5 Best Commuter Towns in Bergen County

Are you tired of living in the hustle and bustle of the city and looking to relocate to a more peaceful suburb in Bergen County? Do you still want to keep your job in the Big Apple and commute daily to work? If your answer is yes, then you need to find the best commuter towns in Bergen County. Fortunately, we have done the research for you and found the top five towns in Bergen County that offer the best commuting options to New York City.

In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to the five best commuter towns in Bergen County. We will analyze each town’s commute time, cost, and home sale prices to help you choose the best option for your needs. Each of these towns has a train station and a bus route in town making the commute as easy as possible.

Benefits of living in a commuter town

Living in a commuter town can provide numerous benefits for those who want to escape the fast-paced city life. One of the main advantages is the cost of living, which is significantly lower than living in the city. Commuter towns offer more affordable housing options, and residents can save money on everything from groceries to entertainment. Additionally, living in a commuter town can provide a quieter, more relaxed way of life. Residents can enjoy the peace and tranquility of suburban living while still having easy access to the city.

Another benefit of living in a commuter town is the sense of community. Commuter towns often have a close-knit community where neighbors know each other and are involved in community events. This can provide a sense of belonging, which can be hard to find in a big city. Furthermore, many commuter towns have excellent schools, making them an ideal choice for families with children.

Factors to consider when choosing a commuter town

When choosing a commuter town, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important factors is proximity to the city. The closer the town is to the city, the easier the commute will be. Additionally, it’s important to consider transportation options. Does the town have a train station or bus stop that provides easy access to the city? Another consideration is housing options. Does the town have a variety of housing options, including apartments, condos, and single-family homes? Finally, it’s essential to think about the quality of life in the town. Does the town have good schools, parks, and community events?

#1 Rutherford

Are you on the hunt for the perfect commuter town in Bergen County? Look no further than Rutherford, New Jersey, the top town for commuting to NYC based on our criteria. With a commute time of only 27 minutes to Grand Central Terminal, Rutherford has the shortest commute time to either Penn Station or Grand Central Terminal. Plus, the cost per day for commuting is relatively low at $9 for both train and bus commutes.

Don’t let the reasonable cost fool you – the average home sale price in Rutherford is $651,702, proving that you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a short commute to the city.

Rutherford is known not only as the first borough in Bergen County but also the borough of trees. It may be best known though for its great downtown area with an array of shops and restaurants. Downtown also features the Rutherford Train Station making it a convenient spot for commuters.

Commute Time to Penn Station: 30 minutes
Commute Time to Grand Central Station: 27 minutes
Daily Commute Cost by Train: $11
Daily Commute Cost by Bus: $9
Train Line: Bergen County Line
Bus Route: 190

#2 Garfield

Coming in at number two is Garfield, New Jersey. This town boasts a short commute time of only 39 minutes to Penn Station and a low cost per day for both train and bus commutes at $13.50 and $9 respectively. The average home sale price in Garfield is also relatively low at $422,100. If you’re looking for an affordable town that won’t add too much time to your commute, Garfield is definitely worth considering.

Garfield has a rich history with its beginnings a textile manufacturing town but in recent years has been thriving with new residential developments and commercial. If you are checking out Garfield you will have to visit the shops and restaurants on Passaic Street and take in the best of Garfield.

Commute Time to Penn Station: 39 minutes
Commute Time to Grand Central Station: 46 minutes
Daily Commute Cost by Train: $13.50
Daily Commute Cost by Bus: $9
Train Line: Bergen County Line
Bus Route: 160

#3 Wood Ridge

Next up is Wood Ridge, New Jersey, the third-best town for commuting to NYC. This town has a very short commute time of only 31 minutes to Penn Station, and a low cost per day for both train and bus commutes at $11. With an average home sale price of $549,110, Wood Ridge offers a great balance of affordability and convenience.

Wood Ridge has become a hot town over the past decade or so in part due to the development of the Westmont Station and the residential communities that were built nearby. These new communities helped bring the population from 7,600 in 2010 to 10,000 in 2020. With increased population came new commercial developments with new shopping and eating opportunities.

Commute Time to Penn Station: 31 minutes
Commute Time to Grand Central Station: 33 minutes
Daily Commute Cost by Train: $11
Daily Commute Cost by Bus: $9
Train Line: Spring Valley
Bus Route: 163

#4 River Edge

River Edge, New Jersey is our fourth-best town for commuting to NYC, with a commute time of 49 minutes to Grand Central Terminal and a low cost per day for bus commutes at $12. The average home sale price in River Edge is reasonable at $731,365, so if you’re looking for a town that’s a bit more affordable than some of the pricier options in Bergen County, River Edge might be the perfect choice for you.

River Edge is known for its small town feel and community focus. The town has a mix of mostly single family homes with small townhome developments, and a handful of garden apartments. With 2 train stations (River Edge Station, and New Bridge Landing Station) as well as both NJ Transit and Coach USA bus options its an ideal spot for any commuter.

Commute Time to Penn Station: 49 minutes
Commute Time to Grand Central Station: 39 minutes
Daily Commute Cost by Train: $15.50
Daily Commute Cost by Bus: $12
Train Line: Spring Valley
Bus Route: 165

#5 Fair Lawn

Last but certainly not least, we have Fair Lawn, New Jersey, the fifth best town for commuting to NYC. With a short commute time of only 40 minutes to Penn Station and a relatively low cost per day for both train and bus commutes at $15.50 and $12 respectively, Fair Lawn is a great option for commuters who want to enjoy a reasonable commute without breaking the bank. The average home sale price in Fair Lawn is also reasonable at $597,539, so you won’t have to sacrifice affordability for convenience.

Step into Fair Lawn, a picturesque borough nestled in the heart of Bergen County, New Jersey. A true gem, it’s a town that effortlessly blends the charm of a small community with the benefits of a big city. Commuting from Fair Lawn to New York City is a breeze, thanks to its two train stations at Radburn and Broadway.

And within Fair Lawn lies Radburn, one of the earliest planned communities in the country. Established in 1929, Radburn was designed as “a town for the motor age” and boasts a unique layout that places a premium on pedestrian safety.

Commute Time to Penn Station: 40 minutes
Commute Time to Grand Central Station: 57 Minutes
Daily Commute Cost by Train: $15.50
Daily Commute Cost by Bus: $12
Train Line: Bergen County Line
Bus Route: 164

Tips for making the transition to a commuter town

Making the transition to a commuter town can be a big change, but there are several tips that can make the process easier. One tip is to research the town thoroughly before making a move. This can include visiting the town, talking to locals, and learning about the community. Another tip is to get involved in the community by attending local events and joining community groups. This can help newcomers feel more connected to the town and make new friends. Finally, it’s important to be patient and give yourself time to adjust to the new lifestyle.

There you have it – the best commuter towns in Bergen County. Whether you’re looking for a short commute, an affordable home, or a balance of both, these towns are definitely worth considering. So why not pack your bags and start your new life as a commuter in one of these fantastic towns?