Consider Ridgewood for its top-rated schools and vibrant downtown, where tree-lined streets invite you to explore cultural attractions and gourmet dining. Haworth offers a small-town feel with an A+ rated education system and abundant parks. Harrington Park boasts low crime rates and community events that create a strong sense of belonging. Closter, known for its safe environment and excellent schools, ranks highly for family living. Ho-Ho-Kus enchants with historic charm and convenient NYC proximity, offering diverse housing and family-friendly activities. Each neighborhood captures unique traits perfect for families, with much more to discover about their offerings.
Key Takeaways
- Ridgewood offers top-rated schools, a vibrant downtown, and direct NYC access, making it ideal for families.
- Ho-Ho-Kus is ranked #3 in Best Places to Live, offering historic charm and strong community bonds.
- Closter is ranked 5th for family living, with highly rated schools and a safe, inviting environment.
- Harrington Park is known for low crime rates and community events, fostering a strong sense of belonging.
- Haworth features an A+ education system and a strong community spirit with abundant recreational activities.
Ridgewood
In and around Ridgewood, NJ, you’ll find a community that thrives on diversity and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for families. This vibrant town offers a diverse and thriving real estate market, renowned for its family-friendly neighborhoods like Orchard, where you’ll discover a mix of homes within a tight-knit community.
Ridgewood is also known for its tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes, offering a picturesque environment for its residents. Ridgewood’s cultural attractions, boutique shops, and gourmet restaurants contribute to a vibrant downtown area, enhancing the quality of life for residents. Education is another major draw, with top-rated schools nationally recognized for their excellence, making Ridgewood an ideal place for families seeking quality education.
Community events, such as the Ridgewood Art Walk and Fourth of July fireworks, bring residents together, fostering a strong sense of belonging and connection among neighbors. For commuters, Ridgewood Train Station provides direct access to Hoboken Terminal and connections to Penn Station via Secaucus Junction. The town’s proximity to Route 17, the Garden State Parkway, and various bus routes guarantees easy access to New York City and surrounding areas. With median home prices ranging from the mid-$700s to over $1 million, Ridgewood’s housing market reflects its appeal and desirability among homebuyers. Ridgewood’s central location also means you’re never far from malls and cultural venues, making it convenient for both work and leisure.
Haworth
Situated in Bergen County, Haworth offers a charming and serene setting perfect for families seeking a close-knit community. With its incorporation dating back to 1904, Haworth has established itself as a welcoming haven for approximately 3,400 residents. Spanning 2.2 square miles, this small town is known for its strong sense of community spirit and diverse cultural environment, making it ideal for families who value connections and camaraderie. Originally a farming township, Haworth has since evolved into a residential community that retains its warm and inviting atmosphere. Its ethnically diverse population further enriches the town’s vibrant atmosphere, drawing in many artists and media professionals.
Haworth’s education system boasts an impressive A+ rating, ensuring your children receive exceptional instruction. The public schools accommodate students from kindergarten through 8th grade, and high schoolers attend the renowned Northern Valley Regional High School in Demarest. A favorable teacher-student ratio fosters personalized attention, underscoring the town’s commitment to educational excellence.
Recreational activities abound in Haworth, with several parks, Lake Tappan, and the Haworth Country Club offering ample opportunities for outdoor fun. You can also explore nature trails at the nearby Demarest Nature Center.
For those commuting to New York City, convenient bus routes 167 and 186 make the daily journey manageable.
Housing in Haworth features a median home value of $691,500, with rental costs around $3,000 monthly, complemented by an average property tax of $18,000 annually.
Harrington Park
Situated within Bergen County, Harrington Park is a charming borough that offers a welcoming environment for families. With a population of 4,741, this borough, established in 1904, spans 2.06 square miles and is surrounded by towns like Emerson and River Vale.
It’s an ideal spot for those seeking a small-town feel with access to urban amenities, thanks to its convenient location near New York City and major highways. Families will appreciate Harrington Park’s strong focus on education. It’s part of the Northern Valley Regional High School district, known for its high-quality schools and A+ rating. In addition to education, the borough is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, making it a peaceful place for families to settle.
The community is actively involved in educational programs, fostering an environment of academic excellence. This commitment to learning makes it a prime choice for families prioritizing education. Harrington Park is also recognized for its low crime rates, contributing to its reputation as a safe environment for families.
Recreational opportunities abound in Harrington Park. You’ll enjoy the numerous parks and green spaces, including the nearby Pascack Brook County Park, which offers ball fields and playgrounds.
For nature enthusiasts, Palisades Interstate Park provides scenic trails along the Hudson River. The borough hosts events like the Harrington Park Fall Spectacular, enhancing the community spirit.
Housing ranges from modest to luxurious, reflecting the close-knit and supportive community.
Closter
Situated in Bergen County, Closter offers an inviting blend of suburban charm and modern convenience. With a population of around 8,300, Closter covers about 3 square miles and was incorporated in 1904. It shares its borders with Alpine, Demarest, Harrington Park, Norwood, and Emerson, making it a well-connected community. Families find Closter appealing due to its highly rated schools and low crime rates, fostering a safe and nurturing environment for children.
The residential nature of the town is complemented by community amenities like parks and recreational spaces. Closter ranks 5th overall among New Jersey towns for family living, thanks to its emphasis on family-friendly attributes and amenities. Real estate in Closter is thriving, with median home values around $622,000, and the market is expected to grow. The economic and cultural landscape has transformed Closter from a rural area into a desirable commuter town for Manhattan, situated in the Northern Valley of Bergen County.
The quality housing options available in Closter enhance its appeal for those looking to settle down, offering a diverse range of properties to suit different family needs. Residents can enjoy shopping at Closter Plaza, which features stores like Whole Foods and Target. Local businesses, including family-owned Italian restaurants, add character to the downtown area. Points of interest such as World of Wings and The Fountain Day Spa provide leisure and relaxation, making Closter an ideal place for family living.
Ho-Ho-Kus
Ho-Ho-Kus is a charming small-town community located approximately 20 miles west of New York City, tucked between Ridgewood and Saddle River. With a population of about 4,100 residents, this close-knit town boasts a name derived from the Delaware Native American term “Mehohokus,” meaning “the Red Cedar.”
Known for its historic neighborhoods, Ho-Ho-Kus offers a variety of housing options ranging from single-family homes, both historic and new, to apartments. The town’s architectural diversity adds to its unique charm and appeal. As a result, Ho-Ho-Kus ranked #3 in 2023 Best Places to Live in New Jersey, showcasing its desirability among Bergen County towns.
Education in Ho-Ho-Kus is exceptional, with the Ho-Ho-Kus Public School serving Pre-K through 8th grade and feeding into the highly acclaimed Northern Highlands Regional High School, which draws students from surrounding towns. Residents are typically well-educated, contributing to the community’s reputation for valuing high-quality education.
Families will find a comfortable lifestyle here, with a central business district offering shops, restaurants, and family-friendly activities. The town features numerous parks and green spaces like the North Field and Ho-Ho-Kus Brook.
Community events, such as “A Taste of Ho-Ho-Kus,” and historical landmarks, including The Hermitage and Zabriskie House, highlight the town’s rich history and vibrant community spirit, making it ideal for family living.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Healthcare Facilities Available in These Neighborhoods?
You’ll find extensive healthcare facilities in Bergen County.
Emerson Health & Rehabilitation Center offers top-rated long-term care and rehabilitation.
Valley Hospital, with its 370 beds, delivers acute and emergency care to over 440,000 residents.
Early Intervention Services and Bergen County Special Child Health Services cater to children with developmental needs.
Community health services like Bergen Family Center provide mental health counseling, after-school programs, and much more, ensuring families receive essential care.
Are There Any Local Farmers’ Markets in These Areas?
You’ll find a vibrant array of local farmers’ markets in Bergen County, perfect for sourcing fresh produce and artisan goods.
For instance, the Englewood market operates Fridays in Veteran Park, offering everything from fruits to pickles, rain or shine.
On Sundays, head to Ramsey or Ridgewood for a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and cheeses.
These markets foster community spirit and provide access to high-quality, local products, enhancing your shopping experience.
What Are the Public Transportation Options for Commuting Residents?
You’ve got several public transportation options in Bergen County.
The Bergen County Line and NJT Bus Services offer convenient routes for commuting.
Metro-North Railroad extends service toward Port Jervis, while the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail connects through Hoboken Terminal.
For seniors and those with disabilities, Community Transportation provides door-to-door service.
Depending on your route, train fares range from $11 to $15.50, and bus fares from $9 to $12, making commuting accessible and affordable.
How Do These Neighborhoods Address Environmental Sustainability?
Imagine these neighborhoods as green oases in an urban desert. They actively promote environmental sustainability through initiatives like energy-efficient homes, recycling programs, and green infrastructure projects.
Glen Rock and Ho-Ho-Kus offer educational programs that encourage sustainable practices. River Edge and Ridgewood focus on eco-friendly transportation and community events that raise awareness.
Are There Any Local Festivals or Annual Events Unique to These Communities?
When exploring unique local festivals and annual events, you’ll find each community offers something special.
Harrington Park hosts the vibrant Fall Spectacular and a charming Christmas Tree Lighting.
Ridgewood’s Art Walk and Film Festival celebrate creativity.
Closter features the engaging Community Festival and Holiday Parade.
River Edge presents the lively Sports Day and Concert Series.
These events foster community bonding, showcasing local culture and providing enriching experiences for residents and visitors alike.
Bottom Line
As you explore Bergen County’s family-friendly neighborhoods, think of Ridgewood, Haworth, Harrington Park, Closter, and Ho-Ho-Kus as vibrant threads weaving a tapestry of community life. Each neighborhood offers a unique blend of safety, excellent schools, and a welcoming atmosphere, symbolizing a nurturing environment for families. Picture tree-lined streets, parks bustling with laughter, and neighbors who become lifelong friends. These areas don’t just offer homes; they provide a foundation for cherished memories and enduring connections.