Moving to Ridgewood
Everything you need to know before buying in Ridgewood, Bergen County.
Why Move Here?
- ●Top-rated public school district consistently ranked in New Jersey's top 10
- ●Walkable, charming downtown with independent shops, restaurants, and cafes
- ●Direct NJ Transit train service to Hoboken Terminal with connections to NYC
- ●Beautiful tree-lined streets with a mix of historic and modern homes
- ●Strong sense of community with active civic organizations and events
- ●Low crime rate and family-friendly neighborhoods
Commute to NYC
Primary Method
NJ Transit Main/Bergen County Line
Duration
45-60 minutes to Hoboken, then PATH or ferry to Manhattan
Train Station
Ridgewood Station (on East Ridgewood Avenue)
Bus Routes
NJ Transit Bus 148
The Ridgewood train station is centrally located in the downtown. Trains run frequently during rush hours. Bus 148 provides express service to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan with a commute of approximately 50-70 minutes depending on traffic.
Cost of Living
Ridgewood is an affluent community with a cost of living significantly above state and national averages, driven primarily by housing costs and property taxes.
vs. NJ State Average
Approximately 55% above the New Jersey state average
vs. National Average
Approximately 95% above the national average
Pros
- +Exceptional public schools from elementary through high school
- +Vibrant, walkable downtown with dining, shopping, and entertainment
- +Strong property values with consistent appreciation
- +Excellent community amenities including parks, pool, and recreation programs
- +Convenient train access to New York City
Cons
- –Very high property taxes, among the highest in the state
- –Home prices are well above regional averages
- –Train commute to Manhattan requires a transfer at Hoboken
- –Downtown parking can be challenging, especially on weekends
- –Limited housing inventory keeps prices elevated