’re heading to meet a friend or simply enjoying the scenery. Many locals take advantage of the quiet streets for daily jogs or walking their dogs. There are sidewalks on many streets, and local traffic moves slowly thanks to calming measures.
Daily conveniences are close at hand. A short drive takes you to Market Basket on Franklin Avenue for gourmet groceries, or to the shops at Urban Farms Shopping Center. Post Office Plaza, just north on Pulis Avenue, has a variety of shops and services.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
One of the biggest draws to The Knolls is its reputation for excellent schools, part of the highly-rated Franklin Lakes School District:
- Woodside Avenue School (for elementary students) is about a 5-minute drive and offers a nurturing academic environment.
- Franklin Avenue Middle School and Ramapo High School serve older children and are recognized for strong academics, sports, and extracurricular programs.
Families here are active in local PTA and community events. From Halloween parades to little league games at Pulis Park, kids have endless opportunities for making lifelong friends—and parents quickly settle into the close-knit parent community.
Parks, Green Spaces, and Recreation
Nature is never far away in The Knolls. Residents enjoy easy access to:
- Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve: Minutes from the neighborhood, this 120-acre preserve offers scenic walking trails, fishing, birdwatching, and peaceful lakeside picnic spots. Residents often start the weekend with a family hike or walk their dogs along the water.
- Pulis Park: Located just across Pulis Avenue, this local hub features sports fields, playgrounds, and open spaces perfect for soccer games or relaxing afternoons.
- Private backyards and gardens: The large lots in The Knolls mean plenty of personal outdoor space for gardening, playsets, or relaxing under mature trees.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Safety is a hallmark of The Knolls. Residents consistently cite how comfortable they feel walking the neighborhood at any hour. Local police regularly patrol the area, and the neighborhood benefits from Franklin Lakes’ strong focus on public safety. Community-oriented policing fosters trust, and neighbors look out for each other, whether sharing texts about a lost pet or organizing neighborhood watches.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
While The Knolls offers a peaceful, almost rural retreat, it remains close to everything you need:
- Downtown Franklin Lakes: Just a 10-minute drive brings you to Franklin Avenue with its cafes, restaurants, and the popular Market Basket.
- Commuting: Access to highways like Route 208 and I-287 means an easy drive to business hubs in Paramus, Mahwah, or even New York City. Many residents work in metro areas and appreciate the balance The Knolls strikes between home life and professional life.
- Healthcare and community services: The Valley Hospital and several medical practices are nearby, and the Franklin Lakes Public Library is a phenomenal community resource for all ages.
What Residents Love Most
Ask neighbors what makes The Knolls special, and you’ll hear familiar themes: the green, tranquil setting; the excellent schools; and the genuine friendliness of everyone you meet. People love the sense of space, being able to spread out on their own property and still feel connected to an active, engaged community. Many families stay here for generations, testament to its lasting appeal.
Perhaps above all, it’s the balance that draws people in—the ability to enjoy quiet, country-like living with all the perks and amenities of a vibrant small town, right at your doorstep.
If you’re considering a move to Franklin Lakes, put The Knolls at the top of your list. There’s a reason so many locals wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.