Introduction
Finding the best towns in Bergen County for your family means balancing excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, reasonable commutes, and quality of life. As a local Bergen County real estate agent and resident, I’ve helped hundreds of families choose the perfect Bergen County family friendly towns for their needs.
This guide covers the 15 best Bergen County towns for families in 2026, with updated school ratings, median home prices, commute information, and what makes each community special. Whether you’re relocating from out of state or moving within New Jersey and wondering where to live in Bergen County NJ, these top Bergen County neighborhoods offer the family-friendly lifestyle you’re looking for.
Looking for comprehensive Bergen County real estate guidance? Check out our complete Bergen County NJ Real Estate Guide.
1. Ridgewood NJ
School Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools)
Median Home Price: $875,000
NYC Commute: 35 minutes via NJ Transit
Ridgewood consistently ranks as one of the best towns in Bergen County for families. The vibrant downtown offers 200+ shops and restaurants within walking distance, while Ridgewood’s five elementary schools, middle school, and high school earn top ratings statewide. Families love the strong sense of community, excellent youth sports programs, and beautiful tree-lined streets. Graydon Pool, a members-only summer destination, and numerous parks make outdoor recreation easily accessible.
Best for: Families wanting walkable downtown living with top-tier schools and strong community involvement.
Best Ridgewood, NJ Real Estate and Relocation Guide
2. Glen Rock NJ
School Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools)
Median Home Price: $725,000
NYC Commute: 40 minutes via NJ Transit
Glen Rock earns its reputation as one of the best Bergen County towns for families through exceptional schools, tight-knit community, and the iconic Rock Pile Park. The borough’s compact size means children can safely walk or bike to school, and neighbors genuinely know each other. Glen Rock High School consistently ranks among New Jersey’s top public schools. The downtown area along Rock Road provides local shopping and dining, while maintaining a quiet, residential character.
Best for: Families prioritizing walkability, community connection, and strong academics in a smaller-town setting.
3. Wyckoff NJ
School Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools)
Median Home Price: $795,000
NYC Commute: 45 minutes via bus
Wyckoff offers larger properties and more land compared to neighboring Bergen County towns, attracting families who want space without sacrificing schools or amenities. The township’s 6.5 square miles include nature preserves, hiking trails, and Sicomac Elementary School ranked among New Jersey’s best. Wyckoff’s village atmosphere centers around Franklin Avenue, where families gather at local cafes, boutiques, and restaurants. Youth sports leagues and community events create strong neighborhood bonds.
Best for: Families wanting larger yards, nature access, and excellent schools with a relaxed suburban feel.
4. Franklin Lakes NJ
School Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools)
Median Home Price: $1,150,000
NYC Commute: 50 minutes via bus
Franklin Lakes represents luxury living among the best towns in Bergen County, featuring estate properties, private lake access, and top-rated schools. This upscale community offers substantial homes on generous lots, with many properties featuring pools and expansive outdoor spaces. Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve provides 135 acres of hiking trails, while the small downtown maintains an exclusive, quiet character. Families appreciate the privacy, safety, and high-performing school district.
Best for: Affluent families seeking luxury homes, privacy, lake living, and excellent schools in a prestigious setting.
5. Tenafly NJ
School Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools)
Median Home Price: $825,000
NYC Commute: 30 minutes via bus
Tenafly combines academic excellence with cultural diversity, making it one of the top Bergen County neighborhoods for families who value both. The borough’s schools consistently rank among New Jersey’s finest, with particularly strong STEM and arts programs. Tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a walkable downtown along Washington Street contribute to Tenafly’s appeal. The community embraces diversity while maintaining small-town charm and neighborly connections.
Best for: Families prioritizing academic rigor, cultural diversity, and close NYC proximity with suburban character.
6. Park Ridge NJ
School Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools)
Median Home Price: $650,000
NYC Commute: 40 minutes via NJ Transit
Park Ridge offers excellent value among best Bergen County towns for families, providing strong schools and quality of life at more accessible price points. The compact borough features a tight-knit community where families participate in numerous town events, youth sports, and school activities. Park Ridge’s downtown along Park Avenue includes family-friendly restaurants, shops, and services. The borough’s small size creates a true neighborhood feel where children safely walk to school and play.
Best for: Families seeking affordability without compromising schools, safety, or community connection.
7. Fair Lawn NJ
School Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools)
Median Home Price: $575,000
NYC Commute: 35 minutes via bus
Fair Lawn stands out among Bergen County family friendly towns as the most affordable option without sacrificing quality. The borough’s larger size provides diverse neighborhoods, excellent schools, and numerous parks including the 38-acre Memorial Park with pool, playground, and sports facilities. Fair Lawn’s central location offers easy highway access, while the diverse community brings cultural richness and inclusive atmosphere. The borough’s business districts along Broadway and Route 208 provide convenient shopping and dining.
Best for: Budget-conscious families wanting good schools, diversity, and convenient location at lower price points.
8. Ramsey NJ
School Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools)
Median Home Price: $695,000
NYC Commute: 45 minutes via NJ Transit
Ramsey combines small-town charm with modern amenities, earning recognition among the best towns in Bergen County for families. The borough’s walkable downtown along Main Street features independent shops, restaurants, and community gathering spots. Ramsey’s schools maintain strong academic standards, while numerous parks, trails, and the Ramsey Outdoor store headquarters reflect the community’s active lifestyle. Annual events like the street fair and holiday celebrations strengthen neighborhood bonds.
Best for: Families wanting walkable downtown living, outdoor recreation access, and strong schools in a friendly community.
9. Westwood NJ
School Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools)
Median Home Price: $625,000
NYC Commute: 40 minutes via NJ Transit
Westwood offers emerging value among top Bergen County neighborhoods, with revitalized downtown, improving schools, and strong community investment. The borough’s Center Avenue business district features diverse dining, shopping, and entertainment options within walking distance of residential areas. Westwood’s schools continue improving, while the community’s diversity and inclusivity attract young families. Affordable housing compared to nearby towns makes Westwood increasingly popular with first-time buyers and growing families.
Best for: First-time buyers and young families seeking affordability, diversity, and improving amenities with NYC access.
10. River Vale NJ
School Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools)
Median Home Price: $775,000
NYC Commute: 45 minutes via bus
River Vale provides quiet, residential living among the best Bergen County towns for families who prioritize space and schools over walkable downtowns. The township’s larger properties, excellent schools, and safe neighborhoods attract families with young children. River Vale Elementary and Holdrum Middle School earn consistently high ratings, while the township’s parks and recreation programs keep families active. The community’s residential character means less traffic and more peace.
Best for: Families wanting spacious properties, top schools, and quiet suburban living with strong community programs.
11. Woodcliff Lake NJ
School Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools)
Median Home Price: $850,000
NYC Commute: 45 minutes via bus
Woodcliff Lake balances residential tranquility with corporate presence (BMW North America headquarters), making it one of the best towns in Bergen County for executive families. The borough features the scenic Woodcliff Lake Reservoir, top-rated schools, and upscale neighborhoods. Families appreciate the safety, excellent schools, and proximity to premium shopping and dining. The community’s smaller size creates an intimate atmosphere where neighbors know each other.
Best for: Affluent families seeking upscale suburban living, excellent schools, and scenic lake views.
12. Upper Saddle River NJ
School Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools)
Median Home Price: $950,000
NYC Commute: 50 minutes via bus
Upper Saddle River offers estate living among the top Bergen County neighborhoods, with large properties, horse farms, and rural character just 25 miles from Manhattan. The borough’s Cavallini Middle School and Bogert Elementary School receive outstanding ratings, while the community maintains a country atmosphere. Families seeking privacy, nature, and space while maintaining excellent schools choose Upper Saddle River for its unique character.
Best for: Families wanting estate properties, rural atmosphere, equestrian facilities, and top schools.
13. Allendale NJ
School Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools)
Median Home Price: $725,000
NYC Commute: 45 minutes via NJ Transit
Allendale combines small-town charm with modern convenience, ranking among the best Bergen County towns for families who value community and schools. The borough’s compact downtown along West Allendale Avenue offers local shops and restaurants, while Crestwood Lake provides swimming, boating, and community gathering space for residents. Allendale’s excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and active parent involvement create an ideal family environment.
Best for: Families seeking small-town atmosphere, lake recreation, excellent schools, and strong community engagement.
14. Saddle River NJ
School Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools)
Median Home Price: $1,275,000
NYC Commute: 45 minutes via bus
Saddle River represents exclusive living among the best towns in Bergen County, featuring celebrity homes, estates, and maximum privacy. The borough’s zoning requires minimum two-acre lots, creating spacious properties with mature landscaping. Wandell Elementary School consistently ranks among the state’s best, while the community maintains an exclusive, quiet character. Families seeking ultimate privacy, luxury, and top schools choose Saddle River.
Best for: Wealthy families prioritizing privacy, luxury estates, prestigious addresses, and excellent schools.
15. Mahwah NJ
School Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools)
Median Home Price: $685,000
NYC Commute: 50 minutes via NJ Transit
Mahwah offers diverse neighborhoods, corporate headquarters (Sharp, Stryker), and outdoor recreation, making it one of the best Bergen County towns for families seeking variety. The township’s size provides options from luxury developments to modest neighborhoods, all with access to excellent schools and amenities. Ramapo Reservation trails, Darlington County Park, and the Mahwah Museum provide family activities. The township’s location near Route 17 and Route 287 offers convenience for commuters.
Best for: Corporate relocations, families wanting neighborhood variety, outdoor recreation, and convenient highway access.
Quick Comparison: Best Towns in Bergen County
Ridgewood → $875,000 | Schools: 9/10 | 35 min commute | Best for: Walkable downtown + top schools
Glen Rock → $725,000 | Schools: 9/10 | 40 min commute | Best for: Community + walkability
Wyckoff → $795,000 | Schools: 9/10 | 45 min commute | Best for: Space + nature
Franklin Lakes → $1,150,000 | Schools: 9/10 | 50 min commute | Best for: Luxury + privacy
Tenafly → $825,000 | Schools: 9/10 | 30 min commute | Best for: Diversity + academics
Park Ridge → $650,000 | Schools: 8/10 | 40 min commute | Best for: Value + community
Fair Lawn → $575,000 | Schools: 8/10 | 35 min commute | Best for: Affordability
Ramsey → $695,000 | Schools: 8/10 | 45 min commute | Best for: Downtown + outdoors
Westwood → $625,000 | Schools: 8/10 | 40 min commute | Best for: Emerging value
River Vale → $775,000 | Schools: 9/10 | 45 min commute | Best for: Quiet + spacious
Woodcliff Lake → $850,000 | Schools: 9/10 | 45 min commute | Best for: Upscale + scenic
Upper Saddle River → $950,000 | Schools: 9/10 | 50 min commute | Best for: Estate living
Allendale → $725,000 | Schools: 9/10 | 45 min commute | Best for: Small town + lake
Saddle River → $1,275,000 | Schools: 9/10 | 45 min commute | Best for: Ultra luxury
Mahwah → $685,000 | Schools: 8/10 | 50 min commute | Best for: Variety + location
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best town in Bergen County for families? Ridgewood, Glen Rock, and Wyckoff consistently rank as the best towns in Bergen County for families due to exceptional schools (9/10 ratings), strong communities, and family-friendly amenities. Your choice depends on priorities: Ridgewood for walkable downtown, Glen Rock for tight-knit community, or Wyckoff for larger properties.
What is the most affordable family-friendly town in Bergen County? Fair Lawn offers the most affordability among Bergen County family friendly towns with median prices around $575,000, while maintaining 8/10 school ratings, diverse community, and excellent amenities including Memorial Park and convenient NYC access.
Which Bergen County towns have the best schools? Ridgewood, Glen Rock, Wyckoff, Franklin Lakes, Tenafly, River Vale, Woodcliff Lake, Upper Saddle River, Allendale, and Saddle River all maintain 9/10 school ratings, representing the top Bergen County neighborhoods for academic excellence.
What Bergen County town is closest to NYC? Tenafly offers the shortest commute among the best towns in Bergen County at just 30 minutes via express bus to Manhattan, followed by Ridgewood at 35 minutes via NJ Transit train.
Are Bergen County towns expensive? Bergen County towns range from $575,000 (Fair Lawn) to $1,275,000+ (Saddle River) median prices. Mid-range options like Park Ridge ($650,000), Westwood ($625,000), and Mahwah ($685,000) provide excellent value with good schools and amenities.
Find Your Perfect Bergen County Town
Choosing among the best towns in Bergen County depends on your family’s unique priorities—school quality, commute time, home budget, lifestyle preferences, and community character all factor into the decision.
As a local Bergen County real estate agent who lives and works here, I help families navigate these choices every day. I provide detailed neighborhood tours, school information, market insights, and honest guidance to find your perfect Bergen County neighborhood.
Ready to explore the best towns in Bergen County for your family?
For comprehensive information about buying, selling, and living in Bergen County, visit our Complete Bergen County NJ Real Estate Guide.
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